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!

Solomon: Portland CogAT course instructor
I graduated from Yale University with a degree in Math and Philosophy. Currently, I am a music and entertainment critic-hopeful. I have tutored for over four years now with specialties in mathematics, logic, philosophy, English, and the ACT.
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ISEE
- ASVAB
- HSPT
- +40 subjects

Lauren: Portland CogAT course instructor
I am passionate about teaching; my mother said my brother was able to skip kindergarten because I taught him everything I was learning at school! I am a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where I earned a bachelor's degree in English; I also am a 15-year homeschooling "veteran." Most recently, I have worked in a private school teaching grammar, pre-algebra, and physical science. My hobbies include piano, hiking, and singing. ... I make sure they have a solid phonics foundation. Then, I make sure they ask themselves questions about the text, as they are reading. I do a follow-up quiz.
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CLEP
- ACT
- PSAT
- +45 subjects

Richard: Portland CogAT course instructor
...my name is Richard. I have graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science in physics. Throughout my time in college, I have tutored an array of students ranging in various skills of mathematics and physics and ages. I love the feeling of helping others understand and gain an appreciation for the fields through the sessions we have. My goal is to help students solve problems on their own, but also have some fun while...
Education & Certification
- Southern Connecticut State University - Bachelor of Science, Physics
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- GED
- ACT
- +85 subjects

Jeffrey: Portland CogAT course instructor
...can be accessible to all students. For the majority of my teaching career I have worked with multilingual/English language learners and this has become a passion I didn't expect, but has really become a very rewarding part of my career. When I am not working with students I love to travel; the highlight of my travels was winning a fellowship for 1 teacher to travel through China alone for a month (which included a week...
Education & Certification
- University of Hartford - Bachelor in Arts, Education
- Central Connecticut State University - Masters in Education, Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CLEP
- AP U.S. Government & Politics
- Test Prep
- +19 subjects

Zach: Portland CogAT course instructor
...of professions where both parties, student and teacher, benefit and learn. What makes me an excellent tutor? Over the course of my life I have had the good fortune of cultivating a variety and number of skill sets, some of which are academic and social in nature. While I certainly consider academic prowess important for the success of any instructor, I would say the most important skill set I have developed is that of adaptability....
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- SSAT
- UK A Level
- +54 subjects

Bianca: Portland CogAT course instructor
...to teaching at the University of Texas at Austin, I served as a mentor at the local Boys and Girls Club in Austin. TX assisting middle school and high school students in various math and science related subjects. As a tutor, I work to help students to improve their grades and gain confidence in their abilities. Tutoring students is a very rewarding experience for me and through teaching, I hope to inspire students to become...
Education & Certification
- Auburn University - Bachelors, Chemical Engineering
- The University of Texas at Austin - Masters, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SSAT
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +124 subjects

Lisa: Portland CogAT course instructor
...Psychology and Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut. I am a certified professional in both general and special education. I have conducted academic assessments, chaired planning and placement team meetings, developed individualized education plans (IEPs), conducted behavior evaluations, and created individualized curricula. I have expertise working with learners from elementary school through college and am a certified K-12 teacher. As an education professional, I am skilled at helping all learners achieve mastery. Let me...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Educational Psychology
- University of Connecticut - Master of Arts, Educational Psychology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CLEP
- SSAT Prep - Upper Level Class
- REGENTS
- +56 subjects

Vishnu Priya: Portland CogAT course instructor
...am deeply passionate about teaching because it allows me to impact the next generation positively. In my classroom, I strive to create an engaging environment where all students feel heard and valued. My approach involves interactive discussions and tailored feedback, which helps students develop their critical thinking and express their ideas confidently. I enjoy adapting to the diverse needs of each student, making learning both enjoyable and effective. Joining Varsity Tutors is a thrilling opportunity...
Education & Certification
- University of New Haven - Master of Science, Business, General
- ZeroTo Mastery - Doctor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ASPIRE
- ISASP - Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress
- Eleven Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning
- +725 subjects

Midori: Portland CogAT course instructor
...Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus 1 & 2, Multivariable Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, and high school Statistics). Also, I am available to teach high school Chemistry and Organic Chemistry. I have lots of passion to help students learning in different ways. There are 100 learning ways if there are 100 students. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Applied Mathematical Sciences from University of Connecticut and Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary Mathematics) from University of...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Applied Mathematics
- University of Southern California - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- ACCUPLACER
- CLEP
- +73 subjects

