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Support to excel on the SSAT.

Get matched with your ideal tutor. Enjoy personalized sessions and engaging tools. Then, gain confidence to ace the SSAT.

The SSAT is unique.

The SSAT is a required component of the admissions process for many private schools. . Students in 5th - 7th grade take the Middle level SSAT, and students in 8th - 11th take the Upper level SSAT. SSAT scores are reported as percentile ranks, which show how your student performed compared to all students in their grade who have taken the test over the past three years. Our SSAT tutors work expertly to nurture and challenge young test-takers so they can obtain their best possible percentile score.

Test prep your way.

We offer private SSAT tutoring for that one-on-one, personal touch. Our expert tutors will work to customize the techniques and approaches that are the most effective for your learning needs.

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Hours

The hours you need. No more, no less.

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Tutors

Select the level of your tutor.

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Flexible

Anywhere.
Any time.

What's the format like?

The SSAT tests three scored sections (Quantitative, Reading, Verbal) and two unscored sections (Writing and Experimental). One of the most challenging sections tends to be the verbal section. There's a reason for this! It has 30 synonym and 30 analogy questions, so you need a strong vocabulary and solid reasoning skills.

Essay (unscored).

25 minutes, 2 prompts, 1 essay.

25
Minutes
2
Prompts
Break
10 Min

Quantitative.

A mix of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry questions.

30
Minutes
25
Questions

Reading comprehension.

40 minutes, 8 passages, 40 questions.

40
Minutes
40
Questions
Break
10 Min

Verbal (synonyms and analogies).

60 questions.

30
Minutes
60
Questions

Quantitative.

25 questions.

30
Minutes
25
Questions

Experimental (unscored).

16 questions.

15
Minutes
16
Questions

Applerouth's Process

From advisement to post-service follow up, we come alongside you on your journey.

1. Craft a plan.

Schedule an appointment with a Program Director to discuss which of our learning experiences would work best for you.

2. Tutor matching.

Get matched to the perfect tutor for you, based on learning needs, personality, and educational goals.

3. Start learning.

Make leaps and bounds in whatever it is you need help with the most - and then some. Get ready to feel more confident by the end.

Meet Some of Our Amazing Tutors

They all bring something unique to the table meaning there's a good match for every student. What they all have in common? An insatiable drive to help your student succeed.

Eliza Watt

Eliza Watt

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE
AP: African American Studies, Art History, English Language, English Literature, European History, Latin Literature, US Government, US History, World History
Academic: English, Geometry, History, Latin, Writing
Executive Function Coaching

About
Eliza Watt

Eliza brings unparalleled academic credentials - a B.A., M.A., and M.Phil from the University of St. Andrews - and an engaging, encouraging teaching style to her work in test prep, AP and IB classes, study skills, and middle and high school subjects. Since joining Applerouth in 2009, she has earned a reputation for her wide-ranging content expertise and dedication to student success, tailoring every session to meet her students' unique needs. When not working, Eliza enjoys cooking, writing, and exploring the world.

Parent Praise

“Eliza is absolutely amazing, and I would love to contract her as my son’s tutor until he goes to college! She understands him and has made difficult subjects comprehensible to him. We can't thank you enough for pairing us with Eliza.”

Matt Kiesner

Matt Kiesner

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

About
Matt Kiesner

Matt joined Applerouth in 2011 and quickly became a key curriculum designer, developing numerous lessons and practice tests, while serving as the primary author of the SSAT and writing guides. With a BA from UC Santa Barbara and an MA from Emory University, where he taught for nearly a decade, Matt’s creative teaching style helps students build strong academic foundations. He is praised by many families for his engaging approach, good sense of humor, and proven success. Outside of work, Matt enjoys watching movies, making music, and cooking.

Parent Praise

“My daughter got her test scores this morning and we are on Cloud 9! She got her best scores in both R/W and Math for a 1530 total. Matt, I am certain her ability to understand the test and to have confidence in her own abilities is a direct reflection on her time spent tutoring with you.”

Chelsea Benoit

Chelsea Benoit

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE
AP: Biology
Academic: Biology, Chemistry

About
Chelsea Benoit

Chelsea, the Seattle-area Tutor Manager, joined Applerouth in 2016 with a strong background as a college-level science instructor. A former International Baccalaureate student, she earned a Bachelor’s in Biological Science and dual Master’s degrees in Biology and Science Education from Florida State University, where she also conducted lab research and taught undergraduates. Chelsea takes a student-led approach to tutoring, saying, “I don’t give direct answers; instead, I ask questions to guide students toward a problem-solving process they can use in the future.” Outside of work, she enjoys rock climbing, cooking, and playing bass guitar.

Parent Praise

“Our daughter is so fortunate to have Chelsea as her tutor. She was struggling last semester, but with Chelsea’s help, she improved significantly this semester. She had more than 10 tutors before, and Chelsea is the best tutor she has ever had. She ROCKS!”

Tom Burt

Tom Burt

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT

AP: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics
Academic: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics

About
Tom Burt

As the Director of Tutor Services, Tom has been with Applerouth since 2011, specializing in Economics, Business, and mentoring athletes. A standout scholar, Tom graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Economics and Finance from the University of South Alabama and earned an MBA from the University of Rochester. After a successful career in finance, he transitioned to education, earning multiple teaching certifications from the University of Georgia and spending over 13 years teaching high school. Tom sums up his tutoring philosophy simply and decisively: “Take a two-pronged approach: master the material and master the test.”  When not tutoring, Tom enjoys fishing, cruising in his red Camaro, and cherishing time with his family.

