Varsity Tutors can assist children and teens in studying for the SSAT by offering excellent Richmond SSAT prep options. Many parents want their children to attend private or independent schools in the local area, and those students are often required to take an exam the SSAT if they want to enroll.
The SSAT, short for the Secondary School Admission Test, is a standardized exam that determines whether prospective students have what it takes to tackle schoolwork in an independent or private school. Varsity Tutors can set your student up with a personal tutor or enroll them in a prep course. If you prefer individual assistance from a private instructor, we can match students with someone who's an expert in test preparation. If your student enjoys studying with other kids, we'll enroll them in a Richmond SSAT prep course.
What can Richmond SSAT prep help my student study?
The SSAT targets Elementary Level (third and fourth-grade students), Middle Level (fifth, sixth, and seventh-grade students), and Upper Level (8th-11th-grade students). Each test features Quantitative, Reading, Verbal, and Writing sections. It's administered by the Enrollment Management Association, and it assesses basic math, reading, and verbal skills. Let's talk about the grade levels and sections of the test.
The Elementary Level has a Quantitative/Math section, a Verbal section, a Reading section, and a Writing section. The Quantitative/Math section has 30 multiple-choice questions with a 30-minute time limit. It covers basic math topics like probability, measurement, numbers, and properties and operations. The Verbal section has 30 multiple-choice questions with a 20-minute time limit. It covers English language topics like word relationships, language comprehension, and nuances in word meanings. The Reading section has seven passages each with four multiple-choice questions. It covers reading comprehension, and students should know how to locate the main idea of a passage, identify information, and determine the meaning of words in concepts. The Writing section has a 15-minute writing prompt that requires them to write a story based on a picture.
The Middle Level and Upper Level portions possess similar expectations except targeted at the appropriate grade levels. Both have a Quantitative section split into two sections of 25 multiple-choice questions each. It has a one-hour time limit and covers arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. The Reading section contains 40 multiple-choice questions with a time limit of 40 minutes. Students need to determine the author's main purpose, understand words and phrases in context, and comprehend and evaluate arguments and opinions. The Verbal section has 60 multiple-choice questions: 30 of them consist of synonyms, and 30 of them consist of analogies. It covers word roots, prefixes and suffixes, and other components of English. The Middle Level writing sample provides students with two creative prompts, and they must select one on which to base a story. The Upper Level writing sample is similar except it provides students with one creative prompt and one essay prompt. Both are them have 25-minute time limits. The Writing prompts on all levels are unscored, but they prepare them for writing assignments they would face in their desired school.
All levels of the SSAT contain unscored experimental sections. Those at the Elementary Level are encouraged to guess because they aren't penalized for incorrect answers. However, Middle Level and Upper Level students will get one point per correct answer and have one-quarter of a point deducted for wrong answers. They won't get penalized for unanswered questions, though.
What benefits do Richmond SSAT preparation programs offer to my student?
An educational consultant can set your student up with private lessons or enroll them in a prep class. They can take advantage of both if desired. Read more about how these programs help your student reach for their goals.
By working with a tutor, your student can ask questions or discuss things on their mind, which especially works well if they're shy. Some students struggle with getting the help they need because they're too embarrassed to raise their hand in class. When they study with a private instructor, they can concentrate better on their work and build self-confidence. Upon meeting with an educator, they can share their strong points, weak points, academic goals, and more. The academic mentor can compile this information to create a personalized study plan they can adjust when your student makes progress in their goals. An instructor can also appeal to your student's individual learning style. If your student learns best kinetically, visually, or auditorily, a tutor can offer the appropriate learning tools that suit your student. In addition, they can conduct a lesson at the proper pace. Perhaps your student needs to improve their study habits. A mentor can help students develop these skills as well.
When your student enrolls in a Richmond SSAT prep class, they can associate with a teacher and other kids in a virtual classroom. It offers new sessions each week, and they can sign up for a two-week class or a four-week class. Time is spent on reviewing sections the SSAT. If your student is in the Elementary Level, they can prepare for the Quantitative/Math section by completing math worksheets. Middle Level and Upper Level students can receive sample writing prompts to practice for the Writing section. The teacher can offer clever test-taking strategies as well as support to those who experience test anxiety.
I think these programs would really help my student. How do I sign them up for Richmond SSAT prep options?
Getting your student started with the above programs is very simple. In order to reach out to us, you can send a message via our online contact form or pick up the phone if you want to speak to someone. We're more than happy to support your student whether they desire personal instruction or want to study with their peers. If you're ready to sign your student up for a Richmond SSAT prep option, please contact Varsity Tutors today. Educational consultants are standing by eager to assist your student every step of the way.

