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!
Mackenzie: CogAT course instructor
Hi, I'm Kenzie! I'm a Mechanical Engineering student at UT Dallas and I've been tutoring online for 4 years now. My favorite subjects to teach are math and science, but reading and writing come in a close second. ... I introduce myself and try to get a feel for what the student is struggling with in particular. I then address those questions or problems by starting at the foundations and trying to help my student get a good grasp of what they are trying to do.
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Current Undergrad, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACT
- High School Physics
- +34 subjects
Noah: CogAT course instructor
...lived in Boston, Los Angeles, Australia, and can now be found in Northern Westchester, NY. With over 6 years experience teaching students aged 3-65 from the US, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Russia, and the Czech Republic, I am a seasoned professional. I am also the author of over a dozen science fiction, horror, and fantasy novels and novellas, which can be found at all of your favorite online book stores. I am a good listener,...
Education & Certification
- Bard College - Bachelors, Philosophy and Creative Writing (Dual Major)
- Sarah Lawrence College - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- ACT
- Writing
- +33 subjects
Isabela: CogAT course instructor
...York University. I am working towards my Bachelor of Science in Neurolinguistics with a minor in Public Health as well as a focus on pre-medical studies. I am also a coxswain on the NYU Crew team and practice every morning, either in the gym or on the river. Since 2013, I have worked as a lifeguard, a summer camp counselor, and as a private tutor in both English and Spanish and a peer tutor in...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Current Undergrad, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- Genetics
- +42 subjects
Dolly: CogAT course instructor
...get clear ideas about their careers.I love and enjoy tutoring, especially math and computer science subjects. I have been a tutor and mentor for a lot of kids for about 4 years, and I feel proud when I see them achieve their goal. I strongly believe one should have a solid fundamentals of the basic stuff to be more sucessfull and to understand more complicated stuff, and hence i make sure the person who i...
Education & Certification
- UTD - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- UTD - Master of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- UK A Level
- SAT Subject Tests
- +88 subjects
Zoe: CogAT course instructor
Hello! I'm happy to assist you in your learning goals. I have 28+ years of tutoring experience in elementary through college subjects. Although I am a credentialed, certified public school teacher, I have been working with Varsity Tutors online full time since 2019. Helping you gives me the freedom to pursue an adventurous lifestyle. Are you ready to pick up a pencil and laugh a little while you work?
Education & Certification
- Walla Walla University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +116 subjects
Sam: CogAT course instructor
...math is a fun, unique experience that I enjoy very much. I graduated Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Creative Writing. I then went on to Queens College, where I spent many years building my math credentials, taking undergraduate and graduate level courses in calculus, problem solving, math for business, and history of mathematics, to name a few. I entered into Queens College's graduate teacher education program, where I completed...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Binghamton - Bachelors, English
- CUNY Queens College - Current Grad Student, Mathematics Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- GATE/ TAG
- SSAT
- TEAS
- +152 subjects
Makaylyn: CogAT course instructor
...and going on my 3rd year teaching second grade. I have also tutored grades 2, 3, 4, and 5, for the STARR test. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Math. I have also receive "best school teacher" in my county. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for the next grade level and find learning fun and engaging. I am a firm believer that if students enjoy what...
Education & Certification
- Sam Houston State University - Bachelor, Animal Science
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- STAAR EOC
- PRAXIS Elementary School
- +28 subjects
Madeline: CogAT course instructor
...general education teacher. I have been an elementary teacher for three years. In my training program and time as a teacher I worked closely with students that have extensive academic goals in IEPs and ILPs. Additionally, I have a plethora of knowledge in standardized test prep, kindergarten readiness standards, and phonics instruction. I also have strong instructional skills in writing and can assist in narrowing topics for college application essays. I believe that learning stems...
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- ACT
- Test Prep
- +38 subjects
Ann: CogAT course instructor
...8th grade. I love to teach and I think the best part is sharing my knowledge over a variety of subjects and making connections to previous experiences or existing background knowledge. I tutor in all subjects: math, history, science, and language arts - in grades K-8th. I believe that teaching includes building interest and engagement with students. When they are interested in the topic, they are more willing to participate, ask questions, and ultimately master...
Education & Certification
- University of Mary Washington - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Gonzaga University - Master of Arts, Organizational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- PSAT
- +121 subjects
Nikayla: CogAT course instructor
...College of Education at Kennesaw State University. I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. I am employed as a 2nd grade teacher in my local school district. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary for an improved quality of life, and I try to impart this appreciation to all of my students. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, exercising, and many other activities...
