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.

Jeffrey: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...a tutor, I believe that test preparation is a solvable problem, and I am excited about using my solutions to help students achieve their goals. Preparing for a standardized test can feel overwhelming. But you really can be prepared. Careful, concept-oriented preparation can help ensure that students don't run into anything radically new on exam...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- HSPT
- SSAT
- +34 subjects

Amanda: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...passionate about food and the outdoors. I value education, efficiency, wit, kindness, and the Oxford comma, and am constantly searching for new challenges and opportunities. I enjoy tutoring because it gives me a chance to develop a relationship with a student where we can work together to accomplish his/her/their goals. I love getting to know...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +37 subjects

Carolyn: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
I have been working with children in schools, daycares, summer programs, and afterschool programs for 13 years. I hope to use my diverse experiences to foster communities of joyful and eager learners.... I believe that each student travels on their own unique path to knowledge. I believe that a teacher is a guide along these paths, walking alongside each student, supporting them where they struggle and guiding them when there is a fork in the road.
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and Child Study/German Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Math
- Test Prep
- +45 subjects

Nikki: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...Nye show. I majored in Neuroscience and Behavior in college, so I learned a lot about Biology and Psychology, and I plan on getting a Master's in Bioengineering. I spent two years serving with the Peace Corps in Peru, where I learned to speak Spanish, build stoves out of adobe, and a lot about life...
Education & Certification
- Vassar College - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience and Behavior
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT
- HSPT
- +46 subjects

Philip: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...Math of all levels up to Pre-Calculus, as well as SAT (both Math and Verbal), Language skills, and History/Government. Having taught at both a small private school and large urban public schools, I have broad experience with different learning styles, backgrounds, and abilities. I find it highly rewarding to help students and guide their progress...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor in Arts, History
- University of Oregon - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT
- SSAT
- +34 subjects

Maureen: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...work with middle school and high school students specializing in all areas of Language Arts: narrative, expository, creative, and analytical writing, including grammar. I also tutor high school seniors with college applications and essays. I have a broad base of knowledge in American Literature and the Arts, I am a published writer and watercolor artist,...
Education & Certification
- New Paltz State Teachers College - Bachelors, Sciences
- Psychiatric Institute of New York - Current Grad Student, Registered Professional Nurse
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +46 subjects

Aaron : Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...and I have some math background as part of my Economics coursework. As an undergraduate, I was a Philosophy major and an Economics minor. I think both disciplines are incredibly important and each has provided me with valuable skillsPhilosophy has taught me how to write well and identify arguments, while Economics has taught me how...
Education & Certification
- Lewis & Clark College - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- HSPT
- High School English
- +27 subjects

Thomas: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...know how to help my students make the most of it. I listen carefully to my students' concerns and tailor my approach to each individual. I respect my students' time and only ask that they do the same for me. If that happens on both ends, we should get along fine. I look forward to...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CogAT
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- +79 subjects

Courtney: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...other sciences. I also have spent the past few summers tutoring students in Reading and Writing and am able to help with everything from college essays and writing assignments to skills for standardized tests. I'm happy to work with a range of ages and will do my best to help make sessions as useful as...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor of Science, Medical Anthropology and Global Health
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- SAT
- PSAT
- +86 subjects

Christine: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...hard to get me to stop!) Outside of biology, I likes to make things. My hobbies include crochet, dressmaking, and chocolatiering, though I have my eye on taking up welding as well. I also boulder, do yoga, and have recently taken up aerial silks. In cold weather, I like to curl up inside with a...
Education & Certification
- Macalester College - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - PHD, Microbiology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +51 subjects

Steven: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...towards a National Board Certification. My passion lies in building foundations for students, regardless of their station of understanding, so that they have the confidence and drive to accelerate their achievement. Every child deserves access to an equitable education and as an educator, I strive to provide quality support to every student. Above all, learning...
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- Literature
- +16 subjects

Graham: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...because of the combination of test-taking strategies, practice with challenging vocabulary and grammatical rules, and textual analysis that the subject demands. My tutoring style is rigorous and focused, but I often make use of illustration and contemporary examples to illuminate concepts and make them memorable for the students I work with. Outside of teaching, I...
Education & Certification
- Lake Superior State University - Bachelor in Arts, English Language and Literature
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ASPIRE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +70 subjects

Michael: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an English as a Second Language Endorsement and Middle School Endorsement. I love working with children one on one and seeing their growth academically and confidence rise. As a teacher I often times worked in PTA run programs like Homework Help Club, Math Team, and Student Council.... My teaching philosophy is to approach students at their learning styles and abilities. If they are not understanding the concepts or task, it must be presented in a way that they can be successful.
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Olivet Nazarene University - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary School Reading
- ISEE- Middle Level
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- +10 subjects

Marissa: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...and assisted in ten hours of ESL classes. I am especially interested in working with students who are studying ESL. A fierce passion of mine is the pursuit of knowledge, and the availability of education for all people, regardless of language barrier, background, or social class. In my spare time, I enjoy watching independent and...
Education & Certification
- Western Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- GED
- ACCUPLACER Sentence Skills
- +44 subjects

Sheila: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
I'm a former teacher, and I really miss the interaction with students. I love to help others figure out how best to learn, and I love watching students' faces light up when "they get it!" So if you would like to work with a personal cheer squad, I'm it!
Education & Certification
- Gonzaga University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of Notre Dame - Master of Arts, Theology
- Seattle University - Master of Arts, Pastoral Counseling
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- UK A Level
- High School Writing
- English
- +26 subjects

Annette: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...completed and published. I have had poetry, prose and articles in local magazines and newspapers. Both my BA and MFA degrees from the University of Washington and the University of California, Irvine respectively are in creative writing, so that is my specialty. However, I can help with any type of writing. Most of the writing...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of California - Irvine - Master of Fine Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- College English
- ISEE- Middle Level
- College Essays
- +19 subjects

Carlie: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...needs. I pride myself in being a patient, kind, and outgoing person. Outside of work and school, I love to snowboard, backpack, travel, and cook. As an undergraduate student, I rowed for the University of Washington Varsity Women's Crew where I earned a PAC-10 Championship, 4th at NCAAs, and the award of PAC-10 All-American.
Education & Certification
- University of Washington - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- Reading
- +44 subjects

Laura: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...English as a Second Language), from Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. Since completing my degree in 1997, I have taught English Composition, Developmental Writing, and Reading Comprehension for both native and non-native English speakers at various community colleges in California, Illinois and Washington. I also have extensive experience working with Japanese students as I...
Education & Certification
- California State University-Sacramento - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- Humboldt State University - Master of Arts, English Composition
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- HSPT
- GED
- +39 subjects

Rachel: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...Master of Business Administration. Throughout college, I tutored elementary and middle school students during the school day and at an after school community literacy program. After finishing school, I completed a year of service with City Year Seattle (an AmeriCorps program). During this year, I worked as a tutor, mentor, and classroom assistant at Concord...
Education & Certification
- Willamette University - Bachelors, International Studies
- Willamette University - Masters, Business Administration (MBA)
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +27 subjects

Yuna: Federal Way ISEE course instructor
...position at PUEO to work as a teaching assistant. Since then, I've taught English, Film, and Magic to rising middle schoolers every summer, and I loved every minute of it! I've also served as an administrative assistant and part time tutor at a tutoring company for two years, aiding students from 4 to 17 in...
Education & Certification
- University of Hawaii at Manoa - Bachelors, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +48 subjects