Get results. Guaranteed.
We're proud of our students and the improved scores they've achieved. We believe your student can do the same. That's why we promise to help them get a better score or we'll give you your money back.*
If you're a junior or senior in high school, Varsity Tutors can help you get set up with Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. After all, chances are you may have begun to think about the college application process, including how to get started with admissions test prep. We can connect you with resources for Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. Sometimes getting a little extra help in Math, Reading, or Writing and Literature can give you a shot of confidence as you head into the test. Even if you're not preparing to take the SAT this academic year, connecting with an instructor who knows the materials can help you to improve your understanding of the academic topics you're learning in school.
Raleigh-Durham students, including those who attend Durham Academy or East Chapel Hill High School, may have to take the SAT as their college entrance exam. This test is about three hours long and includes three main sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. There's also an optional Writing section. Score ranges in the three main sections start at 200 and go up to 800, although the Writing and Language section and the Reading section scores are merged to come up with a score in the range of 200-800. The composite score ranges from 400 to 1600. If you take the optional Writing Exam, the score range is between 6 and 24.
What can I expect from Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation?
There's a three-hour time limit for the three main sections of the SAT, and an additional 50 minutes to complete your essay. The exam is comprised of multiple choice questions, and your score comes from the number of correct answers that you get. There's no penalty for guessing, and no deduction of points if you get a question wrong.
The Writing and Language Test measures how well you understand sentence structure, and how much you know about punctuation and grammar. Passages focus on how well you decipher context and how that affects your comprehension. You'll be given passages to analyze and then you'll be asked to explain the relevance of different arguments or even to rewrite an argument to strengthen it.
In the Reading section, you'll be asked to read and evaluate written passages from multiple sources from literature, the founding documents of the United States, science-related passages, and a selection from the social sciences. There are 52 questions to answer. This section is meant to measure how well you can use evidence, use context to determine meaning, make your own conclusions, and provide analysis in history, social studies, and science. While these subsections are scored individually, the Writing and Language section and Reading sections are merged to get a score between 200 and 800. Admissions boards will look at your combined scores from Writing and Language and Reading to determine whether you're a good fit for their academic programs.
The Math section includes 58 questions, including some questions where calculators are allowed and some where the use of calculators is prohibited. These questions focus on algebra, problem-solving, data analysis and advanced math skills. This section tests your mathematical fluency, how well you understand linear equations and their graphs, and how well you use math to solve real-world problems.
If you choose to take the SAT Essay section, you'll have an additional 50 minutes to complete this final section. You'll be asked to read a passage and critique the examples meant to support the author's claims, analyze how the author uses reasoning to develop ideas, and how an author uses other elements to make the passage more powerful. The section requires that you write an essay evaluating the argument, citing at least one example of the author's use of reasoning or use of emotional or stylistic elements. You won't be asked to give your opinion, just to critique the author's argument.
How can Raleigh-Durham SAT prep help me?
There are two methods you can choose from for Raleigh-Durham SAT preparation. You can join a group Raleigh-Durham SAT prep course, or you can choose to work one-on-one with a private academic coach. No matter which method of instruction you choose, you'll have the option to connect with your Raleigh-Durham SAT tutor with Varsity Tutors' Live Learning Platform, which uses the internet to bring the classroom to you.
In a Raleigh-Durham SAT prep class, you'll connect with other students and an instructor over the internet, in real time. There's no worrying about joining a class that's already in session because new classes start every single week. Some classes run for two weeks, and others are four weeks long. Working with other students in a collaborative environment means that you can get feedback and tips that you might not get in one-on-one interaction. You can also learn from other people's perspectives and from their struggles, whether they're talking about problem-solving in Math or working on organization skills to shape your responses in the Writing and Language test, for example.
If private, personalized attention is more your style, connecting with a Raleigh-Durham SAT tutor might work better. They'll create a personalized plan of study that you and your tutor can change as you find necessary. There are two ways you can work with an academic coach: in the same physical location, or through the Live Learning Platform. If you have a certain section that you struggle with, perhaps the Reading or Math sections, your Raleigh-Durham SAT prep may include focused instruction on those areas, a variety of study aids that address section-specific concepts, or practice exams.
What can I do to connect with someone for Raleigh-Durham SAT prep?
No matter when you're taking your college entrance exams, you can easily connect with an academic coach if you reach out to Varsity Tutors. Our educational consultants are happy to help set you up with Raleigh-Durham SAT prep. If you're not sure whether you want private instruction or a Raleigh-Durham SAT course, our educational consultants can discuss the benefits of each and help you come to a decision. We look forward to helping you prepare for your college entrance exams!

