Star Assesment test prep tutoring

We offer expert coaching on content and test-taking strategies for the Star assessment, as well as providing our students with exposure to time pressure and adaptive exams.

How do we help students with the Star Assesment test?

Star Assesment Test Prep Sessions

Our standard Star prep is eight to ten 60-minute sessions long, and includes a mix of test strategies and English and math content review. We can also provide extended prep for students in need of more support.

Star Test Prep Course Content

We prepare students for the Star Assessment by teaching both test-taking strategies and math and reading content. Students will learn tips for interpreting questions, guessing strategically, and managing their timing.

Star Test Practice Materials

Our proprietary practice materials are tailored to the content and best strategies to use on the Star test. Your student will get practice with topics including verbal skills, reading comprehension, and arithmetic, geometry, and algebra.

 
 
 
 

About the Star Assesment test

The Star assessment is a computer-adaptive exam used by some Bay Area private middle and high schools as an admissions test.

The Star test is computer-adaptive:

The exam starts with questions scaled to the student’s grade level and then adapts as the student progresses. Answering questions correctly leads to more difficult content while answering incorrectly leads to less challenging questions.

The Star assessment has two parts: a math section and a reading section. Each is expected to take 20-30 minutes, for a total of 40 minutes to an hour.

Talk to An Expert about Star Test Prep Tutoring!

We’re here to help you maximize your score on the Star assessment.

The private school application precess is complex. AJ Tutoring has years of experience with local schools, and all of our instructors go through rigorous training programs. We prioritize communication with our students and their families, making us your best resource for Star assessment preparation.

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Bay Area schools that require or accept the Star assesment test:

The first schools in the Bay Area to announce Star test requirements in Fall of 2024 were Menlo (Atherton) and Woodside Priory (Portola Valley).

The high achool admissions requirements of local schools such as Castilleja School (Palo Alto), Pinewood (Los Altos), Harker (San Jose), Kehillah Jewish High School (Palo Alto), Drew (San Francisco), The Nueva School, Lick-Wilmerding (San Francisco), Branson (Marin County), Belmont Oaks (Belmont), and Marin Academy (San Rafael) are complex and can change year by year. It’s always best to make sure you have the most up-to-date information on application requirements by checking the schools’ websites directly and talking with one of our middle and high school admissions experts.

Talk to A Director about Star Test Tutoring Near You

Star Assesment test prep students love AJ Tutoring!

"AJ Tutoring is the most efficient and effective way to learn. What helped me the most was having a patient and friendly tutor. I loved how my tutor would always go step-by-step with me or demonstrate something on the whiteboard until I got it. I improved dramatically–now I’m a pro!"

Frequently asked questions about the Star assessment (FAQs)

How do I register for the Star Assesment?

You can register your student to take the Star assessment through Ravenna, the online application portal that you use for the rest of the private school application process.

What Star test scores are considered “good?”

Star test benchmarks are proprietary and particular to each school, so unfortunately we cannot provide specifics about good scores.

It is important to remember that the Star test norm group is a highly competitive group! Your student is being compared to all the other students in the same grade who are taking this test for admission into independent schools, some of which can be the most selective schools in the country.

It’s difficult to say what schools consider a “good” score, as there are many factors in admissions, especially grades and family connections.

Does AJ Tutoring's Star test prep focus on both content and testing strategies?

Yes! Our Star test prep reviews math concepts and reading strategies that are at and slightly above grade level. We also spend time teaching students test-taking skills such as elimination tricks, timing strategies, and estimation.

Who produces the Star Assesment and where can I find more information about the test?

The Star is produced by Renaissance. To learn more about this new assessment test, we strongly recommend reviewing their website:

Test-maker Renaissance’s website

My child has already taken the Star test. Can I use those results for private school admissions?

The Star Assessment is also used by schools for standardized testing during the school year. However, scores cannot be reused for the private school application process. Applicants will need to take the version of the Star test that is being used as an entrance exam through the school they’re applying to.

Are testing accommodations available for the Star test?

Yes, students with learning differences can receive accommodations like extended time on the test. You should reach out as early as possible to the school where your child will be taking the test and provide them with their IEP, 504 plan, or other documentation.

Meet some of our Star tutors.

Michelle Brown
K-8 Director, Test Prep & Academic Tutor
Subjects Tutored:
College Application Essays, ACT, PSAT, SAT, K-12 Private School Interview, Writing Sample, and Applications ...
Office Location:
Los Altos (Fremont Ave)

"I enjoy creating an enriching and educational experience for my students."

Learn More
Merylynn Valencia
San Mateo Office Director, Social Outreach Director, Test Prep & Academic Tutor
Subjects Tutored:
ACT, PSAT, SAT, K-12 Private School Interview, Writing Sample, and Applications, Star Assessment ...
Office Location:
San Mateo

"I use my passion for learning as a tool to help students find understanding and enthusiasm within their courses."

Learn More
Matthias Fisseha
Burlingame Office Director, Test Prep & Academic Tutor
Subjects Tutored:
ACT, PSAT, SAT, K-12 Private School Interview, Writing Sample, and Applications, Star Assessment ...
Office Location:
Burlingame

"I loved being able to help students improve their math skills."

Learn More
 

Let's discuss your student's academic tutoring, test prep, or college counseling needs!

Our test prep, academic tutoring, and college admissions counseling professionals are here to help you navigate the test taking maze, share our experience with your local school, and inspire your student.