If your student will be applying to a private or independent school, then you should probably start thinking about a Raleigh-Durham SSAT prep course. Because many schools require SSAT scores with applications, this test is most likely something that your child will need to take. No matter which school your child might be applying to, it's important that they achieve their highest potential score to showcase their abilities. There are multiple levels of the SSAT, and your child will take the test that applies to their age group and educational level. These levels include an Elementary Level SSAT, a Middle Level SSAT, and an Upper Level SSAT.
The Elementary level SSAT is for students in the third grade applying to an independent or private school for their fourth grade. Additionally, fourth-grade students may take the Elementary Level SSAT if they're applying for entrance into independent schools for their fifth-grade education. The Middle Level SSAT is available for fifth, sixth and seventh-grade students who wish to apply to an independent middle school for their following educational year. Finally, the Upper Level SSAT is for students from eighth grade all the way to eleventh grade. Upon taking the Upper Level SSAT, these students may attend independent high schools in their following educational years of study.
Each level of the SSAT is slightly different, although the Elementary Level SSAT has the least in common with the other two levels - at least in structure. The Elementary has only four sections plus an experimental section, while the other two levels feature five sections plus an experimental section. All levels require a writing section of some kind. Quantitative Reasoning is also a common subject tested across all levels, as are Reading and Verbal skills. The Upper and Middle SSAT levels have two Quantitative sections, while the Elementary has only one Quantitative section that is combined with Math. In addition, the Elementary Level SSAT should take less time to complete with a time limit of one hour and fifty minutes. Both the Upper and Middle Levels of the SSAT have longer time limits of two hours and fifty minutes.
What Might A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course Cover?
When your child enrolls in an SSAT course, they'll be welcomed into a virtual classroom filled with other students who are also studying for the SSAT. Your child will be guided through the study process by a highly-qualified instructor with expert knowledge of the SSAT. This instructor will have a detailed understanding of the SSAT from top to bottom. Upon completion of the SSAT course, your child will be better equipped to tackle the SSAT of their chosen level. This course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the general structure of the test, the types of questions involved in each section, and strategies that help children approach the SSAT with confidence.
The Elementary Level SSAT comprises of four sections. The first section is Quantitative/Math. This portion of the exam contains 30 questions and has a time limit of 30 minutes. Basic math concepts will be covered. Next is the Verbal section, which also includes 30 questions and a time limit of 30 minutes. The questions cover the English language, including word relationships, synonyms, and more. The Reading section also covers topics related to English and involves 28 questions with a time limit of 30 minutes. Most of the questions revolve around reading comprehension, including the meaning of specific words and the main idea of the passage as a whole. Finally, the Writing section contains just one question with a time limit of 15 minutes. Students are asked to write a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
The Middle level SSAT comprises of five different areas of focus. The Writing Sample section has a time limit of 25 minutes with one single question. Students are given two creative scenarios and are asked to choose one as the basis for a story. Students will be scored on the organization of their story, basic grammar, and other writing concepts. The Middle Level SSAT features two separate Quantitative sections, both comprising of 25 questions with 30 minutes each. Students will need to deal with basic algebra, geometry, probability, and other topics. The Reading portion contains 40 questions with a time limit of 40 minutes. Students will be asked to assess narrative and argumentative passages. The Verbal section comprises of 60 questions with a time limit of 30 minutes and deals with English concepts, such as analogies and synonyms.
The Upper Level SSAT also comprises of five sections. The Writing segment has a time limit of 25 minutes. Students will be asked to choose between a creative and traditional essay. Students will be graded on persuasive writing techniques, as well as supporting a statement with examples. Like the Middle Level SSAT, the Quantitative section is split into two sections, each with 25 questions and a time limit of 30 minutes. Students will be graded on slightly more advanced math concepts compared to Middle Level SSAT questions. These include plane geometry, areas of polygons, fractions, and more. The Reading portion of the exam includes 40 questions with a time limit of 40 minutes. This section is also similar to the Middle Level SSAT but deals with more advanced concepts, such as determining the author's attitudes, purpose, and tone. The Verbal section is also quite similar to the Middle Level SSAT but deals with more advanced concepts, such as prefixes and suffixes.
How Can A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course Help Me Study?
A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course is beneficial in many ways. First of all, there are proven benefits from a collaborative learning process, and your child will learn from other students through interaction and asking questions. SSAT courses also allow the student to get extra help from their instructors in a one-on-one setting if they're struggling with specific concepts.
How Can I Book A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Class?
Booking an SSAT class is easy. Choose from a two-week course or a four-week course, and your child can jump straight in with new classes starting every week. You can also choose from a wide range of time slots for your students. This is perfect if your child has a busy schedule filled with sports or other extra-curricular activities. Contact Varsity Tutors today to learn more about how a Raleigh-Durham SSAT class can benefit your student.

