If you're interested in finding Syracuse SSAT prep for your student, Varsity Tutors has your back. The Secondary Schools Admission Test, or SSAT, is offered to potential independent or private school students in the 3rd-11th grades. The exam serves as an assessment of the reading, verbal, and math skills necessary to succeed in class. Properly preparing for this exam can be challenging, regardless of your student's grade level. Let our educational consultants help your student get set up with a Syracuse SSAT prep course or a private instructor to take their test review efforts to a new level. Read on to learn more.
What can Syracuse SSAT prep cover?
The SSAT is an assessment test used by private and independent institutions to identify students with the potential for success. There are three levels of the test: Elementary, Middle, and Upper. The Elementary Level SSAT covers five sections: Quantitative, Verbal, Reading, Writing Sample, and Experimental. The remaining two contain the same sections with the addition of a second Quantitative section. Regardless of the level, the Writing Sample and Experimental sections are unscored. Let's take a deeper look at the primary differences between each level of the test.
The Elementary Level SSAT is offered to students in third and fourth grades. Your student will have one hour and 50 minutes to work through the 89-question exam. There are 30 questions on the Quantitative section, which has a 30-minute time limit. Your student will need to demonstrate a solid understanding of basic math, such as number order, graph interpretation, measurement, and functions. The Verbal section consists of 30 questions with 30 minutes on the clock as well. The questions focus on key language concepts, including analogies, vocabulary, and word relationships. Your student will face seven passages of text on the Reading Section. Each passage is followed by four questions that ask your student to identify key points of the passage, define different words, and otherwise demonstrate their understanding of written English. This section allows up to 30 minutes. Finally, the Writing Sample presents a picture prompt. Your student will have 15 minutes to create a short story based on the photo.
The Middle and Upper Level SSATs are pretty similar to one another in terms of the format. The content on each exam differs when it comes to the expected levels of knowledge. The Middle Level is available for 5th to 7th-grade students while the Upper Level is offered to 8th to 11th-grade students. Your student will have two hours and 50 minutes on either of these tests. The Writing Sample of the Middle Level allows your student to choose from two creative prompts to produce a story. The Upper Level form of the test presents a creative and traditional essay prompt. While the former aims to assess writing and organizational skills, the latter calls for persuasive writing techniques and the use of supporting evidence.
How can my student benefit from different types of Syracuse SSAT prep?
There are two primary types of SSAT prep that Varsity Tutors can help you find: private learning and prep classes. Both offer a variety of unique benefits that can appeal to different types of students. We can help you sign up for one or even both! Let's explore the differences between each form of test review and how your student can benefit.
If your student enjoys learning in a group, they can enroll in a Syracuse SSAT prep class led by a thoroughly vetted expert who understands the challenges your student faces on the exam. You don't have to worry about your student starting a class already in progress because new two- and four-week sessions on multiple sections of the test start on a weekly basis. Classes are held entirely online via a virtual classroom environment that allows your student to set up anywhere they prefer to study.
Throughout each class, your student's instructor can explain the format, expectations, and challenges of the SSAT. Students can participate in engaging discussions and activities with their peers, which can help them gain a deeper understanding of the material. Your student can learn different ways to approach the exam, strategies that can help them eliminate incorrect multiple-choice answers, and other techniques that can help them put their best foot forward on the exam. If your student has trouble getting the hang of anything, their mentor can set aside time to work through the challenge one-on-one.
Perhaps your student thrives in a personalized environment that can be designed to engage them as an individual. We can connect you with a Syracuse SSAT tutor who can take your student's test prep to a new level. From the start, your student's private mentor can assess their learning preferences, interests, strengths, areas of opportunity, and other factors to develop a unique approach to the test prep. Your student's study sessions will focus on their needs, whether your student would rather spend sessions reviewing concepts for the Quantitative sections on the Middle Level SSAT or working through sample writing prompts for the Elementary Level test.
One-on-one learning allows your student's instructor to implement strategies and learning materials based on your student's learning preferences. For instance, a student who learns best through practice might spend sessions working through sample problems while another may benefit more from the visual benefits of flashcards.
How do I get started with Syracuse SSAT prep?
Varsity Tutors can help you get set up with comprehensive Syracuse SSAT preparation options that can take your student's test review to a new level. Our educational consultants can help you work out which choice is more suited to your student's needs and preferences. There's no reason that your student should have to get ready for such an important test on their own. By investing in your student's test prep, they can build valuable test-taking and study skills that they can employ throughout their academic future. Don't hesitate to reach out to our educational consultants for more information about how your student can participate in engaging and thorough test review sessions, either in a group or one-on-one.

