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.
Education & Certification
- mc master university - Bachelor of Science, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- UK GCSE
- CAHSEE
- UK A Level
- +62 subjects

Joseph: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...with the student and adapt to whatever their needs may be. I do believe that anyone has the potential to improve their abilities in math. Approach: Believing in my students Teaching at the student's level Encouraging my students Selfless flexibility Listening Education & Certification PhD in Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo Certificate in University Teaching,...
Education & Certification
- University of Waterloo - Doctor of Philosophy, Applied Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- HSPT
- ACCUPLACER
- +144 subjects

Hamorn: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...confidence and fluency through interactive activities, real-life practice, and clear explanations. Together, we'll focus on achieving your goals, whether they're passing exams, advancing your career, or simply communicating more effectively in English. I also bring a deep understanding of different cultures and languages, making me highly attuned to the unique challenges of learning English as...
Education & Certification
- The University of Melbourne - Bachelor, Teaching
- The University of Hong Kong - Master's/Graduate, Education
- Monash University - Master's/Graduate, Counselling
- McMaster University - Associate, Human Resources Management
- Queen's University - Master's/Graduate, Immigration and Citizenship Law
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- IELTS - International English Language Testing System
- Admissions
- Reading
- +60 subjects

Fardeen: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...a multi-subject tutor with about four years of experience, teaching all grade levels between kindergarten and professional. My primary tutoring focuses are Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics, however I teach various other subjects at the pre-university level. I deploy optimal, refined teaching methods to ensure that you or your child receives excellent results rapidly. I...
Education & Certification
- McMaster University - Bachelor, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- Eleven Plus Maths
- UK GCSE
- +100 subjects

Ardiana: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...are all math levels from grade 5 to 12. All students of these categories are welcomed. If you are a College/University student who wants to refresh your high school math knowledge and skills, I would be more than happy to work with you but please do not expect me to do your assignments for you.
Education & Certification
- University of Tirana - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- Southern California University of Health Sciences - Master of Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- Technology and Coding
- Test Prep
- +54 subjects

Charitha: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...I have experience mentoring first-year college students and middle schoolers aand have loved collaborating with both groups. I tutor English with a special love for essay writing and editing. I believe proper communication is the answer to successful problem solving, so I like to have a quick and necessary conversation with the people I'm tutoring...
Education & Certification
- Sheridan College - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- HSPT
- EQAO
- +16 subjects

Neel: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...Statistics. My approach is tailored and student-centered, focusing on making complex concepts accessible and engaging. I am passionate about fostering a supportive learning environment where students feel confident in their abilities. My previous roles, including tutoring elementary to high school students and serving as a Teaching Assistant, have equipped me with the skills to connect...
Education & Certification
- Gujarat Technological University - Bachelor, Mechanical Engineering
- University of Waterloo - Master's/Graduate, Data Analytics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CELPIP
- SAT
- ACT
- +54 subjects

Jaskaran: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...enhance problem-solving skills. My aim is to not only prepare students for tests but also to instill in them a lasting appreciation for learning, empowering them to realize their full potential. Beyond academia, I find joy in basketball and sketching, activities that provide both balance and inspiration to my life. By sharing my knowledge and...
Education & Certification
- University of Windsor - Master's/Graduate, Computer science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Eleven Plus Maths
- +36 subjects

Kelsey: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...she developed during her formative elementary and high school years, and she believes that all students (regardless of their field of focus) need to build a solid foundation in writing, reading comprehension, grammatical and syntactical knowledge, and time management techniques. Kelsey has experience working with students of all ages and a wide range of subjects...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +79 subjects

Samantha: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...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 I...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SSAT
- SAT
- +36 subjects

Brianna: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...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 making...
Education & Certification
- University of Richmond - Current Undergrad, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- ACT and SAT All-In-One Classes
- +217 subjects

Ariela: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...become comprehensible to someone who may not understand them the first time around. It is not just my success at standardized tests or in my classes that will make me a great tutor, but also this skill and enthusiasm about learning. I understand that sometimes, the way you package and organize information is the most...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Current Undergrad, Theater & Performance Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- SAT
- PSAT
- +50 subjects

Erica: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...Students, parents, supervisors, and colleagues have described me as efficient, extremely patient, creative, and caring. I am certified to tutor in a variety of subjects and consider the following areas to be my specialties: *Standardized tests, such as the ISEE, SSAT, and AP examinations *Students who demonstrate challenging behaviors *Long-term tutoring in math and reading--I...
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelor in Arts, English; Latin Language and Literature
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- HSPT
- +77 subjects

Connor: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...students in college level general chemistry, general biology, organic chemistry, introductory physics, economics and for the MCAT exam. I excelled in undergraduate coursework pertaining to these subjects and have prior experience in assisting pre-professional (pre-medical and pre-nursing) students looking to succeed in their required general science classes. My tutoring methodology is dependent on the establishment...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- STAAR
- +43 subjects

Cynthia: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...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 would...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Neuroscience
- Johns Hopkins University - PHD, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +72 subjects

Vivek: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...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 am adept at helping others reach their educational goals.... My teaching philosophy is "work hard, play hard." It may sound childish, but I believe the brain requires balance in everything, including activities. With a strong work ethic, along with support and freedom, the tutor and student will go far.
Education & Certification
- Austin College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +66 subjects

Margarita: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...I grew up with a very strong and traditional math background. I always find teaching math to students to be gratifying, and I hope to share some of my love for math with my students. I also enjoy tutoring test prep, especially since I know how stressful the process of applying to colleges (and later...
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +55 subjects

Kaley: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...I look for ways to 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...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, Education and Public Policy
- Harvard Graduate School of Education - Masters, Human Development and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT
- ACT
- +35 subjects

Amanda: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...through my involvement as a campus tour guide, writing tutor, sexual assault counselor, and Greek life leader. I love traveling and have visited over 25 different countries and am particularly interested in the ways that writing and culture have symbiotically shaped human history. As a college graduate and an alumna of a Seattle private school,...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- HSPT
- SAT
- +37 subjects

Caroline: Waterloo ISEE course instructor
...the classroom. My approach? I have recently completed my Masters in English Education and understand that students of all ages struggle with material at some point in their academic careers. I believe we learn best from teachers we feel genuinely care about us and our success. As a high school ELA and Environmental Science teacher,...
Education & Certification
- College of the Holy Cross - Bachelor in Arts, English Literature
- SUNY College at Buffalo - Masters, English Education 7-12
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- GED
- TOEFL
- +92 subjects