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
...work with a student as an individual and to adjust my own tutoring to fit the way they learn best. I believe that all students have what it takes to succeed in school, its just a matter of finding the style of learning that is most 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...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, General Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CogAT
- HSPT
- +89 subjects

Amanda: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...Psychology and Communication Design, and hope to apply my analytical and communication skills to a career in law or public policy. While attending university, I spent my free time finding ways to positively impact and further educate my community through my involvement as a campus tour guide, writing tutor, sexual assault counselor, and Greek life leader. I love traveling and have visited over 25 different countries and am particularly interested in the ways that writing...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +37 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
- AIMS
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +91 subjects

Sejal: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...Tufts University with a Bachelor of Science in both Environmental Studies and Geology. I am a PADI certified Divemaster and I’ve been scuba diving all over the world. I have spent time working with special needs children and doing scientific research in labs and in the field. Throughout my education I have been a well-rounded student in sciences and the humanities because of my patience in problem solving and because I utilize different study methods...
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Bachelor of Science, Environmental Studies and Geology
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Masters, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +63 subjects

Philip: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...California, and I have lived in the Northwest for seven years. I enjoy tutoring Math of all levels up to Pre-Calculus, as well as SAT (both Math and Verbal), Language skills, and History/Government. Having taught at both a small private school and large urban public schools, I have broad experience with different learning styles, backgrounds, and abilities. I find it highly rewarding to help students and guide their progress toward mastering. If something is taught...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor in Arts, History
- University of Oregon - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +34 subjects

Rina: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...of mathematicsfields that I particularly loveas well as standardized test preparation (SAT, SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT). I have found that studying becomes more enjoyable and effective when content is connected with examples of application. Finding funny, memorable ways to apply course content is my favorite way to internalize the material. I view learning as equipping myself with different tools to better understand the world. With this attitude, studying became truly exciting for me, and making...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor in Arts, International Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- SAT
- +51 subjects

Katherine: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...and International Studies and minoring in Political Science. During those three years, I spent time abroad in both Japan and Spain, teaching English to children ages 10-18 while immersing myself in the target cultures. After graduation, I worked for three years at a Fortune 500 company, further developing my interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. I also taught free Spanish sessions there to employees in all walks of their language-learning paths: from complete beginner to...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-River Falls - Bachelors, Spanish; International Studies
- Middlebury College - Current Grad Student, Spanish
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Spanish 3
- Literature
- Languages
- +16 subjects

Nikki: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...I majored in Neuroscience and Behavior in college, so I learned a lot about Biology and Psychology, and I plan on getting a Master's in Bioengineering. I spent two years serving with the Peace Corps in Peru, where I learned to speak Spanish, build stoves out of adobe, and a lot about life in rural communities. In my spare time I enjoy playing harp and guitar, learning new languages, and being outdoors.
Education & Certification
- Vassar College - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience and Behavior
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- PSAT
- SAT
- +46 subjects

Catherine: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...water rockets, and working for and with wildlife by cleaning up their habitats and raising trout from eggs for release as fry (juvenile fish). Math is exciting to tutor, especially using manipulatives and other forms of representation-we can do that visually online as we work together. Reading 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...
Education & Certification
- California State University, East Bay - Bachelor in Arts, Liberal Studies, Biological Sciences
- Holy Names University - Unknown, Teaching Certifications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AIMS
- ISEE
- Phonics
- +24 subjects

Jessica: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...in Reading (K-12). I have a Masters of Education from the University of Melbourne. I have provided tutoring services in and out of the school setting since 2008. I have taught 1st grade in a public school since 2014. I love working with students and watching them develop a love for learning that can become lifelong. In my free time I enjoy hiking, gardening, singing and spending time with family and friends.... I can help a student become an independent learner by modeling first, followed by guided practice that will enable a student to then perform independently.
Education & Certification
- Pacific Lutheran University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- University of Melbourne - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- Literature
- +14 subjects

Bejoy: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...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 for the student. I love one on one tutoring and enjoy the pleasure of making a difference in...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Iona College - Master of Science, Adolescent Math Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +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
- ISEE
- SSAT- Middle Level
- Test Prep
- +24 subjects

Claire: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...emphasized interpersonal growth like high ropes and cooperation, developing my own lesson plans and adapting them to different states' curricula and to students' ages and personalities. My classes focused on allowing students to explore the world around them, and to ask their own questions, creating an open space where they could learn how to challenge themselves. Both schools at which I taught operated with rotating groups coming for three days therefore requiring me to remain...
Education & Certification
- Whitman College - Bachelors, Geology-Environmental Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Pre-Algebra
- Spanish
- +35 subjects

Thomas: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...my family. Above all, I bring compassion to my work. I have a learning disability which makes me gifted in some areas, but very slow in others. This disconnect made my educational journey a long and difficult one. I understand the thrill of success, but also the despair and discouragement that comes with failure. I know how hard it can be to play the game of getting through school. I also know how to help...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- ISEE
- GED
- +79 subjects

Genet: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...coach and learning partner, tailoring what they need so they can get to where they want to go. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Western Washington University, a Master's of Science Degree from the University of Minnesota, Mankato, and a PhD in Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder. I have taught thousands of college students for over 25 years: human development, educational philosophy, teaching pedagogy, research and writing skills, and speaking/presentation skills....
Education & Certification
- Western Washington University - Bachelor of Education, English
- University of Colorado Boulder - Doctor of Philosophy, Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- GED
- Science
- +31 subjects

Aaron : Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...writing tutor. I collaborate with students on every part of the writing processbrainstorming ideas, outlining the paper, structuring paragraphs, and perfecting grammar. As an Economics tutor, I have experience in both Micro-Economics and Macro-Economics. I have worked on topics such as inelasticity, supply/demand, dead weight loss, monopolies, and taxation. I am also an Algebra tutor because I have been studying for the GRE (which requires a fair bit of Algebra) and I have some math...
Education & Certification
- Lewis & Clark College - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- College Business
- +27 subjects

Tessa: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...6th grade honors English and 8th grade English for a school in my local district. During my student teaching (which occurred during the height of the pandemic) I taught entirely virtually and learned how to form meaningful relationships with students even through a computer screen. In addition, I found ways to utilize technology effectively in order to keep engagement levels high. I have also worked with adult learners through my volunteer work, in which I...
Education & Certification
- Western Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Western Washington University - Masters in Education, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- CogAT
- ISAT
- +115 subjects

Jeannie: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...China (with no English) teaching English as a Second Language (TEFL and TESOL certificated). I also enjoy tutoring working adults in Europe and Central and South America who need help with their Business English for their international work. While I tutor all English and writing in general, I am most excited to help people who need to improve their English as a Second Language. I am also passionate about science. I am incredibly grateful for...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Washington DC Campus - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- University of Phoenix-Washington DC Campus - Master of Science, Behavioral Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- TOEFL
- +11 subjects

Brian: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...I mainly like to focus on helping my students develop independent study skills that will support them through life. What this means is building up the analytical skills that they will need to prepare and study for assignments and tests when they're going 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...
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
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- WISC IV
- +128 subjects

Jacqueline: Seattle SSAT test prep instructor
...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 to not only be successful in school, but also in life. I look forward to meeting you and...
Education & Certification
- Humboldt State University - Bachelors, History
- University of Washington - Masters, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- +60 subjects