As you seek to give your student effective Chicago ISEE prep tools, Varsity Tutors can set you up with services that work for your student. If you are hoping to have your student admitted to an Independent School, a good score on the ISEE can help your student's application stand out. Because of the impact this exam can have on your student's academic future, preparing effectively is important. The services that are available can suit the needs of a variety of students and schedules.
The ISEE stands for the Independent School Entrance Exam. There are four levels of the exam that exist, and each level corresponds to particular student ages. The Primary Level has three versions (2, 3, and 4), and is for students entering grades 2, 3, or 4. The Lower Level is for students entering 5th or 6th grade. The Middle Level is for students entering 7th or 8th grade, and the Upper Level is for students approaching grades nine and up. Many Independent Schools use the ISEE as a part of their application process.
What can my student learn about during Chicago ISEE prep?
The three highest levels of the ISEE (Lower, Middle, and Upper) each contain five sections. The sections are Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Math Achievement, and the Essay section. The sections are allocated the same amount of time across the three highest levels and feature the same number of questions. However, the specific content of the sections varies in accordance with the abilities of students of different ages. The Primary Level of the ISEE contains three sections which are the Reading section, the Math Section, and the Writing Sample. The Level 2 Primary Level exam also contains an Auditory Comprehension section. Let's take a moment to learn a bit more about these test sections. We will focus on the three highest levels of the ISEE as the Primary Level ISEE exams contain more elementary reading, math, and writing skills.
The Verbal Reasoning section of the exam assesses a student's ability to use the English language to answer questions based on synonyms and sentence completion. For the Lower Level, students must be able to use context to answer questions and know the vocabulary appropriate to their age. Those at the Middle Level will need an understanding of the parts of speech and prefixes, suffixes, and word roots from the key linguistic ancestors of English. Upper-Level students must demonstrate their knowledge of the skills of the preceding levels as well as higher-level vocabulary and word knowledge.
In the Quantitative Reasoning section, students will have a chance to display their understanding of mathematical skills and concepts. Lower Level students must be able to do the four basic math functions, be able to estimate, and understand number logic. The Middle Level will feature questions involving data analysis, geometry, and integers. The Upper Level contains questions with probability, solving equations, and making inferences about data sets.
The Reading Comprehension section involves understanding the key ideas of a passage and the author's intent. All levels will require an understanding of the organization and structure of a piece. Students must display knowledge of age-appropriate vocabulary, understand tone and style, and be able to infer information that is not explicitly stated.
The Math Achievement section is focused on a student's ability to execute particular mathematical operations. Skills such as algebra, geometry, probability, and solving word problems appear throughout the various age-levels of this section.
The Essay section is intended to give students a chance to share more about themselves by responding to a prompt aimed at students of their age. Students must effectively organize their response, and use grammar, punctuation, and spelling effectively.
How can Chicago ISEE prep help my student to study more effectively?
To help your student with their preparation, there are two Chicago ISEE preparation options. A Chicago ISEE prep course takes place in a group environment. Working with a Chicago ISEE tutor allows your student to learn one-on-one with an academic mentor.
In a Chicago ISEE prep class, your student will learn alongside other students and their instructor in a live virtual classroom. These sessions allow your student to hear live lectures and engage in discussions with other students. These classes cover the material for whatever ISEE level that your student is preparing to take. They will be able to learn about the material from the skilled instructor and from their interactions with their classmates. This environment can be an effective, collaborative learning environment. The instructor can be attentive to the needs of the group and spend extra time on material that is difficult.
There are two and four-week sessions of these classes that are available. You can register your student for a section that meets at a time that works for their schedule, and because all sections meet online, you don't have to worry about helping your student commute.
If your student works with a Chicago ISEE tutor, they can experience learning based on their needs, learning style, and goals. These individualized sessions focus on the content that is most important for your student, and their mentor can give them resources that help them to engage with the material as well as possible. Our Live Learning Platform allows your student to receive guidance and feedback from their instructor in real-time.
What do I do to sign my student up for Chicago ISEE prep?
Our Educational Consultants are available over the internet and over the phone to assist you. They can answer questions, help you pick which service is right for your student, and help with the registration process. Whatever your student's needs, they can help you choose a service that fits your student's academic and logistical needs.
Varsity Tutors can set your student up with resources and instruction for their Chicago ISEE preparation. In addition to offering convenient scheduling, these services offer learning environments that can challenge your student to prepare as well as possible. If you are interested in registering your student, contact an Educational Consultant today.

