If your student will be applying to a private or independent school, then you should probably start thinking about a Raleigh-Durham SSAT prep course. Because many schools require SSAT scores with applications, this test is most likely something that your child will need to take. No matter which school your child might be applying to, it's important that they achieve their highest potential score to showcase their abilities. There are multiple levels of the SSAT, and your child will take the test that applies to their age group and educational level. These levels include an Elementary Level SSAT, a Middle Level SSAT, and an Upper Level SSAT.
The Elementary level SSAT is for students in the third grade applying to an independent or private school for their fourth grade. Additionally, fourth-grade students may take the Elementary Level SSAT if they're applying for entrance into independent schools for their fifth-grade education. The Middle Level SSAT is available for fifth, sixth and seventh-grade students who wish to apply to an independent middle school for their following educational year. Finally, the Upper Level SSAT is for students from eighth grade all the way to eleventh grade. Upon taking the Upper Level SSAT, these students may attend independent high schools in their following educational years of study.
Each level of the SSAT is slightly different, although the Elementary Level SSAT has the least in common with the other two levels - at least in structure. The Elementary has only four sections plus an experimental section, while the other two levels feature five sections plus an experimental section. All levels require a writing section of some kind. Quantitative Reasoning is also a common subject tested across all levels, as are Reading and Verbal skills. The Upper and Middle SSAT levels have two Quantitative sections, while the Elementary has only one Quantitative section that is combined with Math. In addition, the Elementary Level SSAT should take less time to complete with a time limit of one hour and fifty minutes. Both the Upper and Middle Levels of the SSAT have longer time limits of two hours and fifty minutes.
What Might A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course Cover?
When your child enrolls in an SSAT course, they'll be welcomed into a virtual classroom filled with other students who are also studying for the SSAT. Your child will be guided through the study process by a highly-qualified instructor with expert knowledge of the SSAT. This instructor will have a detailed understanding of the SSAT from top to bottom. Upon completion of the SSAT course, your child will be better equipped to tackle the SSAT of their chosen level. This course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the general structure of the test, the types of questions involved in each section, and strategies that help children approach the SSAT with confidence.
The Elementary Level SSAT comprises of four sections. The first section is Quantitative/Math. This portion of the exam contains 30 questions and has a time limit of 30 minutes. Basic math concepts will be covered. Next is the Verbal section, which also includes 30 questions and a time limit of 30 minutes. The questions cover the English language, including word relationships, synonyms, and more. The Reading section also covers topics related to English and involves 28 questions with a time limit of 30 minutes. Most of the questions revolve around reading comprehension, including the meaning of specific words and the main idea of the passage as a whole. Finally, the Writing section contains just one question with a time limit of 15 minutes. Students are asked to write a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
The Middle level SSAT comprises of five different areas of focus. The Writing Sample section has a time limit of 25 minutes with one single question. Students are given two creative scenarios and are asked to choose one as the basis for a story. Students will be scored on the organization of their story, basic grammar, and other writing concepts. The Middle Level SSAT features two separate Quantitative sections, both comprising of 25 questions with 30 minutes each. Students will need to deal with basic algebra, geometry, probability, and other topics. The Reading portion contains 40 questions with a time limit of 40 minutes. Students will be asked to assess narrative and argumentative passages. The Verbal section comprises of 60 questions with a time limit of 30 minutes and deals with English concepts, such as analogies and synonyms.
The Upper Level SSAT also comprises of five sections. The Writing segment has a time limit of 25 minutes. Students will be asked to choose between a creative and traditional essay. Students will be graded on persuasive writing techniques, as well as supporting a statement with examples. Like the Middle Level SSAT, the Quantitative section is split into two sections, each with 25 questions and a time limit of 30 minutes. Students will be graded on slightly more advanced math concepts compared to Middle Level SSAT questions. These include plane geometry, areas of polygons, fractions, and more. The Reading portion of the exam includes 40 questions with a time limit of 40 minutes. This section is also similar to the Middle Level SSAT but deals with more advanced concepts, such as determining the author's attitudes, purpose, and tone. The Verbal section is also quite similar to the Middle Level SSAT but deals with more advanced concepts, such as prefixes and suffixes.
How Can A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course Help Me Study?
A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Course is beneficial in many ways. First of all, there are proven benefits from a collaborative learning process, and your child will learn from other students through interaction and asking questions. SSAT courses also allow the student to get extra help from their instructors in a one-on-one setting if they're struggling with specific concepts.
How Can I Book A Raleigh-Durham SSAT Class?
Booking an SSAT class is easy. Choose from a two-week course or a four-week course, and your child can jump straight in with new classes starting every week. You can also choose from a wide range of time slots for your students. This is perfect if your child has a busy schedule filled with sports or other extra-curricular activities. Contact Varsity Tutors today to learn more about how a Raleigh-Durham SSAT class can benefit your student.