Julia: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...recent college graduate from Columbia University with a lot of experience in research and writing. My major was Human Rights and I am passionate about the issues that I engage with. I received my associate's degree from Bergen Community College in 2014 and my Bachelors from Columbia in 2017. At Bergen Community, I worked in the tutoring center focusing on assisting students with writing in any subject. I also tutor English and the SAT.
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Undergrad, Human Rights
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Elementary School Writing
- SAT Writing and Language
- 11th Grade Reading
- +36 subjects

Michelle: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...it. Education has opened up so many doors for me, and this is largely because I was fortunate to have some amazing teachers growing up who made learning fun (or at the very least not miserable). My goal is to do the same for each one of the students who I work with, and find ways to make even the most abstract concepts or complex math problems "click" in a student's mind.... Individualization is key. Find a way to make it "click" for each person that I work with. For some, that means using sports analogies; for others it means creating color-coded diagrams; but the key is always to adapt my instructional approach to how a student learns.
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelors, Business Administration, Exercise & Sport Science (Minor: Mathematics)
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +66 subjects

Anastasia: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...know how to face the endless standardized tests and leave the battle in victory, not resignation. I've been speaking French since I was old enough to read and I have a Russian heritage that can help out with colloquialisms and grammar. Languages and linguistics are fascinating to me and I don't get to speak mine enough, so please speak them with me! My physics background, as well as my years of teaching, means I know...
Education & Certification
- New College of Florida - Bachelors, Chemistry/Physics
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- FCAT 2.0
- SAT Subject Tests
- +155 subjects

Simon: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...using that to build confidence in and mastery of a wide variety of academic topics. I graduated from Yale University with a double major in Environmental Studies and International Studies, and I love the way science and real-world issues can interact. Part of my interest in the environment comes from my love of being outdoors, and I am an avid rower and bicyclist. I also greatly enjoy growing vegetables and playing basketball.
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Environmental Studies
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +43 subjects

Mihir: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...varied challenges to students. One of my primary goals is to meet students where they are, understand their specific needs, and develop an individualized plan that challenges them and helps them succeed. To this end, I do not follow a specific formula during sessions with my students. Instead, I work with my students to build a plan that meets their goals and helps them achieve success. I look forward to helping you succeed in your...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Current Undergrad, Chemistry - Biochemistry Track
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +57 subjects

Whitney: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...with a degree in Secondary English Education. I am pursuing my MFA at New York University in Musical Theatre Writing. As an educator in the field of secondary English education for the past four years, I have learned that students first need a support system in order to achieve their own greatness. I hope to be at least a small part of that support system as well as a source of guidance for students who...
Education & Certification
- Appalachian State University - Bachelor of Science, Secondary English Education
- New York University - Master of Fine Arts, Graduate Musical Theatre Writing
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- CLEP
- +82 subjects

Adesuwa: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...solely instructing an accredited freshman-level sociology course at Rutgers University during my senior year of college, I've been fortunate enough to help students adequately connect with the necessary material (school work, prep courses, etc) in ways that suit their maturity level, learning style and personal needs. You can count on me to be patient and understanding, while still holding you accountable to our learning goals. You can also expect our sessions to incorporate active learning,...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-Camden - Bachelor of Science, Sociology
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- German 1
- Elementary School
- Middle School Reading
- +28 subjects

Callie: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...recently graduated from Duke University with a major in Biology and a minor in Environmental Policy. I am currently doing research on personalized therapies for glioblastoma brain tumors at the Duke Medical Center, before I continue on to medical school. I love to swim, walk my pug dog, and hang out with family and friends in my free time. I hope I can help you in your studies. I look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelors, Biology, Environmental Science & Policy
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- PSAT
- +36 subjects

Joseph: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...math tutor since my sophomore year in high school, and it has always been so rewarding to help students understand material, from learning how to use the Pythagorean Theorem to calculating integrals. Being an engineer, I personally know the difference between what a good/bad teacher can provide to a student's learning experience. I aim to understand the student's learning style and altering my methods for each student's needs. I do my very best to not...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelors, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Calculus
- Algebra 2
- AP Calculus AB
- +21 subjects

Matt: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...one nonprofit in particular, Habitat for Humanity, both in the office setting and on build sites as well. I enjoy biking and running, as well as spending time in the mountains. My friends would describe me as friendly and goofy, as I never give up the opportunity to reference random Youtube videos in every day conversations, and revel in making others laugh. I love tutoring, and enjoy helping students accomplish their goals. I am now...
Education & Certification
- Stetson University - Bachelors, Mathematics; Nonprofit Administration
- Duke University - Master of Public Policy, Public Policy
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- ACT
- +42 subjects