Rebecca: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +53 subjects

Samantha: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their reading and writing skills, and I really enjoy helping students with Critical Reading and Writing portions of Standardized Tests. I love working with students and...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- SSAT
- +36 subjects

Alex: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...Spanish, but also love to assist students with ACT, SAT, LSAT and GMAT test prep. One of the greatest investments you can make is in improving your college/grad school aptitude testing skills, as just a couple hours of study per week can yield enormous results in admittances and scholarships. On the weekend you might find...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Real Estate
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- LSAT 5-Week Prep Class
- SAT
- ACT
- +88 subjects

Katie: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...advisor, and teaching first year experience courses to new college students, focusing on topics like time management and study skills. I understand firsthand the importance of standardized tests as students make goals for their next level of education; I am happy to help students prepare for these exams. I enjoy students of all ages and...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelor in Arts, American Studies, Gender Studies
- University of Connecticut - Master of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affaris
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +40 subjects

Hannah: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
I graduated from Georgia Tech majoring in Industrial and Systems Engineering and Pre-teaching , and I just moved to Chicago to attend Chicago State University Pharmacy School. I have been tutoring a lot of students [K-12] in various subjects for more than ten years. ... Helping students to reach their goals.... I would talk about my background and share my past experience of studying. I also would ask what their goals are.
Education & Certification
- Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Industrial and Systems Engineering
- Chicago State University - PHD, Pharmacy
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT
- ISAT
- +33 subjects

Katherine: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
I am a multi-level, multi-subject educator offering 8+ years experience in instruction; consistent performance record and excellent reviews; and innovative instructional methods to maximize student understanding and performance across various learning styles, abilities, and interests. It is my pleasure to educate through Varsity Tutors.... My philosophy in education is that all students are smart. It is my job as an educator to meet each student where they are and to guide them in the achievement of their educational goals. Learning should be personalized and fun.
Education & Certification
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Loyola Marymount University - Master of Arts, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- HSPT
- ACT
- +53 subjects

Adrianna: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...I began to write about things I was passionate about on an individual level, I was able to unlock a lot of creativity. If students write about what they know, rather than what they think someone would like to hear, they often become much more authentic writers. I love to watch football with my roommate...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology and Policy Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- ASPIRE
- SAT
- +74 subjects

Amy: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
I am currently a school teacher. I teach both special education and general education elementary and middle school students. I am able to break down skills in a way that children can understand. I love it when everything clicks for the student. ... My teaching philosophy is that every person can learn; it is just a matter of finding out how they learn.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelors, Theatre
- National Louis University - Masters, Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Study Skills and Organization
- Writing
- +18 subjects

Felipe: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...addition, I worked as a journalist for three years in Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. I believe my experiences make me an excellent listener and a proficient editor. I enjoy working with students on English, Spanish, and Writing. I have a thoughtful and patient approach. I grew up in a trilingual household and...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Comparative Literature
- CUNY Graduate School of Journalism - Masters, Business Journalism
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Spanish 1
- Literature
- Languages
- +8 subjects

Emily: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...sectors and have always maintained a love for one-on-one teaching, especially working with children and teaching languages. My experience includes living, working, and traveling abroad, and I rely on this intercultural perspective when presenting language and social studies lessons. I am particularly adept at grammar, editing, and writing and can help students in the early...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, 1) Spanish 2) History
- The New School - Masters, 1) International Affairs 2) Environmental Policy
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SSAT
- Conversational Italian
- +42 subjects

