test prep · McLean, VA & Online

Test prep with your student in mind.

Prepare for the SAT, PSAT, ACT, SSAT, HSPT, or TJ admissions assessment with instruction that meets your student where they are. We help students strengthen skills, work through challenging questions, and learn how to use their time effectively on test day.

Choose private 1:1 tutoring in McLean or online, or small-group SAT and TJ classes with no more than six students.

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Explore our programs ↓

Explore our test prep offerings

for College admissions

SAT & PSAT

Build the reading, grammar, and math skills needed for the PSAT & SAT

1:1 tutoring · Small group classes

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Take our SAT diagnostic

ACT

Focused instruction on content and pacing for the ACT

1:1 tutoring

Explore ACT Prep →

Take our ACT diagnostic

For School Admissions

TJHSST Admissions

Develop problem-solving and writing skills with targeted instructor feedback

1:1 tutoring · Small group classes

Explore TJ Prep →

Take our TJ Readiness Assessment

SSAT

Build verbal, reading, writing, and math skills for independent schools

1:1 tutoring

Explore SSAT Prep →

Take our SSAT diagnostic

HSPT

Strengthen core academic skills and learn to manage the HSPT’s fast pace

1:1 tutoring

Explore HSPT Prep →

Take our HSPT diagnostic

THE PRINCIPIA Approach

Practice that tells us what to teach next.

Regular practice tests help us see how skills hold up under timed conditions. We use the results to guide instruction throughout preparation.

01

Understand the starting point.

We begin with a diagnostic test to identify strengths, pinpoint areas for growth, and set clear goals.

02

Teach where it matters.

We tailor our instruction to each student or small group, with a focus on the concepts and strategies that will make the biggest difference.

03

Put learning to the test.

Full-length practice tests reveal patterns in accuracy, pacing, and focus that guide instruction. Students build stamina, refine their strategies, and become familiar with what to expect on test day.

Our Instructors

The person teaching matters.

Our instructors are experienced educators who know how to connect with students, explain complex concepts clearly, and build confidence. We match each student with an instructor who fits their learning style and goals.

  • A smiling young woman with long, wavy blonde hair and a nose piercing, wearing a maroon shirt and a delicate necklace, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

    Hadley

    Senior Instructor

    B.A., Brown University
    M.D. Candidate, Kaiser Permanente SOM

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  • A woman with dark, curly hair and a warm smile, dressed in a black blazer and white top, standing indoors in front of shelves with decorative items and books.

    Praise

    Expert Instructor

    B.S., Tufts University

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  • A bearded man with glasses smiling in front of bookshelves filled with various books.

    Ethan

    Senior Instructor

    B.S., Brigham Young University
    Ph.D. Candidate, George Mason University 

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  • A smiling woman with long, wavy brown hair and wearing an orange shirt with fox patterns, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

    Grace

    Master Instructor

    B.A., Dartmouth College

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  • A woman with short black hair smiling, wearing a gray top and a necklace, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with various books.

    Kathy

    Consultant

    B.S. & B.A., College of William & Mary
    M.S. Candidate, George Washington University

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Meet our full team of instructors →

Let’s talk

Not sure where to begin?

Whether you’re choosing a test or planning the next round of prep, we’ll help you find the right starting point for your student.

Book a Free Discovery Call