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.

Christina: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
I am a current MBA student at the Yale School of Management who will also be attending UCLA School of Law post-MBA. I've also enjoyed taking standardized tests and "cracking" their code; so I love getting to continue to work on this with my students.
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelors, Biology, General
- Yale School of Management - Masters in Business Administration, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- HSPT
- ACT
- +58 subjects

Alexander: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...got six years of teaching/tutoring experience, working with kids K-12. I've mostly helped students with mathematics (middle-school level through SAT prep), computer science (introductory web development and object-oriented programming), and English-Language Arts (reading comprehension with students grades 1-4). I've worked in environments ranging from a charter school in the South Bronx to a prep school in Connecticut. In mathematics in particular I have strong experience working with students who have learning disabilities. I'm near-fluent in...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +81 subjects

Max: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...study Economics. I'm originally from Millburn, NJ. This year, I'm taking two semesters off from school to sing and travel the entire world with the Yale Whiffenpoofs, America's oldest collegiate a cappella singing group. Apart from singing, I'm is passionate about education, particularly in helping high school students achieve their academic goals as they work their way towards college. I volunteer in New Haven as a math teacher and coach at a public middle school...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- +104 subjects

David: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...feedback and one-to-one attention, not so much lecture. I've been working in education for nearly 10 years, as a tutor, classroom teacher (I am certified in Math 7-12 in Connecticut), and developer of teaching materials. My most recent gigs have been hourly / independent contractor / free-lance, which I haven't put on my resume. I've been tutoring, mostly for the Hamden (CT) school district as a three-quarters-time job but also occasionally for some local agencies....
Education & Certification
- Union College - Bachelors, Computer Science
- Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion-New York - Masters, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- +45 subjects

Nancy: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...make my sessions interesting and fun. It's important to make real world connections, so students understand why learning a particular skill is important. I was a classroom teacher for many years. I spent most of those years teaching grades 3, 4 and 7, but I have actually taught all grades! While in the classroom, I taught core subjects to heterogeneously grouped students. For the last ten years, I have been an online tutor. My online...
Education & Certification
- Southern Connecticut State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education K-8
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- +82 subjects

Marty: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...retired in 2009 after 37 years of teaching, took a year off, and decided that a life of retirement wasn't for me. Fortunately I was rehired as a math interventionist and I've been working at that job ever since, and loving it. I'm active in my local Lutheran church and served as its financial secretary. I'm currently an elder in my church. I've taught in summer school and in after school programs too. I do...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, Mathematics Education
- Wesleyan University - Masters, Mathematics
- State of Connecticut - Certificate, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- SHSAT
- +131 subjects

Zach: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...Class of 2012 with an Intensive B.S. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. Eager for tutoring opportunities, I welcome any of you who wishes to undergo SAT/PSAT or ACT Test Preparation that will get you the scores you need for admission to the college of your choice. As for my experience, I have tutoring experience in both one-to-one settings, going as far back as high school, and group/classroom settings, especially from my 4 years of...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- CogAT
- ACT
- +54 subjects

Tasha: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...love what I do. I adapt my tutoring approach 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...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology, Anthropology
- University of Baltimore - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- +46 subjects

Tiffany: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...love studying various author crafts as well as comparing multiple works of literature. In my classroom I love bringing the excitement and joy of reading alive for my students. As a teacher with years of experience, I have encountered scholars with diverse reading levels and abilities. Although multiple strategies are used to reach each and every one of my students, one thing they all have in common is a shared love and appreciation for reading....
Education & Certification
- Long Island University - Bachelors, Education
- Fordham University - Master of Science, Students with Disabilities
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- TACHS
- Writing
- +18 subjects

Cody: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...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 enough to have. Let's learn!... I believe that great learning happens when a student feels supported and empowered. Creating a safe space to learn and creating a space that's supportive of a student's learning style and strengths make great learning a reality. Good teaching begins with the student -- knowing where they are, and teaching to that place.
Education & Certification
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette - Bachelors, Theatre - Arts Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ASPIRE
- ACT
- +86 subjects

Landon: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...I grew up in a high-performing school district where many of my peers were able to excel without putting forth any effort. Meanwhile, I was spending countless hours reading, drilling flash cards, and reworking problems without receiving the same results. School just never came naturally for me, and I often felt incompetent, unmotivated and embarrassed to ask for help. Thankfully, I had wonderful teachers, mentors, and tutors along the way that helped me master the...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, Public Relations and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- STAAR
- Advanced Placement
- +166 subjects

