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If you're a junior or senior in high school, Varsity Tutors can help you get set up with Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. After all, chances are you may have begun to think about the college application process, including how to get started with admissions test prep. We can connect you with resources for Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. Sometimes getting a little extra help in Math, Reading, or Writing and Literature can give you a shot of confidence as you head into the test. Even if you're not preparing to take the SAT this academic year, connecting with an instructor who knows the materials can help you to improve your understanding of the academic topics you're learning in school.
Raleigh-Durham students, including those who attend Durham Academy or East Chapel Hill High School, may have to take the SAT as their college entrance exam. This test is about three hours long and includes three main sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. There's also an optional Writing section. Score ranges in the three main sections start at 200 and go up to 800, although the Writing and Language section and the Reading section scores are merged to come up with a score in the range of 200-800. The composite score ranges from 400 to 1600. If you take the optional Writing Exam, the score range is between 6 and 24.
What can I expect from Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation?
There's a three-hour time limit for the three main sections of the SAT, and an additional 50 minutes to complete your essay. The exam is comprised of multiple choice questions, and your score comes from the number of correct answers that you get. There's no penalty for guessing, and no deduction of points if you get a question wrong.
The Writing and Language Test measures how well you understand sentence structure, and how much you know about punctuation and grammar. Passages focus on how well you decipher context and how that affects your comprehension. You'll be given passages to analyze and then you'll be asked to explain the relevance of different arguments or even to rewrite an argument to strengthen it.
In the Reading section, you'll be asked to read and evaluate written passages from multiple sources from literature, the founding documents of the United States, science-related passages, and a selection from the social sciences. There are 52 questions to answer. This section is meant to measure how well you can use evidence, use context to determine meaning, make your own conclusions, and provide analysis in history, social studies, and science. While these subsections are scored individually, the Writing and Language section and Reading sections are merged to get a score between 200 and 800. Admissions boards will look at your combined scores from Writing and Language and Reading to determine whether you're a good fit for their academic programs.
The Math section includes 58 questions, including some questions where calculators are allowed and some where the use of calculators is prohibited. These questions focus on algebra, problem-solving, data analysis and advanced math skills. This section tests your mathematical fluency, how well you understand linear equations and their graphs, and how well you use math to solve real-world problems.
If you choose to take the SAT Essay section, you'll have an additional 50 minutes to complete this final section. You'll be asked to read a passage and critique the examples meant to support the author's claims, analyze how the author uses reasoning to develop ideas, and how an author uses other elements to make the passage more powerful. The section requires that you write an essay evaluating the argument, citing at least one example of the author's use of reasoning or use of emotional or stylistic elements. You won't be asked to give your opinion, just to critique the author's argument.
How can Raleigh-Durham SAT prep help me?
There are two methods you can choose from for Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. You can join a group Raleigh-Durham SAT prep course, or you can choose to work one-on-one with a private academic coach. No matter which method of instruction you choose, you'll have the option to connect with your Raleigh-Durham SAT tutor with Varsity Tutors' Live Learning Platform, which uses the internet to bring the classroom to you.
In a Raleigh-Durham SAT prep class, you'll connect with other students and an instructor over the internet, in real time. There's no worrying about joining a class that's already in session because new classes start every single week. Some classes run for two weeks, and others are four weeks long. Working with other students in a collaborative environment means that you can get feedback and tips that you might not get in one-on-one interaction. You can also learn from other people's perspectives and from their struggles, whether they're talking about problem-solving in Math or working on organization skills to shape your responses in the Writing and Language test, for example.
If private, personalized attention is more your style, connecting with a Raleigh-Durham SAT tutor might work better. They'll create a personalized plan of study that you and your tutor can change as you find necessary. There are two ways you can work with an academic coach: in the same physical location, or through the Live Learning Platform. If you have a certain section that you struggle with, perhaps the Reading or Math sections, your Raleigh-Durham SAT prep may include focused instruction on those areas, a variety of study aids that address section-specific concepts, or practice exams.
What can I do to connect with someone for Raleigh-Durham SAT prep?
No matter when you're taking your college entrance exams, you can easily connect with an academic coach if you reach out to Varsity Tutors. Our educational consultants are happy to help set you up with Raleigh-Durham SAT prep. If you're not sure whether you want private instruction or a Raleigh-Durham SAT course, our educational consultants can discuss the benefits of each and help you come to a decision. We look forward to helping you prepare for your college entrance exams!

