The HSPT consists of five main sections: Verbal Skills, Quantitative Skills, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, and Language Arts. The entire test takes about 2.5 hours and includes approximately 298 questions. Each section requires different skills—from vocabulary and analogies to problem-solving and grammar—so targeted preparation in each area helps students maximize their overall score.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify your specific strengths and weaknesses, then focus time where it matters most. While group classes follow a set curriculum, individualized tutoring adapts in real-time to your learning pace and style. Tutors can spend extra time on challenging sections like Quantitative Skills or Reading Comprehension, and use practice strategies tailored to how you learn best.

Many students struggle with the Quantitative Skills section, which emphasizes logical reasoning over computational speed, and the Verbal Skills section, which requires quick pattern recognition with analogies and word relationships. Time management is another frequent challenge—the test moves quickly, and students need to balance accuracy with pacing. Personalized instruction helps students develop strategies to tackle these specific obstacles before test day.

Most students benefit from 2-4 months of focused preparation, though this varies based on starting point and target score. Students in Queens typically take the HSPT in fall of 8th grade, so planning to start prep in summer or early fall gives adequate time to build skills and take practice tests. Consistent, targeted practice—even 3-4 hours per week—is more effective than cramming closer to test day.

Score improvements depend on your starting point and effort level, but students typically see 50-150 point increases with focused preparation. The HSPT is scored on a scale, and even modest improvements in accuracy and speed across sections can meaningfully boost your composite score. Working with a tutor helps you identify quick wins—like mastering specific question types—that compound into significant gains.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and areas for growth across all five HSPT sections. The tutor will review your baseline performance, discuss your target schools and score goals, and create a personalized study plan. This foundation helps ensure that every subsequent session builds directly toward your goals rather than covering generic test prep material.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in HSPT preparation and understand the specific demands of the test. You can share your goals, timeline, and learning preferences, and we'll match you with a tutor whose expertise and teaching style fit your needs. Once connected, you can schedule sessions at times that work for your schedule and begin your personalized preparation right away.