If you have been looking into CogAT courses to help your student make the most of the educational opportunities available to them, Varsity Tutors offers private CogAT classes that are well worth your time. The CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) is an aptitude test used for admission in the gifted programs at certain schools, to help identify a homeschooled student's academic strengths, and to help identify at-risk youth for further assessment. It assesses a test-taker's learned problem-solving and reasoning skills in three areas: verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal, all of which correlate well to academic achievement. A private CogAT class may give your student more self-confidence heading into the exam.
One of the benefits of investing in a CogAT course is access to a knowledgeable instructor who can answer any questions you have about the test. For example, many parents would like a breakdown of exactly what the Stanine scores the test uses actually mean. The chart below highlights this information:
Score Breakdown
Stanine | % Rank | Description |
9 | 96-99 |
Very High |
8 | 89-95 | Above Average |
7 | 77-88 | Above Average |
6 | 60-76 | Average |
5 | 40-59 | Average |
4 | 23-39 | Average |
3 | 11-22 | Below Average |
2 | 4-10 | Below Average |
1 | 1-3 | Very Low |
One of the CogAT secrets is that it asks questions that students are unfamiliar with in order to assess their cognitive ability. In other words, how will a student react to a new type of problem? Needless to say, experience with the formatting of the exam could provide a significant advantage as students would know what to expect beforehand. For this reason, many students take practice tests during their private CogAT class.
Practice tests may also help identify your student's unique areas of opportunity, or the topics that should focus on in their CogAT prep class. The list below breaks down the types of questions students might see according to grade level:
- Grades K-2
- Oral Vocabulary
- Verbal Reasoning
- Relational Concepts
- Figure Classification
- Matrices
- Grades 3-12
- Verbal Classification
- Sentence Completion
- Verbal Analogies
- Quantitative Relations
- Number Series
- Equation building
- Figure Classification
- Figure Analogies
A CogAT prep course may be a perfect place for your student to prepare for the exact exam they plan to take. There are no time constraints in a private CogAT course, so the student in your life can spend as much time as they need to on any topic. Their instructor may also be able to cater sessions to your student's unique needs. For instance, a visual learner might use visual aids such as counting cubes to prepare for the quantitative questions on the exam, while an auditory learner could benefit more from oral repetition.
Varsity Tutors also strives to make attending our CogAT prep courses as convenient as possible. All instruction happens on our proprietary Live Learning Platform, allowing students to meet with their instructor online instead of a physical location such as a library. We also try our best to connect every student with an instructor who suits their schedule. If school, work, and extracurricular activities limit your availability on Wednesdays, we might try to refer you to a teacher who won't want to meet on Wednesdays. Test prep should fit into your life, not the other way around.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of our CogAT prep classes or are ready to enroll, give us a call today! Expert Educational Directors are currently standing by to assist you any way they can. We look forward to working with you!

Noah: CogAT course instructor
...and can now be found in Northern Westchester, NY. With over 14 years experience teaching students aged 3-70, I currently teach College Writing at Montclair State in New Jersey and both Critical Thinking and Junior Seminar at Mercy College in Westchester. I am the self-published author of more than a dozen scifi and horror novels, available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. My tutoring is focused on the test specifically and has worked for many...
Education & Certification
- Bard College - Bachelors, Philosophy and Creative Writing (Dual Major)
- Sarah Lawrence College - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- COMPASS
- SAT
- ACT
- +36 subjects

Erin: CogAT course instructor
I love to learn! Sadly learning hasn't always come easy for me, but with amazing support from those around me, I have fulfilled my dreams of being a teacher. I do not let anything stand between me and my dreams and I push my students to do the same.
Education & Certification
- University of the Cumberlands - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
- University of the Cumberlands - Master of Arts, Reading Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- PSAT
- GED
- ACT
- +56 subjects

Lesley: CogAT course instructor
I received my Bachelors degree in electrical engineering from Manhattan College, New York, and right now, I am pursuing my MBA degree from Louisiana State University. As a tutor, I am a firm believer of the motto "Face it! Ace it!" This means that we can work together to make your academic weaknesses into one of your strengths.
Education & Certification
- Manhattan College - Bachelors, Electrical Engineer
- Louisiana State University-Shreveport - Masters, Masters in Business Administration
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- TACHS
- ACT
- PSAT
- +94 subjects

