Varsity Tutors can assist students preparing to apply to secondary school by linking them with consistent Seattle SSAT prep help. The SSAT stands for Secondary School Admissions Test, and it's an exam that's used by numerous private educational institutions. This test is administered to students who are seeking entrance into an elite private elementary, middle, or high school. The SSAT is designed for students in grades 3-11. Scoring well on this exam is important because admission committees will compare the student's score to those within his or her academic group. The final score can determine whether a student is granted admission into the school.
The SSAT is a standardized assessment that aims to measure the student's academic ability. The exam assesses their basic math, verbal, and reading skills. How well the student performs on the SSAT can predict whether they are able to handle the coursework in a private school. Since the SSAT is geared towards students of various grade levels, there are three main test levels available for students in elementary, middle school and high school.
What Does A Seattle SSAT Prep Class Cover?
The SSAT is made up of three sections; Verbal, Quantitative, and Reading Comprehension. Test takers will take the exam based on their current grade. There's also a Writing section that isn't scored, but it's sent to the schools that the student is applying too. For instance, if a fourth-grade student is taking the standardized test, they will have to take the elementary level of the SSAT. Although there are slight differences in the varying levels of the SSAT, they all share the same purpose. Check out this overview of the format of the SSAT so that you can know what to expect on exam day.
Elementary Level
The elementary level is for 3rd-grade students applying to an independent school for the 4th grade. Here is a breakdown of this level of the assessment:
Verbal - This section has 30 questions that will test the student's understanding of word relationships, different types of analogies and vocabulary from various areas of study.
Reading Comprehension - There are a total of 28 questions in this portion of the exam all based around 7 reading passages. Your child will have to determine the main idea of different written passages, use context clues to figure out the meaning of words, and identify important information.
Quantitative - The Quantitative portion consists of basic math questions that cover areas such as; multiplication, addition, and division. Students are prohibited from using a calculator in this section.
Writing Sample - The student will be asked to write a simple short story that includes a beginning, middle, and end on this final section of the assessment.
Middle School and Upper Level
The middle school and upper levels of the SSAT are considered to be much more challenging. Here is a breakdown of the Upper and Middle levels of the Secondary School Admissions Test:
Verbal - In the Verbal section, middle school students are required to answer 60 questions. Thirty of these questions are based around synonyms and the other 30 are centered on analogies. This portion tests the student's understanding of vocabulary, the relationship between words, and ideas. The Upper Level portion, which is taken by students in the 8th-11 grade, also consists of 60 questions that are also analogy and synonym based.
Quantitative - For the Middle Level SSAT, the Quantitative section contains questions that cover mathematical topics like data analysis, probability, and algebra. Students should have an understanding of geometric concepts and be able to solve general algebra problems. Upper Level students are administered 50 questions with two 30 minute sections. Some concepts this level of the Quantitative section of the test covers are linear equations, word problems, and fractions. Calculators aren't allowed during testing.
Reading Comprehension - There are 40 passages based questions on the Reading section of the Middle Level SSAT. Students have to interpret the meaning of the persuasive and narrative text. The Upper Level also administers 40 questions that require students to closely analyze the narrative and argumentative passages.
Writing - In the Writing section, students in both sublevels are given the opportunity either write a creative or traditional essay based on the presented prompts. The Writing section won't be scored, but the sample is sent to the schools the candidate is applying too.
What Are The Different Types of Seattle SSAT Prep?
There are two main Seattle SSAT preparation options. Varsity Tutors can help students enroll in a Seattle SSAT prep class or connect them with a private tutor. New classes start every week, and parents have the option of enrolling their child in a two week or four-week class. Both options offer unique benefits and can be effective at thoroughly preparing the student for the exam.
A Seattle SSAT prep course takes place in an online interactive learning environment similar to a regular classroom, with an expert instructor leading a group of students. Learning in such a collaborative environment can prove to be effective because students can help each other retain important concepts through group activities and discussions. Also, every student has the opportunity to interact with the instructor individually for additional help.
Some students might benefit more from a Seattle SSAT tutor. No doubt, a private tutor allows for learning on a personalized level. After all, a private instructor is solely focused on one student, which means they'll be able to quickly identify their weaknesses and strengths. A tutor can help students improve in concepts that they find difficult and teach them test-taking strategies that they can implement on the day of the exam. Tutoring takes place on the Live Learning Platform, which means that the session can take place anywhere.
How Can I Find Seattle SSAT Prep Help?
Finding a good Seattle SSAT prep class or a private tutor can be a challenge. Varsity Tutors is here to connect students will regular tutoring sessions and prep courses that best fit the student's schedule. Obtaining help in preparing for this standardized exam is essential because it's a crucial part of getting into a specific school. To learn more information about the SSAT prep help we can provide, you can contact one of our educational consultants today.

