Life is full of big tests.
It pays to be prepared.

Whether your goal is to improve your score, develop study skills, or build confidence in a specific subject, our personalized test prep programs prepare students for admissions tests and life beyond.

Our Test Prep Process

 

We understand the path to success is different for everyone. That’s why our one-on-one sessions are tailored to the individual. Our intuitive test prep programs are dynamic, helping students refine their strengths, address weaknesses – and exceed expectations. Our unique process involves three core components:

 
 

Mastery of content

  1. Expand vocabulary and improve grammar 

  2. Develop close reading skills

  3. Strengthen arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics

Test-taking strategies

  1. Learn time management

  2. Eliminate options proactively

  3. Tackle specific question types

Applied psychology

  1. Conquer test anxiety

  2. Improve metacognition and memory

  3. Boost confidence

Test Prep

College Admissions

Raising your SAT or ACT scores not only makes you a more competitive candidate for admission, but also often qualifies you for merit-based scholarships and financial aid. Our approach to test prep involves a focus on long-term skills, ensuring success on test day and beyond.

We offer comprehensive and personalized prep programs for the following admissions tests:

  1. SAT & PSAT

  2. ACT

  3. AP & IB Exams

College Essay Coaching

Make your application shine with a great essay. Our private coaching sessions and writing workshops are designed for the student who is serious about writing a standout college application essay but doesn’t know where to start. Taught by seasoned writing tutors, students will learn how to choose the right topic, build an eloquent narrative, craft engaging sentences, and grab the attention of admissions officers with a stellar essay.

Interested in a SAT Small Group class?
View our current offerings. 

Test Prep

Graduate Admissions

We know preparing for graduate program admissions tests can be daunting. Just finding the time to study can be a challenge. Our rigorous test prep programs are tailored to the individual, ensuring your specific goals and needs are met.

We offer comprehensive and personalized prep programs for the following admissions tests:

  1. GRE

  2. LSAT

  3. GMAT

Personal Statement Coaching

The personal statement is often the most challenging component of a graduate program application. Selecting the right topic is just the beginning. Our experienced writing tutors are well-versed in grad school admission requirements and will coach you through the process of shaping an articulate and authentic narrative so you can put your best foot forward.

Test Prep

Private School Admissions

Navigating the private and independent school admission process can be overwhelming, especially if standardized testing is new to you. Our test prep programs are designed to facilitate a positive experience while helping students build confidence and showcase their true abilities.

We offer comprehensive and personalized prep programs for the following admissions tests:

  1. SSAT

  2. HSPT

Application Support

Our intuitive and experienced tutors help students and parents through the application process to ensure no detail is overlooked. Additionally, we work one-on-one with students to identify a compelling essay topic and craft a personal narrative that will stand apart from the rest.

Practice Tests
Practice makes perfect.

Practice and exposure to test-taking conditions are integral to each student’s tutoring process. Our proctored practice tests both establish baseline scores and provide an opportunity for in-depth analysis of results, helping your tutor develop test-taking strategies tailored to your specific needs.

We strongly recommend practice tests to every student. If you don’t see your test in the format you prefer, contact us to discuss options.

Our Test Prep Tutors
Aidan S.
Aidan S.

BA, Reed College
MA, University of Chicago

A seasoned SAT and ACT strategist with a perfect GRE score, Aidan empowers students to tackle these pivotal exams with confidence and skill. His background in philosophy enhances his ability to teach with a unique perspective that resonates with students of all backgrounds. Aidan's approach is both systematic and flexible, adapting to the individual needs of his students, whether crafting comprehensive curricula or providing targeted tutoring that transcends traditional methods.

Aidan's Study Tip: "Build your test-taking stamina through simulated exams and refine techniques with personalized feedback to turn pressure into progress on test day."

Alina T.
Alina T.

BA/PhD, University of Bucharest
PhD, State University of New York - Stony Brook

Alina combines her deep knowledge of the sciences with her extensive experience in education to offer top-notch test preparation and subject tutoring. With her unique background in both research and instruction, she can translate complex concepts into clear, test-ready knowledge. Alina’s methodical and patient approach builds a strong foundation, empowering them to approach tests like the SAT and ACT with confidence and poise.

Alina’s Study Tip: “Regularly practice under real test conditions and focus on your weakest areas. This targeted approach builds skills and confidence for test day.”

Alisa C.
Alisa C.

BS, University of British Columbia

Alisa brings a compassionate and patient approach to tutoring. With extensive experience as a peer mentor and undergraduate teaching assistant, she excels in creating affirming learning environments tailored to neurodiverse students. Alisa’s academic background and dedication to inclusive education make her an invaluable asset to students striving to understand complex mathematical and scientific concepts.

