ISEE/SSAT/ TACHS/HSPT

The HSPT is used for admission to schools such as Regis, Loyola, and as the Fordham Preparatory Scholarship exam. It has the reputation of being the most challenging entrance exam eighth graders can take. The exam is fast paced and demanding, and it assesses a broad range of verbal, mathematical, and reasoning skills.

The HSPT places a strong emphasis on vocabulary and language. It includes analogies, synonyms, antonyms, logic-based verbal questions, reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, usage, and sentence expression. Unlike the TACHS, which mainly tests usage, the HSPT tests grammar in a more comprehensive and detailed way.

The math section includes logic-based word problems, concepts from algebra and geometry, and questions that require critical thinking rather than straightforward recall. 

Many students find the content challenging because it requires strong foundational skills, reasoning, and the ability to think outside the box.

Speed is another major factor in performance. The majority of students do not finish the initial practice exam on time, which is why pacing, timing strategies, and problem selection must be part of preparation.

Because the HSPT is used for admission to competitive schools and as a scholarship exam, score expectations are high. Preparation should begin no later than the summer to allow time to build skills, strengthen reasoning abilities, and develop speed and accuracy.

ALC helps students prepare for independent school entrance exams with instruction, enrichment, and strategy.

The ISEE and SSAT are highly competitive independent school entrance exams that require strong academic foundations, higher level thinking, and focused preparation. These exams go beyond grade-level content, measuring vocabulary depth, reasoning skills, writing, and quantitative problem solving.

Students who plan to take the December ISEE or SSAT should ideally begin preparation no later than September. This allows time to build skills gradually, close any gaps, and strengthen confidence before working on strategies and timing.

Our ISEE and SSAT programs combine skill-building with strategy. We focus on the academic development these exams are designed to measure. 

Our program process includes:

• Diagnostic assessment to determine current level
• Instruction in critical reading, vocabulary, writing, and quantitative reasoning
• Enrichment work that challenges students beyond grade level
• Strategy instruction including timing, pacing, and problem selection
• Practice with real testing formats and structure

Many families begin ISEE or SSAT preparation uncertain if private schooling is the right path. Fortunately, preparation for these exams provides long-term academic benefits that reach far beyond admissions.

This type of preparation strengthens:
• Vocabulary and verbal reasoning
• Reading comprehension and analytical thinking
• Grammar and writing structure
• Problem solving and quantitative reasoning
• Confidence, stamina, and independent learning habits

Even if a student does not ultimately apply to a private or independent school, these skills positively impact their classroom performance, future test preparation, and overall academic confidence.

ISEE and SSAT preparation is available in private (1:1) or semi-private (2:1) formats. Both in-person and remote options are offered, based on family preference and scheduling needs. Sessions take place after school, in the evenings, or on weekends.

We begin with a brief conversation to understand your goals and timeline. From there, we recommend a customized plan and program start date.    

Although the TACHS is often considered the least challenging of the high school entrance exams, this can be misleading. The exam may be grade appropriate, but it is fast-paced, content heavy, and requires strong foundational skills that are often under-taught or forgotten by eighth grade.

Many students enter TACHS prep focused on more advanced math concepts they are studying in school, yet struggle with the basic operations and core skills that the exam emphasizes. No calculator is allowed, and the math section tests accuracy, speed, and automaticity in arithmetic, fractions, ratios, and problem solving. These skills often need to be revisited and retaught.

The same is true for grammar and language. While the material may not be inherently challenging, it includes rules and structures that most students have never been directly taught. The exam demands clarity, precision, and applied knowledge, and students need time to learn, practice, and retain these rules.

At ALC, we use our own research-based diagnostic with materials that allow us to customize preparation for each student. 

 While some students can manage a timeline that begins preparation in September for the November exam, it is rarely ideal and often does not allow enough time to build the necessary foundational skills, strategies, and pacing. Students who begin over the summer experience stronger growth, deeper understanding, and more confidence heading into the fall. 

If your child has not started preparation over the summer, choose two areas to strengthen rather than trying to cover everything at once. Grammar and math foundations are strong places to begin.

At minimum, have your child take a practice exam to understand the format and pacing. This helps identify which areas need focused attention and removes much of the anxiety that comes from not knowing what to expect.