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
- Elementary School Reading
- Math
- +3 subjects

Andrew: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 tests. I also very much enjoy teaching British literature and the writing process. There is no better feeling to me than seeing the gratitude in a student's face when he or she exceeds...
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelors, English
- James Madison University - Masters, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASPIRE
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +98 subjects

Brittany: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 basis. One of my favorite things about tutoring is working one on one with each student, making each session fit their individual needs. My goal is to strengthen a student's knowledge foundation. Building...
Education & Certification
- Pensacola Christian College - Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- History
- Test Prep
- +26 subjects

Mary: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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. I love to help them learn and I enjoy getting to know them. My hobbies are reading, cross-stitch, knitting, and taking online classes. I...
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelors, Health Sciences
- Mary Baldwin College - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- OLSAT
- HSPT
- CogAT
- +138 subjects

Melissa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 includes grammar, writing, and speaking. I also enjoy teaching math because I can make the subject interesting by using real-life examples. As a graduate student, I value education and I believe good knowledge...
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
- HSPT
- ISEE
- Middle School Math
- +19 subjects

Trina: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...gifts and talents in children; helping them realize their full potential; and identifying their special qualities is what I'm most passionate about. I walk in patience, compassion and understanding and use positive reinforcement when working with my students. When I manage to carve out time for myself, I enjoy watching movies on the Hallmark channel and working out to include; Zumba dancing, Yoga exercise and meditation. More recently, I have added acupuncture and Tai Chi...
Education & Certification
- Cal State Dominguez Hills - Bachelor of Science, Public Relations
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ASVAB
- SAT Subject Tests
- +51 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
- Elementary School Math
- Literature
- +11 subjects

Mehwish: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
I am currently a senior at Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. I enjoy meeting new people and helping them out. I have tutored students in Math, Reading, and English. I love working a problem out with a student and seeing the lightbulb go off in their eyes.
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- WISC IV
- Programming Languages
- +65 subjects

Jill: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
..."light bulb" moment with a student keeps the passion for teaching alive in my heart, and seeing students go on to succeed where they once struggled is amazing. My education and degree are in Special Education and Psychology, and my career has been spent building individualized program plans and objectives for students that meet their needs and are built on their strengths and interests. I believe that every student can learn given appropriate, high -interest...
Education & Certification
- SUNY Institute of Technology at Utica-Rome - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Philosophy
- Elementary School English
- +36 subjects

Megana: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 overwhelmed and helpless because I wasn't able to grasp the material no matter how hard I tried. I remember being in class and feeling like I was the only one that wasn't able to...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- GCSE
- A Level
- +110 subjects

Ann: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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
- ACT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE
- +31 subjects

Tara: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 Prep. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests is the most rewarding area for me to tutor because they can see and achieve their goals in a shorter and more...
Education & Certification
- Gettysburg - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Trinity College - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +93 subjects

Sandra: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...in Mexico, I am an excellent option for you if you are looking for Spanish lessons (I am a native speaker) or in any particular subject in elementary school. I believe that a learning environment should be safe and caring where students feel free to speak their mind and solve doubts. My job will be to guide, clarify and explain the topic to my tutee, using positive reinforcement; to listen carefully in order to understand...
Education & Certification
- ITESM - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- ITESM - Master of Arts, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- CLEP
- +51 subjects

Savannah: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 best teacher possible. I am completely devoted to the children I tutor and teach, and work hard to help them establish the love for learning that I have. My complete dedication to education...
Education & Certification
- Longwood University - Bachelors, Liberal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Middle School Math
- High School English
- +19 subjects

Cara: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...an MA in English as well as BA's in English, Hispanic Studies, and Film. Although my specialty is creative writing, I have been teaching first-year composition for four years. I also tutor standardized test prep for the SAT and the ACT. I have had the life changing experience of studying abroad in Spain and being the assistant director of a tutoring company. I have years of experience teaching all levels of math from pre-k to...
Education & Certification
- East Carolina University - Bachelors, English, Hispanic Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- PSAT
- HSPT
- +101 subjects

Michelle: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 piano for about 1.5 years. I participated in the Math, Science, and English honors society to help high school students in higher level education as well. I am so excited to work with...
Education & Certification
- College of William and Mary - Bachelor of Science, Health/Medical Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- PSAT
- +37 subjects

Amanda: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 a tutor for Huntington Learning Centers while I was searching for a full time teaching position. During my tutoring there I worked with elementary students as well as with middle school students for...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- CogAT
- ISEE
- +48 subjects

Elizabeth: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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. I also spend time volunteering at a local elementary school, where I assist fourth graders in math and science, and working as a private Spanish tutor for two elementary school students. While I...
Education & Certification
- University of Virginia-Main Campus - Bachelors, Foreign Affairs
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- Epidemiology
- +31 subjects

Stephanie: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...when I received my Bachelor of Arts from Longwood University with a Concentration in Secondary Education and an Endorsement in English. That's when my love for learning really flourished! History and English have always been strengths of mine and I love helping others grow in these areas! I also excel at Writing; I've tutored in this area for years. I can help you develop key skills that will set your writing apart! Some of the...
Education & Certification
- Longwood University - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +158 subjects

Alisa: Richmond SSAT test prep instructor
...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 were English language learners preparing for state standardized tests. While I was at the University of Richmond, I participated in their reading tutor program where I worked one-on-one a student developing his reading...
Education & Certification
- Christopher Newport University - Bachelor in Arts, Fine Art
- University of Richmond - Unknown, Teacher Licensure Preparation
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Phonics
- Reading
- +13 subjects