Is your student yearning to enroll in a desired private or independent school? Let Varsity Tutors assist them with an ISEE prep course. If you've already spent time looking up things like "ISEE help near me" online, then you may already know how effective it can be to work with an expert while preparing for this exam. The ISEE, short for the Independent School Entrance Exam, is a test that private and independent schools use to measure a pupil's knowledge in academic topics to determine admission. Contact us for more information about how ISEE prep courses can help your student pursue academic success.
Why Take the ISEE?
Your student may need to take the Independent School Entrance Examination if you plan on sending them to a private elementary, middle, or high school. The exam was designed to help competitive private schools assess the competency of the students who apply to them. That means that a good score on the ISEE could help a student get accepted into their first choice private school. This is why taking ISEE classes can be such a valuable addition to your student's test preparation process. You can easily sign up for ISEE classes by getting in touch with Varsity Tutors today. Or, keep reading to get more information on the exam and what taking ISEE courses can do for your child.
ISEE Exam Eligibility Requirements
If your child needs to take the ISEE, there aren't many requirements that they'll need to satisfy before you can sign them up. To register for the exam, it's recommended that you get started with the process as soon as possible. This can make it easier to get a slot on your ideal test date. Since the registration process for an exam day typically fills up fast, you should move quickly.
You can easily sign up for the test day of your choice by going online and visiting the Educational Records Bureau's registration web page. Make sure that you select the right level test so that there aren't any issues in getting your child set up to take the exam they need to in order to complete their private school applications process. If you'd like to get some help registering for the ISEE, then signing up for ISEE courses with Varsity Tutors can assist you. Consider reaching out to an educational director today if you're ready to get started with the process or if you'd like to hear more about ISEE prep courses.
Breaking Down the ISEE Exam
The ISEE exam contains four levels. Each level has multiple-choice and essay questions that cover mathematics and reading. Below are the test versions and grade levels:
ISEE Versions |
Grade Level of Test-Taker |
Primary Level (3 versions: Primary 2, 3, and 4) |
Entering 2nd Grade (Primary 2), 3rd Grade (Primary 3), or 4th Grade (Primary 4) |
Lower Level |
Entering 5th or 6th Grade |
Middle Level |
Entering 7th or 8th Grade |
Upper Level |
Entering 9th Grade or Above |
If your student is entering the 7th or 8th grade, they would have to take the ISEE Middle Level exam. Here are its contents:
ISEE Middle Level Sections |
# Questions |
Time Allowed (in minutes) |
Verbal Reasoning |
40 |
20 |
Quantitative Reasoning |
37 |
35 |
Reading Comprehension |
36 |
35 |
Math Achievement |
47 |
40 |
Essay |
1 Writing Prompt |
30 |
As the table above shows, there are five sections on the ISEE, no matter which test level your child is signed up to take. The first section of the exam, Verbal Reasoning, features questions based on vocabulary. The second section, Quantitative Reasoning, is composed of a series of math word problems. This section was designed to assess how prepared your child is to problem solve. They'll need to use their mathematical skills in the context of word problems. Third, your child will also take a Reading Comprehension test section. Here, your child will need to demonstrate that they can understand complex reading passages and answer questions based on their content. Finally, the fourth and final multiple-choice section is Math Achievement. On this test section, your student will need to show their math skills. The content of this exam will vary depending on which ISEE level your student is taking.
Lastly, the test also features an Essay section with one writing prompt. This essay will not be scored. Instead, it will be sent to the admissions director at the school your child is applying to. The admissions team uses your student's Essay response as a writing example. A strong essay could help to make your student a more attractive candidate for admission at the schools they're most interested in attending.
Clearly, there are a lot of different academic subjects your student will need to be strong in if they want to earn a good score on the ISEE examination. Of course, this is something that is often easier said than done. If your student could use a refresher on one or more of these test sections, then signing them up for an ISEE prep course with Varsity Tutors can help. In the next section, you'll get more information on how taking an ISEE prep course can help your child prepare for their upcoming exam. If you already know you want to sign your child up to work with an educator, you don't have to spend any additional time online looking up things like "ISEE tutoring near me". Instead, you can easily get them started with the test prep plan that makes the most sense for them by reaching out to Varsity Tutors today.
Finding Your Child's Ideal ISEE Prep Class
There are a few different ISEE course options that you can choose from when deciding which ISEE prep classes your child should take. The ISEE prep classes that you ultimately sign up for can be based on your student's learning style, test goals, and existing academic abilities. To get a more in-depth look at each of these ISEE course options, continue reading.
The first ISEE course option you can consider is private test prep tutoring. This ISEE course may be the right fit for your student if they've previously enjoyed working directly with their educator. Signing up for this ISEE class style gives your child the opportunity to learn from an expert ISEE class instructor through a series of one-on-one study sessions. Your child's ISEE class instructor can set them up with a customized learning plan that is based entirely on their specific academic needs. The amount of personalization that your student will get through their ISEE class could help them get more out of their study sessions.
