Test prep support

    At Strategies for Learning, we strive to build students’ confidence beyond the test as they discover how to leverage their strengths as learners. Our clinicians have extensive experience working with all students, including those with learning differences. We offer test-specific support for college, high school, and independent school entrance exams, essays, and applications.

    • SAT, ACT
    • ISEE, SSAT, HSPT, CHSPE
    • SAT Subject Tests (Math, Science, English, History)
    • AP Tests (Math, Science, English, History)
    • GRE

    Targeted Instruction

    We provide targeted instruction in reading comprehension, vocabulary, math, writing mechanics, essays and more.

    Customized Curriculum

    We provide a customized curriculum that can include a thorough review of all content areas or fine-tuning specific areas, and everything in between

    Skills Beyond the Test

    Students learn time management, test-taking strategies, general study strategies, and how to understand their personal learning style.

    FAQ

    Q: How many hours do you recommend? 

    Every student learns differently and has different needs. In general, we recommend a minimum of 3 months or about 10-20 hours to adequately cover content and test strategies. This will also depend on the test the student is preparing for. 

    Q: When is the best time to start test prep? 

    Around 3-5 months before you plan to take the test. 

    Q: Should we consider test prep during the summer or the school year?

    We provide test prep year-round. Summer, however, is a great time since it allows students to focus on the test, free from their regular coursework.

    Q: What do you cover in a test-prep session?

    This will depend on the student’s needs and their areas of strength and weakness. We typically cover both content and test strategies. If a student needs more in-depth content support, we recommend 20-40 hours.

    Q: Who will be teaching the test prep?

    Test prep is taught by our team of highly-trained specialists who have experience working with students of various learning styles. Check out our clinicians’ biographies here! Our clinicians also have experience supporting students who have various test accommodations.

    Q: How do I get started?

    The first step in getting to know the student is our intake process. This begins with the Director of Education working with the student and completing several academic tasks that mirror the challenges the student is having so we can begin to understand their learning style in real time.  This is followed by a parent/guardian consultation.

    We also recommend the student start by taking a practice test. 

    Schedule an Initial Consultation

    You can schedule a free initial consultation by completing our Contact Form or giving us a call at 510-900-3121. We will listen to your concerns, answer any questions, learn about the student’s needs, and help guide you through our new student intake process.

    Online Resources

    CollegeBoard provides information relating to college prep. You can register for your tests, get information on test dates and locations, and find practice tests here.

    Khan Academy offers free practice full-length SAT and ACT tests.

    ERB provides resources on the ISEE. You can register for your test and get information on test dates and locations here.

    Piqosity provides resources on various tests including the ISEE and SAT. You can find full-length practice tests here.

    SSAT provides resources on the SSAT. You can register for your test, get information on test dates and locations, and find practice tests here.