Education & Certification
- Kennesaw State University - Bachelor of Science, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- Elementary School Science
- Other
- English
- +7 subjects
Lisa: CogAT course instructor
...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 help you become the student you...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Educational Psychology
- University of Connecticut - Master of Arts, Educational Psychology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- REGENTS
- UK A Level
- +56 subjects
Stacey: CogAT course instructor
...and independence in the English language to concentrate on achieving their goals instead of which words to choose. I want to help the student new to America feel comfortable going into each academic and social situation that is his life. I strive to bring my students more "future tense" and less "tense future." I have over three years' experience teaching online regularly and globally. I have almost 15 years of classroom teaching experience.... First listen, then teach. Meet the student where he/is, no matter what the starting point. Teach him/her only information that is useful and helpful to his goals. Know your student, and care about your student.
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelors, Communications (Radio/TV/Film)
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- STAAR EOC
- ISEE
- +65 subjects
Marcus: CogAT course instructor
...Biology to High School Environmental Management. I am certified by the state of Florida to teach Biology and Agriculture to 6 to 12th Graders. I've taught Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and Food & Nutrition at the University and community college levels. I have experience working in research, crime, and production labs. I have also gained extensive experience in the sales of pharmaceutical products and Lab supply products. All of the knowledge I have gained...
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth - Bachelor, Biology
- Southern Connecticut State University - Master's/Graduate, Biiology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- Microbiology
- Molecular Genetics
- +10 subjects
Janet: CogAT course instructor
...whose struggle with the skills for their grade. I am also develop and work with the IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) goals and make sure that the accommodations for my ESE students are provided during tests situations and whole group instruction. I meet with the parents to discuss students' progress and to create goals that we can work together. I'm able to provide the strategies to improve students reading fluency and comprehension and I can also...
Education & Certification
- Interamerican University - Bachelor, Exceptional Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- Elementary School Math
- Writing
- +22 subjects
Kaley: CogAT course instructor
...education and instill lifelong learners. I have experience working with several elementary-aged students. I graduated from Texas Woman's University and earned my Bachelor's Degree in Education. I am licensed to teach Early Childhood-6th grade. I also obtained my English as a Second Language certification. While attending school, I worked several jobs where I was able to work with students of all ages. I observed and worked in different classrooms and created and implemented different academic...
Education & Certification
- Texas Woman's University - Bachelor of Education, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- ACCUPLACER
- ISAT
- +52 subjects
Tameka: CogAT course instructor
...pursuits. I believe learning should be fun and exciting. Although most of my career has been at the elementary level, I also have 2 years of middle school experience. My qualifications include 18 years of teaching experience, M.Ed in Reading and Literacy, a BS degree in psychology, and a current license in the state of Georgia and Tennessee which includes elementary education, Special Education K-12th Grade, and a Math Endorsement. In the past 18 years...
Education & Certification
- Walden University - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- SAT
- SAT Reading
- +25 subjects
Nilay: CogAT course instructor
...in introductory and advanced level biology courses and introductory level Chemistry courses for undergraduate and high school students. My academic background [Post Doc in Cell and Neurobiology using cutting edge Drosophila Genetics, PhD in Pharmacy (Molecular Parasitology), Masters in Biochemistry and Bachelors in Chemistry] and teaching and research experience makes me a perfect fit to teach related courses. Teaching is an interactive experience that I enjoy for many reasons. I feel immense excitement and satisfaction...
Education & Certification
- University of Calcutta - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- University of Calcutta - Master of Science, Biochemistry
- Jadavpur University - Doctor of Philosophy, Pharmacy
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- NNAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- +67 subjects
Mickey: CogAT course instructor
...Medical Services profession and look forward to helping you join this profession and pass your National Registry or whatever else you are having problems in. I am a 10 year vet to the field working both convalescent and 911 EMS during that time. I am a Certified EMT, CPR, PEARS, PHTLS, and GEMS Instructor with a vast amount of knowledge in each of these subjects. Skilled in Comprehensive NREMT Prep. I am currently working towards...
Education & Certification
- Volunteer State Community College - Associate in Science, Emergency Medical Technology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- Medicine
- NREMT - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
- +6 subjects
Rima : CogAT course instructor
...always committed to my students and follow up committed closely and I care a lot of them. My experience with teaching enabled me to utilise many teaching techniques and strategies that allows students to learn easily and effectively. My academic studies enables me to have great self confidence while teaching since I have many years of instructing experience to many levels. To add more, I have taught in 3 different countries with diversity and knowledge experience.
Education & Certification
- Lebanese university - Master's/Graduate, Marketing and Management
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- COMPASS
- ACT and SAT All-In-One Classes
- +124 subjects
Samudra: CogAT course instructor
I graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelors in Biomedical Engineering and an MD. I've also done some masters courses in Biomed at Johns Hopkins and taught people from grade school to fellow physicians. I believe that the best knowledge comes from deep understanding of fundamental principles and building things up from there. I lean heavy towards science but am very appreciative of the humanities subjects and am happy to help students with either.
Education & Certification
- Drexel University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
- Drexel University - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- ACT
- ACT and SAT All-In-One Classes
- +108 subjects