Elementary Test Prep

The Critical Thinking Child, prepares students for required admissions tests for top public, private, and independent schools. For students seeking entry into 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades, this includes:

  • Chicago Public Schools’ selective enrolment tests (SEES)
  • The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) and
  • Primary Level Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE).

Additionally, we specialize in preparing students for standardized tests like i-Ready and Star 360, ensuring they have a solid foundation in reading/ELA and math and are ready to excel academically.

Public School 

Gifted and Classical Test Prep

Testing for Grades 2-5

We provide virtual one-on-one test prep for both gifted and classical exams to help students achieve qualifying scores. We also prep for G&T admissions tests.

The Selective Enrollment Elementary Schools (SEES) program in Chicago comprises some of the city’s most esteemed public elementary schools. To be considered for admission, students must take a required test or tests, which vary depending on the specific program.

For students currently in grades 1-5, there are two test options.

CPS Classical Schools require an achievement skills test assessing reading and math abilities. The Regional Gifted Centers (RGC) require a test evaluating critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

Book your virtual 1:1 sessions today!

Private School

SSAT Entrance Exam Prep

For students applying to grades 4 or 5

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is an admissions test used for many of the best private and independent schools nationwide. There are two versions of the Elementary Level SSAT. The Grade 3 version is for current 3rd graders applying to 4th grade. The Grade 4 version is for current 4th graders applying to 5th grade.

The SSAT test includes math, verbal, reading, and writing sections.

We offer online 1:1 private sessions for our SSAT test prep to help elementary students achieve their desired scores quicker and confidently navigate the test-taking process.

Independent School ISEE Entrance Exam Prep

For students applying to grades 2-4

The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is used in the admissions process for many independent schools. The Primary ISEE is designed for students entering 2nd through 4th grades. To clarify, this means that current 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders will take the Primary Level ISEE.

The tests are multiple choice and include reading and math, with auditory added for 1st grade test takers.

We provide online one-on-one test prep for all grade levels to help students achieve qualifying scores.

Preparing for a different level? Check our test prep for PreK/Kindergarten, Middle and High School.