Varsity Tutors can get your student set up with comprehensive Houston SSAT prep that can fit easily into their schedule. The Secondary Schools Admission Test (SSAT) gives independent and private schools a means of assessing and comparing applicants' basic verbal, math, and reading skills. There are three levels to this exam, each one more advanced than the last. Your student's scores on this test could influence their admission to the schools they are applying to, so you may be looking into ways you could help them get the most out of their time before the exam. Let Varsity Tutors help you explore convenient and effective test review options.
What can Houston SSAT prep review?
The SSAT is administered on three levels: Elementary, Middle, and Upper. The Elementary Level SSAT is designed for third- and fourth-grade students. There are five sections: Quantitative/Math, Reading, Writing Sample, Verbal, and Experimental. The Middle Level is for 5th through 7th-grade students applying for an independent middle school while the final level of the test is for 8th to 11th-grade students. Both forms of the exam consist of six sections: Quantitative 1 and 2, Reading, Verbal, Writing Sample, and Experimental. The Experimental and Writing Sample sections for every level is unscored. The Experimental section simply tests out potential future questions for the SSAT. Let's look at the differences in each exam.
The Elementary Level SSAT has a time limit of one hour and 50 minutes. Your student will have 30 minutes on the Quantitative and Reading sections, 20 on the Verbal, and 15 on the Writing Sample and Experimental sections. This test aims to assess the knowledge they should have gained in their earlier classes, such as basic addition and subtraction, age-appropriate vocabulary, and reading comprehension skills. The Writing Sample focuses on your student's ability to organize an essay from beginning to end. They will be given a photo, which they must use to create a short story.
The Middle and Upper Levels of the SSAT allow up to two hours and 50 minutes to tackle the 167-question test. This is broken down into 30 minutes on the Verbal and both Quantitative sections, 40 minutes on the Reading section, 25 on the Writing Sample, and 15 on the Experimental section.
If your student is taking the Middle Level SSAT, they will need to demonstrate an understanding of a variety of topics. They will face questions designed to assess their grasp of coordinate geometry, arguments and opinions, and logical relationships between words and ideas. The Writing Sample offers two creative essay prompts for your student to base a story upon. If your student is taking the Upper Level SSAT, the test will incorporate concepts like properties of triangles, interpretation of arguments and opinions, and root words. Your student will also write an essay or story based on one of two prompts. This assignment measures their ability to write persuasively with supporting examples.
How can my student benefit from different kinds of Houston SSAT prep?
There are two main categories of reliable SSAT prep to choose from: personal tutoring and prep classes. Depending on your student's preferences, they may benefit from one or even both options. Varsity Tutors' educational consultants can guide you toward the option that works best for your student.
There are new classes starting up every week for multiple sections of the SSAT. We can enroll your student in a Houston SSAT prep class that is led by an expert instructor who has been thoroughly vetted for experience and skill. Once enrolled, your student can log on and participate in online virtual classes in which they can interact with their peers and instructor as if they were in the same room. Since sessions are online, your student can pick a spot and learn from there.
Your student's Houston SSAT prep course can engage in group discussions that can allow them to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and skills on the exam. The instructor can explain the types of questions covered on the exam, as well as explore different strategies that can allow your student to maintain an efficient pace while they work through the test. If they are having trouble understanding something, their course instructor can set aside time to work one-on-one with your student.
Some students prefer to work in a more private environment. We can connect you with a Houston SSAT tutor who has the experience and knowledge necessary to help your student work towards their testing goals. As the only student in each study session, your student can enjoy a totally customized test review experience. Their instructor can get to know your student's learning personality and use teaching techniques that can appeal to their preferences. Your mentor can regularly assess your student's knowledge and skills to identify areas of the exam in which they have the most room to grow. As your student works, their instructor can give ongoing feedback, whether they are working through sample writing prompts or tackling a practice test. One-on-one tutoring can give your student the opportunity to gain insight into their learning needs, which they can implement in their independent study sessions.
How can my student get set up with Houston SSAT preparation?