Bryson: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...I was (and still am!) a self-described "nerd" who really enjoyed expanding my knowledge base and taking on academic challenges. I hope to impart the idea that tackling new concepts can be fun and rewarding at the same time. Additionally, as a generally "good test taker," I enjoy helping students hone their test taking skills...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Loyola Marymount University - Master of Arts, Urban Education and Leadership
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +51 subjects

Shea: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...is a direct reflection of me and my mission as a teacher. Ever since I started teaching 5 years ago, I have been committed to accommodating the needs of each individual student, and instilling a lifelong love of learning in all of my students. As a very passionate, caring, nurturing, and knowledgeable teacher, I thrive...
Education & Certification
- Western Illinois University - Bachelors, Computer Science
- National-Louis University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Writing
- Phonics
- +14 subjects

Kim: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...Concordia University in Curriculum and Instruction and have completed classes toward a certification in special education. My passion is Mathematics. I believe instilling confidence in my students is the key to their success and I believe all students are capable of reaching their goals. Teaching students organization skills and personal responsibility is a central part...
Education & Certification
- Millikin University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
- Concordia University-Ann Arbor - Master of Arts, Curriculum and Instruction
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Elementary Math
- Reading
- +21 subjects

Rebecca: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...and seeing them master the material over the course of the semester. Professionally, I have worked both as a programmer and as a marketer. I believe my greatest strengths are in teaching math and helping students prepare for standardized tests, including the GMAT. In my spare time, I enjoy cross country skiing, cooking, trying new...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelors, Computer Science, Theology
- University of Notre Dame - Masters in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- HSPT
- Study Skills
- +39 subjects

Ariela: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...information is the most important part of teaching it to someone else, and that understanding someone's method of processing this information is the easiest way to get it to stick. Like I do backstage, I am excited about solving the puzzle of how someone learns best, and inspired by the idea of recognizing the specificities...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Current Undergrad, Theater & Performance Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- SAT
- +50 subjects

Kandice: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...Chicago using the Balanced Literacy and Everyday Mathematics frameworks. I have also mentored teachers and been a professional speaker and facilitator for educational and civic organizations. My teaching and tutoring philosophy is simple: bridging the gap between student passions and areas of improvement, and create lasting and powerful learning experiences. I always find relevant, hands...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Pyschology
- University of Chicago - Master of Arts, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Essay Editing
- Elementary Math
- +19 subjects

Najla: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...the University of Washington and Columbia University, as well as a course in pedagogy. Throughout this time, I continued to tutor K-12 students as well, and am comfortable working with students of all ages. Most importantly, however, I absolutely love working with students, and have a sincere passion and enthusiasm for teaching. I consider it...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- University of Washington , Columbia University - PHD, History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ASPIRE
- SAT
- PSAT
- +108 subjects

Meggan: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...work together as teachers, tutors, parents and family to ensure each child gets the best education possible. My role as a teacher and tutor is to discover each student's individual learning style and tailor the learning material and curriculum to meet the needs of that individual student so that they are able to achieve personal...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor in Arts, Communications/Art
- Quincy University - Master of Science, Educaiton
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PARCC
- STAAR
- SSAT
- +113 subjects

Faith: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...do things. I was also mentoring them. I am very passionate about working with kids because they really are the future. I like being able to have an impact on their growth and development. It gives me joy to see a student accomplish something that they thought was impossible. In reality, nothing is impossible, every...
Education & Certification
- Northern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT 4-Week Prep Class
- ACT 8-Week Prep Class
- SAT
- +39 subjects

Chris: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...themselves from a standpoint of genuine interest and intelligence. This has led me to focus on big-picture issues when I read the work of other writers, encouraging them to dig deeper into their own beliefs and values and looking for ways they can communicate their opinions more effectively. My degree in English with a writing...
Education & Certification
- Wheaton College (Illinois) - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- GED
- SSAT
- +39 subjects