Simon: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...for the past five years. My greatest passion is making science accessible, especially when it can seem confusing and intimidating. I love activating students' natural curiosity and inquiry, and using that to build confidence in and mastery of a wide variety of academic topics. I graduated from Yale University with a double major in Environmental Studies and International Studies, and I love the way science and real-world issues can interact. Part of my interest in...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- Yale University - Bachelors, Environmental Studies
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- PSAT
- Graduate Test Prep
- Ecology
- +43 subjects

Joseph: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of North Carolina. Currently, one of my biggest passion is using CAD software to design prosthetic implants. I have been a math tutor since my sophomore year in high school, and it has always been so rewarding to help students understand material, from learning how to use the Pythagorean Theorem to calculating integrals. Being an engineer, I personally know the difference between what a good/bad teacher can provide...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelors, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Test Prep
- Math
- AP Calculus AB
- +21 subjects

Asta: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...not around to help us learn specific things, but rather education teaches us how to learn. Outside the classroom, I'm a well-traveled certified SCUBA diver who enjoys spending time kayaking and weightlifting. I also played ice hockey through college and performed as a classical pianist on campus and in Europe. When I'm not feeling so active, I can be found knitting, crocheting, reading, writing, and daydreaming about where I want to travel to next. I'm...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- PSAT Critical Reading
- SAT Subject Test in Chinese with Listening
- PSAT
- +80 subjects

Anastasia: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...from French to physics and back again. As a bachelor's graduate with a chemistry/physics degree, I know full well what's required to succeed in those subjects. I also know how to face the endless standardized tests and leave the battle in victory, not resignation. I've been speaking French since I was old enough to read and I have a Russian heritage that can help out with colloquialisms and grammar. Languages and linguistics are fascinating to...
Education & Certification
- New College of Florida - Bachelors, Chemistry/Physics
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- College Essays
- High School Chemistry
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +155 subjects

Matthew: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...where I received my Bachelor of Sciences in Anthropology and Human Biology with a minor in Predictive Health. After I graduated, I worked as a laboratory assistant at a cardiology lab at Emory University School of Medicine. While I am interested in chemistry, math among others in STEM, I am very passionate about biotechnology and general biology including genetics, physiology, and cell biology. As an aspiring dentist, I am currently working towards getting a dental...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Bachelors, Anthropology and Human Biology
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Study Skills
- 2nd Grade Math
- General Chemistry
- +71 subjects

Julia: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...a recent college graduate from Columbia University with a lot of experience in research and writing. My major was Human Rights and I am passionate about the issues that I engage with. I received my associate's degree from Bergen Community College in 2014 and my Bachelors from Columbia in 2017. At Bergen Community, I worked in the tutoring center focusing on assisting students with writing in any subject. I also tutor English and the SAT.
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Undergrad, Human Rights
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- 6th Grade Writing
- 10th Grade Writing
- Elementary School Writing
- +36 subjects

Samantha: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...rights prize at Duke in 2012. I have tutored and taught French and English at various levels in the past and as an accomplished French speaker and writer myself, I am able to help students develop these areas in their own education. My tutoring methods include a hands-on approach where students not only study new material but also get opportunities to practice what they have learned to further develop those skills through activities and exercises...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelor in Arts, International Comparative Studies, French, Arabic
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Conversational French
- French 2
- SAT Math
- +32 subjects

Sharif: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
I have been tutoring for 5 years, and I enjoy seeing students make progress in their studies. I'm very patient and I make math fun. I know I'm doing my job when a student reaches his or her "aha" moment. I have tutored a variety of subjects, mainly math and science, though I have also tutored students in Reading.... I like to get to know my students. I want to know hobbies and interest. I want to know their weaknesses and strengths. If I know who my student is, I believe I will know how to teach him or her effectively.
Education & Certification
- NCCU - Bachelors, Physics and Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 2
- Calculus 2
- Trigonometry
- +43 subjects

Andrew: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...with a dual BA in Economics and Psychology, with a Math minor. I also have a MBA from UNC's Kenan-Flagler Business School with a Finance Concentration. I recently completed my MS in Finance from Georgetown. I have worked for the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, investment banks, and a private equity firm; so, I have experience in the applied application of academic theory. I am adept at teaching economics and finance, as well as topics...
Education & Certification
- UNC Chapel Hill - Bachelors, Economics & Psychology
- Georgetown University - Masters, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Marketing
- Algebra 2
- ACT
- +70 subjects

Hunter: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...the research triangle of North Carolina. I attended Boston College for my undergraduate education, majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Medical Humanities. I attend Tufts University School of Medicine for my M.S. in Biomedical Sciences. Next year I will pursue my PhD at Duke University. I love helping tutor and work with students of all ages, helping them to improve their understanding of material and their grades/scores. I hope we can work together to help...
Education & Certification
- Boston College - Current Undergrad, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- AP Biology
- Organic Chemistry
- Science
- +39 subjects

