ISEE & SSAT Tutoring in Manhattan
One-on-one test prep for NYC independent school admissions — strategy, pacing, and confidence, with executive function support built into every session.
Admission to Manhattan’s independent schools is among the most competitive in the country, and most require the ISEE or SSAT. DES provides private, one-to-one ISEE tutoring and SSAT tutoring for NYC families — test strategy and content mastery, plus the planning and organization skills that keep a months-long prep timeline on track.
ISEE Tutoring for NYC Independent School Admissions
The ISEE is the gateway test for many of Manhattan’s independent day schools. Our tutors build a personalized plan around your student’s baseline: verbal and quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics achievement, and the essay. Prep emphasizes pacing, question strategy, and calm on test day — not just content drills.
SSAT Tutoring and Preparation
For families considering boarding schools or SSAT-accepting day schools, we prepare students across all SSAT levels — verbal, quantitative, reading, and the writing sample — with full-length practice tests and score-trend reviews so you always know where things stand.
Executive Function Coaching Built Into Test Prep
Test prep is a project: a schedule, a study system, and follow-through over several months. Because every DES tutor is trained in executive function coaching, students learn to manage practice-test cycles, homework, and school workload at the same time — a difference NYC families notice immediately.
We also support students with ADHD, test anxiety, dyslexia, and other learning differences, including guidance on testing accommodations.
What a Typical Manhattan Prep Plan Looks Like
Most families start 3–6 months before test dates. A typical plan includes a diagnostic, weekly one-to-one sessions in your home, at our Upper East Side office at 501 East 87th Street, or virtually, plus periodic full-length practice tests and parent check-ins before admissions deadlines.
ISEE & SSAT Tutoring FAQs
When should we start prep?
Most students start 3–6 months before their test date. Later starts can still work with a more intensive schedule.
ISEE or SSAT — which should my child take?
It depends on your target schools. We help families map school lists to the right test during the consultation.
Do you offer in-home sessions in Manhattan?
Yes — in-home across Manhattan, sessions at our 501 East 87th Street office, or virtual.
Can you support students with ADHD or anxiety?
Yes. Executive function support and calm, confidence-building strategies are core to how we prep.
How do we begin?
Book a free consultation and we’ll recommend a tutor, timeline, and plan.
Start Your NYC Test Prep Plan
Talk with our team about ISEE or SSAT prep for your student. Call (917) 397-2775 or book a free consultation.
Book a Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions About SSAT Test Prep in Manhattan
Should my child take the ISEE or the SSAT?
It depends on the schools you’re applying to and how your child tests. Many Manhattan schools accept either; our diagnostic process helps you choose the test that plays to your child’s strengths.
When should we start SSAT test prep in Manhattan?
Most families start 3–4 months before the first official test date. Fall test dates for January admissions deadlines mean summer is the ideal starting point — but a focused shorter plan is possible when needed.
Do you work with students who have test anxiety or ADHD?
Yes — this is a DES strength. Every tutor is special education–certified, and prep plans build pacing, focus, and confidence strategies alongside content. We can also support families pursuing testing accommodations.
Do you guarantee scores or placement?
No responsible provider can guarantee a score or an admission. We deliver a precise diagnostic, a written plan, one-on-one instruction, and skills that keep paying off after test day. DES is an independent practice, not affiliated with any school or test publisher.
How do we start?
Schedule a free consultation. Aron personally matches your student with a tutor, typically within 24–48 hours.
For official test dates, formats, and registration, see the ERB’s official ISEE site and SSAT.org.