Score improvement depends on a student's starting point and preparation timeline, but most students see meaningful gains with focused, personalized instruction. Students who work with tutors typically improve by 50-150 points over 2-4 months of consistent preparation. The key is identifying weak areas early—whether that's pacing on math problems or understanding complex reading passages—and targeting those specific challenges through targeted practice.

The SHSAT gives students limited time to answer a large number of questions, which creates pressure that can derail even strong students. Many students rush through problems and make careless mistakes, while others get stuck on difficult questions and run out of time. Tutors help students develop strategic time management—like knowing when to skip a problem, how to quickly eliminate wrong answers, and which question types to tackle first—so they can maximize their score within the time limit.

The math section tests algebra, geometry, and number sense with both multiple-choice and grid-in questions, requiring students to show their work and be precise. The reading section focuses on comprehension, inference, and vocabulary in passages ranging from fiction to science articles. Many students find math more straightforward because there's one correct answer, while reading requires interpreting author intent and making inferences—skills that need targeted practice to master.

Practice tests are essential because they reveal exactly where a student struggles—whether it's specific math topics, reading speed, or test anxiety—and help build stamina for the full exam. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions shows students their real pacing issues and helps them get comfortable with the test format. Tutors use practice test results to create targeted study plans, focusing on the areas that will have the biggest impact on score improvement.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format or uncertainty about problem-solving strategies. Working with a tutor builds confidence through repeated exposure to question types, mastery of strategies, and positive reinforcement as students see their skills improve. When students understand the material and have a clear plan for tackling each section, anxiety naturally decreases, allowing them to perform closer to their actual ability on test day.

Most students benefit from 2-4 months of focused preparation, with 5-8 hours of study per week, though this varies based on starting level and target score. Students with strong fundamentals might need less time, while those addressing significant gaps may benefit from longer preparation. A tutor can assess your student's current skills and create a realistic timeline, breaking preparation into manageable phases: foundation building, targeted practice, and final review.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT preparation and understand the test's unique demands. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll work with someone experienced in test strategy, pacing techniques, and helping students overcome the specific challenges of this exam. Your tutor will create a personalized study plan based on your student's strengths and weaknesses, ensuring preparation is efficient and effective.