Alisa’s Study Tip: “When in doubt, write it out – on a physical sheet of paper with a pencil! It's remarkable how much clearer things can become that way.”

Aster E.
Aster E.

BA, Reed College

Aster was a physics major at Reed and boasts over 3,000 hours of tutoring experience, specializing in SAT/ACT test prep as well as AP Calculus and IB Physics. They bring a deep understanding of test formats and advanced subject material to yield an individualized approach to tutoring sessions. Aster’s teaching philosophy emphasizes clarity, collaboration, and cultivation of a growth mindset to help students succeed in school and beyond.

Aster’s Study Tip: “Create a dedicated review journal for practice problems that challenge you. Write down the problem, your approach, and what you learned from solving it to turn mistakes into lasting insights.”

Arek R.
Arek R.

BA, Reed College

Arek specializes in nurturing the academic growth of neurodivergent students and those with learning differences. With a psychology degree and robust experience in diverse teaching settings (incl. chess and unicycling!), Arek brings patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of individual learning needs to each session. His gentle approach ensures that every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Arek's Study Tip: "Break down complex problems into visual steps to enhance understanding and retention, making math accessible and less intimidating for all learners."

Ben D.
Ben D.

BA, Dartmouth College
PhD, Duke University

With over 14 years of experience, Ben has taught everything from middle school social studies to SAT prep abroad. Most recently, he was a university professor and writing tutor in North Carolina. Ben is flexible and responsive as a tutor and identifies success as the application of content and strategies in a new context.

“We really liked Ben as well as the front office staff. . . . My son was able to reach his scores goal with the guidance he was given.”
—5-star Google review from Kate B.

Dani G.
Dani G.

BS, Davidson College

Dani harnesses their passion for puzzles and focused learning in their role as a versatile tutor. With a robust academic background and diverse teaching experiences (incl. a stint in China), Dani brings a wealth of knowledge and adaptable teaching strategies to their students. And as an AP Scholar with Distinction, they excel in higher-level coursework, leveraging their expertise to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematical challenges.

Dani’s Study Tip: "Begin every study session or exam hydrated, rested, and well-fed to optimize your performance. A walk in nature, a good night's sleep, and staying hydrated can remarkably boost your focus and energy levels."

Jadon S.
Jadon S.

BS, University of Oregon

Jadon brings both extensive experience and a record of exceptional academic achievement to test prep, boasting near-perfect scores on PSAT, ACT, and GRE. With degrees in mathematics and economics, he combines rigorous analytical skills with a thorough understanding of test-taking strategies. Jadon brings warmth, patience, and a passion for the material to his tutoring sessions, ensuring that each student feels supported and motivated to exceed even their highest expectations.

Study Tip: “On the verbal portions of standardized exams, aim to not only understand why the correct answer is correct, but also why the other options are incorrect.”

Jameson B.
Jameson B.

BA, University of Montana
MEd, University of Montana

Jameson is a versatile and experienced educator, having coached both kindergarteners on skis and environmental science majors on the Missouri River. His work with diverse learners enables him to tailor his approach to each student’s needs and aspirations. Jameson’s goal is to kindle the sparks of motivation that drive success, improve thinking, and cultivate a passion for learning.

Jameson’s Study Tip: “Take a step back and consider your big-picture goals for a class, test, or semester, then list out key steps needed to meet them (the how) and the core reasons these goals matter (the why). A clear vision and tangible roadmap make all the difference!”

Patrick M.
Patrick M.

BA, California State University - Sacramento

A credentialed educator with extensive experience teaching AP subjects in the classroom and leading speech and debate teams, Patrick specializes in test preparation. His innovative teaching methods and commitment to academic excellence have consistently fostered high achievement, making him a trusted mentor to scores of high-performing students.

Patrick’s Study Tip: "To excel in AP English FRQs, practice creating focused thesis statements and outlines – these are essential for structuring compelling arguments and achieving sophistication in your essays."

Riley H.
Riley H.

BA, University of Oregon
MA, Portland State University

Riley is a seasoned educator with a master’s degree in English and over a decade of experience teaching and tutoring writing, critical reading, and standardized test preparation. Boasting extensive experience coaching SAT, ACT, and SSAT, Riley excels at helping students hone their analytical and time-management skills for success on test day. His patient, tailored approach ensures each student gains confidence and mastery in tackling complex material.

Riley’s Study Tip: “When practicing for standardized tests, simulate the test-day environment as closely as possible. Use timed sections, minimize distractions, and review your mistakes to refine your strategies and improve focus.”

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