No matter whether your student has been working to prepare for the SSAT for a while or they haven't even begun yet, Varsity Tutors can help get them set up with Houston SSAT prep that can suit their needs. Whether your student enrolls in a prep course or they work with a private instructor, this can be a great investment in their academic future. Your student can take the time to build solid test-taking and study skills that they can apply to future exams and courses.
If you're interested in finding excellent SSAT prep options that can give your student a leg up as they prepare for this exam, get in touch with Varsity Tutors. Our educational consultants are prepared to help you figure out the best test preparation method for your student.
Megan: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...for chemistry students, which made me passionate about tutoring and teaching beyond Baylor. I love seeing the "Ah-Ha" moment in students and helping them reach their academic goals. Learning should be exciting and stimulating, and I am here to facilitate that experience. My tutoring interests are mostly focused on Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Test Prep. Outside of academia, I am involved in pediatrics research, local volunteering, and spending time with my dog.
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- ACT 8-Week Prep Class
- +49 subjects
Alexandra: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...member of the Terry Scholarship Foundation, which has provided me and hundreds of other Texans with a private, four-year, full-ride scholarship. As a Terry Scholar, I am well-versed in all subjects and have taken on the role of mentor to many of the incoming freshmen. I have spent most of my free time in college as a nanny and tutor to families around the DFW area. I have experience with all age groups and there...
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Florida EOC Assessment
- SAT
- ACT
- +308 subjects
Sarah: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...world. I have worked with students from kindergarten to middle school in many different subject areas. I love the learning process, and figuring out how to best design a lesson for a specific student so that learning is fun, engaging and meaningful. For me, learning is not about drilling memorization facts. My ultimate goal with students is to make a connection with them and bring alive pre-algebra, phonics, the questioning mechanics of the SAT -...
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Bachelor in Arts, Art History
- American University of Paris - Master of Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR
- Middle School Math
- +17 subjects
Malcolm: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...junior at Rice University, majoring in biochemistry and cell biology. I am particularly interested in tutoring math, science, writing, and test preparation. I have a strong background in tutoring over many years, and I am very comfortable working with many different kinds of students. My goal is not only to ensure success in the classroom today but to equip my students with lifelong skills that will help them to be successful in the future.
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- SAT
- HSPT
- +42 subjects
Velma: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Reading, Grammar, Phonics, and Writing. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun. I want each and every child to gain the knowledge they need in order for them to excel to the next level. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking, exercising, and playing with my dog Sebastian. I am looking forward to...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Clear Lake - Bachelor of Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- STAAR EOC
- +58 subjects
Leslie: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...on the post secondary level, did consulting specializing in supplemental education solutions for Mathematics, Science, and STEM, taught and tutored within schools, and lead a district charter managing multiple campuses. Although my work experience has been mostly face to face, with groups of dynamic teachers, passionate principals, and students that are sponges for content, I am looking to expand the populations I serve. I would like to reach more groups and individuals that are equally...
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelors, Math
- The Texas A&M University System Office - PHD, Math Ed
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ACCUPLACER
- +54 subjects
Windy: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
Hello, I am looking forward to helping you reach your academic goals in elementary/middle school math/remedial math. My desire is to also help you reach your maximum potential by teaching you skills and strategies that will help you to become a life long learner.
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Lamar University - Masters in Education, Counselor Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- HSPT
- TACHS
- +27 subjects
Mathilde: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...is paramount to my teaching philosophy. My goal is to help your student realize their strengths. As a Linguistics major, much of my academic career focused on studying and understanding the nuances of English and French in both reading and writing, though I also have a strong foundation in mathematics, ranging from Algebra to AP Calculus AB. Additionally, my ACT score was 33 (99th percentile); I completed ACT tutoring courses as a high school student...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelors, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SHSAT
- SAT
- +67 subjects
Phoebe: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...Center. I'm currently working towards applying to medical school and a good part of that decision is because I love the STEM field so much. Throughout my education, I've personally always learned best by teaching my friends and classmates. Science and math is tough - but I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of teachers and peers who have patiently helped me understand the material. My goal is not only to help...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of North Texas - Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CogAT
- HSPT
- ACT
- +49 subjects
Michael: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...Bachelors in Computer Science in May 2014. My favorite subject to tutor is Spanish. I am recently ending a trip as an ESL language assistant in Seville, Spain. I studied the Spanish language diligently for years to gain fluency and as a non-native speaker. In the process I have learned a number of language "hacks" to really jumpstart learning. In my spare time I manage a private Investment club, where I educate the members about...
