For many families in and around northeastern Illinois, Chicago private schools are as good as you'll find anywhere. If you're ready to start your student working toward acceptance in a prestigious private school program, Varsity Tutors can help set him or her up with a Chicago SSAT course that can encourage them to perform at the best of their abilities.
Most Chicagoland parents know that with such a large student body, it's going to be difficult for a student's profile to stand out from the pack, and a high score on the SSAT can be the difference between getting into a student's top choice or failing to earn acceptance at all. If you have your heart set on admission to institutions like Mount Carmel High School or Brother Rice High School, a high score on the SSAT could be your ticket there, and Varsity Tutors is happy to set you up in a class to help you prepare.
What should a student expect from a Chicago SSAT prep course?
When preparing for the SSAT, your student will take either the Elementary Level, Middle Level or Upper Level test, depending on their grade level. Third and fourth graders test at the Elementary Level, fifth through seventh graders test at the Middle Level, and eighth to 11th graders test at the Upper Level. Regardless of level, all students will face a Reading and Verbal section and an unscored Writing prompt. All students will also face a Quantitative section, with elementary students getting one such section and older students getting two. Experimental questions will also be part of the test at any age level, although they will be unscored. Let's look deeper into each section.
In the Verbal section, students will display their knowledge and understanding of the English language. Elementary students will be expected to show their knowledge of how word relationships work, and they'll have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions in this section. Middle and upper students will also have 30 minutes to tackle this section, but they will face 60 questions, equally divided into synonyms and analogies.
The Reading section focuses on reading and comprehending passages and getting information out of it. As you might expect and will definitely discover if you choose to take a Chicago SSAT course, elementary students will have an easier task than middle and upper students. They'll face 28 questions in all, based around seven different passages with four questions per passage. Like the Verbal section, elementary students will have 30 minutes to handle this section. Middle and upper students will also receive passages and must show more advanced concepts of comprehension in a small amount of time. Each will have 40 minutes in this section, and they'll answer 40 questions based on their understanding of passages.
The tests diverge based on grade level at the Quantitative section, as the elementary students will face just one Quantitative section, while older students have two. Elementary students will be asked to show the most basic concepts of math and their understanding of them, and they'll have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions in this section. Conversely, middle and upper students will be tested on those more advanced mathematical concepts, and they'll be answering questions in two different 25-question sections. Each section of questions will last 30 minutes, meaning middle and upper students will answer quantitative questions for 60 minutes over the course of the test. One important thing to remember about this section is that no matter what level you're at, no calculators are permitted in the Quantitative section.
Finally, a student will face the Writing prompt, which will be unscored but will be part of the student's portfolio when applying to private schools. In fact, every school that you apply to will receive a copy of a student's essay, allowing administrators to make quicker decisions on whether to offer admission. Here, elementary schools will have 15 minutes to respond to a prompt and write a simple story, while middle and upper students will receive 25 minutes to craft a reaction or argument in regards to their prompt.
You'll also face 16 unscored experimental questions designed to see how test takers react to different questions. At the elementary level, there is no penalty for guessing on a question, so it's a great idea to answer something even if you're not sure if you're right. This is not true at the middle and high school levels, which dock test takers a fraction of a point when they miss a question. If you're taking the upper or middle versions, you'll need to make sure you can eliminate a choice or two and make your guess an educated one.
Whether you're struggling with your test-taking skills or hoping to get the right preparation to make it into your top priority, Varsity Tutors can help. Our team can enroll you in a class that can allow you to maximize your strengths on test day and minimize your distractions and feeling of nerves.
How can a Chicago SSAT course get me ready for the test?
When you opt for an SSAT course, your student will be able to learn from the comfort of his or her own home on a schedule that works well for the entire family. One of the biggest challenges of test preparation is finding time to actually prepare for the test, but with courses offered online and starting every week, that's not a worry here. You'll be able to find a time that works for you, led by an instructor who enjoys instructing young students and knows how to make success on the exam more attainable. Classes are offered in two-week and four-week sessions, allowing students to find time for studying more easily.
How can I find a Chicago SSAT class?
If you're ready to get your student started with preparation for the SSAT, Varsity Tutors can help! All you have to do is contact us, and we'll help you find a time and class that works for your student's needs. Contact us to enroll your student and help him or her earn the confidence they need to perform at their best!
