Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you prepare. Most students see meaningful gains—often 10-20 percentile points—through focused practice on test-specific strategies, familiarity with question formats, and targeted work on weaker areas. The key is starting early enough to build confidence and master pacing before test day.

The OLSAT has three primary sections: Verbal (vocabulary, comprehension, reasoning), Nonverbal (pattern recognition, spatial relationships), and Figural (visual-spatial reasoning). Many students find the nonverbal and figural sections most challenging because they require quick visual processing and pattern identification under time pressure. Tutoring can help you develop strategies to work through these sections systematically rather than relying on intuition.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the exact question formats, build familiarity with timing constraints, and identify which sections need more work. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions mimics the real test experience and reduces anxiety on test day. Many students benefit from reviewing practice tests with a tutor to understand why they missed questions and learn better approaches.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges on the OLSAT because students often spend too much time on difficult questions and rush through easier ones. Effective strategies include: knowing how many questions to expect in each section, practicing with a timer to internalize the pace, learning to skip and return to tough questions, and developing quick elimination techniques. A tutor can help you find the right balance for your personal speed and accuracy.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—often a practice test or sample questions—to identify your current strengths and weaknesses across verbal, nonverbal, and figural sections. Based on this, you and your tutor will create a personalized study plan that targets your specific needs, sets realistic goals, and outlines a timeline for preparation. This foundation helps you make the most of every tutoring session.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format and uncertainty about your abilities. Tutoring builds confidence through repeated exposure to question types, mastery of strategies, and consistent practice under realistic conditions. When you understand what to expect and have proven strategies that work, anxiety naturally decreases. Many students also benefit from discussing test-day logistics and mindset techniques with their tutor.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in OLSAT preparation for students in Riverside. When you get matched with a tutor, they'll have experience helping students navigate the test's unique format and challenges. You can discuss your specific goals and timeline upfront to ensure a strong fit for your preparation needs.