Another test preparation option you may be interested in for your child is a small group classes. This may be the right study plan for your student if they've previously enjoyed learning in the traditional classroom learning environment. They'll get to learn from their instructor through a series of lessons that are delivered to them along with a small group of peers. This test preparation option combines the benefits of the traditional classroom learning environment with the convenience of online learning. Contact us today if you think this would be the right fit for your student.
Since your student's acceptance to a specific school can be decided by how well they do on the ISEE, they need to possess strong reading and math skills. If your student struggles with understanding those subjects, this is where an ISEE prep class comes in. In our ISEE classes, a tutor can use creative and fun methods to try to help your student comprehend a subject better. For example, if your student is at the primary level, a tutor can use objects like counters and play money to help them understand math concepts better. If you have an older student, a tutor can assist them with charts or textbooks.
Additionally, an ISEE course can help your student learn how to be more organized. Does your student struggle with studying because they have papers scattered everywhere? An ISEE course tutor can teach your student how to organize folders and notebooks neatly, so they can spend less time searching for papers and more time focusing on their work. An ISEE class can help your student with organization, a skill they can use throughout their education.
As test day approaches, there are various ways your student and a tutor can work together to prepare in an ISEE class. A tutor can review topics with your student by using flashcards or mnemonics. If your student feels a little afraid of the test, a tutor can try to ease their nerves with techniques like breathing exercises or mantras. A tutor can even issue a practice exam, which allows a student to time themselves. They can also help your student develop good study skills. It's important for young pupils to practice good study habits because they will need them if they decide to attend college.
Additionally, your student's test preparation instructor can help them develop better general test-taking skills. For instance, if your child has ever dealt with test anxiety in the past, then their educator can show them techniques they can use to overcome this anxiety while they're taking their upcoming ISEE test. Your child's teacher can also show them tips they can use to manage their time more effectively while taking comprehensive standardized tests like the ISEE. These are skills that your student will be able to utilize on their upcoming test as well as on any future exams they may take. Thus, your student can get a well-rounded learning process when they sign up for the test preparation plan of their choice. Instead of looking up "ISEE help near me" online, contact us today if you'd like to get your child started with an experienced educator.
ISEE Test Statistics
Students who take the ISEE earn a percentile rank for each section they complete. This percentile rank corresponds to their performance on the test as compared to the other students who are taking the same ISEE test level. For example, if you're student was better than 70% of the other ISEE test takers on a given test section, then they would score in the 70th percentile on that test section. This grading style allows private schools to not only get a raw score from the students that apply, but to also get a sense of how these students compare to one another academically.
The majority of students, about 54% depending on the year, end up placing between the 40th and 70th percentiles. Around 23% of students place within the 1st through 30th percentiles and the same percentage place between the 70th and 90th percentiles. If your child doesn't outperform the other students taking their ISEE level test, that's okay. They can still definitely be admitted into the private school of their choice. However, of course, earning a higher percentile score can be a big boost to their admissions chances. That's why ISEE prep courses can be such a huge addition to their study plan. You can easily sign up for the ISEE prep class that is the best fit for their needs by speaking with an educational director at Varsity Tutors today.
Getting Started
The Independent School Entrance Examination is an important standardized test that may influence the competitive private schools that your student is able to attend. That's why having a strong test preparation plan is so important. If you think your child would benefit from taking an ISEE prep class with Varsity Tutors, you don't need to spend time online looking up "ISEE tutoring near me". Instead, you can easily get them started with their own ideal study plan by contacting us today.
Our ISEE courses run on a flexible schedule, so they don't get in the way of your student's after-school activities or other obligations. In addition, we provide a Live Learning Platform for your student to speak with a tutor through a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This ensures that your child can get the test preparation assistance they need without forcing you or them to make too many scheduling sacrifices. You can easily get your child started with an expert educator without having to worry about how it will fit into both of your schedules. If you want to learn more about how ISEE prep classes can assist your student, please email or call Varsity Tutors today. Educational Directors are standing by to help you get started.
Rebecca: ISEE course instructor
...a minor in Religious Studies. I am currently pursuing a masters degree in social work at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration. I am passionate about tutoring because I want everyone to be able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +53 subjects
Samantha: ISEE course instructor
...in Political Science and Legal Studies this spring. In the fall, I will begin attending law school at Northwestern Law. For many years, I tutored a wide range of students in Spanish, English literature, and writing. I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +36 subjects
Connor: ISEE course instructor
...this premise. As an experienced tutor, I have continually enjoyed seeing my students achieve lofty goals under my instruction. I specialize in tutoring biology, chemistry, physics, and economics for high school students. In addition to this, I also tutor students in college level general chemistry, general biology, organic chemistry, introductory physics, economics and for the...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- STAAR
- +43 subjects
Kaan: ISEE course instructor
...interned at GE Energy Management during the Fall of 2014 and the Summer of 2015, which provided me with excellent communication, organiztion, and team-working skills. I was a peer tutor back in high school helping kids with any problem related to Math and science. After focusing on my own academic career in college, I came...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Current Undergrad, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +41 subjects
Ariela: ISEE course instructor
...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 of each...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Current Undergrad, Theater & Performance Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- +50 subjects
Kelsey: ISEE course instructor
...subjects through her vast tutoring and editing background; she had worked as a lead tutor at a math-focused center for students ages 5 to 18, had individually tutored numerous students on college entrance exam preparation, and has worked professionally as an editorial assistant for research institutions. Her personal goal is to help students build a...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- PSAT
- GED
- +79 subjects
Vivek: ISEE course instructor
...has been my passion from a young age. I like tutoring because I sincerely enjoy helping others and being able to impart my knowledge and experience. Along with being strong in my curricular classes, I have experience helping and tutoring younger students in various subjects and test prep. As a patient and encouraging teacher, I...
