Any student who is going to be taking the SSAT may be able to benefit from a Seattle SSAT prep course, and Varsity Tutors is offering a variety of courses that can fit your schedule. The SSAT, or Secondary School Admission Test, is used by private and independent schools to assess potential students. If your student is planning on applying to these schools, it may be a good idea to start prepping for the SSAT, and if you've already begun getting ready for the test, a Seattle SSAT course might be the boost your student needs to take them to a new level of success.
The SSAT is used as a standardized test for students heading into the 4th through 12th grades, and is offered at several levels to suit the grade level of the student. Whether your student is applying at the elementary school level, is almost done with high school, or is somewhere in between, we can offer a Seattle SSAT class that can provide support in the test prep process. We also know that you and your student likely have busy schedules, so these classes are taught in an accessible online classroom that can accommodate your needs. You'll have immediate access over the internet to instruction from a qualified teacher, who can increase your student's comprehension of both the subject material of the SSAT and the test itself.
What type of material will a Seattle SSAT class cover?
The SSAT is provided at three levels: the Elementary Level, which is for students entering the 3rd or 4th grades; the Middle Level, for students entering the 5th through 8th grades; and the Upper Level, for students entering the 9th through 12th grades. The basic sections of the test remain the same at each level, although the length and structure of the test does change somewhat. Let's spend some time here to take a brief look at what the test covers.
All levels of the SSAT include a Writing Sample section. At the Upper Level this consists of two prompts: one for a creative work, and the other for a traditional essay, which students are asked to choose between and base a piece of writing on. Schools will be reading for the mechanical skill shown in your student's writing, as well as their ability to persuade their audience with a well-structured written work. At the Middle Level, students will instead choose between two creative prompts and will be expected to use correct grammar and punctuation and to organize their stories well. At the Elementary Level, students will be given a picture prompt and asked to write a story with a beginning, middle, and end. At no level of the SSAT is the writing sample scored. Instead, it is submitted to admission boards as an example of your student's writing abilities.
Next, let's talk about the Quantitative section of the SSAT. For Upper Level students, this section will require knowledge of algebra, line equations, geometry involving polygons and the properties of triangles, graphing, and more. At the Middle Level, this section will ask students to be able to perform operations with variables, understand probability, how to calculate area and perimeter of geometric shapes, and an understanding of proportion. The Elementary Level version of the test will ask students to demonstrate basic math skills, such as arithmetic, simple geometry, measurement, and spatial sense.
Now we come to the Reading section. Upper Level students will read and interpret passages from works of literature, the sciences, and the humanities, and will be asked to understand not only explicit but also implicit information in the text. They'll also have to discern the effect of the author's voice on the piece and evaluate arguments. Middle Level students will perform similar tasks. They will be given less complicated source material, but will still be expected to make inferences about the passages and to understand authorial intent and the arguments made by a piece of writing. At the Elementary Level, students will have to be able to comprehend the main points of a passage, derive meaning from context, and understand figurative language.
Last up is the Verbal section. For Upper Level students this section will require an understanding of synonyms, antonyms, and analogies, as well as knowledge of word roots, suffixes, and prefixes. Students should also be able to use context to infer the meanings of words. Middle Level students will need to understand much of the same information but at a less advanced level. They will still need to understand synonyms and analogies, and how words and ideas relate to each other. Elementary Level students should be able to understand the relationships between words and have a grade-level-appropriate vocabulary.
How will a Seattle SSAT course help my student prepare for the test?
A Seattle SSAT course is taught live in an interactive online classroom where students will see, hear, and speak with their classmates and their instructor just as if they were seated around a table together. This type of collaborative learning environment can bring your student into conversation with new perspectives on course material. By asking each other questions and helping each other learn in group discussions led by a qualified teacher, students may be able to internalize material more effectively than would be possible for them in solo study. Additionally, if students are struggling or falling behind on particular material, they'll be able to request one-on-one time with their instructor, so that your student is provided with many avenues for learning, and can feel well-prepared for test day.
Seattle SSAT courses are provided in 2-week and 4-week sections, with new sections starting up every week. This means that there's always a new course coming up that can suit your unique needs, and enrollment is painless. An online course also provides a definite convenience factor, as it nullifies your commute, freeing up more time for you and your student to live your lives and pursue your goals. Scheduling is flexible, so whether you're looking for an after-school course, or would prefer something on the weekends, there can be something that's right for you. Our hope is to provide you with an SSAT course that can be maximally accessible and effective and can help you work toward your student's success in a private school.
How can I get signed up for a Seattle SSAT class?
The SSAT is one of the first steps on the way to enrollment in a private school. It might be seen as an obstacle, but it can also be taken as an opportunity for your student to build up the skills they need to make sure they excel should they be accepted into a private school. A Seattle SSAT course can help your student build up content area knowledge to make sure they have a firm grasp on their academic fundamentals and may boost their test-taking ability and confidence. Reach out to Varsity Tutors today, and we can get your student signed up for a course that's right for them, and that may be just the thing to put them on the right path towards success.