Janice: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
I am passionate about education, reading, literacy development, and math. I enjoy motivating students to enjoy learning and participating in achieving academic success. All students can learn and it is an honor to help them become confident, independent learners prepared to reach academic goals. I look forward to making learning fun with you!... Learning should be fun, and I strive to include creative ways that students can learn and retain new material. I incorporate a song, rhyme, dance and visual ways to motivate a student to learn new things. All students can learn when academic goals are set and techniques are explained. I look forward to tutoring you.
Education & Certification
- Benedict College - Bachelors, Social Work & Early Childhood
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Phonics
- Math
- Elementary School Reading
- +3 subjects

Lisa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
I am a certified elementary school teacher with a bachelors in Early Childhood Education and a Masters in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). I am an enthusiastic teacher with lots of experience! I would love the opportunity to help your child succeed!
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelors, Early Childhood Education
- CUNY Hunter College - Masters, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- English Grammar and Syntax
- ESL/ELL
- Phonics
- +11 subjects

Savannah: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...Green Elementary School in Mechanicsville, Virginia. I recently graduated from Longwood University with a Bachelors of Science Degree, and am certified to teach grades Pre-K to 6th. I am also attending Longwood University part time for my Master's Degree in Reading in order to be a Reading Specialist for grades Pre-K to 12th. As you can see, I am completely devoted to the education of children, and am therefore continuing my education to be the...
Education & Certification
- Longwood University - Bachelors, Liberal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Science
- Middle School Math
- Earth Science
- +19 subjects

Michelle: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...sophomore at the College of William and Mary. I am pursuing a degree in psychology and music, but also have many strengths in mathematics. I have tutored elementary and middle school students in all subjects such as geometry, algebra 1, pre- algebra, algebra 2, social studies, biology, and writing/reading for about 4 years. During junior year of high school, I tutored fellow classmates in test prep (SAT/ACT) for 2 years. I also have experience teaching...
Education & Certification
- College of William and Mary - Bachelor of Science, Health/Medical Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Algebra 2
- Pre-Algebra
- Other
- +37 subjects

Andrew: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...in Harrisonburg, Virginia, receiving a bachelor's degree in English in 2008 and a master's degree in secondary education in 2009. Since graduation, I have worked teaching high school English and coaching wrestling in a relatively poor and rural district just south of Richmond. Though I am fully qualified and capable of tutoring any subject related to English, one of the things I have enjoyed the most success with as a teacher is preparation for standardized...
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelors, English
- James Madison University - Masters, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Adult Literacy
- Creative Writing
- 11th Grade Reading
- +96 subjects

Ann: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...learn challenging content. I am a National Board Certified teacher with more than 20 years of state certified classroom teaching experience. I have expertise working with elementary students as well as supporting the professional growth of aspiring teachers. I am patient and encouraging, and can help students progress to the next level of their learning journeys. I have earned degrees from some of the best schools in the country, including UCLA, Harvard, and MIT.
Education & Certification
- University of California-Riverside - Bachelor in Arts, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of California-Los Angeles - Masters in Education, Education
- Pepperdine University - Master of Science, Educational Administration
- Harvard University - Masters in Education, Education Policy Analysis
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Harvard University - Doctor of Education, Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- CSET - California Subject Examinations for Teachers
- PRAXIS Core Writing
- +25 subjects

Melissa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...University where I am studying Public Administration. Before I enrolled in school, I traveled to Beijing, China, where I taught Language Arts, Pre-Algebra, and Environmental Science at an international school. While I lived in Beijing, China, I enjoyed traveling to famous landmarks such as the Great Wall and Summer Palace. In addition to teaching at an international school, I spent my time tutoring English to elementary students at a private academy. My expertise teaching English...
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelor of Science, Public Policy and Administration
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Master in Public Health Administration, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Social Studies
- Public Speaking
- Elementary School Math
- +19 subjects

Trina: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...Hills. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Communications, majoring in Public Relations and Advertising. I also have an Associates of Arts in Journalism. In my capacity as a Board of Education member, I earned a Masters in Education Governance. More recently, I was accepted into the Masters in Education Leadership at Grand Canyon University. I have worked as a tutor with Varsity for several years now, earning a 4.7 rating. What I'm most proud...
Education & Certification
- Cal State Dominguez Hills - Bachelor of Science, Public Relations
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER Arithmetic
- Social Studies
- ACT Writing
- +42 subjects

Elizabeth: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...from the University of Virginia and my Masters of Public Health, concentrating in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences and Epidemiology from Virginia Commonwealth University. Since graduating from my Masters program, I have been working towards earning a doctorate in Clinical and Translational Sciences, concentrated in Psychiatric, Behavioral, and Statistical Genetics. While enrolled in my current program, I have had the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for graduate students studying statistics and genetic epidemiology methodologies....
Education & Certification
- University of Virginia-Main Campus - Bachelors, Foreign Affairs
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary Math
- Biostatistics
- College Essays
- +31 subjects