Education & Certification
- Gustavus Adolphus College - Bachelors, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- Test Prep
- +49 subjects
Jennifer: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
I hold a BA in Elementary and Middle School Education, and an MEd in International Education, as well as an Iowa State Teaching License, and a TEFL Certification. I have taught overseas in the international school system for ten years, and would love to share my knowledge and expertise with you.
Education & Certification
- University of Northern Iowa - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- Endicott College - Masters in Education, International and Comparative Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- GATE/ TAG
- GED
- +68 subjects
Tutor Jess: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Master of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AIMS
- UK GCSE
- ISEE
- +254 subjects
Connie: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...Middle School Math and College Psychology and just about any grade or course in Special Education. I use an abundance of techniques from mnemonic strategies to games, tricks, reverse teaching, and so forth until I find what works for the student ! I believe everyone can learn if given a chance. I have had much success not only in teaching my students to pass their courses but in preparing them and helping them pass State...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelors, Psychology
- Sam Houston State University - Masters, Counseling Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- STAAR
- TOEFL
- +30 subjects
Lise: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...teaching I have helped dyslexia students, special education students, ESL students and college students become better readers and writers. I am Texas state certified in English Language Arts, English as a Second Language, and Special Education. I am an adjunct English professor at HCC. I have a bachelor's and master's degree, both in the arts. Since I love learning I have always studied several subjects at the same time. My areas of study have included...
Education & Certification
- York University Toronto Canada - Bachelor in Arts, English
- York University Toronto Canada - Master of Arts, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +101 subjects
Ivonne: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...at all levels. I enjoy giving classes with daily everyday topics or the basics needed. The best way to learn a foreign language is with a native teacher without an accent and who knows and practices an up-to-date language. What I most enjoy about being a teacher is when the students understand and use the Spanish learned in the "real world." So, you will speak Spanish as well as you will learn how to carry...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Houston Campus - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Nova Southeastern University - Masters in Education, Spanish Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +33 subjects
Lindsey: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...Psychology in both charter and public schools. I also have experience tutoring Mathematics at Sylvan Learning Center and Test Prep as a career coach for a non-profit organization. I am available to tutor a diverse selection of subjects from math, social studies, test prep, and Advanced Placement to students from all age groups. I tend to favor Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, AP Human Geography, U.S. History, and European History. I love helping our youth and I...
Education & Certification
- Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Bachelor in Arts, History
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- +38 subjects
Neemisha: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...experience working with students has been in various private, public and charter schools. Tutoring is what I do as a career and I enjoy it tremendously. Watching students grow and become more confident and more successful is why I do this. I look to create a positive environment where I can help motivate students to engage in both analytical and critical thinking in mathematics. I believe that working with students 1-on-1 and in small group...
Education & Certification
- The Evergreen State College - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Political Science and Government
- UMSL - Master of Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT
- +47 subjects
Cinthia: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
I am a graduated teacher from FIU.I have worked with students grade k-5th, mainly focused in reading and writing intervention.I love having fun while learning and am excited to teach new students.
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- Spanish
- +26 subjects
Vincent: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...School Social Studies, Upper level Social Studies (grades 9-12), Study Skills and Organizational Training. I most enjoy tutoring History/Social Studies because I have a deep love and fascination for how the past has come to form the world we live in, today. I firmly believe in cultivating in my students a strong, well-rounded understanding in ALL of the subject areas I tutor. I accomplish this largely by establishing positive and motivational relationships with my students...
Education & Certification
- University of St Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- HSPT
- UK A Level
- +24 subjects
Angela: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...teach on various levels making their learning environment fun interactive and interesting. I will make sure my students are engaged, have discussions, and do hands on teaching and one on one instruction. When students share in my teaching methods by giving their opinions on how I should teach them, this makes them feel apart of their education process; and they will be more open to learning. Alone with my students, I will evaluate my teaching...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- English
- +7 subjects