Parent Praise

I wanted to reach out to say thank you for tutoring my daughter. She raved about you from Day One. Her excitement when she received her ACT scores was tremendous. We are so proud of her and beyond impressed by how much you helped her in only a few sessions. I have recommended Applerouth to many of my friends (we used the tutoring service for her older brothers as well) but I will definitely be recommending you specifically! You have true talent.”

Tal Kitron

Tal Kitron

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT
Academic: Algebra, Geometry
Executive Function Coaching

About
Tal Kitron

A National Merit Finalist, Tal earned his B.S. from the University of Illinois and his J.D. from Emory University’s School of Law. After practicing law, he found his true passion in education and joined Applerouth in 2013. Known for his sharp intellect and methodical approach, Tal inspires confidence and mastery in his students. He describes his tutoring style as individualized, saying, "I like to get to know a student to determine their learning style, goals, and personality. Based on that, I can be laid-back, no-nonsense, or a combination of both. I challenge all my students to set high goals and emphasize the importance of practice and effort." Outside of tutoring, Tal enjoys chess, languages, and music.

Parent Praise

“Your expertise, patience, and commitment to going above and beyond have had an incredible impact on our daughter’s confidence and preparedness for this important test. Your influence will extend far beyond this test, as you have empowered her with skills that will serve her well in future academic pursuits. Your contributions to her educational journey will forever be appreciated and remembered.” 

Eric Garbe

Eric Garbe

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT
AP: Algebra 1 & 2, Calculus, Calculus AB & BC, Comparative Government & Politics, English Language, English Literature, PreCalculus
Academic: Geometry, Physics, PreCalculus

About
Eric Garbe

Eric is a transformative educator known for helping students master even the most challenging concepts. A National Merit Scholar and graduate of the University of Georgia, Eric joined Applerouth in 2015 and also serves as a Tutor Manager, mentoring other Applerouth tutors. He employs a scaffolding approach to learning, offering structured support and step-by-step guidance that helps students build confidence and independence. Eric explains, "I focus on building, starting with areas of strength or familiarity and using those concepts to build confidence and bridge into new ideas." Outside of tutoring, Eric enjoys reading and cooking.

Parent Praise

“While my son started his tutoring sessions reluctantly, he has been pleasantly surprised by how helpful they’ve been. He enjoys learning new concepts and test strategies from Eric.  Just the other day, my son mentioned that he wishes Eric were his teacher at school.”

Lynda Ratmeyer

Lynda Ratmeyer

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT
AP: Biology, Calculus AB, Chemistry
Academic: Algebra, Biology, Chemistry, PreCalculus, Trigonometry

About
Lynda Ratmeyer

Lynda joined Applerouth in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience as a Montessori high school math and science teacher. With a BS in Biology and a PhD in Biophysical Chemistry from Georgia State University, Lynda combines deep expertise with a patient, reassuring approach. She describes her tutoring style as student-centered and adaptive: "I excel when I work one-on-one, adjusting to each student's learning style." Inspired by her children, Lynda left science research to pursue teaching. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, yoga, drawing, and gardening, and as an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, she values balance and inspiration in her life.

Parent Praise

“Lynda, I just wanted to reach out and share what an impact you are having on my daughter’s academic success this semester. She is getting a ‘super A’ in AP Pre-Calculus and feels confident about her upcoming SAT test.”

Jenna Berk

Jenna Berk

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT
Academic: Algebra, English, Geometry, PreCalculus, Writing
Executive Function Coaching

About
Jenna Berk

Jenna, the IEC Account Manager for DC, Maryland, and Virginia, joined Applerouth in 2012, bringing a dynamic mix of creativity and rigor. An Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia, Jenna earned a B.A. in English (with distinction) and a minor in Theatre, blending her love of storytelling with a supportive and motivating teaching style. Known for her encouraging and reassuring approach, Jenna reminds students, "Don't let the test get inside your head - and remember, it's always simpler than you think." In her downtime,  Jenna enjoys reading, rooting for the Nationals, and spending time with her dog.

Parent Praise

“Jenna is the best! She really understood my son’s needs and tailored her approach to support him. She was patient and understanding. My son’s SAT scores improved and working with Jenna was an all-around great experience.”

SSAT Test and Registration Dates

The SSAT is offered 6 times a year — in October, November, December, January, February, and April. It’s smart to sit for the SSAT a few times to account for first-time jitters. It takes the pressure off, and allows students to find their rhythm in the testing arena. By the way, students can schedule a digital at-home test 3 times a year, and one flex test. Plan ahead!

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
SSAT Test Date
Registration Deadline
We’ll add test dates when they are announced - check back with us soon!

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If your teen’s college transition is here, now’s the time to help them step confidently into independence. Executive Function coaching builds organization, focus, and self-management skills for life beyond home. A few targeted sessions now can smooth this big leap and set them up for lasting success.

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Your 2025 Guide to the SSAT and ISEE: Testing Timelines and Important Updates

Choosing between the SSAT and ISEE for private school applications? This 2025 guide helps you understand the key differences in content, testing timelines, and formats to create a successful plan for your student's admission journey.

Matthew Kiesner
August 5, 2025

The SHSAT Is Going Digital: What NYC Families Need to Know

Big changes are coming to the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT)! Starting in 2025, the SHSAT is moving to a digital format with new question types, and in 2026, it will become an adaptive test. Learn what these changes mean for NYC families and how your student can prepare.

Matthew Kiesner
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Want the SSAT in a nutshell?

We’re way ahead of you – and we have just the thing. Download our one-pager for the perfect visual guide.

Schedule an appointment with a Program Director.

Questions? Need some advice? We're here to help.

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