Alexandra: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...love teaching and making a difference in students lives. I love knowing that I made a difference to someone, even if it's just one person. My favorite moment is the lightbulb moment; when someone gets what you have been trying to explain! I have been a long term substitute and will begin teaching in the fall. I am a certified elementary teacher. I have worked with students of all ages, but love working with elementary...
Education & Certification
- Meredith College - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- English
- History
- +15 subjects

Bill: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course 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
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- +64 subjects

Matthew: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...at Emory University School of Medicine. While I am interested in chemistry, math among others in STEM, I am very passionate about biotechnology and general biology including genetics, physiology, and cell biology. As an aspiring dentist, I am currently working towards getting a dental degree. During my undergraduate career, I had several experiences of helping other students with learning materials and quiz/exam preparation. I am excited to have another opportunity to help other students again...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Bachelors, Anthropology and Human Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- TOEFL
- ACT
- +71 subjects

Chelsea: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...Public Health projects in Bangladesh, Panama, Honduras, and Thailand. The professional experience and exposure to so many vibrant cultures has been amazing in giving me a rounded view of the world. I believe that in learning any subject requires gaining a rounded perspective for full understanding. While tutoring, I try to provide several different paths for understanding and several different strategies for problem solving. My tutoring experience is in math, reading, and writing with elementary...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelors, Premed; women's studies
- Johns Hopkins University - Masters, Public Health (Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- College English
- +25 subjects

Elvis: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...explain one single topic in many different ways. The most important thing is to establish a healthy and good connection with students. Hence, I tend to bring the same approach to tutoring and explaining mathematics and programming. I am consistent in showing the real applications of mathematics and combine it with programming. With five years of experience in tutoring, I usually start with making a detailed lesson plan for students which is able to change...
Education & Certification
- Methodist University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics and Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- OLSAT
- CLEP
- +98 subjects

Candice: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
Hey there! My name is Candice and my focus is on Social Studies, specifically Government, Political Science, US History, and Criminal Justice. I am excited to help with any areas you may have trouble in and make it my priority to turn studying into something that can be enjoyable! I don't see any reason why enhancing your education can't be fun for you (and me!)
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke - Bachelor in Arts, Criminal Justice
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- UK GCSE
- SAT
- ISEE
- +104 subjects

Lauren: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...reading center, various tutoring companies and school programs, as a volunteer, and as the coordinator of a community college tutoring program. My love of tutoring, particularly in the areas of reading, writing, and critical thinking, led me to pursue my MS in Education with an emphasis in reading instruction. I teach English, Reading, and academic skills at the community college level, so I am able to integrate my experience and knowledge from my studies and...
Education & Certification
- California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo - Bachelors, English
- California State University-Fullerton - Masters, Education with an emphasis in reading instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ACT
- +42 subjects

Christopher: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...definitions in two ancient languages. In Greek, the root of mathematics means, "learning." In Hebrew, it's root is "thinking." They tell us that mathematics gives us the critical ability to learn and think logically in any field of endeavor. It is more important than knowledge, which is so readily available on the Internet. I believe that all students have the capacity to understand mathematics under the right conditions. I reach my students by helping them...
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
- University of Massachusetts-Boston - Masters in Education, Educational Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +67 subjects

Linda: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...Second Language). I received a BS degree in Elementary Education from UWM-Milwaukee and a Masters in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in Chicago, IL. Ever since I started teaching, I have been passionate in my commitment to maximizing individual student performance, inspiring students interest and instilling a sense of self-worth among all students. I have dedicated my career to each of these pursuits, as my resume will attest. In my personal life, I have...
Education & Certification
- UW-Milwaukee - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
- National Louis University - Masters in Education, Educational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- NNAT
- ISEE
- English
- +34 subjects