Rachel: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...mentor for graduating high school students through the Dream Project. As a tutor, my main duty is to work with a student as an individual and to adjust my own tutoring to fit the way they learn best. I believe that all students have what it takes to succeed in school, its just a matter of finding the style of learning that is most effective for them. What works or makes sense for one student...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, General Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CogAT
- HSPT
- +89 subjects

Amanda: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...the identification of tone, argument, style, etc), argumentation, and editing, and a strong record of working well with my students. My style of teaching is pretty low-key, and I strongly believe in the power of communication and open discussion to make sure that my students and I are able to find the best ways to achieve their academic goals. That being said, I also understand that a high schooler's time is limited and valuable, and...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT
- +37 subjects

Theresa: Seattle SSAT course instructor
I love the look a child gets in their eyes when they begin to understand a concept that has alluded them in the past. Whether teaching my class or working one on one with a student, seeing that success is what I strive for.... All students are capable of being successful. As a teacher, it's my job to identify the strategies and resources that will put each student I work with on the path to success.
Education & Certification
- Lycoming College - Bachelor in Arts, Music
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- AIMS
- STAAR
- +91 subjects

Sejal: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...solving and because I utilize different study methods for different material. I have experience working with a wide range of students from elementary school to college students to adult learners. The best part of tutoring for me is when a student truly begins to enjoy a subject that they initially found difficult. I love when students recognize their own progress and begin to feel very comfortable with things that were once very intimidating. I tutor...
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Bachelor of Science, Environmental Studies and Geology
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Masters, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +63 subjects

Philip: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...Southern California, and I have lived in the Northwest for seven years. I enjoy tutoring Math of all levels up to Pre-Calculus, as well as SAT (both Math and Verbal), Language skills, and History/Government. Having taught at both a small private school and large urban public schools, I have broad experience with different learning styles, backgrounds, and abilities. I find it highly rewarding to help students and guide their progress toward mastering. If something is...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor in Arts, History
- University of Oregon - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- HSPT
- +34 subjects

Rina: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...with coursework in mathematics, cultural studies, economics, and business. The subjects I tutor are Japanese and different levels of mathematicsfields that I particularly loveas well as standardized test preparation (SAT, SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT). I have found that studying becomes more enjoyable and effective when content is connected with examples of application. Finding funny, memorable ways to apply course content is my favorite way to internalize the material. I view learning as equipping myself with...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor in Arts, International Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +51 subjects

Katherine: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...of their language-learning paths: from complete beginner to advanced learners wanting a review. While the corporate world provided valuable experience, I decided to further pursue my passions of languages and learning. I left the corporate sector and have obtained a Master's Degree at the Middlebury Colleges Language School program, where for four summers I took a pledge to speak only Spanish and complete a semesters worth of work in six weeks! For the interim 10...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-River Falls - Bachelors, Spanish; International Studies
- Middlebury College - Current Grad Student, Spanish
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Languages
- Spanish 3
- Conversational Spanish
- +16 subjects

Nikki: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...show. I majored in Neuroscience and Behavior in college, so I learned a lot about Biology and Psychology, and I plan on getting a Master's in Bioengineering. I spent two years serving with the Peace Corps in Peru, where I learned to speak Spanish, build stoves out of adobe, and a lot about life in rural communities. In my spare time I enjoy playing harp and guitar, learning new languages, and being outdoors.
Education & Certification
- Vassar College - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience and Behavior
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- HSPT
- SAT
- +46 subjects

Catherine: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...are gifted or special education. Science is my favorite because I love experimenting, building projects like soda bottle water rockets, and working for and with wildlife by cleaning up their habitats and raising trout from eggs for release as fry (juvenile fish). Math is exciting to tutor, especially using manipulatives and other forms of representation-we can do that visually online as we work together. Reading for fun is one of my hobbies, but I know...
Education & Certification
- California State University, East Bay - Bachelor in Arts, Liberal Studies, Biological Sciences
- Holy Names University - Unknown, Teaching Certifications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- AIMS
- Math
- +24 subjects

Jessica: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...endorsement in Reading (K-12). I have a Masters of Education from the University of Melbourne. I have provided tutoring services in and out of the school setting since 2008. I have taught 1st grade in a public school since 2014. I love working with students and watching them develop a love for learning that can become lifelong. In my free time I enjoy hiking, gardening, singing and spending time with family and friends.... I can help a student become an independent learner by modeling first, followed by guided practice that will enable a student to then perform independently.
Education & Certification
- Pacific Lutheran University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- University of Melbourne - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- College English
- English
- +14 subjects