Education & Certification
- Austin College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- Advanced Placement
- +66 subjects
Joshua: ISEE course instructor
...writing is a hobby of mine. My philosophy is that even when we are preparing for a standardized exam, we should always be relating the work to your passions, pursuits, and educational goals to make the work that much more meaningful. In my spare time, you'll often find me learning bits of new languages for...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, French and Francophone Studies
- University of Pennsylvania - Master of Science, Social Policy
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- +92 subjects
Margarita: ISEE course instructor
...smoking cessation. I have also been tutoring students in a variety of subjects. I have been tutoring students since I was in 7th grade, and my favorite subject to tutor is math. My family is originally from Russia, and I grew up with a very strong and traditional math background. I always find teaching math...
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- SSAT
- +55 subjects
Jacob: ISEE course instructor
...tricky and decrease students' faith in themselves, I am certain that, with a little confidence boost, any student can make great strides with their coursework. As a teacher, I offer patience, humor, and brevity. I have enjoyed the time I've spent getting students to become engaged, excited, and proud of their knowledge. I look forward...
Education & Certification
- Wesleyan University - Bachelors, Music and Biology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- REGENTS
- SSAT
- +68 subjects
Daniel: ISEE course instructor
...high achiever throughout high school and college, I've always viewed education as one of our most valuable resources and am passionate about expanding the educational prospects of others. I have worked as a TA and recently spent a summer creating content for educational programs for disadvantaged populations. My priority as a tutor is truly meeting...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Sociology and Theatre
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +48 subjects
Erin: ISEE course instructor
...physics, math, and spanish. Outside of school I tutored several local students in middle school math. I also taught a class of first graders in my parish. I feel that the most important part of learning is understanding. Using my experiences as both a tutor and as a student, I work with students to help them...
Education & Certification
- New Jersey Institute of Technology - Bachelors, Architecture
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- HSPT
- +33 subjects
Jessica: ISEE course instructor
...tutored multiple children with learning disabilities. In my experience, getting students engaged is just about finding the strategy that works best for them. That may mean we have to try multiple approaches, or approaches that I don't prefer, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to achieve that incredible feeling with a student...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Current Undergrad Student, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- GED
- SAT
- +86 subjects
Thomas: ISEE course instructor
...of middle school students in Beijing, China. In the span of five weeks, I enjoyed a whirlwind introduction to the language (with daily class) and life in both heavily developed and poorer, migrant worker regions of the city. The educational norms and approaches are in many ways in sharp contrast to American tactics of education....
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelors, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SHSAT
- HSPT
- SSAT
- +53 subjects
Jacob: ISEE course instructor
...student's life at an especially fraught time. My student's and I work together to figure out what tools they need to succeed. Whether for standardized tests or academic subjects, I look forward to helping you or someone you care about reach their potential. For my own academic history, I scored in the 99th percentile on...
Education & Certification
- Wesleyan University - Bachelors, Government
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- +69 subjects
Jacob: ISEE course instructor
...kids as a way to give back to the community. I want to start as a teacher after graduation, get my master's degree, and move into education policy. I have known I wanted to be a teacher for a long time and cannot see a better way of fulfilling my desires than tutoring.
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor in Arts, History/Political Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- ACT with Writing
- CLEP
- +69 subjects
Rena: ISEE course instructor
...early age, I was the most ambitious student in my classes and always challenged myself past my comfort zones. In high school I took all honors and AP courses and graduated with a 4.0 GPA unweighted and a 4.97 GPA weighted considering those honors and AP classes. I am currently attending Rutgers University in New...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Current Undergrad, Urban Planning and Design
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- TACHS
- SHSAT
- SAT
- +30 subjects
Alexandra: ISEE course instructor
...Arts in Spanish as well as English with a concentration in Creative Writing. I was raised in an academically competitive environment in Fort Bend County and my rigorous secondary education prepared me for success in college. I am a fortunate member of the Terry Scholarship Foundation, which has provided me and hundreds of other Texans...
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- ACCUPLACER
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +308 subjects
Lena: ISEE course instructor
...satisfying to share my passion for learning with others. From 2011 through 2013, I tutored middle school students in the Oakland Public School system through the Partners Program. From 2014 to 2015, I was employed as a private tutor for students both in middle school and in high school. Over the last year I have...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Current Undergrad, Political Science and Environmental Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- PSAT
- +45 subjects