Brittany: Portland CogAT course instructor
...of my hand, and I know English, writing, and history as subjects just the same, but what I know most is how stressful and daunting the college admissions process can be. I am most passionate about helping you succeed in your school and test prep endeavors and to do that, I will teach you the test taking methods, study habits and study tricks that work best for you individually. No cookie-cutters tactics, no frustration. I...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SHSAT
- SAT
- PARCC
- +51 subjects

Laura: Portland CogAT course instructor
...attended LaGuardia Community College and became a licensed veterinary technician, which means I am an animal nurse! My academic interests mostly relate to animals: zoology, evolutionary ecology, paleozoology, social evolution, and phylogenetics. I also love studying history, and will always assert that nothing happens in a historical vacuum. In my free time I do a lot of reading and a lot of writing, on topics ranging from politics to science to kids' cartoons.
Education & Certification
- CUNY Hunter College - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- REGENTS
- +231 subjects

Amanda: Portland CogAT course instructor
...Centers while I was searching for a full time teaching position. During my tutoring there I worked with elementary students as well as with middle school students for math and science. I was also an SAT and test prep tutor. I decided to look into Varsity Tutors because I enjoy teaching and I was looking for additional income. My love of teaching goes back to my own elementary school days and playing school as a...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- OLSAT
- +48 subjects

Katherine: Portland 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
- GED
- HSPT
- CAHSEE
- +53 subjects

Victoria: Portland CogAT course instructor
...1st-6th grade. I am currently working on my certification to work with English Language Learners. I received my Masters degree in Curriculum & Technology May 2023. I have been working with students Kindergarten-6th grade going onto 3 years in the Winter. I have worked with the general population, special education population, and english language learners. It is my passion to help all students to succeed. I believe it is important to meet them where they...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Albany - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- English
- Writing
- +48 subjects

Sheila: Portland CogAT course instructor
...on my plate. I have been a mentor teacher for over 15 years and I also tutor children outside of the classroom to help improve their English. Reading and Math. Although I can teach a wide range of subjects, I am most passionate about Reading, Literature, and Math. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests is most important. When I teach, I like to have fun with remarkable results. My personality and...
Education & Certification
- Missouri Valley College - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- University of Missouri-Kansas City - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- TOEFL
- ISEE
- GED
- +37 subjects
Sarah: Portland CogAT course instructor
...tutored all middle and high school subjects for 4+ years. Throughout my education and teaching experience, I've learned how important it is for students to not just understand how to find correct answers but to understand the "why" behind those answers. I tutor all middle and high school subjects, but I've especially had fun in helping students understand why math works in geometry by using fun visual activities. It is my educational philosophy that it...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- GED
- Trigonometry
- College Algebra
- +13 subjects

Lauren: Portland CogAT course instructor
...with young learners, from Pre-K to 5th grade, and I thrive on igniting their enthusiasm for reading and learning across subjects like math, science, and social studies. My teaching philosophy centers on building strong relationships with my students, fostering a supportive and engaging environment that encourages participation and caters to diverse learning styles. I employ hands-on lessons and interactive activities, ensuring that every child feels valued and motivated to achieve their academic goals. Witnessing a...
Education & Certification
- Washington College - Bachelor in Arts, Human Development and Family Studies
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- HSPT
- ACT
- ACCUPLACER
- +61 subjects
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Webster University - Master of Arts, Educational Psychology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- WISC IV
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +28 subjects

Christine: Portland CogAT course instructor
...bring to the field of writing and believe that a combination of determination and learning can lead to confidence in the study and production of English composition and essays. I have enjoyed working with students K-6 as well as high school and college level students and adults with mental health challenges. I also tutor young people after school in a program designed for newcomers to America. I promise to help students of any age to...
Education & Certification
- University of Toronto - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Antioch University-Los Angeles - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- PSAT
- STAAR EOC
- SAT Subject Tests
- +79 subjects

Zipporah: Portland CogAT course instructor
...am passionate about helping students unlock their full potential and discover the joy in learning. My approach is tailored to each individual, focusing on building understanding, confidence, and curiosity. I believe that every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and I strive to create an environment where questions are encouraged, mistakes are embraced as part of the process, and progress feels exciting. Whether it's mastering new concepts, preparing for exams, or simply developing better study...
Education & Certification
- Brandman University - Bachelor in Arts, Human Resources Management
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- HSPT
- CELPIP
- OLSAT
- +1077 subjects