Rachel: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...effective for them. What works or makes sense for one student will not necessarily work for the next student, and so it is essential as a tutor to be able to explain the same concept in a variety of different ways and to be able to determine when a student has fully grasped the concept. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and pets, working on creative activities such as drawing and...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, General Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AP Human Geography
- SAT
- SAT Reading
- +89 subjects

Jeffrey: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...into anything radically new on exam day. My preparation strategy aims to give students the instruction they need to recognize as many problem types as possible. Sitting for a standardized test can be a stressful experience for many people. I try to give students a firm toolkit of techniques and tactics so that they do not have to improvise in that kind of situation, and can instead focus on showing what they know.
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT Reading
- HSPT
- College English
- +34 subjects

Bejoy: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...one can be better able to understand it. I know this because I also grew up not liking Math but ironically ended up teaching it. I believe you need to be patient and understand the student's strengths and weakness in order to effectively teach Math to students. Relating Math to real life examples can make it more interesting and fun for students. I believe my tutoring/teaching experience and desire in teaching math would be beneficial...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Iona College - Master of Science, Adolescent Math Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Mathematics
- Study Skills and Organization
- +38 subjects

Catherine: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...for fun is one of my hobbies, but I know how to inspire struggling readers and teach them techniques for making sense of what they're reading. I would describe my tutoring style as rigorous, positive and focused on each individual student and what they need and want to learn to be a successful student in the subject we are working on. Short and long term goals are important to set, as well as learning study...
Education & Certification
- California State University, East Bay - Bachelor in Arts, Liberal Studies, Biological Sciences
- Holy Names University - Unknown, Teaching Certifications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Reading
- Physical Science
- High School Chemistry
- +24 subjects

Aaron : Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...an Algebra tutor because I have been studying for the GRE (which requires a fair bit of Algebra) and I have some math background as part of my Economics coursework. As an undergraduate, I was a Philosophy major and an Economics minor. I think both disciplines are incredibly important and each has provided me with valuable skillsPhilosophy has taught me how to write well and identify arguments, while Economics has taught me how to think...
Education & Certification
- Lewis & Clark College - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- High School English
- Test Prep
- +27 subjects

Jacqueline: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...local elementary school teacher here in Seattle. I have been teaching for almost two years, and have been working with elementary aged children for over eight years. As an elementary school teacher I know the skills and tools children need to be successful. I have experience working with every grade level, as well as students who are learning English and students receiving special education services. Lastly, I truly believe in teaching children skills they need...
Education & Certification
- Humboldt State University - Bachelors, History
- University of Washington - Masters, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AP U.S. Government & Politics
- Study Skills and Organization
- Writing
- +60 subjects

Theresa: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I love the look a child gets in their eyes when they begin to understand a concept that has alluded them in the past. Whether teaching my class or working one on one with a student, seeing that success is what I strive for.... All students are capable of being successful. As a teacher, it's my job to identify the strategies and resources that will put each student I work with on the path to success.
Education & Certification
- Lycoming College - Bachelor in Arts, Music
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- 9th Grade
- 6th Grade Writing
- 3rd Grade Writing
- +91 subjects

Laura: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...face or online, have always been places where students can improve their skills in writing, reading and critical thinking through learner centered as well as collaborative methods. Often, I feel that my strength lies in establishing meaningful relationships with students that has helped many become more confident communicators and helped them on their college and career pathways. This year, I completed two certificates online: TESOL and Teaching ESL online. I have also been tutoring elementary...
Education & Certification
- California State University-Sacramento - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- Humboldt State University - Master of Arts, English Composition
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CHSPE
- Middle School Writing
- Elementary School Reading
- +38 subjects

Deana: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I am passionate about helping students realize and understand their personal learning potential. Currently I am studying to get my masters degree in Seattle and plan to begin my career as a school counselor in 2018. I enjoy meeting new people and feel very comfortable relating to students. I am excited about getting to know new students through Varsity Tutors and customizing tutoring sessions to fit unique needs. ... In a typical first tutoring session, I like to start getting to know a student by asking a series of questions about themselves, their educational history, and their learning styles. I become familiar with student expectations and help students brainstorm short term and long term goals.
Education & Certification
- Central Washington University - Bachelors, Sociology
- Seattle Pacific University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Public Speaking
- Elementary Math
- Essay Editing
- +24 subjects

Suzanne: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...in the Edmonds and Mukilteo school districts working with students Kindergarten through fourth grade. I enjoy helping children understand things. I believe my job as a tutor is to investigate what is going on that may be causing the student to not move forward and then to find a new way of looking at it instead of just regurgitating what was done at school and assuming it will work. You can be sure that I...
Education & Certification
- Seattle Pacific University - Bachelors, Language Arts
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Summer
- Math
- Elementary School Math
- +11 subjects