Asta: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...I get to know my students the best, as we talk through dreams, aspirations, and life experiences. I view education as a skill; education is 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....
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ACT
- PSAT
- +80 subjects

Matthew: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...students again through Varsity Tutors because I truly believe that education is absolutely imperative to a better quality of life and that everyone is fully capable of learning and making potentials to reality. As for tutoring, I put much emphasis on active participation and positive reinforcement. A learning environment should stay interactive, fun, but challenging. By encountering challenges, I believe a student's potential could rise. Besides my life in academia, I enjoy traveling, photography, and...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Bachelors, Anthropology and Human Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- TOEFL
- +71 subjects

Alexandra: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...teaching and making a difference in students lives. I love knowing that I made a difference to someone, even if it's just one person. My favorite moment is the lightbulb moment; when someone gets what you have been trying to explain! I have been a long term substitute and will begin teaching in the fall. I am a certified elementary teacher. I have worked with students of all ages, but love working with elementary students!
Education & Certification
- Meredith College - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Literature
- Elementary School Math
- +15 subjects

John: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...GED in general math as well as assist with ACT/SAT preparations in Math. I have taught remedial math and music. I am proficient in geometry, trigonometry, pre-algebra, algebra I/II, pre-calculus, calculus I/II, discreet math, and other mathematical concepts. I have a sincere and genuine love of mathematics. I thoroughly enjoy working with anyone struggling with achieving personal mastery of math related subjects in their school curriculum. I am adept in assisting them in understanding and recognizing...
Education & Certification
- Anderson University - Bachelor in Arts, Music Performance
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACCUPLACER
- ASVAB
- +59 subjects

Gillian: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...science using a student-focused personalized learning approach. We do not learn in the same way, but once we know what works for us, the possibilities are endless for knowledge. I take a student-centered approach to tutoring. Upon our first session, I will ask you how you learn, and what is your learning style. From there we can discuss your goals for tutoring, whether you just want one session to brush up on a specific subject,...
Education & Certification
- Converse College - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
- Duke University - Doctor of Philosophy, Immunology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- UK A Level
- ACT
- +27 subjects

Bianca: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...students from being overwhelmed with background information and helps them feel like they can tackle homework and practice problems on their own. I am currently on my gap year before medical school. I've taken the MCAT twice, first scoring a 515 and then a 518. Since then I have been tutoring in all MCAT subjects and I am confident I could help a student reach any score goal. I am comfortable working with students with...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor of Science, Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- UK A Level
- SAT 4-Week Prep Class
- SAT Subject Tests
- +159 subjects

Abigail: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...summer school. I have my bachelor's degree in English and political science from UNC, where I graduated summa cum laude. Go heels! My tutoring philosophy is to provide students with the learning strategies they need to master information in their studies and to foster lifelong independent learning skills. I want to help students be passionate about their education. Outside of academic interests, I enjoy reading, writing, gardening, cooking, and traveling. My favorite book is Emma,...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- SAT
- REGENTS
- +91 subjects

Lauren: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...and years as an educator to assess individual needs, learning preferences, and continually develop strategic instructional strategies for my students. My greatest joy as an educator is seeing a student gain confidence in his/her abilities. It is my motivation to never stop improving myself as a tutor. I want my students to do more than just get better grades on tests, pass benchmarks, or get a good grade on an essay; I want them to...
Education & Certification
- California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo - Bachelors, English
- California State University-Fullerton - Masters, Education with an emphasis in reading instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +42 subjects

Stacy: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...as an exchange student. I have been teaching for 12 years. I have a 4 year old cat. I like to spend time with my family. Outside my class, I enjoy traveling around the world, gymnastics and visiting Disney World. I use songs, games and fun in class! My goal is to make your child learning fun! I have ESOL, Elementary Education, Pre- Kindergarten, and Special Education Certification in 2 states and have TESOL certification.
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor of Science, Clinical Psychology
- Florida International University - Juris Doctor, Prelaw Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PARCC
- ACT
- Florida EOC Assessment
- +100 subjects

