If you're seeking independent school or private education for your student, Varsity Tutors can enroll your student in a Washington, DC SSAT course. It's important to start your student on a quality education path to help them in the future.
Taking a Washington, DC SSAT class can help students have better insight into the testing material. Varsity Tutors can help your student get a general layout and feel of the test. Here's some background on the SSAT.
What Is the SSAT?
The SSAT is a standardized test that helps determine the abilities of students looking to enroll in an independent or private school. Your student will be tested on basic verbal, math, and reading skills to see if they can have a successful academic path in an independent or private school setting.
At the Elementary Level, 3rd-grade applicants will apply to an independent school for the 4th grade. For 4th-grade applicants, they'll apply to an independent school for 5th grade.
The Middle Level is for 5th, 6th, or 7th-graders that want to attend an independent middle school within the next year.
The Upper Level is for students from 8th-11th grade seeking admission to an independent high school in the following year.
In all levels of the test, the Writing sample and Experimental section are unscored. All schools that your student applies to will be sent their Writing sample. Additionally, your student will not be allowed to use a calculator on the Quantitative section at any level.
If your student is on the Elementary Level, guessing is encouraged since they won't be docked points for a wrong answer. However, Middle Level and Upper Level students will receive one point for each correct answer and lose a quarter of a point if they answer incorrectly (there's no penalty for any unanswered questions). Here's more in-depth information about each level of the test.
What could a Washington, DC SSAT course help your student cover?
Elementary Level
The test consists of 89 questions and allows your student just under 2 hours to complete it.
On the Quantitative Section, students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions. Your student will cover basic math in the following topics: number sense, properties and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and spatial sense, measurement, and probability.
Students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions on the Verbal Section. It assesses your student's knowledge of the English language. Your student should be mindful of language, word relationships, vocabulary, synonyms, and subtleties in word meanings.
For the Reading Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 7 passages with 4 questions apiece (28 questions total). This tests reading comprehension, particularly when it comes to finding the main idea of a passage, meanings of words, and identifying information.
Students are given 15 minutes to create a prompt for the Writing Sample. Your student may be asked to write a simple story on a picture prompt that needs a beginning, middle, and ending. Your student could be tested on their organization, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
The Experimental Section also allows 15 minutes for completing 15-17 questions.
Middle Level
This test gives students just under 3 hours to complete 167 questions.
In the Writing Sample, your student should be mindful of choosing one creative prompt to base their story. Additionally, your student should be aware of writing techniques, such as grammar, spelling, organization, and punctuation for this portion of the test.
The Quantitative Section gives students 50 questions (25 questions for both sections); each totaling 30 minutes a section (1 hour total). It may be helpful for your student to review concepts in arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry.
In the Reading Section, there are 40 passage-based questions to complete within 40 minutes. Students will have to interpret the meaning of both narrative and argumentative passages. To prepare for this section, students could brush up on techniques, like finding the main idea of the passage, words and phrases in context, and understanding the author's tone.
For the Verbal Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 60 questions (30 synonyms, 30 analogies). It may be a good idea for your student to improve their vocabulary in order to help with different concepts, such as word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, and relating ideas and words to the context.
The Experimental Section gives your student 15 minutes to complete 16 questions.
Upper Level
The test allows students under 3 hours to finish 167 questions.
Your student is given 25 minutes to complete the Writing Sample. Students should be aware of their choice to pick one prompt out of two selections (one creative and one traditional essay). Also, it may be helpful to review skills in organizing a story or essay; writing with good grammar, spelling, punctuation; supporting a statement with examples.
The Quantitative Section consists of 2 sections of 25 questions, which totals 50 questions. There are 2 30-minute sections (1 hour total). Your student should be aware of concepts such as data analysis, coordinate and plane geometry, and algebraic equations.
To get through the Reading Section, your student will have 40 minutes to answer 40 questions. Your student should be mindful of how to read through passages to understand argumentative and narrative perspectives. This can be helpful in formulating and evaluating opinions and arguments.
The Writing Section allows for 30 minutes to complete 60 questions (30 analogies, 30 synonyms). Your student should be aware of different prefixes and suffixes within Anglo-Saxon, Greek, and Latin dialect.
How does a Washington, DC SSAT prep course assist your student?
A Washington, DC SSAT course has an interactive, online setting. With good preparation, your student will have a good foundation for studies in an independent or private school. An instructor can help clear up different concepts that your student may find tricky.
Also, being able to collaborate with others can make it easier to dissect large amounts of information. This can be a very helpful method for your student to get more out of SSAT review sessions.
How can I find a Washington, DC SSAT review?
Going to a different school can be a big change of pace for your student. Varsity Tutors can help you find a good Washington, DC SSAT class so your student gets the assistance needed to get ready to take the test.