Elizabeth: CogAT course instructor
...degree in Education. My expertise lies in teaching English and Spanish, with a special affinity for tutoring young learners in these languages. The joy of watching a student grasp a new concept in a language class is unparalleled, and it drives my commitment to teaching. My tutoring style is adaptive, focusing on the individual needs of each student. I believe in creating a learning environment that is both supportive and challenging, encouraging students to explore...
Education & Certification
- Florida State College at Jacksonville - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CLEP
- ACCUPLACER
- UK A Level
- +43 subjects

Tajrin: CogAT course instructor
...roles have helped me develop a deep understanding of how to tailor my teaching approach to meet the unique learning needs of each student. I received my education at CUNY Brooklyn College, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, with minors in Data Science and Cognitive Science. I also hold an Associate of Science in Computer Science from Fiorello H. LaGuardia Community College. This academic background, combined with my hands-on experience, has...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Brooklyn College - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- Eleven Plus Maths
- CLEP
- ISEE
- +449 subjects

Maria: CogAT course instructor
...preparation booklets, and various websites which allow me to teach reading, comprehension, writing, and speaking better to my students. I also taught elementary school, all subjects, overseas for four years in the Middle East and Germany. I currently tutor several Chinese students online in English speaking, reading, and writing and also adults in conversational English at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. I hope to work with you soon! Thank you for reading and best...
Education & Certification
- Michigan State University - Bachelor of Education, Physiology
- Central Michigan University - Master of Arts, Educational Administration
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- IELTS - International English Language Testing System
- Florida EOC Assessment
- ACT
- +114 subjects

Marcus: CogAT course instructor
...Connecticut State University. I have extensive experience in a variety of fields. My teaching experience ranges from college Biology to High School Environmental Management. I am certified by the state of Florida to teach Biology and Agriculture to 6 to 12th Graders. I've taught Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and Food & Nutrition at the University and community college levels. I have experience working in research, crime, and production labs. I have also gained extensive...
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth - Bachelor, Biology
- Southern Connecticut State University - Master's/Graduate, Biiology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- Cell Biology
- High School Biology
- +10 subjects

Stacey: CogAT course instructor
...struggling with learning disabilities and/or hearing impairment. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, my primary passion is languages, including Spanish, French and Italian, and as an avid reader, I also enjoy Literature and English. I find it exciting to see that spark of joy in a child's eyes when teaching young students, as they grasp a new concept or ascend to a higher reading level. I possess a strong belief in giving back...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Binghamton - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ASVAB
- PSAT
- CLEP
- +59 subjects

Rachel: CogAT course instructor
...break from the classroom, but available to tutor students during the week. I work with students from 6th grade up to graduate programs in their sciences, specifically biology and evolution, but I can often help in other sciences as well. I look forward to meeting and working with all of you amazing students. I'm also highly skilled in English/writing and literature and some history and social studies. I am good with special needs, neurodiverse children...
Education & Certification
- Western Governors University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology Teacher Education
- Truman State University - Master of Arts, Education of the Gifted and Talented
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- ACCUPLACER
- UK GCSE
- +234 subjects

Elly: CogAT course instructor
...7 years of experience, I specialize in helping students excel in subjects such as math, science, computer science, and English. I hold a master's degree in education and a background in computer science, which allows me to create personalized, engaging learning experiences. My goal is to empower students by building confidence and improving academic performance. Whether you need help mastering challenging concepts or preparing for exams, I am committed to helping you succeed in your...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SCAT Exam
- ISASP - Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress
- UK Key Stage 1 SATs
- +387 subjects

Katherine: CogAT course instructor
I am a multi-level, multi-subject educator offering 8+ years experience in instruction; consistent performance record and excellent reviews; and innovative instructional methods to maximize student understanding and performance across various learning styles, abilities, and interests. It is my pleasure to educate through Varsity Tutors.... My philosophy in education is that all students are smart. It is my job as an educator to meet each student where they are and to guide them in the achievement of their educational goals. Learning should be personalized and fun.
Education & Certification
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Loyola Marymount University - Master of Arts, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ISEE
- CAHSEE
- ACT
- +53 subjects
Education & Certification
- Leningrad Politechnical Institute - Bachelor of Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- Saint Petersburg State University - Master of Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- CUNY Brooklyn College - Doctor of Education, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- GED
- UK A Level
- +39 subjects

