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.

Yongmao: ISEE course instructor
...Professionals, at the college level. Throughout my graduate studies, and most recently teaching Chemistry courses at The University of Tampa and Hillsborough Community College, I have gained valuable experience teaching college chemistry lectures, recitations and laboratories. Always, I try my best to get the point of each class across, properly explain the course materials and...
Education & Certification
- Nankai University - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- Washington University in St Louis - Doctor of Philosophy, Organic Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- UK GCSE
- GED
- HSPT
- +179 subjects

Jessica: ISEE course instructor
...a certified writing tutor through the Critical Writing Department. Since I completed my writing requirement at the University prior to matriculating, I was the first freshman tutor to be accepted into this selective program. The tutoring program involved a preliminary peer-tutor training course prior to beginning tutoring, in order to certify that I had the...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, History
- Nova Southeastern University - PHD, Medicine
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SSAT
- SAT
- +81 subjects

Kelsey: ISEE course instructor
...Subjects, she earned a Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Food Science at Montclair State University before going on to study her Master's of Business & Science in Analytics at Rutgers University. As a lifelong student, she loves tutoring to help others feel passionate about their own educational paths. Kelsey still attributes her academic...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- GED
- ACT
- +79 subjects

Jonathan: ISEE course instructor
...am happy to tutor on any range of subjects in higher education, including all assessment tests and most business school and MBA subjects. As Managing Partner of NashwellCo.work and Managing Director of Linebrand.us, my active roles as a business leader and entrepreneur in the communities of Lubbock, Texas, Durham, NC, and Sydney, Australia are additional...
Education & Certification
- Duke University - Bachelor in Arts, Design and Visual Communications
- Australian School of Business - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Texas Tech University - Doctor of Philosophy, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CSAP/ TCAP
- PSAT
- WISC IV
- +318 subjects

Ann: ISEE course instructor
...am passionate about helping students of all ages learn challenging content. I am a National Board Certified teacher with more than 20 years of state certified classroom teaching experience. I have expertise working with elementary students as well as supporting the professional growth of aspiring teachers. I am patient and encouraging and can help students...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Riverside - Bachelor in Arts, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of California-Los Angeles - Masters in Education, Education
- Pepperdine University - Master of Science, Educational Administration
- Harvard University - Masters in Education, Education Policy Analysis
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Harvard University - Doctor of Education, Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +38 subjects

Peter: ISEE course instructor
...have a doctorate from Yale University and am an active musician, teacher, and writer. My professional experience includes: private tuition, tutoring, schoolteaching, and university lectures. I believe teaching can be both creative and effective, which I achieve by applying personally tailored lessons, varied approaches, and professional methods. My teaching aims to meet the individual needs...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Stonybrook - Bachelors, Music
- Yale University - PHD, Music
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- REGENTS
- HSPT
- +80 subjects

Brianna: ISEE course instructor
...worked with kids of all ages, ranging from elementary school to college students through various subjects. I have also worked extensively with special needs children, doing everything from teaching special education to one-on-one in-home mentoring. Through my experiences, I have continued to carry my passion for working with children and have developed my skills in...
Education & Certification
- University of Richmond - Current Undergrad, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT 4-Week Prep Class
- ACT 4-Week Prep Class
- ASPIRE
- +217 subjects

Rebecca: ISEE course instructor
...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 just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT
- ACT
- +53 subjects

Madera: ISEE course instructor
...Drew University in Madison NJ. It is awesome to work with students who are committed to success but I also like to assist with students who might have veered off path and are working to better themselves academically. Let's get some work done. It would be a pleasure to work with you and support you...
Education & Certification
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Bachelor in Arts, Music History, Literature, and Theory
- Drew University - Doctor of Philosophy, U.S. History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +55 subjects

James E: ISEE course instructor
...consultant, college professor at three separate colleges including the University of Phoenix, American Intercontinental University, and Axia College, business owner, management consultant, blogger, and now an active tutor. These experiences have given me distinguished experience to guide students of any age. When starting any tutoring session, my goals for each student at the outset are...
Education & Certification
- Washington and Lee University - Bachelor in Arts, United States Government and Politics
- Washington and Lee University - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- GED
- +97 subjects

Cynthia: ISEE course instructor
...at Johns Hopkins. I have been tutoring high school students outside of class in college and involved in STEM academics and research mentorship as well as a translation program from and to English outside of class. I speak Japanese and French, and I have taken the PSATs, SATs, 10 APs, and the GREs successfully. I...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Neuroscience
- Johns Hopkins University - PHD, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +72 subjects

Kaley: ISEE course instructor
...make learning fun and rewarding. I especially love teaching reading and writing and I have taught or tutored these subjects to students ranging from kindergarten through adults. I also have experience tutoring test prep subjects and focus both on the content material and test taking skills. My passion is psychology and I have been able...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, Education and Public Policy
- Harvard Graduate School of Education - Masters, Human Development and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SSAT
- PSAT
- +35 subjects

Gregory: ISEE course instructor
...(DuBois, PA) with no AP classes as well as no Honors classes. I was projected that engineering would be too difficult for me and that I should pursue something less rigorous. I ended up graduating with a Honors degree in chemical engineering and a minor in mathematics from the Pennsylvania State University. I then received...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering
- Carnegie Mellon University - Doctor of Philosophy, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT 4-Week Prep Class
- PSAT
- +326 subjects

Vivek: ISEE course instructor
...am a current sophomore at Austin College. I am a biology major and neuroscience minor. Science 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...
Education & Certification
- Austin College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- +66 subjects

Samantha: ISEE course instructor
...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 of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their reading and writing skills, and...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SSAT
- SAT
- +36 subjects

Wendy: ISEE course instructor
...Religion in San Diego, California. I tutor most subjects in psychology and sociology; specializing in essay and thesis editing. I love to tutor literature, writing, religion, culture, anything in the arts or humanities. I work well with students in the medical field and can tutor for qualifying exams IELTS, GRE Psychology, MCAT Psychology, EPPP. I...
Education & Certification
- Hofstra University - Bachelor in Arts, Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Hofstra University - Master of Arts, Clinical Psychology
- University of Southern California - Doctor of Philosophy, Applied Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- TACHS
- UK A Level
- ACT
- +273 subjects

Margarita: ISEE course instructor
...been working part-time in a dermatologist office as a Medical Assistant and part-time on a public health project related to 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...
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- ACT
- SSAT
- +55 subjects

Connor: ISEE course instructor
...student possesses the ability to grasp even the most complex of topics, and I have built my tutoring career on 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...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- STAAR
- HSPT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +43 subjects

Jacob: ISEE course instructor
...Even though I am a freshman, I am taking many upper level classes and love exploring my passion for history. In high school, I was both a tutor for kids at my local middle school as well as a private tutor and tutored in subject from Physics, AB Calculus, and AP World History. I also...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor in Arts, History/Political Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT with Writing
- HSPT
- CLEP
- +69 subjects

Alana: ISEE course instructor
...I have tutored various subjects including biology, math, Spanish, and English. In college, I was accepted into the Mentoring and Student Teaching Program for underserved children in Philadelphia. I served as a science and english tutor for three years, while tutoring my peers in Spanish and Biology as well. Having taken the MCAT and excelled...
Education & Certification
- Haverford College - Bachelor of Science, Cellular and Molecular Biology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +56 subjects