Bejoy: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...liking Math but ironically ended up teaching it. I believe you need to be patient and understand the student's strengths and weakness in order to effectively teach Math to students. Relating Math to real life examples can make it more interesting and fun for students. I believe my tutoring/teaching experience and desire in teaching math would be beneficial for the student. I love one on one tutoring and enjoy the pleasure of making a difference...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Iona College - Master of Science, Adolescent Math Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- ISEE
- SAT
- +38 subjects

Deana: Seattle SSAT course instructor
I am passionate about helping students realize and understand their personal learning potential. Currently I am studying to get my masters degree in Seattle and plan to begin my career as a school counselor in 2018. I enjoy meeting new people and feel very comfortable relating to students. I am excited about getting to know new students through Varsity Tutors and customizing tutoring sessions to fit unique needs. ... In a typical first tutoring session, I like to start getting to know a student by asking a series of questions about themselves, their educational history, and their learning styles. I become familiar with student expectations and help students brainstorm short term and long term goals.
Education & Certification
- Central Washington University - Bachelors, Sociology
- Seattle Pacific University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- College Essays
- Test Prep
- +24 subjects

Claire: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...for three days therefore requiring me to remain flexible and to build rapport fast, skills essential to my success. I most enjoy teaching environmental and earth science, but also enjoy teaching math and writing. I most enjoy when those subjects intersect or finding a way for them to intersect depending on the skills of my students. In my opinion, education is not just about the specific details taught but also about the process of learning....
Education & Certification
- Whitman College - Bachelors, Geology-Environmental Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Algebra 3/4
- Environmental Science
- +35 subjects

Thomas: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...with working adults and young adults. I come from a long line of teachers on both sides of my family. Above all, I bring compassion to my work. I have a learning disability which makes me gifted in some areas, but very slow in others. This disconnect made my educational journey a long and difficult one. I understand the thrill of success, but also the despair and discouragement that comes with failure. I know how...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- CogAT
- TOEFL
- +79 subjects

Genet: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...student teaching) and the Praxis Test (for Para-Educator jobs). I have a 100% success rate with my students on those assessments. While the bulk of my career has been at the college level (undergraduate and graduate), I have had experience teaching middle and high school students, as well! In my spare time, I enjoy reading historical novels and writing my own books and blogs. Walking helps me relax and also process what I am learning...
Education & Certification
- Western Washington University - Bachelor of Education, English
- University of Colorado Boulder - Doctor of Philosophy, Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT
- Reading
- +31 subjects

Aaron : Seattle SSAT course instructor
...bit of Algebra) and I have some math background as part of my Economics coursework. As an undergraduate, I was a Philosophy major and an Economics minor. I think both disciplines are incredibly important and each has provided me with valuable skillsPhilosophy has taught me how to write well and identify arguments, while Economics has taught me how to think about markets, mathematical models, and economic theories. In terms of my personal qualities, I am...
Education & Certification
- Lewis & Clark College - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- Literature
- +27 subjects

Tessa: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...learners through my volunteer work, in which I helped prepare individuals to pass the essay portion of the GED. I am passionate about helping students grow their academic skillset and take pride in their creative work. I specialize in writing skills, such as editing/revising, college applications, grammar/punctuation, creative writing, and essay structure. As someone who has also won over half a dozen essay-based scholarships, I am confident in helping high school students apply for these...
Education & Certification
- Western Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Western Washington University - Masters in Education, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- Erb
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- +115 subjects

Jeannie: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...passionate about science. I am incredibly grateful for my advanced education, and I use it every day. I am a great representative of the idea that it is never too late to continue or add to your education! I usually encourage my students to go to college right after high school, as it is the most helpful to a better life; however, going later has worked out very well for me. I am now semi-retired...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Washington DC Campus - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- University of Phoenix-Washington DC Campus - Master of Science, Behavioral Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- +11 subjects

Brian: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...independent study skills that will support them through life. What this means is building up the analytical skills that they will need to prepare and study for assignments and tests when they're going to go to college. There's only so much one can do in teaching the content that we also need to teach our students how they can become their own teachers and succeed on their own. Hence, I want my students not just...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Masters in Education, High School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- +128 subjects

Jacqueline: Seattle SSAT course instructor
...been working with elementary aged children for over eight years. As an elementary school teacher I know the skills and tools children need to be successful. I have experience working with every grade level, as well as students who are learning English and students receiving special education services. Lastly, I truly believe in teaching children skills they need to not only be successful in school, but also in life. I look forward to meeting you...
Education & Certification
- Humboldt State University - Bachelors, History
- University of Washington - Masters, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- ISEE
- ACT
- +60 subjects