Alisa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...a Bachelor of Arts. After my graduation, I traveled to Bangkok, Thailand where I taught kindergarten in a bilingual school for one year. Then, I returned to the US and attended the Teacher Licensure Program at the University of Richmond. I hold a Virginia state teaching license in elementary education and in the 2014-2015 school year I will be teaching first grade. My tutoring experience includes volunteering with a program for middle school students who...
Education & Certification
- Christopher Newport University - Bachelor in Arts, Fine Art
- University of Richmond - Unknown, Teacher Licensure Preparation
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Other
- Phonics
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +13 subjects

Akela: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...with a B.A. in Elementary Education and possess a K-8 Professional Teaching Certificate with NCLB Highly Qualified status. I also hold a Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology from Purdue University. I have over five years of classroom experience in grades K-12 and a proven track record of student achievement through highly effective teaching strategies. I am available for tutoring all Elementary subjects, ESL/ELL, College Essays, Middle School Math, SSAT-Elementary Level, ISEE, and...
Education & Certification
- University of Alaska Anchorage - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Masters, Learning Design and Technology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Gifted
- ISEE
- Other
- +28 subjects

Mary: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...JMU and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Mary Baldwin College. I am certified to teach Pre-K through 6th grade. I have worked with children of all ages and I've tutored students in all of the core subjects, mostly focusing on math and reading. I've also taught preschool and tested preschool children. I've taught English to refugees from several nations, mostly adults, although children were sometimes in the classes. I love working with students....
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelors, Health Sciences
- Mary Baldwin College - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School English
- Elementary School
- ACCUPLACER
- +103 subjects

Amanda: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...from the Richmond, VA area. I graduated in 2012 from Virginia Commonwealth University with my Masters in Teaching for Early and Elementary Education. I have done post-graduate coursework for working with Gifted and Talented students. I am in my fifth year teaching and currently teaching in a private Kindergarten. In the afternoons I also help with homework help for K-5 students. I have previously taught 4th grade and in early childhood settings. I was also...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Middle School
- ISEE- Lower Level
- Study Skills
- +48 subjects

Tally: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...Mary Washington, first with my bachelor's degree in English, and then with my master's in education. I have been teaching elementary school here in Richmond for three years now, and I hope to use my experience to help new students with Varsity Tutors. I have always been a voracious reader, but I am also interested in science, math, and especially history. I'm very comfortable with all elementary subjects, from phonics to algebraic reasoning. My English...
Education & Certification
- University of Mary Washington - Bachelors, English
- University of Mary Washington - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Reading
- ISEE- Lower Level
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +27 subjects

Tara: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...University, and Virginia Tech. I am a Virginia Certified teacher and administrator, and recently received my PhD in Educational Policy and Leadership. I have worked tutoring children and adults in Virginia looking to improve their English (as I am a certified ESL instructor); and private clients in the DC region in SAT/ACT prep for the last 7 years. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Math, and Test...
Education & Certification
- Gettysburg - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Trinity College - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PRAXIS Music
- GRE
- Statistics
- +93 subjects

Megana: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...senior at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and I will be attending VCU School of Medicine. I am an aspiring pediatrician because I enjoy both working with children as well as medicine. I have been tutoring elementary and middle school math, science, social studies, and English for the past 4 years. I also have experience with working with students who have learning disabilities, autism, and ADHD. As a student, I remember having moments when I felt...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AP Psychology
- COMPASS Writing Skills
- Wilson Reading
- +110 subjects

Brittany: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...degree in secondary education with concentrations in English and history. After graduating in 2011, I have taught a broad range of subjects, mostly math and language arts for fourth through sixth grade students. I am taking a break from teaching in a formal classroom setting to raise a family and pursue writing. Tutoring has become a perfect fit for this time in my life because I still get to work with students on a regular...
Education & Certification
- Pensacola Christian College - Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Literature
- High School English
- Reading
- +26 subjects
Education & Certification
- Saint Josephs College - Bachelor of Science, Health Services Administration
- Francis Marion University - Master of Science, Community Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Math
- ESL/ELL
- Science
- +31 subjects

Zane: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...life-long endeavor. As an educator, I use my students' existing knowledge and interest to create a learning environment that is engaging, student-centered and challenging. Through the incorporation of higher order thinking (Blooms' Taxonomy), differentiated instruction and focusing on 21st Century skills, I am able to meet students' needs successfully. As a tutor, I will draw upon my 12 years of teaching experience to impart these ideals to those with whom I work to meet their...
Education & Certification
- Cal State San Diego - Bachelors, Asian Studies
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Masters, Educational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Math
- ESL/ELL
- Math
- +17 subjects

Vanessa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...qualified teacher and tutor. My education includes a BA in English from Washington and Lee University, and an MA in English Education from Columbia University's Teachers College. I have taught English in the classroom for over a decade. In addition, I have experience teaching S.A.T. prep courses and preparing students individually for ERB testing. I have tutored students outside of the classroom for many years. My qualifications include reading comprehension, analytical and creative writing, grammar...
Education & Certification
- Washington and Lee University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Teachers College at Columbia University - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER Sentence Skills
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- ACCUPLACER ESL - Listening
- +45 subjects