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.

Alex: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...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 me running with...
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
- SSAT
- ACT
- +88 subjects

Katie: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...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 am excited to...
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
- PSAT
- GED
- SSAT
- +40 subjects

Brian: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...to my hometown of Chicago to get my Masters at Illinois Institute of Technology. I studied Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Thermal Science and Fluid Mechanics. I have a strong passion for the academic realm and believe only through a strong background in theory can you develop an excellent practical engineering ability....
Education & Certification
- Marquette University - Bachelor of Science, Physics
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Master of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Astronomy
- +45 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
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +33 subjects

Shea: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...learning.??? ??? Robert John Meehan. This quote 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,...
Education & Certification
- Western Illinois University - Bachelors, Computer Science
- National-Louis University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Writing
- English
- +14 subjects

Soung: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...challenges. I make all levels of math understandable and foster confidence in the student. I'm also expert in SAT/ACT test preparation and high school admission tests. I have a BA in Chemistry from The University of Chicago and a PhD from Northwestern University. I'm a former research scientist. I enjoy tutoring and have the gift...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry
- Northwestern University - Doctor of Science, Molecular Pharmacology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT 8-Week Prep Class
- MAP
- +42 subjects

Adrianna: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...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 and friends (Go...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology and Policy Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ASPIRE
- HSPT
- PARCC
- +74 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
- ACT
- CogAT
- CAHSEE
- +53 subjects

Gregory: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
empty... Relaxed and accommodating, but direct and impact-driven.... Get to know their background and the best way they retain information.... Provide self-prep materials, and evaluate their performance.... Show impact of results and progress.... Find alternative approaches, and practice.... Help them practice reading and understand main concepts.... Give them effective instruction, but also time.... Provide fun examples or real-life applications.
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelors, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- HSPT
- +38 subjects

Kim: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...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 of my tutoring...
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
- High School Business
- Middle School Math
- +21 subjects

Felipe: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...in New Jersey and New York. In 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...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Comparative Literature
- CUNY Graduate School of Journalism - Masters, Business Journalism
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- High School English
- Reading
- College Essays
- +8 subjects

Grace: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...issue of the Madison Journal of Literary Criticism! Grace loves working with young people and has been teaching drama and tutoring students in writing and test prep for the past five years. In college, one of her favorite activities was volunteering as a teaching artist with Seesaw Theatre, a company she helped found that creates...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, English Literature & Theatre
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- PSAT
- +39 subjects

Nora: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...horror movies. My tutoring style is very personalized, and I love finding creative ways to motivate and help my students really understand their work. It is very important to me that I give my students a solid foundation, background information, and customized techniques to make their learning as exciting and efficient as possible. I look...
Education & Certification
- School of the Art Institute of Chicago - Current Undergrad, Fashion Design
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +29 subjects

Terence: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...and often unique way that they learn. Finding that method is what I try to determine so I can help them improve whatever subject they have difficulty with. I love to read myself and read the classics, mystery, action novels and because I do like history, I have read many biographies on American figures and...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
- Northeastern Illinois University - Master of Arts, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ISAT
- SSAT
- Elementary School Reading
- +26 subjects

Sarah: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...and those well into adulthood. For those of you based in the Chicagoland area, I am an experienced Test Prep tutor who has successfully helped several students gain admittance to selective enrollment high schools and highly competitive universities such as the University of Michigan, Georgetown University, Northwestern and the University of Chicago. (I'm also an...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelors, Psychology
- Providence College - Masters, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PARCC
- ASPIRE
- ACT
- +48 subjects

Lisa: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Biology and Writing. Also, I have helped prepare many students for standardized exams such as the PSAT, SAT and ACT, and enjoy making the best of the experience. I was a National Merit Finalist for the PSAT. I am a firm proponent of peer-to-peer...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- +49 subjects

Sarah: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...and a minor in general business. I have taught eight grade, fourth grade, kindergarten and pre-school. My favorite part about teaching is watching those "aha" moments as students grasp a new or difficult concept for the first time. I enjoy working with students one-on-one to find what works best for each student to help them...
Education & Certification
- Drake University - Bachelors, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- Adult ESL/ELL
- +26 subjects

Najla: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...I am also a published writer, with essays and articles appearing in Foreign Policy Magazine, the Oxford Encyclopedia, and other publications. In addition, I worked for two years as a foreign language instructor at the University of Washington, conducting my own class of undergraduate and graduate students, while completing my Masters Degree there. Most recently,...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- University of Washington , Columbia University - PHD, History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- CLEP
- PSAT
- +108 subjects

Carol: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
...I am especially good at teaching math and science to middle school students. I am also good at teaching algebra skills. I am able to tutor students from preschool through 9th grade and through 12th grade in math. I have an elementary education degree and a teaching minor in math. I am currently teaching high...
Education & Certification
- Valparaiso University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Test Prep
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +24 subjects

Max: Chicago ISEE test prep instructor
Teaching, for me, represents the chance to help students and peers find their way to new understandings. This might be as simple as a better way to find "x" or as complex as the next great thesis on Shakespeare. In the end, it's all about finding the heat in whatever subject is being explored.
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Theatre
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +48 subjects