Allegra: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...parents is the foundation of success. I am experienced and good at that. I also believe learning can and should be fun! I like to celebrate baby steps. I believe errors are opportunities and correction should be presented positively. I also know that thoroughly understanding a student's challenges is necessary to successfully planning a strategy for success. I prefer to teach elementary age students. I have had the most experience with that age range and...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Social Work
- University of Washington - Master of Social Work, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Reading
- Other
- English
- +31 subjects

Miranda: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...dirt and rocks during recess). I did what I like to call the "Nerd Trifecta" in high school: math team, knowledge bowl, and science olympiad. I've tutored since I was in middle school, and I love finding an explanation or analogy to help someone else really grasp a concept! I'm applying to grad school now, and in my spare time I love cooking and baking (it's vaguely scientific, right?). I rowed in high school and...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry and Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Quantitative Reasoning
- ACT Math
- Advanced Placement
- +49 subjects

Carolyn: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I have been working with children in schools, daycares, summer programs, and afterschool programs for 13 years. I hope to use my diverse experiences to foster communities of joyful and eager learners.... I believe that each student travels on their own unique path to knowledge. I believe that a teacher is a guide along these paths, walking alongside each student, supporting them where they struggle and guiding them when there is a fork in the road.
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and Child Study/German Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Languages
- Middle School Math
- 1st Grade Reading
- +45 subjects

Charley: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I have a B.S. in Physics from UCSB with multiple years of tutoring for college math and physics as well as high school math and physics. I have been involved with Physics outreach programs for local high schools during my undergraduate degree. In my spare time, I play music, hike, wrestle, and dance.
Education & Certification
- University of California-Santa Barbara - Bachelor of Science, Physics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Math
- ISEE- Upper Level
- Trigonometry
- +25 subjects

Brian: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...to go to college. There's only so much one can do in teaching the content that we also need to teach our students how they can become their own teachers and succeed on their own. Hence, I want my students not just to do well in their math classes or exams, but I also want them to be able to grow, so they will always be able to achieve their best on their own even...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Masters in Education, High School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Math
- English
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +128 subjects

Karen: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...With the extra attention I give, my students consistently tell me they have learned more than they ever thought possible for themselves. Many of my students once nervous about math or science went on to major in these subjects in college with great success. They just had to get over fears and mental blocks. I have flexible hours and diverse teaching and tutoring experience in a wide variety of subjects. I am patient and encouraging...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelors, Economics, minor Math and Statistics
- University of California-Berkeley - Masters, Masters of Business Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- IB Economics HL
- Pre-Calculus
- IB Business & Management SL
- +87 subjects

Parker: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I am a college graduate with a Bachelor's in Creative Writing and English. I am passionate about helping people become not just better students, but better people. I love to help students organize their lives and teach them skills to prepare for tests and for studying/note taking.
Education & Certification
- University of Redlands - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- English Grammar and Syntax
- Kindergarten Readiness
- High School Level American Literature
- +106 subjects

Marine: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...world in a meaningful way, and I get excited about tutoring students who have a desire to learn. I am most passionate about teaching French, English, and writing. I was born in Paris and lived there until I was 8, and I love helping others learn my native language! I also obtained my IB Diploma while in high school, and I enjoy preparing students for their IB tests as well. In my spare time you...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, International Relations, Minors: Human Rights, African Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- College Essays
- Study Skills and Organization
- AP French Language and Culture
- +52 subjects

Rachel: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...mentor, and classroom assistant at Concord International Elementary. I enjoy tutoring in all subjects, but my favorites are elementary math and reading. I love seeing students engage with a story and helping them break a complex problem down into simpler pieces. I am passionate about access to quality education for everyone, which means meeting students where they are and providing them with the tools they need to succeed. In my spare time, I love reading,...
Education & Certification
- Willamette University - Bachelors, International Studies
- Willamette University - Masters, Business Administration (MBA)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Summer
- Test Prep
- +27 subjects

Aaron: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
I am passionate about education and the power of one on one instructional time to transform student attitudes and outcomes. I seek to empower students to better understand themselves and succeed in life. My approach to tutoring is based on games and questioning, to bring fun, and thinking together to create effective sessions that improve student self esteem, effectiveness, and ability.... Student engagement is key. When students are engaged and curious, they bring their best thinking and work ethic. Connecting work with students’ lives increases interest, perseverance, and retention.
Education & Certification
- New College of Florida - Bachelors, General Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Other
- ISEE
- Essay Editing
- +25 subjects