Phuong: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...might be hindering their abilities. I strive to share knowledge with my students in hopes that they will feel inspired to take charge of their own education and appreciate it. While I tutor a wide range of subjects, my passions are in mathematics and science. As a result, I also look forward to helping students improve in the mathematics portion of their standardized testing. During my free time, I enjoy dancing and martial arts to...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelor of Science, Evolutionary Biology
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Other
- High School Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- +44 subjects

Yvonne: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
I'm passionate about learning and believe that curiosity about the world leads to amazing discoveries. Whether you're struggling with a class, prepping for a major test, or learning about computers and Microsoft, I'm glad to support you. My expertise includes Nursing, Public Health and the health sciences.
Education & Certification
- San Francisco State University - Bachelor of Science, Nursing (RN)
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Science, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Technology and Coding
- Medicine
- GED
- +52 subjects

Nihar: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...My high school unweighted GPA was 4.0/4.0 and weighted GPA was 4.75/5.0 with 17 AP classes. I have peer tutored high school students in topics such as Math and Science. Based on my strong SAT and ACT performance, I want to share my tips and strategies for achieving a high score. I have taken Differential Equations and Calculus III at an accredited university with A+ grades in both. As a national-level musician, I also teach...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Writing and Language
- Algebra
- ACT Aspire
- +68 subjects

Whitney: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...Secondary English Education. I am pursuing my MFA at New York University in Musical Theatre Writing. As an educator in the field of secondary English education for the past four years, I have learned that students first need a support system in order to achieve their own greatness. I hope to be at least a small part of that support system as well as a source of guidance for students who are in need.
Education & Certification
- Appalachian State University - Bachelor of Science, Secondary English Education
- New York University - Master of Fine Arts, Graduate Musical Theatre Writing
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Fiction Writing
- Vocabulary
- 7th Grade Writing
- +82 subjects

David: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...questions that lead a student towards the right way of thinking, rather than strict memorization. Because of my abilities in both STEM subjects and communication, I believe that gives me a broad perspective that can be useful in bridging diverse subjects. My personal interests outside academic subjects include watching and playing sports (e.g. basketball), listening to music (especially rock), volunteering (Y Guides leadership council), participating in events with my church, and hanging out with my...
Education & Certification
- North Carolina State University at Raleigh - Bachelors, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- English Grammar and Syntax
- College English
- C
- +45 subjects

Natalie: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. I received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Florida International University and a Master in Health Administration from the University of Florida. +5 years of tutoring experience. I was a Lead Upper Level Math Instructor in 2 education companies: Mathnasium and Sylvan Learning. I am TESOL certified, teaching Chinese students English as a second language. I also volunteer my time with E-Learning Amigos Tutoring, created with the goal of providing...
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Finance
- University of Florida - Masters in Business Administration, Health Services Administration
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Math
- Elementary School
- Trigonometry
- +55 subjects

Noelle: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...undergraduate of Duke University, graduating this May with a dual degree in Computer Science and Neuroscience. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Math, Literature, and History. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary for an improved quality of life, and I try to impart this appreciation to all of my students. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, dance, painting, sketching, and...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Current Undergrad Student, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Spelling Bee
- SAT Math
- Public Speaking
- +42 subjects

Gregory: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...read texts carefully, to make arguments cogently, and to tell a story about themselves, the world around them, and the things that are important in their lives. I believe that the humanities really do help us be more human with each other and in our world. I teach and tutor with the assumption that school is a set of practices that anyone can learn and that, when they engage those practices diligently, students gain empathy...
Education & Certification
- University of British Columbia--Vancouver - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Yale University - Master of Divinity, Theology
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Verbal
- High School Writing
- Test Prep
- +26 subjects

Jack: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...in Spanish from the College of Charleston. I also majored in Business Administration and graduated Magna Cum Laude, top 10% of the business school, and was a member of the Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society. My passion for the language and culture led me to live in southwest Spain for six months. Throughout my life I've had my fair share of frustration with certain academic subjects (Spanish being one of them),...
Education & Certification
- College of Charleston - Bachelors, Spanish; Business Administration
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- High School Writing
- Microsoft Excel
- SAT Writing and Language
- +17 subjects

Alex: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...(UNC) in Honors' Carolina--double majoring in Communications/New Media and Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. I love making connections with other students and building a safe environment to foster growth and encouragement. While I have a pretty diverse palette of experiences, I focus a lot of my time on Mathematics. I took IB Math HL and AP Calculus BC in High School and excelled in both--and am now in high level math courses at...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Arts, Digital Communications and Multimedia
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Middle School Math
- Elementary School Writing
- AP Spanish Literature and Culture
- +61 subjects