Jaimie: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...Engineering. I am currently working in the lab of Professor Robert Langer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology working on novel drug delivery systems for the gastrointestinal tract. I am hoping to attend medical school in pursuit of becoming a physician. I am currently interested in pediatrics and psychiatry but I am looking forward to exploring a range of available disciplines. I enjoy tutoring because I find it to be an engaging and dynamic process--I...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern University - Bachelors, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Math
- Microsoft Office
- ISEE- Upper Level
- +93 subjects

Julian: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...the redesigned SAT format inside and out and I've helped students break 1500. I've also taught the SHSAT, SSAT, and ISEE (middle level verbal and quantitative; upper level verbal); ACT (verbal); and English Regents. I can also tutor SAT subject tests and AP tests (I got five 5's myself, back in the day). French and ESL: I've taught ESL to students from a wide range of backgrounds at tutoring agencies as well as at the...
Education & Certification
- Teachers College at Columbia University - Bachelors, Film
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE-Middle Level Verbal Reasoning
- Psychology
- ACT English
- +61 subjects

Madeline: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
I love working with every type of student to help them reach their goals. As an English Ph.D. student, literature remains at the center of my educational journey. Reading and the skills that come with it--comprehension, analysis, critical thinking, empathy--are of utmost importance. I work hard to balance between challenging and encouraging my students. My excitable disposition and energy help to motivate learning and reinforce confidence in their own minds.
Education & Certification
- College of Saint Benedict - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Syracuse University - Current Grad Student, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GMAT
- PSAT Critical Reading
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +32 subjects

Linda: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...extensively in the following techniques: Cunningham, Horton, Graham, and Jose Limon. She has developed and taught dance programs in New Orleans, Jacksonville, Rochester, Syracuse, and New York City. In addition to being the Artistic Director of the Studio, Linda is also Adjunct Professor at LeMoyne College, was a dance teaching artist with the Institute for Aesthetic Education, dance directed at Summer Fame, and was guest choreographer for the Gifford Family Theater. Mrs. Faccipontes high standards...
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Brockport - Bachelors, Interdisciplinary Arts for Children: Dance Emphasis, K-6 Elementary Ed
- New York University - Masters, Aesthetic Education through the Arts: Duo Certification, K-6 Education and K-12 Dance Specialist
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- College Business
- GRE Subject Test in Literature in English
- Fiction Writing
- +39 subjects

Stacey: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
Behind ever dedicated teacher is a dedicated student. I am a life-long learner. Life-long learning is absolutely necessary in order to keep up with the ever changing society we live in. It is my personal mission to take advantage of trainings and learning the latest teaching techniques, ideas, laws, polices and procedures to stay current in my profession in order to help my students learn to the fullest. ... Behind every dedicated teacher is a dedicated student. I am a life-long learner. I truly believe this is the only way to be a great teacher in our ever-changing world. No two students will be alike. Each year our classrooms will change. Teaching techniques, ideas, laws, policies, and procedures will forever be changing. It is up to every single teacher to take the time to learn about their students each year. With enthusiasm and excitement we should try to discover the most effective ways to meet our students' needs both as individual learners and as a classroom whole. We should know that this may require creativity, communication, and collaboration with others. Due to the changes within society, children and the world itself, I know I will always need to be a student. I will need to take it upon myself to take the time for professional growth. I also firmly believe that although I am my students' teacher, sometimes the best teachers are the students themselves. Within each student and classroom is a learning experience waiting to happen.
Education & Certification
- Columbia College - Bachelors, Psychology
- LeMoyne College - Masters, Inclusive Educatio. 1-6
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- Math
- College English
- +19 subjects

Tommy: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...am working with, I will make sure that each and every one of them gets the time and dedication that they deserve and need. I look forward to working with Varsity Tutors, and most importantly, with the students and families who are looking at me as a potential tutor. Feel free to contact me with any questions, I'll be sure to answer very promptly. Thank you for taking the time reading this and for considering...
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Cortland - Bachelors, Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE- Lower Level
- Writing
- Test Prep
- +12 subjects

Morgan: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...are provided with only a limited set of acceptable responses, then, as teachers, we cannot expect them to respond with fervor or 100% accuracy, as various learning needs dictate a demand for delineation. Play is applicable to all. My perspective is not limited to only those on the spectrum. Children are a product of their environment. They are malleable. They are all deserving. I believe in educating the whole child for all children.
Education & Certification
- Nazareth College - Bachelors, English Literature
- Le Moyne College - Current Grad Student, Elementary and Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- Essay Editing
- Elementary School Reading
- +19 subjects

Gabriella: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...my previous tutoring experiences, I have found gratitude in watching students grow with my help. I am ultimately satisfied with the fact that I am making a difference in a students education one step at a time by watching them advance eagerly through different assignments and tasks. For example, I worked with a male student at Poughkeepsie High School, in Poughkeepsie, New york for two years. At first I was helping him with simple math...
Education & Certification
- Marist College - Current Undergrad, Childhood/ Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE- Lower Level
- Elementary Math
- Summer
- +40 subjects