Grace: CogAT course instructor
...Science in Journalism, and a Master of Arts in Teaching English. My goal is to give students the tools they need to confidently own and tell their own story. I focus on building positive relationships to foster a safe and trusting learning environment. My strengths include creating effective and engaging lesson plans and utilizing student choice and interest in curriculum. I live and teach by the following core values: Accountability | Compassion | Community |...
Education & Certification
- State University of New York College at Brockport - Bachelor, Journalism
- Western Governors University - Master's/Graduate, Teaching (English Education, Secondary)
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- UK A Level
- NYSTCE - New York State Teacher Certification Examinations
- +41 subjects

Crystal: CogAT course instructor
...to impact lives more personally and so decided to follow another life-long passion of mine - teaching math. I earned my NJ teacher's license in Mathematics and stepped into the high school classroom for nearly a decade specializing in Geometry, special education and test prep. I then ran a math-only learning center which allowed me to not only work with students but also focus on coaching Instructors in best teaching practices for students of all...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Binghamton - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- TACHS
- PSAT
- SAT
- +168 subjects

Samantha: CogAT course instructor
...have always made A honor role. I went to Somerset Community College and earned an Associates in Arts and an Associates in Science. Next, I went to Eastern Kentucky University and earned my Bachelor's in the Science of Psychology. My free time is spent researching to increase my knowledge base. I feel like nobody is ever finished learning and that everybody can learn something from everyone. My children even teach me new information daily. There...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- GED
- TEAS
- Florida EOC Assessment
- +389 subjects

Heidi: CogAT course instructor
...variety of learners! I have a passion for reading, writing, and all forms of written and visual communication. I am an artist, so naturally I weave creativity into my lessons and engage my students' cognitive abilities through creative learning experiences. I like to have clear goals in mind for each student. I work to design a learning plan for each individual student that works towards meeting specific goals - adapting the instruction to the ever-changing...
Education & Certification
- Lindenwood University - Bachelor in Arts, Arts and Entertainment Management
- Walden University - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CSAP/ TCAP
- CLEP
- TOEFL
- +59 subjects

Kiemute: CogAT course instructor
...I have a strong predilection for mathematics, and teaching math together with other general knowledge subjects is always an amazing to me. I believe in the saying by Albert Einstein that goes teaching is an art that awakens joy in creative expressions and knowledge in both young and old people. Therefore, as a tutor, it is my pleasure to empathize with students, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be...
Education & Certification
- University of Lagos Akoka - Bachelor of Science, Metallurgical Engineering
- Texas A & M University-Kingsville - Master of Science, Industrial Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +35 subjects

Raven: CogAT course instructor
...learned a lot from my Mom growing up. Then I moved to Taos, New Mexico, where I met and fell in love with my Wife, raised two kids and completed everything except for clinicals in my Associate in Arts degree in Holistic Healing where my focus was Massage Therapy. Then I also got a Certificate in IT, because I love Computers, Computer Science and Coding and making Computers. I am currently enrolled at Full Sail...
Education & Certification
- University of New Mexico-Taos Campus - Associate in Science, Information Technology
- Full Sail University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Music Technology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- ACT
- ACCUPLACER
- +201 subjects
Kyrie: CogAT course instructor
...struggled with native-language literacy. While I enjoyed teaching biology and helping prepare students for their standardized tests, I am most passionate about teaching science and English language. I have taken and am familiar with the ACT and Advanced Placement tests as well and would be delighted to help someone develop learning strategies and study habits. While I believe that a good education is a great treasure, my teaching style is also influenced by my belief...
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Bachelor in Arts, Education of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- UK A Level
- ACT Science
- +13 subjects

Magdy: CogAT course instructor
...extensively, tutoring students of different ages and different academic levels looking to improve their Engineering and Math knowledge.. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Engineering, Calculus, Trigonometry, Geometry, Linear Algebra and Algebra. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun (with remarkable advancements) prepping for the Critical math and science portions of the exams. I am a firm...
Education & Certification
- Cairo University, Egypt - Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
- New Mexico State University-Main Campus - Doctor of Philosophy, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- ACT and SAT All-In-One Classes
- ACT 4-Week Prep Class
- +236 subjects