Malorie: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
I am a graduate of Vance-Granville Community College.I received my Associates of Applied Science in Human Services Technology. After which I decided to attend East Carolina University to work toward a degree in Special Education. At the present time, I teach reading, which is my passion. I tutor reading, English, and history. I believe every student deserves a chance at success regardless of circumstances.
Education & Certification
- Vance-Granville Community College - Associate in Arts, Human Services
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- +23 subjects

Alyssa: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...was in Reading Instruction of Students and Students with Special Needs. I have a background with students with a variety of disabilities., including learning disabilities, Autism, Developmental Delays, and Physical Impairments. I have trained in Orton Gillingham Reading Foundation Multi Sensory Programs and have access to programs to bring with me. My greatest skill is teaching reading and writing instruction of students in grades Kindergarten through 5th Grade; especially those who are struggling to meet...
Education & Certification
- Saint Thomas Aquinas College - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Manhattanville College - Masters, Special Education and Literacy Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +19 subjects

Bianca: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...their accompanying lab sections. I also worked as a Peer Led Team Learning Instructor and a peer tutor throughout college so I am comfortable working 1:1 and in groups, making sure my students stay engaged and maximize our time together. I take an integrative approach to tutoring, ensuring that we review topics holistically and work on how to attack the problems you might see on quizzes and exams. I find this approach keeps students from...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor of Science, Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- CLEP
- +159 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- PSAT
- SCAT Exam
- +61 subjects

William: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...but that I am quite good at it. While I am doing quite a bit of private tutoring on my own, I am now looking for ways to expand my reach. Accordingly, your organization may be a good fit with my skills and abilities. Note that I do not intend to quit my private tutoring practice. So, although I've indicated my times of availability, I will schedule actual tutoring sessions on a first come-first served...
Education & Certification
- Texas AM University - Bachelors, Nuclear Engineering
- Duke University - Masters, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- SAT Math
- +35 subjects

Beverly: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...explain concepts in 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...
Education & Certification
- NC State Univ. - Bachelors, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT
- PSAT
- +59 subjects

Emily: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...my greatest pleasure has always been sharing the joy of learning with others. In my own collegiate career, I was awarded the top two scholarships available to undergraduates, and I was honored with the Dean's Award for the College of Arts and Sciences upon graduation--the highest award available in the college . While in undergrad, I supported myself by tutoring collegiate student-athletes. Now I'm a masters student at Johns Hopkins University and continuing my work...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science, Wildlife, Fish, and Wildlands Science and Management
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Arts, Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- CLEP
- ISEE
- +140 subjects

Stacy: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...University and I studied at Tsinghua University in Beijing as an exchange student. I have been teaching for 12 years. I have a 4 year old cat. I like to spend time with my family. Outside my class, I enjoy traveling around the world, gymnastics and visiting Disney World. I use songs, games and fun in class! My goal is to make your child learning fun! I have ESOL, Elementary Education, Pre- Kindergarten, and Special...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor of Science, Clinical Psychology
- Florida International University - Juris Doctor, Prelaw Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- FCAT 2.0
- Florida EOC Assessment
- +100 subjects

Ndidi-Amaka: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...homecoming. During my time with students, I feel like patience is one of the most important things when trying to get through to a student, and coincidentally, my name means 'patience is good' in my native language. I look forward to helping students understand what they never thought they would be able to master, and I feel a personal sense of accomplishment when I can help a student work through their apprehensions to get to...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelors, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Math
- Test Prep
- +40 subjects

Yvonne: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
I'm passionate about learning and believe that curiosity about the world leads to amazing discoveries. Whether you're struggling with a class, prepping for a major test, or learning about computers and Microsoft, I'm glad to support you. My expertise includes Nursing, Public Health and the health sciences.
Education & Certification
- San Francisco State University - Bachelor of Science, Nursing (RN)
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Science, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- GED
- +52 subjects

Michele: Raleigh-Durham SSAT course instructor
...privilege of working with students of different ages, with different backgrounds, and with different learning goals. For example, I taught poetry to adults, tutored high school students in English, tutored student athletes at the college level, and taught courses in English and composition at UNC. I can tutor in several areas but particularly love thinking through the insights of history, working through how we think about our lives in philosophy, or developing a students' interest...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina System Office - Doctor of Science, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- CLEP
- +30 subjects