If your child is getting ready to take the SSAT, then Varsity Tutors can help them study for it with an in-depth Portland SSAT preparation option. Working with an experienced test prep instructor can provide the guidance your student needs to feel more confident on the day of their exam. The SSAT is a standardized test that is taken by students who are getting ready to apply to competitive private or independent elementary, middle, and high schools. Your student's SSAT results will be used in the admissions process as a part of their ultimate admissions decision.
The SSAT can be a difficult exam to study for without any guidance. This is because It tests on a variety of different academic subjects. However, your child doesn't have to prepare for their upcoming test alone. Instead, consider signing them up for a Portland SSAT prep option. You can easily get started with the option that is the best match for them by contacting Varsity Tutors today. Or, you can keep reading for more information on the SSAT and what we can do to help your student prepare for it.
What's covered on the SSAT?
The SSAT was designed to help private and independent schools determine which of their applicants are most suited for success at their school. The specific topics that will be tested on your student's exam will depend on which level of the SSAT they're taking. The exam has an Elementary, Middle, and Upper Level, which correspond to the grade level that the student is seeking admission into. For example, if your student is applying to an independent or private high school, then they will take the Upper-Level SSAT. Below, you'll find a breakdown of this version of the exam.
The Upper-Level of the SSAT contains a Writing Sample, which your student must complete. This part of the SSAT will feature two prompts, one creative and one traditional. Your child will be allowed to pick the one they wish to respond to. Then, they'll need to craft a well-organized and well-written essay within the section's 25-minute time limit. This part of the SSAT is unscored but it's a good chance to show the schools your student applies to how skilled they are as a writer.
The next part of the SSAT is its Quantitative Sections. There are two different Quantitative Sections, each of which features 25 questions and a time limit of 30 minutes. This part of the exam is concerned with your student's mathematical skills. They will be tested on core math subjects like arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Your student should feel confident performing data analysis, evaluating probability questions, and completing number operations, among other things.
Third, your student will also complete the SSAT's Reading Section. This part of the exam features 40 questions that test-takers must answer within a 40-minute time limit. Here, test-takers are tasked with interpreting the meaning of narrative and argumentative passages from literary fiction, science, social studies, and the humanities. They will need to demonstrate the ability to extract information from these passages and answer questions about them. Some of the topics that are tested include main ideas, words in context, the author's purpose, tone, and the evaluation of opinions and arguments, among other things.
Fourth, the final part of the Upper-Level SSAT is the exam's Verbal Section. This section contains 60 questions and has a time limit of 30 minutes. This part of the SSAT consists of 30 questions on synonyms and 30 questions on analogies. Your student can study for this section by learning about word roots, prefixes and suffixes, and determining the meaning of a word from context. Signing them up to work with a test prep instructor can help them build a better understanding of this section and its content.
How can Varsity Tutors help your student prepare for the SSAT?
Signing up for a Portland SSAT prep supplement is a great way to get your student ready for their upcoming exam. You can get them started with a Portland SSAT prep course or sign them up to work with a private test prep tutor. Both of these options have unique benefits that can supplement your child's study plan in different ways. You'll learn more about these benefits in the paragraphs below.
First, you may be interested in getting your student started with a Portland SSAT prep class. Classes take place online through a powerful virtual learning platform. They are taught by experienced test prep instructors who will deliver a series of live lectures to your student and a small group of peers. If your child is having a hard time with one of the topics covered in their course, then they can also sign up for one-on-one help from their instructor. This creates a learning environment that is primed for academic growth.
This type of Portland SSAT is also a flexible learning option. Both two and four-week course options are available and new courses begin weekly. This makes it easy to find an option that meets at times that fit within you and your child's schedules. You can reach out to us today if you'd like help picking the right course option for your student.
Or, you may prefer to sign your student up to work with a Portland SSAT tutor. This option gives your child the chance to work directly with their instructor throughout their entire test preparation process. Your student's tutor can create a customized lesson plan for them that's targeted with their growth in mind. Your child can work through each SSAT topic at their own pace and spend additional time on the subjects that they're having the hardest time with. Additionally, when you reach out to Varsity Tutors to find a tutor for the SSAT, we'll make every effort to connect you with one that can meet at times that fit you and your student's schedules.
How can you get started?
Do you think that your child would benefit from one of these Portland SSAT prep choices? If so, the quickest way to get started with the option of your choice is by contacting Varsity Tutors today. We'd love to help your student get more out of their SSAT preparation process and hope to hear from you soon.

