SAT & ISEE SSAT Test Prep in Seattle with Personalized Tutoring

Standardized Test Prep

LTLS provides standardized test prep for the ISEE, SSAT, HSPT,PSAT, SAT, and ACT.‍ ‍At LTLS, we have a unique approach to test prep. We seek to support students’ intellectual and emotional growth by building foundational skills and instilling a sense of confidence around standardized testing. We focus on building self-esteem and relieving test anxiety by emphasizing study skills, time management, and organizational strategies.

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Our tutors take a holistic approach to best meet the individual needs of your student. If you are ready to register for our test prep services, please complete our contact form to get started.

If you are unsure which test to take, want to know where your starting point is, or want to get familiar with the test through practice, reach out!

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SSAT/ISEE

The Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) and Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) are standardized tests that are required by most independent schools. The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is an entrance exam required by many Catholic high schools. All of the tests measure a student’s performance in verbal, math, and reading comprehension skills, and scores are included with the application. Our tutors provide content review, tips and tricks, and focus on reducing stress so that students feel more confident and ready for test day. To register for SSAT, HSPT, or ISEE test prep services, please reach out.

SSAT/ISEE Questions

  • Typically, SSAT/ISEE test prep includes eight sessions in order to become acquainted with the structure of the test, learn test-taking strategies, and dive into the specific content covered on these tests. If your student only needs a preview of the test and its approach, we suggest four sessions in total, but we will work with you to customize services based on student need.

  • Students benefit from having their own books, and there are many options from which to choose. We recommend using the Princeton Review’s, Cracking the SSAT and ISEE, because the book offers content breakdown, specific drills, and practice tests. Tutors show students how to navigate the materials and direct them towards helpful exercises to practice in between sessions. If you have already purchased a different SSAT or ISEE test prep book, we will work with what you have. We are flexible!

  • Typically depends on the schools being applied to, but most private schools in the Seattle area accept either the SSAT or ISEE. Lakeside only accepts the SSAT. It is often said that the SSAT is to highlight verbal skills while the ISEE highlights math.

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ACT & SAT

The ACT and SAT are standardized exams that many colleges use in their entrance process. While the test is only one part of a college application, for many students, it is an important piece. We recognize that the most crucial part of preparing for these tests is the reading, writing and math content students learn in school; however, learning about how to take the test is also critical. Our test-prep tutors are specifically trained in how to approach each test. In addition to content support, all of our students receive a comprehensive overview of testing strategies as well as a variety of services that best fit each student’s unique needs as outlined below. If you are unsure about the best approach for your student, please also indicate that on the intake form.

ACT/SAT Questions

  • No, we do not guarantee specific test scores.

  • There are many factors to consider when deciding which test is right for your student. The good news is that both tests are accepted by all US colleges and universities, so individuals may choose which test is right for them. Many students also take both tests (or at least practice tests) to see which one they prefer.There are a few major differences between the ACT and SAT.

    Timing:

    • ACT: 2 hours, 5 minutes, with an additional 40 minutes for optional Science (or Writing).

    • SAT: 2 hours, 14 minutes, with one Reading and Writing section split into two modules and one Math section also split into two modules. A calculator (or in-app Desmos) is allowed on both Math sections.

    Content:

    • The ACT has a science section and only one math section. This test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and the overall score is an average score in each of the four sections: math, science, reading, and English.

    • The SAT does not have a science section, but it has two math sections (one with calculator and one without). SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, a summative combination of Math (200-800 points) and Evidence Based Reading and Writing (200-800 points).

    For more on this subject, check out this blog post. If you need help deciding which test would be a better fit, we are happy to discuss this with you and dive deeper into the differences in tested content.

  • While there are endless resources for test prep materials, here are some options we recommend:

    • The Official ACT Prep Guide

    • The Official SAT Study Guide (make sure to get the newest edition)

    Additional resources:

    • Khan Academy (great for practice outside of sessions)

    • Princeton Review: ACT and SAT for self study

    • Vocab: 30 days to a more powerful vocabulary

  • Our flexible and one-on-one tutoring approach at LTLS is especially helpful for students with accommodations. We seek to support students across the learning continuum rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach. It is important to be aware that the process for gaining test accommodations is lengthy (7+ weeks) and should be started as soon as possible. The most common request is for extended time, and this needs to be submitted through the learning resource coordinator or school counselor at your high school. Students who already receive accommodations at school are not automatically granted accommodations for the test. Standardized test accommodations are also dependent on how recently a student has been evaluated and whether or not a student is routinely utilizing accommodations in the the school setting.