Getting this assistance early on can lead to quality learning in your student's formative years. Contact Varsity Tutors today to find out more information about a Washington, DC SSAT course.
Samantha: Washington SSAT course instructor
...methods for students to be able to make progress both in and out of tutoring sessions. My favorite part of tutoring is seeing students improve and build confidence in areas they used to be nervous about or dislike. One of the reasons I enjoy tutoring French is that I myself was initially very afraid to learn a foreign language. I had a speech impediment as a child and had to attend speech therapy, so I...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, 1. International and Comparative Political Science 2. Economics
- Johns Hopkins University-Schools of Advanced International Studies - Current Grad Student, 1. Conflict Management 2. International Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- ASVAB
- PSAT
- +96 subjects
Cynthia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...high school students outside of class in college and involved in STEM academics and research mentorship as well as a translation program from and to English outside of class. I speak Japanese and French, and I have taken the PSATs, SATs, 10 APs, and the GREs successfully. I would be willing to help with any of these subjects, with math, science, and languages being more of my strong suit, and I would be willing to...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Neuroscience
- Johns Hopkins University - PHD, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- +72 subjects
Daeyong: Washington SSAT course instructor
...these organizations, I find it extremely rewarding when a student finally understands a new concept, or applies a concept I have taught them to a real-world scenario. Though I particularly love to tutor students in programming (especially Python or Java) and all levels of math up to Calculus BC, I also find it enjoyable to tutor students in SAT English and Math. I believe in a project based and interactive approach to education, in which...
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SSAT Prep - Upper Level Class
- PSAT
- +54 subjects
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- HSPT
- PSAT
- +43 subjects
Alexandra: Washington SSAT course instructor
...of twenty to two hundred students twice a week for three years. I have over 150 hours of teacher training and countless hours in the classroom. Furthermore, I was the editor of our student newspaper, The Daily Cardinal, and have extensive writing-coaching skills in addition to a strong grasp on the English language. I am currently employed by an educational non-profit in Alexandria, Virginia and would like to spend time outside of my regular 9...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, History and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- ISEE
- ACT
- +23 subjects
Erin: Washington SSAT course instructor
...of experience with the SAT, ACT, and ISEE/SSAT, and about 4 years of experience teaching GRE and GMAT. As far as hobbies go, I enjoy reading science fiction, classic literature, and comic books. Rock-climbing is a big thing for me, as is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I'm also into dancing, including salsa, bachata, zouk, swing, and Argentine tango. Also I love science! I study it every day to make sure I'm on top of the classes I...
Education & Certification
- Stanford - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- TOEFL
- ISEE
- +77 subjects
Nathan: Washington SSAT course instructor
I have extensive tutoring experience in the past. Before law school and after college, I worked as an assistant director of a Learning Center, and a big part of my job was working on test prep with students. I enjoyed my work, and I was successful at it because I was able to develop connections with my students and alter my teaching style to meet their needs, while still staying within the structured curriculum.
Education & Certification
- Clark University - Bachelor in Arts, English and History
- The George Washington University Law School - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- ISEE
- +29 subjects
David: Washington SSAT course instructor
...broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about the LSAT, ACT, US History, European History, and Writing. I very much enjoy teaching LSAT test preparation. It is a challenging obstacle for many students. However, once you understand what the test is trying to accomplish, it actually becomes enjoyable. Receiving a high score on the LSAT can open up a lot of doors for a motivated individual. I am most passionate about helping my students achieve...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +52 subjects
Elizabeth: Washington SSAT course instructor
I am a graduate from the University of Michigan, with a major in the Literature, Arts and Science program. Currently, I develop Trainings for an Enterprise, creating course curriculums, developing interactive training and providing support for their learning and development needs. I love assisting grade school students with Math, Reading and Comprehension, Phoenetics, and various subjects.
Education & Certification
- The University of Michigan - Bachelors, Film & Video Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- English
- Summer
- +13 subjects
Clare: Washington SSAT course instructor
...from 5th to 8th grade who were reading and doing math at a 1st grade level and up in an intense specials rotation. I know how to work with students of all ages. The work I do with my own students on a daily basis is the same dedication and level of differentiation that I would bring to students that I tutor. I love working with students and I believe that all students can make...
Education & Certification
- Elon University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Fontbonne University - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- HSPT
- +83 subjects
Paula: Washington SSAT course instructor
...and each student requires unique strategies, motivators, and reinforcers to be successful throughout the learning process. I take pride in knowing that my students look forward to learning and gain confidence to tackle new challenges; as they begin to take the necessary steps toward becoming independent learners. I enjoy getting to know my students on a personal level as well. I love to hear about their hobbies, families, hopes and dreams. Outside of tutoring and...
