Expand Your Possibilities
SAT Prep
Academic Tutoring
College Admissions Consulting
Serving Students in Pittsburgh, Across the U.S., and Internationally Since 2005
Raise Your SAT Score
Our students increase their SAT scores by an average of 190 points.
Personalized SAT preparation designed to help students improve scores, strengthen test-taking skills, and reach their target colleges.
Contact us for a free diagnostic test and start working toward your goal.
College Admissions Guidance
Navigate the college admissions process with personalized guidance for college selection, application strategy, and admissions essays.
Schedule a free consultation and begin building a stronger college application today.
Test Prep
Proven SAT and ACT preparation that helps students improve scores, master test strategies, and maximize college opportunities.
Academics
Academic tutoring for K-8, high school, honors, and AP students seeking stronger performance in math, English, science, history, and other core academic subjects.
College Consulting
Strategic college admissions consulting, essay development, and application planning tailored to each student's academic goals and college aspirations.
Since 2005, Pittsburgh Prep has helped students throughout Pittsburgh, Western Pennsylvania, across the United States, and internationally achieve higher test scores, stronger academic performance, and successful college admissions outcomes.
Why Families Choose Pittsburgh Prep
✓ Serving students in Pittsburgh, across the U.S., and internationally since 2005
✓ Pittsburgh Prep students increase SAT scores by an average of 190 points
✓ In-person and online SAT prep, academic tutoring, and college consulting
✓ Personalized instruction tailored to each student’s academic and admissions goals
✓ Proven strategies for higher test scores, stronger academics, and successful college admissions
BS/MD Admissions Success
I thought I'd let you know that I got into 4 medical programs and several other undergrads with half rides! I ultimately decided on Purchase BS/MD program, as they provided me academic scholarship and a global scholars study abroad scholarship. Lots of this credit goes to Pittsburgh Prep! Thank you so much for everything!!!
Mira B.Student
College & Graduate School Admissions Success
Sawyer will be in his junior year at Georgia Tech studying mechanical engineering in the fall. Mason will be starting the mechanical engineering PhD program at CMU this fall. He had competing offers from Georgia Tech, Cornell, and the University of Washington at Seattle. A lot of their success can be attributed to Pittsburgh Prep ! Thanks very much.
Tom Z.Parent of NASH Student
SAT Score Improvement
We are pleased with Louise's results. She scored a 1200 on her June SAT with a 610 in reading and a 590 in math. This represents a 100 point gain in her math, compared to the PSAT in 11th grade, and we know that is a result of your help and Josh's. This gain also balanced out her scores. Her reading improved by 20 points. The composite score is smack dab in the middle of the range for her first choice school so we are feeling optimistic about her being accepted. Additionally, her three essay scores will distinguish her. They were a 7, 6, and 7 based on an 8 point scale.
Lisa and WhitneyParent and Student
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about SAT prep and college admissions consulting at Pittsburgh Prep.
How much can SAT prep improve my SAT score?
Our students improve their SAT scores by an average of 190 points. Score improvement varies based on a student’s starting score, commitment to practice, attendance, and study habits. Effective SAT preparation focuses on building core academic skills, mastering test strategies, and identifying areas for targeted improvement through practice exams and detailed performance analysis.
What SAT score improvement do Pittsburgh Prep students achieve?
On average, Pittsburgh Prep students improve their SAT scores by 190 points through expert instruction, full-length practice exams, detailed analytics, and personalized guidance.
Is SAT prep worth it?
For many students, SAT preparation can lead to meaningful score improvements, stronger test-taking skills, and increased confidence on test day. Higher SAT scores may also improve admission opportunities and eligibility for certain merit scholarships. Pittsburgh Prep students improve their SAT scores by an average of 190 points through structured instruction, practice exams, and personalized support.
When should a student start SAT preparation?
Most students benefit from beginning SAT preparation three to six months before their target test date. Starting earlier allows students to build foundational skills, develop effective test-taking strategies, and complete multiple full-length practice exams without feeling rushed. Students aiming for highly competitive colleges may choose to begin as early as sophomore or junior year.
In what grade should students start SAT preparation?
There is no single ideal time for a student to begin SAT preparation. Most students start preparing during sophomore or junior year of high school, allowing enough time to build skills, develop effective test-taking strategies, and complete practice exams. The ideal timeline depends on a student’s academic background, target score, and college admissions goals.
How many hours of SAT prep do most students need?
The amount of SAT preparation needed varies by student and target score. Many students see meaningful improvements through a structured program that includes classroom instruction or tutoring, independent practice, and multiple full-length practice exams. Consistent preparation over several weeks or months generally produces the strongest results.
