Where do you get your mock tests?

We work hard to give our students the most realistic testing experience possible. Some of the exams we use are official, released versions obtained from the test makers, while others are exams we have designed ourselves to be highly representative of the test’s content and format.

Does Bespoke administer mock tests for every type of standardized test?

We can provide mock testers with almost every standardized test: SAT; ACT; Lower, Middle & Upper Level ISEE; Middle & Upper Level SSAT; and SHSAT. We do sometimes administer other types of tests upon request.

Bespoke does not currently offer PSAT mock tests. We suggest that students preparing for the PSAT take a full-length SAT instead for the most complete diagnostic profile possible.

What is your approach to tutoring in an academic subject?

We have a great deal of teaching and curriculum-design experience in a variety of subject areas. Our tutors really know the subjects they teach! Over the years, we have established contacts with many school administrators and teachers; for some schools, we are so familiar with the curriculum that we can truly offer a personalized tutoring experience that no one else can. Our tutors also work closely with psychologists and learning specialists. We are happy to work with the specialist at your student’s school or with the evaluator who has done educational testing for your student so we can craft a unique and successful tutoring program.

What is your overall philosophy regarding tutoring?

Tutoring is a process. It takes time for students to mature academically, as they get used to the expectations of different teachers and subject matter. Good tutoring helps students gain confidence in a course or for a test, so they walk into the classroom and feel in control. Good tutoring allows students to grasp subject matter that they couldn’t pick up for whatever reason in the larger, more impersonal setting of a school classroom. Finally, good tutoring helps students become more independent in their approach to learning. We believe an individualized approach to tutoring and the development of a mentor-student relationship are the fastest, most constructive ways to achieve these goals.

What subjects do you tutor?

We work with students from elementary through graduate school as well as with many adults. We offer help in nearly any subject and for all of the most popular standardized tests (ACT, SAT, ISEE, SSAT, SHSAT, Regents, AP, Hunter Test, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT). We also offer support for students who need help building organization and study skills, and we advise on admissions applications and college essays. Call or email for more details.

How often should we meet with a Bespoke tutor?

For most academic subjects (e.g. tutoring in biology), one session (60–90 minutes) per week is usually sufficient. For more intensive work, such as organization and study skills coaching, help in more than one subject, or standardized test prep, it may be advisable to meet more than once each week. How often you should meet can generally be determined after the first session.

Do you have a cancellation policy?

Yes: Appointments that are not canceled at least 24 hours in advance will be billed in full. While we understand that sports and doctor commitments may arise rather spontaneously, our schedules are so tight that the policy is necessary because appointment slots often cannot be filled at the last minute.