Education & Certification
- Notre Dame of Maryland University - Bachelors, Elementary/Special Education
- Loyola University Maryland - Current Grad Student, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Elementary School Reading
- ISEE- Lower Level
- +13 subjects
Caroline: Washington SSAT course instructor
As an educator, I strive to ensure that all of my students gain knowledge from my lessons. However, that is not always the outcome. Re-teaching and re-evaluating are essential skills an educator must possess. I strive to meet the needs of all students. As your child's tutor I will work to get to know your child and establish a connection with your children in order to meet success. ... In typical first session with a student, I would get to know the student. I would work the student to find strengths and areas of growth as well as areas of interest and dislike. This way, I will be able to better service the student.
Education & Certification
- Towson University - Bachelors, Elementary and Special Education
- Notre Dame of Maryland University - Current Grad Student, Special education: exceptionalities
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Summer
- English
- +15 subjects
Sarah: Washington SSAT course instructor
...believe that when they try, they can improve and succeed. An example of my work includes a student who spoke English as a second language and also had special needs. As I worked with him daily, his reading level increased ten levels and his math scores went from below average to earning over 80% in his final math testing that year. Trekking in Nepal with my husband was a highlight of 2014 and rescuing my...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-College Park - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Math
- Elementary School Math
- +14 subjects
Zenas: Washington SSAT course instructor
...learning Mandarin Chinese. I have a deep cultural and historical understanding of diverse Asian and Latin American countries and that informs my approach as a teacher. I have a Bachelor's degree from the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan, am a certified ESL instructor, and received my Teacher certification in 2020. I have been a TOEFL test prep instructor, taught literature and essay writing to ESL students, been a judge at multiple English speech competitions,...
Education & Certification
- School of Visual Arts - Bachelor in Arts, Photography
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- ACCUPLACER
- +25 subjects
Meghann: Washington SSAT course instructor
...grading assignments, with a part-time gig scoring standardized tests. My archaeology and ancient history training has qualified me to tutor in European and World History, as well as Classical and Medieval Civilization. I am also a qualified tutor in Latin and Ancient Greek languages language-learning is my favorite subject, and I have many tips and tricks to share. More generally, Ive been through grad school, and I have experience in the tests and skills involved...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelors, Anthropology
- University of Leicester - PHD, Archaeology and Ancient History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT English
- Foreign Language
- +40 subjects
Michael: Washington SSAT course instructor
...students improve their scores enough to earn admission to their top-choice schools. I have deeply enjoyed my time as a tutor, and feel that tutoring has been equally rewarding for my students as it has been for me. I am currently a third-year law student at Georgetown Law, and will be working as a litigation attorney at a large law firm in my home city upon graduation. In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing...
Education & Certification
- University of Miami - Bachelor of Science, International Business
- Georgetown University Law Center - Juris Doctor, Prelaw Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- +33 subjects
Camille: Washington SSAT course instructor
Hi! My name is Camille I graduated from Babson College May 2019. While at Babson I studied Retail Supply Chain Management but took many courses on Spanish language as well as Latin American history. I lived in Spain my Junior year of high school and spent some time in College studying economics in Uruguay and Argentina.
Education & Certification
- Babson College - Current Undergrad Student, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Study Skills and Organization
- +38 subjects
Rebecca: Washington SSAT course instructor
...the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. My approach to tutoring is one of mentor and support. I believe that revision is the biggest educator in personal writing and perfecting papers is the key to growth. It is my desire to see students find their own 'voice' in writing and unleash it for the greatest potential and impact. I also personally love literature, poetry, and Shakespeare. I have experience with learning disabilities because one of my...
Education & Certification
- Lehigh University - Bachelors, English minor education/writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Essay Editing
- Elementary School Writing
- English
- +23 subjects
Jon: Washington SSAT course instructor
I've been teaching, tutoring, and helping people develop their potential and skills since I was seventeen, when I began sharing Shakespeare with children. I've worked with students from preschool to adult, in settings from community centers, churches, and university. I delight in seeing someone master a concept and increase their self-esteem.
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Humanities
- American University - Master of Science, Technology Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT
- +44 subjects
Eric: Washington SSAT course instructor
...what I am most passionate about. I believe that the greatest currency in life is knowledge and that one can never learn or know enough. It is this passion that I wish to share and spread the knowledge that I have gained and continue to gain throughout my own personal life. A strong foundation in STEM is of utmost importance in this fast paced technological era that we have found ourselves in.
Education & Certification
- University at Buffalo - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
- University at Buffalo - Master of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- Pre-Algebra
- Differential Equations
- +25 subjects