Do colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?
Most colleges and universities accept both the SAT and ACT and do not prefer one test over the other. Students should choose the exam that best matches their strengths and testing style. Pittsburgh Prep offers both SAT and ACT preparation and can help students determine which test is the better fit for their college admissions goals.
What SAT or ACT scores do I need for college admissions?
There is no single SAT or ACT score required for college admissions. Competitive score ranges vary by college, major, and applicant pool. In general, students should aim to score within or above the middle 50% range of admitted students at their target colleges. More selective colleges typically require higher SAT or ACT scores, while many colleges have broader score ranges or test-optional policies. Pittsburgh Prep helps students identify target score goals based on their college list and develop a personalized preparation plan to achieve them.
Do you offer SAT prep in Pittsburgh?
Yes. Pittsburgh Prep offers SAT preparation through small-group classes and private tutoring at our Shadyside, North Hills, and South Hills locations, as well as online for students throughout the United States and internationally.
Do you offer ACT prep in Pittsburgh?
Yes. Pittsburgh Prep offers ACT preparation through private tutoring, available both in person and online. Our expert instructors provide personalized coaching, realistic practice exams, and targeted test-taking strategies designed to help students improve ACT scores and achieve their college admissions goals.
What is included in Pittsburgh Prep's SAT preparation program?
Pittsburgh Prep’s SAT preparation programs include comprehensive instruction covering Reading & Writing, Math, and Data Analysis, full-length digital SAT practice exams, detailed score analytics, and access to our proprietary Testing For Good learning platform. Students receive expert instruction, targeted practice, and actionable feedback designed to improve performance on every section of the SAT.
What makes Pittsburgh Prep different from other SAT prep programs?
Pittsburgh Prep combines expert instruction, a concept-based curriculum, detailed score analytics, full-length practice exams, and our proprietary Testing For Good learning platform. Rather than focusing solely on test-taking tricks, we help students develop the underlying skills and strategies needed for long-term academic success and meaningful score improvement.
How much does SAT prep and ACT prep cost?
Pittsburgh Prep offers several SAT and ACT preparation options, including small-group SAT courses, summer intensive SAT programs, and one-on-one SAT and ACT tutoring. Program costs vary depending on the format and level of support. For current pricing and program details, please visit our SAT School-Year Course, SAT Summer Intensive Program, and SAT and ACT Private Tutoring pages.
What does a college admissions consultant do?
A college admissions consultant helps students navigate the college application process by providing guidance on college selection, application strategy, admissions essays, extracurricular planning, and important deadlines. The goal is to help students present their strongest and most authentic application to colleges and universities.
When should students begin college admissions consulting?
Students can benefit from college admissions consulting as early as ninth or tenth grade, particularly when planning coursework, extracurricular activities, and long-term academic goals. However, many students begin working with a consultant during junior year, when college research, standardized testing, and application planning become more important.
How can college consulting improve a student's college application?
College consulting helps students develop a thoughtful application strategy, identify colleges that align with their goals, strengthen extracurricular profiles, and craft compelling admissions essays. By providing personalized guidance throughout the process, college consulting can help students submit more organized, competitive, and authentic applications.
Is college admissions consulting worth it?
Yes. For many students and families, college admissions consulting can provide valuable guidance throughout the college application process. A college admissions consultant helps students identify colleges that match their academic goals, develop a strategic application plan, strengthen extracurricular and academic profiles, manage deadlines, and craft compelling admissions essays. Personalized support can reduce stress, improve organization, and help students present their strongest and most authentic applications. While admissions outcomes can never be guaranteed, expert guidance can help students navigate the process with greater confidence and clarity.
Do you help students with college application essays?
Yes. We help students develop, outline, revise, and refine college admissions essays, including the Common Application personal statement and supplemental essays. Our approach focuses on helping students communicate their experiences, values, and goals through clear, authentic, and compelling writing.
How much does college consulting cost?
College admissions consulting services are customized based on each student’s academic goals, interests, and college aspirations. We provide personalized guidance for college selection, application strategy, admissions essays, extracurricular planning, and more. For current pricing and program details, please visit our College Admissions Consulting Services page.
Do you offer online SAT prep, ACT prep, academic tutoring, and college admissions consulting?
Yes. Pittsburgh Prep offers both in-person and online SAT prep, ACT prep, academic tutoring, and college admissions consulting services. Students throughout Pittsburgh, across the United States, and internationally can access personalized instruction and guidance from our experienced instructors and college consultants.