Alex: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...enjoyment and perspective for life's ups and downs. I began teaching in earnest over a decade ago when I taught ESL in South Korea. During that time and since, I've been fortunate to tutor students of all ages and in a variety of subjects. I received a BA in International Relations and Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and more recently completed my MBA program at the University of Southern California. My business school classmates...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Real Estate
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- LSAT 5-Week Prep Class
- ACT
- GRE 5-Week Prep Class
- +88 subjects
Pete: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...The University of Wisconsin in Madison, I understand the gap that can form between teachers and students first hand. Combining a relational teaching style, and a strong value of education, I believe that the unique needs of every student deserve consideration and that it is the role of the tutor to find the perfect way to teach. It is my personal wish that if a student has a special need, I can fulfill it through...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, Honors English Literature and Mathematics Minor
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- CLEP
- +80 subjects
Katie: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...begin by assessing which way a student learns best and then tailor the material to fit their learning needs. As their skills and knowledge evolve, I evolve with them. We will work together to set goals and develop a plan to meet them in a reasonable time frame. Outside of academia, my interests include playing with dogs (especially my little yorkie, Tessa), exploring the wonderful city of Chicago, listening to music, and traveling!... My teaching philosophy includes challenging the student at just the right level so that they are stretched but not frustrated. Finding the sweet spot is key! We will work together to create a personalized learning plan, set achievable goals and work toward them!
Education & Certification
- Northeastern Illinois University - Current Undergrad, Music Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- AP Music Theory
- Middle School Math
- +25 subjects
Rebecca: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to meet the student where they're at and go from there. I find that this way we can...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +53 subjects
Mollie: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...and eventually become a lawyer or judge. I had multiple opportunities during high school to work with younger students, from working as a summer cello teacher to volunteering as an assistant kids' tennis coach to mentoring beginning musicians in my youth orchestra program. I greatly enjoyed each of those roles, as I found the experience of passing on my skills and, hopefully, my passions to those younger than me to be extremely rewarding. As a...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- HSPT
- +69 subjects
Molly: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...and college in History and Spanish as I hold degrees in both subjects from Columbia University. I am highly qualified to tutor Writing at all levels - from elementary to adult professional writing - as I have written two distinguished theses as part of my academic training. As a Tutor, I can do more than simply help students with homework. My approach to aiding them is three-fold. I will work to: 1. Review and reteach...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Northwestern University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- TOEFL
- ISAT
- +111 subjects
Rebecca: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...academically and in our personal lives; the ability to reason through a problem and understand the flow of an argument will help any student inside or outside the classroom. As a teacher, I aim to build confidence in my students and decrease anxiety about any difficulties that may arise with the subject matter. There are no bad questions (questions give me insight into how someone is viewing the concept and help me adjust my explanation...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Masters, Applied Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- +75 subjects
Samantha: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Legal Studies this spring. In the fall, I will begin attending law school at Northwestern Law. For many years, I tutored a wide range of students in Spanish, English literature, and writing. I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their reading and writing skills,...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +36 subjects
Sahithi: Chicago SSAT course instructor
"I love how my tutor really talked to me and made me feel welcomed." - Shondra "Very patient and very encouraging." - Jessica "She was really the best! Helped me a lot to my work and gives me a better understanding :)" - Unique "Sahithi is just so very sweet!" - Katie These are reviews from the kids that I've tutored in the past. One child at a time, encouraging me to better myself to better their future.
Education & Certification
- Kennesaw State University - Bachelors, Biotechnology
- Saint James School of Medicine - Current Grad Student, Doctor of Medicine
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CLEP
- GED
- +57 subjects
Emily: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...ages connect to their own passions for learning, in any subject. I look forward to accompanying students through any challenges that stand in the way of that connection and leading students to their own version of success. I've worked across various sectors and have always maintained a love for one-on-one teaching, especially working with children and teaching languages. My experience includes living, working, and traveling abroad, and I rely on this intercultural perspective when presenting...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, 1) Spanish 2) History
- The New School - Masters, 1) International Affairs 2) Environmental Policy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- US History
- +42 subjects
Pam: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...finally understand a new concept. My philosophy is that as an educator I must do everything, I can for each of my students to reach their highest potential. The word "can't" is not in my vocabulary. I now have students that have graduated high school and are attending college come visit me and tell me, "Thank you for believing in me." In my leisure time, I enjoy watching my daughter bowl on her college team,...