Jamie: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...educating and learning from creative, inquisitive kids. I currently create mathematics curriculum for several local school districts, teach pre-kindergarten physical education classes, and run a cooperative education program in the Naugatuck Valley of Connecticut. My current goal is to step back into the classroom and teach in an elementary school. Over the years I have worked in a variety of areas in the field of education. I have worked in many different settings with children...
Education & Certification
- Albertus Magnus College - Bachelors, Sociology/Law
- University of New Haven - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- English
- Reading
- Math
- +15 subjects

Logan: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...Oxford with a BA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). I've worked with multiple companies and as an independent tutor for over 2 years and have taught a range of subjects, including Economics and Politics (through University level) and Calculus, Statistics, Spanish, US History, Chemistry, and Geography (through AP level). I'm also experienced in university admissions coaching, including SAT/ACT tutoring and advising on personal statements and supplemental essays. Prior to Oxford, I attended the Taft...
Education & Certification
- University of Oxford - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- +82 subjects

Vishnu Priya: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...impact the next generation positively. In my classroom, I strive to create an engaging environment where all students feel heard and valued. My approach involves interactive discussions and tailored feedback, which helps students develop their critical thinking and express their ideas confidently. I enjoy adapting to the diverse needs of each student, making learning both enjoyable and effective. Joining Varsity Tutors is a thrilling opportunity for me to continue inspiring students and fostering a love...
Education & Certification
- University of New Haven - Master of Science, Business, General
- ZeroTo Mastery - Doctor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Eleven Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning
- SAT
- SHSAT
- +725 subjects

Rachel: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...and currently am a postdoctoral fellow at Yale School of Medicine. During my graduate program, I gained significant experience in teaching foundational psychology coursework to college students. I served as an instructor for a General Psychology course over two semesters. This gave me the opportunity to create a space for students to clarify course material, have critical discussions about various psychology concepts, and learn through interactive activities the ways in which these concepts might apply...
Education & Certification
- University of Michigan - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- The University of Tennessee - Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology
- The University of Tennessee - Doctor of Philosophy, Counseling Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- UK GCSE
- ACT
- HSPT
- +88 subjects

River: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...International Journalism in 2008, I started my teaching career in Hangzhou, China. Since then, I've taught English (ESL) for 10 years and Mandarin Chinese for 2 years. I love learning different languages myself, and I love using them while traveling and working in different countries. I feel lucky to have translated my hobby into a career, and honored to be an educator and an advocate of diverse cultures. My experience teaching in China and Thailand...
Education & Certification
- Zhejiang University City College - Bachelor in Arts, Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +25 subjects

Purbasha: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...and Math tutor for the last 5 years at a Magnet school. I graduated with a Masters in Teaching from University of Saint Joseph, CT, with a GPA of 4.0 and currently hold a Connecticut Teaching certification #305 for grades 1-6. I believe that with my teaching and tutoring background and experience I am well prepared to use this platform. As an experienced and passionate educator, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to student-centered...
Education & Certification
- College of St Joseph - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Elementary School English
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- +34 subjects

Jaclyn: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
Hello! My name is Jackie DeFilippo and I am enthusiastic about tutoring. I have tutored before in college, and I am currently a middle school Science teacher. I have a license and degree in Elementary Education, with experience in both elementary school education and middle school education. I am a new teacher, and have a passion for teaching and learning. I look forward to meeting you!
Education & Certification
- Westfield State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Technology and Coding
- Elementary School Math
- +26 subjects

Elisa: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
I have had 25 years teaching experience on the elementary level. I taught Kindergarten for 19 years. I have been teaching 5th grade for the last 6 years. I have always taught in an inclusion classroom. ... I believe that all children have the ability and right to learn. My goal is to instill a love of learning in all children. I would like all children to have the confidence to overcome any difficulties they may have in learning.
Education & Certification
- Manhattanville College - Bachelors, History
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- Test Prep
- +23 subjects

Matthew: Portland SSAT test prep instructor
...an adult in math, I have used and developed a teaching approach that values the student as a whole person, not just their test scores. I am patient, methodical, and understanding, and I work well with students who are willing to make an effort toward improving. I can tutor in the following subjects: - Math (elementary, middle-school, pre-algebra, algebra 1, algebra 2, geometry, and introductory trigonometry and precalculus) - German (introductory and intermediate) - Test...
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
- CLEP
- +63 subjects