Max: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...school (my team of 7th graders just won the 2016 New Haven regional championship!), and I've been tutoring middle and high school students for over 7 years. On top of all of that, I'm an aspiring professional in the business world - this past summer I worked at an internship in financial consulting (banking advisory & analytics), and have previously held internship positions in human capital consulting & private equity, as well as in patent...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +104 subjects

Katie : Portland SSAT test prep instructor
I graduated from the University of Connecticut with degrees in both Accounting and English. I worked as an accountant for a year before I went back to school to earn my Masters in Education. I currently teach high school English and Theater. As a tutor, I use modeling and mini-lessons to help my students reach their potential.
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, English and Accounting
- University of Connecticut - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +18 subjects

Ellis: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...school principals are set forth in my website: www.eratnertutor.com . I urge the reader to check them out. I am hugely proud of them. They present a more complete and personal description than I could possibly present in a Personal Statement. My expertise also extends to the law. I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Law School (widely recognized as one of the premier law schools in the United States) and a former...
Education & Certification
- Trinity College Hartford CT - Bachelors, Modern Languages
- University of Pennsylvania School of Law - PHD, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CSAP/ TCAP
- SAT
- +118 subjects

Tasha: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...and style to each student and help them to develop practical and efficient study skills and time management techniques. I have tutored students from ages 3 to adult in various areas related to English, ESL/ELL, Psychology, Public Speaking, and test preparation. I am a Native English speaker and also speak basic Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. I am TEFL certified and taught English in China for 2 years. I learned Chinese while living in Shanghai and...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology, Anthropology
- University of Baltimore - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- TOEFL
- ACT
- +46 subjects

Landon: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...master the strategies and techniques that worked best for my studies and inspired me to love learning. I became increasingly confident throughout the years, eventually earning a spot at my dream college and currently pursuing a career that I'm truly passionate about. I now wish to pay it forward and be a positive influence for the students that are frustrated in school. Based on my own experiences, I recognize how important it is to form...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, Public Relations and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +166 subjects

Michael: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...Biomedical Engineering. I have been tutoring for four years in a professional setting and seven years on a volunteer basis, specializing in math and science education. I also worked as a curriculum designer for an SAT tutoring firm. I enjoy tutoring because I am strongly against the practice of teaching to the lowest common denominator of students and I believe that every student is entitled to a teacher that will personalize their curriculum and teaching...
Education & Certification
- University of Rochester - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Advanced Placement
- SAT
- +64 subjects

Maria Luisa: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...of English composition and literature (6 years) and college admissions counselor (4 years), I have a wealth of resources I access in order to tailor my teaching and tutoring to the students who work with me. First, I actively listen and intensively read. Then I reflect back the strengths I learn through what students share with me. No two students are alike; that is why I believe in different learning pathways to arrive at the...
Education & Certification
- Colby College - Bachelor in Arts, German
- Tufts University - Master of Arts, German
- Pine Manor College - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ACT
- SAT
- +60 subjects

Jauneen: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...studies from Northeastern Bible College. I moved on to teach in classrooms, churches, small group settings, swimming pools (as a swim instructor) and even in my own home. As a homeschool mom, I teach my own children and am preparing them for college. I believe that if learning is boring, frustrating or upsetting, it's not being done right. We can do better! So my personal goal is to help students enjoy their road to excellence.
Education & Certification
- Northeastern Bible College/Kings College - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- College English
- Math
- +17 subjects

Lynda: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...to graduate. I have also worked as a private tutor working with students in reading. Professionally, I am an accomplished education and business professional who is committed to strategic collaboration of the global business and culturally diverse language-learning environment. I have extensive experience in business development. As a corporate trainer and human resource professional, my range of expertise includes training, development, analysis and design, policies and procedures, employee relations. I am a graduate of the...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor of Education, High School Teaching
- Sacred Heart University - Masters in Business Administration, Strategic Intelligence
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- ISEE-Middle Level Writing
- English
- +30 subjects

Jessica: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...my students in my final year of teaching were ranked #1 and #2 in the state of Massachusetts on their Math and ELA state tests, respectively. In addition to teaching, I have spent the last 1.5 years working on ELA curriculum design and teacher development for a network of schools in NYC and CT. I am also currently pursuing Master's degrees in Children's Literature (M.A.) and Library and Information Science (M.S.). I love tutoring many...
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Bachelor in Arts, Child Development, French
- Simmons School of Library and Information Science - Masters, Children's Literature, Library and Information Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- HSPT
- PARCC
- +74 subjects

