Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and weaknesses across the three main sections: Verbal, Math, and Reading Comprehension. The tutor will also discuss your target schools, timeline, and any specific concerns—like test anxiety or pacing issues. From there, you'll develop a personalized study roadmap that focuses on the areas where you'll gain the most points.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format and time pressure. Tutors help by building confidence through repeated exposure to authentic practice tests, teaching time-management strategies specific to each section, and breaking down the test into manageable chunks. Working 1-on-1 also gives you a safe space to practice test-taking strategies and discuss concerns before test day, which significantly reduces anxiety for many students.

The SSAT requires different pacing for each section—the Verbal section moves quickly with shorter questions, while Reading Comprehension demands careful time allocation to passages and questions. Tutors teach you to practice with a timer, identify which question types you can answer quickly versus those requiring more thought, and develop a section-specific strategy. Many students benefit from skipping harder questions initially and returning to them if time allows, rather than getting stuck and losing points on easier material.

Reading Comprehension tutoring focuses on active reading strategies, identifying main ideas quickly, and answering inference questions accurately—skills that improve with practice and feedback. Math tutoring emphasizes problem-solving techniques, recognizing question patterns, and avoiding careless errors under time pressure. Tutors assess which section is your bigger challenge and adjust session focus accordingly, though most students benefit from balanced preparation across both areas.

Most students benefit from taking 4-6 full-length practice tests during their preparation period, spaced out over several weeks. This gives you enough exposure to build stamina and identify patterns in your mistakes, while allowing time to address weak areas between tests. Your tutor will help you analyze each practice test to spot trends—like consistently missing certain question types—so your study time targets what actually matters for your score.

Most students preparing for the SSAT benefit from 2-3 tutoring sessions per week combined with 4-6 hours of independent practice, over 8-12 weeks. Your actual schedule depends on your starting level and target score—students aiming for top independent schools may prepare longer than those targeting competitive day schools. A tutor helps you balance tutoring sessions with homework and other commitments, ensuring consistent progress without burnout.

Yes. Tutors working with students in Philadelphia understand the SSAT requirements for the region's competitive independent schools and can discuss typical score ranges and admissions expectations. They're also familiar with how Philadelphia schools weight the SSAT alongside other application materials, which helps shape your preparation strategy. Whether you're targeting schools in the city or beyond, your tutor can tailor preparation to match your specific school goals.