Education & Certification
- National Louis University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- HSPT
- +28 subjects
Daniel: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...clearly and concretely. I know the essentialism of clarity and structure for all students, including adolescents, who all have unique learning styles. My experience in the Learning Center has fostered greater ability to develop clearer directions, clearer expectations, and to be able to more strongly model what I wanted my students to learn and to produce in both world history and government. Personally, as a professional, I find it very important to involve myself in...
Education & Certification
- Lake Forest College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- +52 subjects
Jasmine: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...and via writing. So, whether I am tutoring AP English Language, Modern World History, 6th Grade Language Arts, Psychology, ACT or SSAT prep, or any of the other Humanities subjects I cover, my students will develop a working vocabulary and the writing skills to demonstrate the extent of their knowledge. Effective expression translates to professional success and emotional maturity no matter the paths their lives take, so it is one of my biggest priorities. Another...
Education & Certification
- The University of Chicago - Associates, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- +40 subjects
Prahith: Chicago SSAT course instructor
I am a classroom teacher who has spent the last ten years tutoring/educating students with a variety of learning needs. I specialize in figuring out what specific learning strategies work for different students. I can help you go from good to great as I have consistently scored in the 99th percentile for several graduate school tests. ... It is more important that students learn how to solve problems rather than just memorizing facts or formulas. All students are smart in their own way and, teaching should be catered to how students best understand. Ultimately students should understand why what they are learning is important.
Education & Certification
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - Bachelors, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASVAB
- SHSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +103 subjects
Terence: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...I am familiar with IEP's, having written them and taught towards the goals in them. I have spent considerable time working to prepare my students for standardized tests required by the state or district. While taking classes towards my certification I worked as a one to one aide in two different school districts in Chicago's northwest suburbs. While I taught all subjects, I am most comfortable tutoring elementary language arts, reading and writing, US History...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
- Northeastern Illinois University - Master of Arts, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ISAT
- Elementary School Reading
- +26 subjects
Sarah: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...business. I have taught eight grade, fourth grade, kindergarten and pre-school. My favorite part about teaching is watching those "aha" moments as students grasp a new or difficult concept for the first time. I enjoy working with students one-on-one to find what works best for each student to help them learn in the way that most benefits and makes sense to that student. I look forward to the opportunity to tutor all students in many...
Education & Certification
- Drake University - Bachelors, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +26 subjects
Meggan: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...in the motto "It takes a village to raise a child." It is important that we work together as teachers, tutors, parents and family to ensure each child gets the best education possible. My role as a teacher and tutor is to discover each student's individual learning style and tailor the learning material and curriculum to meet the needs of that individual student so that they are able to achieve personal success.... I believe everyone learns differently, and my job as a teacher is to discover the learning style of each of my students and tailor the material to meet their needs.
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor in Arts, Communications/Art
- Quincy University - Master of Science, Educaiton
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PARCC
- AIMS
- ISAT
- +113 subjects
Kandice: Chicago SSAT course instructor
...frameworks. I have also mentored teachers and been a professional speaker and facilitator for educational and civic organizations. My teaching and tutoring philosophy is simple: bridging the gap between student passions and areas of improvement, and create lasting and powerful learning experiences. I always find relevant, hands on ways to engage students in learning, resulting in improved performance. I am tutor in a variety of subjects, but am most excited about Reading, Writing, Phonics, Elementary...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Pyschology
- University of Chicago - Master of Arts, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Other
- +19 subjects
Carol: Chicago SSAT course instructor
I enjoy teaching children and seeing them grow. I am especially good at teaching math and science to middle school students. I am also good at teaching algebra skills. I am able to tutor students from preschool through 9th grade and through 12th grade in math. I have an elementary education degree and a teaching minor in math. I am currently teaching high school honors math courses.
Education & Certification
- Valparaiso University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Science
- Middle School Writing
- +20 subjects
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry - Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Predentistry
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- CogAT
- SAT
- +67 subjects