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
...having been out of school for decades. Whether it's GRE test prep, French, math or economics, my approach to tutoring is to find what strategies work best for the student and work on 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...
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
- REGENTS
- CogAT
- Advanced Placement
- +96 subjects

David: Washington SSAT course instructor
...at Harvard University. I firmly believe that teaching is an integral part to mastery of any subject, and also that it has intrinsic value in making the world a better place. I have taught argumentation and debate at the Harvard Debate Council summer workshops, and have developed and taught a political philosophy curriculum at the Harvard Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece. I love working with kids, and I read and write children's books and...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Current Undergrad, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +34 subjects

Rhea: Washington SSAT course instructor
...both regular and AP subjects throughout my high school years. I have a BA in International Studies, with a minor in Business Administration and a certificate in Community Based Participatory Research. I am very interested in education, and I have spent lots of time studying different education systems and teaching methods. I believe that every single student has a unique way of learning and processing information, so it is important for them to develop their...
Education & Certification
- American University - Current Undergrad, International Relations, Business
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GATE/ TAG
- STAAR EOC
- WISC IV
- +338 subjects

Cynthia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...University, home for the summer in the Philadelphia area. I was a Neuroscience major, and I will be pursuing my PhD in Neuroscience in the fall at Johns Hopkins. I have been tutoring 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...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Neuroscience
- Johns Hopkins University - PHD, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- PSAT
- +72 subjects

Erin: Washington SSAT course instructor
...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 teach. I look forward to seeing you soon!... My teaching philosophy is simple. I find academic topics interesting, and I try to infect my students with my own interest. It's very hard to learn something when you find it boring, and it's very hard to persevere with a topic you find boring. So, I just try to make it fun and interesting. And, I like to make a lot of stupid jokes and smart metaphors.
Education & Certification
- Stanford - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +77 subjects

Matt: Washington SSAT course instructor
...University as a Public Health major with a concentration in Immunology and Infectious Diseases. I then went on to complete a Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- +85 subjects

Richard: Washington SSAT course instructor
...teacher and military officer, I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups, skill levels, and motivation levels. I pride myself on finding the right approach that best suits a particular student. After completing a bachelor of arts in political science at Yale University, I served 8 years as a combat arms officer in the US Army. I coached, trained and mentored soldiers and junior officers in a wide variety of tasks. After...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
- Tufts University - Masters, International Affairs
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +45 subjects

Cora: Washington SSAT course instructor
...to understand the way YOU learn and help you do it. I attended the University of Iowa on a full, merit-based scholarship, and graduated in 2014 with a degree in the Philosophy of Human Rights. During my time at the University, I received A+'s on essays and tests in political science, philosophy, literature, and humanities. I studied abroad in China for eight months, learning Mandarin and teaching English to high school and college students. When...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelors, Philosophy of Human Rights
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- +30 subjects

Kelly: Washington SSAT course instructor
...and social studies, helping to run a retail store, and traveling. During my time as a 4th grade teacher I also tutored students who needed extra help after school in reading, social studies, and FCAT prep. My favorite subject is reading, but I also love teaching math, science, and social studies. I am quite passionate about education and the opportunities that it can give people. In addition to tutoring, I am also an enrollment coordinator...
Education & Certification
- Florida State University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ACT
- FCAT 2.0
- +29 subjects

Clare: Washington SSAT course instructor
...passing test score. Before my work as a teacher, I worked on a pilot program with bringing their program into a St. Louis City charter school. In this position, I worked with students 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...
Education & Certification
- Elon University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Fontbonne University - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- +83 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
- Elementary Math
- ESL/ELL
- +15 subjects

Ryan: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Washington University Law School graduate who also has a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri. I have seven years teaching experience on both the high school and post-secondary level. I can assist students with standardized test preparation, Reading Comprehension and Writing. I have taught Government, English, World Religions, History and Psychology in the past. I scored in the top 98th percentile on the LSAT and specialize in helping students using proven...
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-Columbia - Bachelor of Science, Education
- Washington University in St Louis - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT 8-Week Prep Class
- ACT
- HSPT
- +72 subjects

Natalie: Washington SSAT course instructor
...working on arts and crafts, and traveling My love of learning started at a young age, thanks to my parents and a library card that opened my eyes to a wealth of information. It's my goal to help others enjoy learning as much as I have! I first started tutoring in high school, and I've enjoyed helping students from kindergarten age through college work through challenging concepts to gain a better understanding of the material....
Education & Certification
- Duquesne University - Bachelors, Biochemistry
- Duquesne University - Masters, Forensic Science and Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +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
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +29 subjects

Cornelia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...is the single most important element of societal mobility. One may be born into status, but with education they can navigate their network and privilege. One may be born into destitute circumstances, but with their education can rise above their situation. One of the only things that a child should not have to earn is their right to knowledge. Education is a human right. Every single child should be fully equipped to chose their own...
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication
- Lesley College - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +23 subjects

David: Washington SSAT course instructor
...I earned my Bachelor of Arts in International Relations. During my undergraduate career, I tutored students for the LSAT, and I taught high school students in History, Political Science, and International Relations. While I tutor a 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...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ACT
- ISEE
- +52 subjects

Edward: Washington SSAT course instructor
...about History, Political Science, and English. In my experience, students respond best not to strict tutors but to engaging, fun, and supportive tutors. A quality education opens up a world of opportunity which is something I have experienced firsthand, and I welcome the opportunity to help others access a quality education. In my down time I like to read historical fiction and classic literature, I like to write historical fiction stories, I like to debate...
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, History, Political Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +31 subjects

Luke: Washington SSAT course instructor
...an MBA, and also a McGrawHill published author. In the last 10 years, I've written over 100 professional articles, and have been published in at least a dozen magazines and trade journals. Let's work together to make you a great writer! As a board-certified (American Society for Transportation & Logistics) professional, I can help you excel in course work related to that field. Over the last 25 years, I've also founded businesses, worked as an...
Education & Certification
- United States Naval Academy - Bachelor of Science, Political Science and Government
- Old Dominion University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT
- HSPT
- +89 subjects

Janis: Washington SSAT course instructor
...to read critically and write effectively are some of the strongest ones. My teaching experiences in 6th, 5th, and 3rd grade, as well as my peer tutoring in college, have given me a range of strategies for helping students learn to be effective readers and writers. As a bookworm and writer myself, I strive to find the strategies that I myself use that will help everyone, even those who don't love reading or writing as...
Education & Certification
- Mississippi State University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- Mississippi State University - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PARCC
- MAP
- +26 subjects

Rachel: Washington SSAT course instructor
...so I can better relate to the current teaching methods. Finally, I am brilliant and an expert test taker. I was in the top 3% of high school scholars in California, and I have continually made the deans list while taking both science and arts and humanities classes in college. In high school, I tutored freshman in math and english as part of my Key Club requirements. Additionally, in my previous jobs, I have loved...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Davis - Bachelors, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- +80 subjects