Nova: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
I'm an undergraduate at Brown University with a planned concentration in Health and Human Biology and Visual Art. I have had extensive experience working as a summer camp counselor, teaching at a Mandarin School, working as an SAT Tutor, and tutoring Physics, Biology, and Math at a local high school. I am more than happy to offer college advice and SAT II and AP prep given my experience with the application process!
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- PSAT
- +65 subjects

Nancy: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...My online students varied in abilities and geographical locations. I was even tasked with planning for and teaching homeschooled students with autism and dyslexia. I have given help in reading, language arts, math, writing, and teaching English to pupils of other languages. I have experience preparing students for standardized tests such as the ISEE. My students have ranged in age from preschool to college level. I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in education from...
Education & Certification
- Southern Connecticut State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education K-8
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASVAB
- ISAT
- ACCUPLACER
- +74 subjects

Donna: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...Studio Art. I also concentrated on Elementary Education and Middle School Social Studies so I could earn my teaching certifications. Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences has always intrigued me. I incorporate those practices in teaching. Focusing on learning styles for every individual student is the key to success. My other professonal experience ranges from teaching public school classrooms and online students, to working at veteran's hospitals practicing art therapy. With such diverse experiences it is...
Education & Certification
- Rhode Island College - Bachelor in Arts, Education
- Albertus Magnus College - Master of Arts, Art Therapy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Test Prep
- +18 subjects

Michele: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...Masters of Education degree from American College of Education shows that I have learned something of education theory. However, my passion for learning and for helping others learn is what really drives my desire to tutor. I began by tutoring my peers in the math lab at college. Then I continued by teaching my own children for the last twenty-two years in our homeschool. Today, I tutor friends (old and new ones). From elementary math...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- American College of Education - Masters in Education, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +72 subjects

Cody: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...majority of my professional life teaching -- as a classroom teacher, substitute teacher, a special education paraprofessional and as a theatre teaching artist. I'm also a playwright and work for a nonprofit arts center in downtown Hartford. I'm passionate about education, and I love the experience of one-on-one teaching. It's my way of giving back to the incredible teachers that shaped my childhood and offered me the doors to the professional experiences I've been fortunate...
Education & Certification
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette - Bachelors, Theatre - Arts Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +86 subjects

Paige: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...State University with my Masters in Elementary Education. I love to teach, it is my passion! I work with students on a daily basis on many different skills, strategies, and concepts. I like to use a lot of hands on, interactive activities. I also try to incorporate technology into my lessons! I try to make learning relevant and fun for all of my students. I look forward to meeting students and helping them achieve their...
Education & Certification
- Quinnipiac University - Bachelors, Business
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Science
- +9 subjects

Matthew: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...GRE) - Biology (high-school and introductory, college-level) - Chemistry (high-school and introductory, college-level inorganic) I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, along with minors in Chemistry, German Language and Literature, and Environmental Studies. Currently, I am studying toward a Master of Information degree with specialization in Library and Information Science. Professionally, I have worked for six years in biology labs (include five in genetics research), in addition to math tutoring for about...
Education & Certification
- Brandeis University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Current Grad Student, Library and Information Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +63 subjects

Sanaea: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...a first-year MD/PhD student at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. I recently graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with my Master's degree in biology and Bachelor's degree in biology. I am really passionate about helping students get excited about the subjects they are learning and inculcating strong study habits at a young age. I have always enjoyed being involved in education and have extensive experience tutoring elementary school age and high school students....
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Writing
- SAT Verbal
- ISEE-Lower Level Reading Comprehension
- +32 subjects

Colin: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...had finished their practice sets, to help others. I learned then that I had a knack for helping others understand math concepts. I did some tutoring in college and after graduation worked for several tutoring organizations before becoming an actual classroom teacher with Teach For America. Being in the classroom had its challenges and I realized I am more suited to one-on-one interaction with students where I can cater the teaching style to a student's...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelors, International Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- SAT
- GED
- +24 subjects

Amy: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...reading and math teacher at the elementary and middle school level. I use a multi-kinesthetic approach which enhances memory; while additionally we are having a lot of fun learning. I know my core curriculum and special needs is definitely a strength for me. I teach with a passion, and the kids always love me. I am also dependable, honest, and punctual. I have been able to reach several children, where others have failed.... "You get more flies with honey than you do with vinegar." I like to present materials in an upbeat positive manner. I use a positive reinforcement programs, which vary, depending on the child. A professional attitude is essential. You have to be kind and compassionate while using a strong behavioral management technique. Teach with a passion that flows to your students. I also like to make myself available to my parents.
Education & Certification
- University of Northern Colorado - Bachelors, Special Education Teacher K-12
- Central Connecticut State University - Masters, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +19 subjects