Mikayla: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...through listening and following directions. The discussing style promotes learning through interaction. The delegating style promotes learning through empowerment. I typically structure each of my sessions to include some amount of each teaching style. Using an appropriate mix of teaching styles helps students learn, grow, and become more independent. "A teacher is one who makes himself progressively unnecessary." ~ Thomas N. Carruthers Outside of Academia I enjoy reading, writing and crafts. I am currently reading...
Education & Certification
- Cazenovia College - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- American Literature
- High School Level American History
- ACT Reading
- +64 subjects

Omar: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...my oldest brother who has been teaching math for the past 20 years. I love working with kids because I feel like I am an adult version of a kid. I love video games and playing sports. I currently play the Nintendo Switch and Xbox one during my free time, as well as taking care of 2 puppies. Teaching is something I feel like I was born to do and I love the relationships I...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology
- Ithaca College - Master of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Technology and Computer Science
- Spanish
- PC Basic Computer Skills
- +35 subjects

Brad: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
In my experience, no two students are alike. First, I like to get to know the student. We discuss where we are having successes and where we are having frustrations. From there, it is imperative to get organized and develop a success plan. Every child can and will succeed!
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Oneonta - Bachelor of Science, Education
- SUNY College at Cortland - Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE- Lower Level
- ISEE-Lower Level Writing
- PARCC
- +24 subjects

Rebecca: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...college prep tests, I work with each student to understand his/her learning styles and then adapt my teaching style to fit his/her needs. I graduated from Yale with a BA in English and from Columbia University with an MBA in Marketing/Finance and worked in the corporate world for over twenty years. I became an entrepreneur and have loved the life I have led-I have raised four (now grown) children, and have a dog (large labradoodle...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Masters in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE-Middle Level Reading Comprehension
- Economics
- SAT Mathematics
- +74 subjects

Molly: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...Writing and Language, and SAT Reading, the GRE literature subject test, the verbal portion of the GRE, AP English Language, and AP English Literature. I am passionate about helping students because really great teaching, teaching that connects and communicates, will stay with a student for life. Teaching well means listening well. I love to learn how people think about the tasks they are facing--it is always interesting in its own right and shows me how...
Education & Certification
- Colorado College - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Cornell University - Doctor of Philosophy, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Test Prep
- IB Language A: Language and Literature
- GMAT
- +68 subjects

Elaine: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...had lost many of its resources. Finally, my most recent work has been teaching courses to education majors at several local colleges. My hobbies and interests include reading (I am a voracious reader!), connecting with friends on social media, gardening, hiking and kayaking (I grew up on a dairy farm and love the outdoors). My two rescue cats keep me company in the evenings, and may even try to horn in on tutoring sessions.
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Cortland - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- SUNY College at Cortland - Masters, Literacy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Microsoft Excel
- High School Level American Literature
- Middle School Reading
- +38 subjects

Brianna: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...to maximize learning and possibilities for their future. I was a very non-traditional student my entire life and have learned different ways to work around that to navigate the system to get where I want to. I like to use creativity, problem solving, and knowledge of the educational system to support others. I enjoy working one-on-one with people as it allows for a very individualized approach to learning. Besides school and teaching I love the...
Education & Certification
- Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
- University of Colorado-Colorado Springs - Master of Arts, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Trigonometry
- Middle School Math
- College Math
- +40 subjects

Jersey: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...a general education reading and writing teacher in a co-taught special education classroom and 2 years of experience in a co-taught English Language Learner classroom. As a teacher, I developed all of my own curricula, ensuring that it adhered to Common Core Standards and an anti-racist, social justice framework. While tutoring for Varsity Tutors, I am also working for Syracuse University crafting toolkits (online resources) for individuals with intellectual disabilities and I am pursuing an...
Education & Certification
- Wellesley College - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Lesley University - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Special Education
- PSAT
- Middle School Writing
- +84 subjects

Matt: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...I then went on to complete a Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT prep, and many more.. My ultimate plan is to go to medical school, but...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Essay Editing
- Environmental Science
- Chemistry
- +85 subjects

Kaley: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...and a tutor and in these roles I look for ways to make learning fun and rewarding. I especially love teaching reading and writing and I have taught or tutored these subjects to students ranging from kindergarten through adults. I also have experience tutoring test prep subjects and focus both on the content material and test taking skills. My passion is psychology and I have been able to use my graduate training in human development...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, Education and Public Policy
- Harvard Graduate School of Education - Masters, Human Development and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Writing and Language
- PSAT Critical Reading
- Conversational Spanish
- +35 subjects

Samantha: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...Legal Studies this spring. In the fall, I will begin attending law school at Northwestern Law. For many years, I tutored a wide range of students in Spanish, English literature, and writing. I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their reading and writing skills, and I really enjoy helping students with Critical Reading...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AP U.S. Government & Politics
- SAT Writing and Language
- Spanish
- +36 subjects

Rebecca: Syracuse SSAT test prep instructor
...you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to meet the student where they're at and go from there. I find that this way we can build a productive tutoring relationship where I can help individualize learning to each person's particular learning style. Outside of academic interests, I enjoy cooking,...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- High School English
- Writing
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +53 subjects