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About Avalon Test Preparation
Avalon has been preparing students for standardized tests such as the AP, SAT, ACT, ISEE, and SSAT for over 40 years. With our own blend of skill building and strategy development, we help our students master even the most challenging questions within the time allotted. Plus, each of our tutors is among the best in the industry, with a long record of success and praise from students. Each one has at least five years of test prep teaching experience and most have master’s degrees in their fields. As a result, most of our students have their best performance shortly after completing their sessions with their Avalon tutor.
About the Tests
ACT and SAT — Hours & Timing
Avalon does not require a minimum number of hours. However, we recommend students and tutors meet at least once a week for as long as possible leading up to the test. Full ACT prep takes between 18 and 36 hours of tutoring; full SAT prep takes between 18 and 24 hours. Sessions can be adjusted as needed—two meetings per week or extended to 90 minutes if necessary.
AP Exams — Hours & Timing
Because AP refers not only to a test but also to a college-level class, tutoring can be year-round or focus exclusively on the AP test. Tutoring for the test should begin shortly after the midyear break to prepare for May AP exams. We generally recommend one hour per week, although some students need significantly more help, especially when receiving tutoring for both the class and the test.
ISEE & SSAT — Hours & Timing
The ISEE is generally taken for admission into private elementary and middle schools. The Avalon Prep Plan incorporates effective strategies and practice with 5–10 tests and hundreds of practice questions. Our recommended hours are 18 to 24, covering all English and math sections. We recommend a regular weekly regimen leading up to the date of the tests.
ISEE & SSAT — Test Dates
The ISEE is offered eight times per year (Oct–Jun) across three windows: Fall (Aug–Nov), Winter (Dec–Mar), and Spring/Summer (Apr–Jul). The SSAT is offered six times per year (Sep–Apr), plus a private flex test once per 12-month period. We recommend taking the SSAT for the first time in September or October; most private school applications are due January 15. There is no penalty for taking either test multiple times.
Logistics
All Avalon test prep sessions are conducted one-on-one via Zoom with a certified Avalon specialist. Sessions are recorded and notes are posted to the Avalon Hub portal after each meeting so that families can review progress at any time. You may correspond with your tutor directly through the portal, or contact Avalon Administration for scheduling, content adjustments, or tutor changes.
Avalon handles all test prep logistics—scheduling, billing, planning, progress tracking, and communications—through the Avalon Hub portal. As an Avalon client you can call us anytime with questions about the education industry or your student’s preparation. If you are unclear about anything or need last-minute assistance, please call us at 800-469-1028 or email admin@avalonadmission.com.
Tutoring Rates
$175 / hr
AP, SAT, ACT, ISEE, SSAT, and all standardized test preparation.
Payment
A valid credit card is required. If you prefer not to have a credit card on file at Avalon, you may pre-pay for 10 sessions at a time through our online billing platform. You will be reimbursed for any unused sessions.