Gregory: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...and post-secondary students to read texts carefully, to make arguments cogently, and to tell a story about themselves, the world around them, and the things that are important in their lives. I believe that the humanities really do help us be more human with each other and in our world. I teach and tutor with the assumption that school is a set of practices that anyone can learn and that, when they engage those practices...
Education & Certification
- University of British Columbia--Vancouver - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Yale University - Master of Divinity, Theology
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- College World History
- College Level American Literature
- Middle School English
- +27 subjects

Claude: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
I am a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and an incoming student at Duke Law School who provides tutoring sessions to help students prepare for their SATs. I have experience as a substitute teacher and come from an academic background which has cultivated a passion for educating and helping others succeed. I emphasize practicing SAT test-taking techniques which can help students improve their scores.
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- ACT
- SHSAT
- SAT Math
- +6 subjects

Bill: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
I tutor kids of all ages, and specialize in those with ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as those with emotional and cognitive disorders. My preferred subjects are test preparation (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.), Math, Science, and English. ... I think it's very important that I relate to students on a personal level so they truly understand that I want them to do well. Once that bond is made, we can work together toward a common goal. I also determine early on how students learn. For example, some kids are visual learners, while others need to have questions read to them. It's amazing to see the transformation in a student when you hit upon that student's learning style. Also, I think it's important to be able to recognize when a student is getting overwhelmed and you need to step back and take the pressure off.
Education & Certification
- SUNY Empire State College - Bachelors, General Sciences, Theater
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- GED
- ASVAB
- SAT Subject Tests
- +60 subjects

Aaron: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...methods for helping students attain their own understanding of course materials with only minimal guidance from myself. These methods relied upon the fact that, oftentimes, students already possess the foundational knowledge to arrive at correct conclusions--they simply lack the confidence and/or the roadmaps to get there. That's where I come in. After finishing my B.S. in Mechanical Engineering last May, I moved back to the Raleigh-Durham area to continue my education at Duke University for...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelors, Mechanical Engineering
- Duke University - Current Grad Student, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- ACT
- AP Calculus AB
- Honors Chemistry
- +39 subjects

Beverly: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...alternative ways, and review the building blocks that the student needs to complete the tasks at hand. We'll work together so that your student gains skills and confidence. I've enjoyed working with preschoolers to middle schoolers, and high school students are a great group to interact with. Everyone has their own energy and personal story they bring to a relationship, so I can say I do not prefer one age group over another.... All things are possible! Students acquire knowledge at different rates and in different ways. Mastering material takes a dedication of focused time and practice. Neuroscience shows cramming is not adequate for retention and practice helps instill patterns of success. Many students understand more concepts than what they give themselves credit. They just need a guide to help them see their strengths, answer their questions, and encourage their confidence.
Education & Certification
- NC State Univ. - Bachelors, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SSAT
- GED
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +59 subjects

Wesley: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...class! My tutoring style puts heavy emphasis on trying not to make a student feel like they are working with a tutor, but with another student in a study session. While it is important to come to a teacher/tutor for help if one has questions, it is even more important to get to the point of figuring problems out in your own way. There are garden variety formulas, equations, variables, etc. in Mathematics and Statistics...
Education & Certification
- Ball State University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematical Economics
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- Business
- SAT Math
- Arithmetic
- +21 subjects

Renee: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...in Literature at Duke University. I have been tutoring (and directing tutoring programs) for years and am looking forward to working with you to meet your goals! I have spent nearly every year since college tutoring in some capacity, including as a volunteer through my current church. I enjoy the challenge of discerning the best way for each particular student to understand and absorb information, and am always thrilled to see when they regain their...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Bachelors, History and Literature
- Duke - PHD, Literature
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- Public Speaking
- +60 subjects

Gustav: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...Connecticut, or writing in Ypsilanti, I keep teaching in my life because I love the feeling of seeing a student reach a new level. I'm a big fan of designed independent learning, and my experience has taught me that "studying harder" is not always the answer. With each student, I focus first on organization: what we need to cover and a timeline to get to their goal. I'm a physician assistant student at Duke and...
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +53 subjects

Sam: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
...Mentor for incoming students at UNC. I enjoy tutoring because I am always seeking to encourage others, and because the importance of education was instilled in me at a young age. Pairing these two passions, I love to help other students. I am most passionate about history, because as the saying goes, "you can't know where you are going if you do not know where you've been." I also truly appreciate tutoring Spanish. I had...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- AP Psychology
- College Algebra
- AP Spanish Literature and Culture
- +18 subjects

Sivani: Raleigh-Durham SAT test prep instructor
Hi! My name is Sivani and I am a recent university graduate. I graduated with honors distinction with two degrees, Biology and Psychology. I have extensive tutoring experience of all ages, from elementary school to college aged students. Teaching is a passion of mine. and something I have proven to excel in, as I have helped many students improve their grades. Let me help you with your classes too!
Education & Certification
- North Carolina State University at Raleigh - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT Writing and Language
- +102 subjects