Compass Services for the SAT

Compass focuses exclusively on one-on-one test preparation, so you can be assured of a program custom-fit to your needs. The SAT covers more material than ever before, but our flexibility and expertise allow us to work in the areas where you will see the most benefit. Compass instructors even come right to your home so you can concentrate on studying instead of driving.

Compass has the expertise that independent tutors simply cannot match. We've studied the test inside and out and use materials designed specifically to raise scores on the new SAT. Tutors or test prep firms trying to use out-dated strategies will be left behind. Our years of experience in SAT preparation give us a perspective that other tutors, test prep developers, and managers can't duplicate. We have worked with thousands of students and know what clicks for students and what doesn't. We understand the SAT overhaul that took place in 1994, the re-centering that took place in 1995, and have been tracking the changes to the SAT since they were first announced in 2001. Even little adjustments made by the College Board don't get by us.

Our commitment to personal attention is a founding principle for Compass. You are not lost in a class or forgotten about once we've assigned instructors. The Compass directors work hand-in-hand with your instructors to ensure that you're achieving the best possible results. We get feedback on every lesson that takes place, every homework assignment, and every practice test.

Compass knows that a one-on-one program is only as good as the instructors who deliver it. Despite what some other test prep companies might want you to believe, not all instructors are equal. We treat our instructors as professionals with whom we can build long-term trust. Our tutors have teaching experience, top scores, sterling credentials, and great training, but they also have a passion that is often lacking in tutors only interested in test prep as a part-time job. We expect only the best from our instructors because we know that is what you expect from us.

If another test prep company quotes you a price for their "program," you might want to ask how they know whether that program is right for you. We don't sell packages at Compass; we develop a one-on-one course structure that suits you. There are no hidden charges at Compass; all of our rates are hourly. Our current rate for instructors is $130 per hour, and we recommend 90 minutes as the ideal lesson length ($195 per lesson). In home visits, course books, homework exercises, actual College Board practice tests, in-depth diagnostic test analysis, essay scoring and comments, and director consultations are all included at no extra charge. You are also welcome to opt-out at any time without any further charges.

We find that most students benefit from between 5 to 9 lessons of Math, 4 to 5 lessons of Critical Reading, and 4 to 5 lessons of Writing (grammar and essay). Of course some of our students only need help in one or two subject areas, and Compass doesn't believe in "one-size-fits-all" programs. One reason we offer a complimentary practice test and computerized analysis before you even commit to the program is so that you know exactly where you stand and how you can improve. Even if you decide to prepare on your own, we'd be glad to provide some guidance.

Compass also understands that the SAT may only be one part of the admission test puzzle. Students, parents, and their counselors must decide between the SAT and ACT, must think about whether Subject Tests (SAT IIs) will be essential and choose among the long list of options, and need advice on an optimal testing calendar. Certainly Compass provides this sort of advice to our students, but we also provide it as a free service to all students and parents. Please call us to discuss your testing strategy and also receive our Guide to College Admissions Testing with pages of useful information and resources as well as a free diagnostic SAT.

"As a senior, I was familiar with the SAT and had taken test prep classes already but I was still unsatisfied with my math score. Compass listened to me and designed a one-on-one program just for me. As a result of their targeted tutoring, my math score increased from a 640 to a 710. I reached my goal and I recommend Compass
to all."

Alexa K.