Frequently Asked Questions
I. General FAQs
II. Test Preparation
III. Academic Tutoring
General FAQs
Q: Where do tutoring sessions take place?
A: We meet with students at our office in the Tenleytown neighborhood of Washington, DC or remotely via video conference. The appropriate format depends on the student's needs and preferences.
Q: How long do sessions last?
A: Academic tutoring sessions typically last one hour. SAT and ACT preparation sessions generally range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the student's schedule and stage of preparation.
Q: How often do students typically meet with their tutor?
A: Most students meet with their tutor once per week. Depending on a student's goals, schedule, and timeline, some choose to meet more frequently, particularly before major exams or standardized tests.
Q: What are the tutors with Odyssey like?
A: Our tutors are accomplished, engaging educators and professionals who are passionate about helping students succeed. Beyond academic credentials, we look for tutors who communicate well, connect naturally with students, and genuinely enjoy teaching. To learn more about our tutors and their backgrounds, please visit Our Team.
Q: How do you match students with tutors?
A: We carefully consider each student's academic needs, learning style, personality, and goals when recommending a tutor. Our objective is not simply to find a tutor with the right subject expertise, but one who is also a strong personal fit.
Q: How do I know my child will like his or her tutor?
A: A strong relationship between tutor and student is an important part of successful tutoring. We take great care in matching students with tutors based on both academic needs and personality.
Q: Can we change tutors if needed?
A: Yes. Our goal is to find the best fit for every student, and we are happy to recommend a different tutor if needed.
Q: How are parents updated on progress?
A: Following each session, tutors provide parents with a summary describing what was covered, how the student performed, and any recommendations for future work. These updates keep families informed while also helping track long-term progress.
Q: Do you tutor students with learning differences?
A: Yes. Many of our tutors have experience working with students who have ADHD, executive functioning challenges, dyslexia, and other learning differences. We are happy to discuss your student's individual needs and recommend an appropriate tutor.
Q: Does Odyssey offer financial aid?
A: Yes. Odyssey offers reduced fees to families with demonstrated financial need. Please contact us if you would like to discuss financial assistance.
Test Preparation
Q: Should my child take the SAT or ACT?
A: The answer depends on a student's individual strengths, testing style, and performance on diagnostic exams. We use diagnostic testing to recommend the exam on which each student is most likely to perform best. For more information, please visit our SAT or ACT? page.
Q: How long before an SAT or ACT should my child begin studying for the test?
A: We generally recommend beginning formal preparation approximately three to four months before a student's first official test. This typically provides enough time for instruction, practice, and review without requiring an overly intensive schedule. If a student has less time available, we are happy to discuss a modified preparation plan on a case-by-case basis.
Q: What sort of materials are used for test preparation?
A: Odyssey has developed proprietary SAT and ACT preparation guides that provide a clear, organized overview of each exam before focusing on section-specific strategies and techniques. We also use official practice tests and supplementary materials throughout the preparation process.
Q: How do you track progress during test preparation courses?
A: We administer official SAT and ACT practice tests throughout the preparation process. These exams provide objective measures of progress, help identify areas for improvement, and allow us to adjust each student's preparation plan as needed.
Q: How much homework will my child have in between sessions?
A: Most students complete two to four hours of homework between sessions. The workload may increase as the official test date approaches.
Q: What is the average score increase for students who work with Odyssey?
A: Based on our experience, many SAT students improve 150–200 points, while ACT students generally improve 4–7 composite points. Individual results vary depending on a student's starting scores, goals, and commitment to the preparation process.
Q: Do you offer a guaranteed score increase for your test preparation services?
A: No. We believe guaranteed score increases are more of a marketing tool than a meaningful measure of quality. Because every student begins preparation with different strengths, goals, and starting scores, results naturally vary. Our focus is on providing exceptional instruction and helping every student achieve his or her fullest potential.
Q: How many times should my child take the SAT or ACT?
A: Most students take the SAT or ACT two or three times. The appropriate number depends on a student's goals, testing timeline, and progress during preparation.
Q: What if my child decides to switch from the SAT to the ACT (or vice versa)?
A: We occasionally recommend changing exams if a student's progress suggest another test would be a better fit. Because every student's preparation plan is individualized, we can adjust testing strategies when appropriate.
Q: Should my child take the ACT Science section?
A: The answer depends on the student's performance on diagnostic testing and the colleges to which he or she plans to apply. We discuss this recommendation as part of each student's individualized testing plan.
Q: My child has already worked with a private tutor (or taken a classroom SAT/ACT course) and scores showed only modest improvement. What makes Odyssey different?
A: We believe Odyssey distinguishes itself through three things: exceptional tutors, carefully developed proprietary materials, and a highly individualized approach to preparation. Every student's study plan is tailored to his or her strengths, weaknesses, goals, and testing timeline.
Q: Haven't many colleges gone test-optional?
A: While a number of colleges and universities adopted test-optional policies during 2020-2021, standardized test scores continue to play an important role in college admissions. Strong SAT or ACT scores can markedly strengthen an application, particularly at selective colleges and universities.
Q: I remember taking the SAT 25 or 30 years ago—I took the test only once, had minimal preparation, and my life has turned out fine. Does my child really need formal assistance to prepare for the ACT/SAT?
A: Both the SAT and ACT have changed considerably over the years, and college admissions has become significantly more competitive. Today's students typically prepare much more extensively than previous generations, making thoughtful preparation more important than ever.
Academic Tutoring
Q: What academic subjects does Odyssey tutor?
A: Odyssey provides individualized tutoring across a wide range of subjects, including math, science, English, and history. We also provide support with AP courses, study skills, and executive functioning. We do not currently offer tutoring in foreign languages. For a complete list of subjects, please visit our Academic Tutoring page.
Q: My child is a good student, but needs help with organization and study skills. Is this a service you offer?
A: Yes. Many of our students seek tutoring not because they are struggling academically, but because they want to become more organized, develop stronger study habits, or prepare for increasingly challenging coursework. Tutors regularly help students improve time management, organization, and other skills that contribute to long-term academic success.
Q: How much homework will my child have between academic tutoring sessions?
A: Most academic tutoring focuses on supporting a student's current coursework and does not involve significant additional homework. When appropriate, tutors may assign supplemental practice to reinforce key concepts or address areas of weakness.
Q: Can tutoring help students who are already earning good grades?
A: Absolutely. Many of our students earn strong grades but seek tutoring to deepen their understanding of course material, prepare for more challenging classes, strengthen study skills, and maintain a high level of academic performance.
Q: Can academic tutoring begin in the middle of the school year?
A: Yes. While students can begin tutoring at any point during the academic year, the greatest benefits often come from consistent, long-term tutoring. We are happy to work with families at any stage and recommend an appropriate plan.