Bill: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
I tutor kids of all ages, and specialize in those with ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as those with emotional and cognitive disorders. My preferred subjects are test preparation (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.), Math, Science, and English. ... I think it's very important that I relate to students on a personal level so they truly understand that I want them to do well. Once that bond is made, we can work together toward a common goal. I also determine early on how students learn. For example, some kids are visual learners, while others need to have questions read to them. It's amazing to see the transformation in a student when you hit upon that student's learning style. Also, I think it's important to be able to recognize when a student is getting overwhelmed and you need to step back and take the pressure off.
Education & Certification
- SUNY Empire State College - Bachelors, General Sciences, Theater
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER
- PSAT
- ACT
- +68 subjects

Timothy: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...from, succeed in, and get the most from their classes....even the ones that are most frustrating and that challenge them the most. Let's work together to achieve your/your child's academic goals and have some fun in the process! (Learning and fun should go hand in hand, after all). Specialty areas include: Math (Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 &2, Statistics), Introductory Economics (Micro, Macro), GMAT (Verbal, Quant, Writing), SAT Verbal/Writing, Writing, English (all grade Levels up to AP/College),...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- Duke University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- PSAT
- College Algebra
- +55 subjects

Candice: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
Hey there! My name is Candice and my focus is on Social Studies, specifically Government, Political Science, US History, and Criminal Justice. I am excited to help with any areas you may have trouble in and make it my priority to turn studying into something that can be enjoyable! I don't see any reason why enhancing your education can't be fun for you (and me!)
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke - Bachelor in Arts, Criminal Justice
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT Subject Tests
- CLEP
- +104 subjects

Emily: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...of learning with others. In my own collegiate career, I was awarded the top two scholarships available to undergraduates, and I was honored with the Dean's Award for the College of Arts and Sciences upon graduation--the highest award available in the college . While in undergrad, I supported myself by tutoring collegiate student-athletes. Now I'm a masters student at Johns Hopkins University and continuing my work as a tutor. Tell me about your essay, your...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science, Wildlife, Fish, and Wildlands Science and Management
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Arts, Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- CLEP
- SAT Subject Tests
- +140 subjects

Brittany: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...learn. I believe each student has his or her own unique learning style, and having a teacher who understands this fact will greatly improve a student's success. My experience as a special educator has allowed me to become very adept at helping students find their strengths and using them to promote academic success. While my favorite subjects to teach and tutor involve history and politics, I am skilled at tutoring students in reading, writing, math,...
Education & Certification
- Meredith College - Bachelors, History
- Western Carolina University - Masters, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Special Education
- Summer
- +30 subjects

William: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...to teach but that I am quite good at it. While I am doing quite a bit of private tutoring on my own, I am now looking for ways to expand my reach. Accordingly, your organization may be a good fit with my skills and abilities. Note that I do not intend to quit my private tutoring practice. So, although I've indicated my times of availability, I will schedule actual tutoring sessions on a first...
Education & Certification
- Texas AM University - Bachelors, Nuclear Engineering
- Duke University - Masters, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- English
- +35 subjects

Yvonne: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course 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
- SSAT
- SAT
- TEAS
- ISEE
- +52 subjects

Chelsea: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...amazing in giving me a rounded view of the world. I believe that in learning any subject requires gaining a rounded perspective for full understanding. While tutoring, I try to provide several different paths for understanding and several different strategies for problem solving. My tutoring experience is in math, reading, and writing with elementary school and middle school children. I have extensive experience in essay writing and editing as well as college essay tutoring and...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelors, Premed; women's studies
- Johns Hopkins University - Masters, Public Health (Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- Math
- +25 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SCAT Exam
- SAT
- PSAT
- +61 subjects

Linda: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...I have two grown sons and a very spoiled mix breed dog. I have lived in Milwaukee all of my life but got a chance to experience living and working in another area - North Carolina - for several years. It's beautiful there. I enjoy traveling to places I've never been before and meeting new people; shopping; reading; basketball and attending sporting events. When time allows, I enjoy sewing and taking long walks.
Education & Certification
- UW-Milwaukee - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
- National Louis University - Masters in Education, Educational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- NNAT
- College Essays
- +34 subjects

Serena: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...knowledge in planning, organizing, and implementing successful strategies, and best practices to lead in my profession. I am fully knowledgeable of the Common Core Curriculum used in Elementary schools along with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. As a teacher, I have prepared students for the North Carolina elementary end of grade tests and the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) in Jamaica. I am a Science item test writer and reviewer for the North...
Education & Certification
- Consortium of Institution for Teacher Education - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- American College of Education - Masters, Educational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- GED
- Algebra
- +21 subjects