  • A few schools require the essay, and if this is true of one of your target schools, sign up! If your schools don’t require the essay, skip it. Some schools will factor it into their decision if you go through the trouble, but many others will not even look at it.

  • The college application process can be a long one, and most students are balancing multiple priorities during their junior and senior year. We recommend that students take the ACT/SAT during the spring of their junior year so that they may retest again later on if necessary. However, taking the test too early may not be a benefit. Most students will not learn the content they need, especially for the math sections, until junior year. Therefore, trying to take the test before concepts have been learned may negatively impact scores. Keep in mind that the Seattle Public Schools administer the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) to sophomores and the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) to students in October of their junior year.College application deadlines should also be factored into the testing timeline, especially if students are considering early admissions.We recommend trying to avoid test prep when students are also in the middle of studying for AP exams and final exams if possible. Maintaining focus on test prep and minimizing stress in the process is important.

  • While our goal is to not overload the student with additional homework, in order to gain the maximum benefit from test prep, it is important to practice between sessions. When assigning homework, our tutors collaborate with the student to ensure it fits into their schedule and other demands.

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Tiers

    • Review the overall structure of the test, timing, and common content.

    • Receive a comprehensive overview of test-taking strategies and stress reduction techniques.

    • Focused attention on specific questions. Homework is provided upon request.

    Perfect for students who are seeking some last minute help, have very specific content needs, or desire a brief refresher before their next test.

  • Target Practice (3-5 sessions)

    • Same as triage but allows for more time to work on an identified area of improvement.

    Perfect for students who have identified a specific area or section they would like to improve and have more time to dedicate to test prep.

    • Same as triage and target, but also includes enough time to review the test as a whole.

    • Personalized curriculum based on the students goals and areas of desired improvement.

    • In-depth overview of all sections of the test.

    Perfect for students who have not done significant test prep, would benefit from a comprehensive overview of the test, and/or are willing to dedicate time outside of sessions to improving their scores.

  • Fearlessly Prepared (10+ sessions)

    • Same as triage, target, and deeper dive, but allows for more time to get comfortable with the test and the types of questions that will show up.

    • Personalized curriculum based on areas that need the most improvement.

    • In-depth overview of all sections of the test. Students will become acquainted with the structure and timing of the test.

    Perfect for students who are experiencing test anxiety and will benefit from a more personalized breakdown, have notable gaps in their knowledge, or have diagnosed learning differences and want accommodations.

Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA) Testing Support

Prepare for Success: SBA Preparation Sessions at Liddane Tutoring
The Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA) are a critical milestone for students in grades 3–8 and 10. Running from April 9 to June 6, these assessments measure academic readiness and help guide personalized learning for every student. At Liddane Tutoring, we understand the pressures that come with standardized testing—and we’re here to help your child navigate these challenges confidently. We focus on strengthening essential content knowledge and delivering targeted test prep strategies to empower your child to excel with confidence
Tailored SBA Preparation Sessions
Our SBA Preparation Sessions are designed with one goal in mind: to boost student confidence and performance. We combine targeted content review with proven test-taking strategies that make a real difference. Our expertly crafted sessions provide students with:
• Focused Content Review: We pinpoint the key concepts and skills that align with the SBA standards, ensuring that students have a solid grasp of the material.
• Test-Taking Strategies: From time management to effective problem-solving techniques, our sessions equip students with practical strategies to tackle the exam with confidence.
• Personalized Coaching: Recognizing that every student is unique, our tutors provide one-on -one support tailored to each student’s learning style and needs.
• Interactive Practice: Through simulated practice tests and real-time feedback, students build the skills necessary to perform under exam conditions.
For support with SBA tests, reach out.