If your student is thinking about attending a certain private or independent school, then they can use some assistance with a Varsity Tutors ISEE preparation service. You may already know how effective ISEE test prep can be if you've ever looked up "ISEE help near me" online. The Independent School Entrance Exam, or ISEE, is a test independent and private schools use to see if prospective students can handle their rigorous coursework. Do you feel that your student can benefit from ISEE tutoring? Then please reach out to us to learn more about our ISEE test preparation services.
Why Take the ISEE Exam?
The Independent School Entrance Examination is commonly taken by elementary, middle, and high school students who are applying to competitive private schools. The point of the exam is to give these schools a chance to assess the academic skill sets of the students who are applying there. Earning a strong ISEE score could make your child a more attractive candidate for admission at the school they're most interested in attending. That's why having a strong ISEE test prep plan is important in the lead up to your student's upcoming exam. If you'd like to get your student some extra help with their study plan, you don't need to look up "ISEE tutoring near me" online. Instead, you can easily get started with your child's own ideal ISEE test prep plan by contacting Varsity Tutors today.
ISEE Exam Eligibility Requirements
There are few requirements that your student must satisfy before they can sign up to take the ISEE. It is, however, important that you register them for their test day early because they can fill up quickly. Getting your student signed up for their preferred exam day early can give you the peace of mind that they're on track to take their test by the time it's required to complete the admissions process at the private school they're applying to.
You can easily sign your child up to take the ISEE by visiting the Educational Records Bureau's registration web page. When you're doing this, make sure that you're signing your student up for the correct exam level. Doing this will avoid any delays associated with having to change the test your student is signed up to take at the last minute.
The ISEE is an easy exam to sign up for because of its lack of restrictive eligibility requirements. Outside of the considerations listed above, you should have no problem signing your student up to take the ISEE test they need in order to complete their private school application process. If you'd like help with the test registration process or want to learn more about ISEE requirements, consider reaching out to Varsity Tutors today.
Breaking Down the ISEE Exam
The ISEE exam has four levels: primary level (2nd-4th grade), lower level (5th-6th grade), middle level (7th-8th grade), and upper level (9th-12th grade). Each level comes with tests with multiple-choice questions that cover mathematics and reading topics, plus a writing prompt. (Students taking the primary level exam have to do a picture prompt instead of a writing prompt.) If your student is entering the 5th or 6th grade, here are some specific topics they need to know when taking the ISEE Lower Level exam:
- Vocabulary
- Sentence completion
- Quantitative word problems
- Identifying the main idea of a reading passage
- Drawing conclusions from a reading passage
- Numbers and operations
- Geometry
- Algebra
Is your student applying to a private or independent high school? Below are the details of the ISEE Upper Level exam:
ISEE Upper 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 |
Whether your student needs to take the lower, middle, or upper level ISEE exam, they'll be asked to complete the same five test sections that are listed in the above table. However, the content of these sections may vary depending on your student's test level. Below, you'll find a brief look at what your student can expect to find in each of these test sections.
The first section of the ISEE exam, Verbal Reasoning, consists primarily of vocabulary questions. Thus, your student will need to have a strong understanding of vocabulary in order to do well on this part of the test. ISEE test prep assistance from Varsity Tutors can help your student build up their vocabulary if they could use some help with it.
The next exam section is called Quantitative Reasoning. This section consists mostly of math word problems. Again, signing up for ISEE test prep help from Varsity Tutors is a great way to get your student help with developing this skill set. Third, your student will also be asked to complete a Reading Comprehension test section. Here, they'll be asked to read complex passages and then demonstrate their understanding of those reading passages by answering a series of multiple-choice questions about the passages. The fourth and final multiple-choice section covers the topic of Math Achievement. This section will ask your student to solve math problems based on mathematics topics they would've learned about at their grade level.
Finally, your student will also be asked to complete an Essay while taking their ISEE exam. This test section, however, is not graded. Instead, your student's essay will be sent to the admissions directors at the schools they apply to. A strong ISEE essay is a great chance for your child to show off their writing abilities. It could influence the admission committee's final decision on your student's application as well. If your student could use some help with their writing skills, then ISEE test prep may be a good option.
As detailed above, the ISEE is a wide-ranging, comprehensive standardized exam. Even if your child already excels in most of the topics they'll be tested on, it can be very beneficial to have a refresher before utilizing their academic skill set on this important test. If you think your child would benefit from working with an ISEE test prep expert, then you don't need to search online for "ISEE test prep near me". Instead, consider reaching out to Varsity Tutors today. You can learn more about the various ISEE test prep options that you can choose from in the following section.
Varsity Tutors Can Help Your Student Study
You have a few different ISEE prep options to consider when deciding which one you'd like your child to pursue. The ISEE courses that you ultimately sign them up for should reflect their learning style and academic needs. You can get an in-depth look at each ISEE prep option by continuing to read below, or by speaking with an educational director today.
The first ISEE prep option you may be interested in for your child is private ISEE tutoring. Signing up for ISEE tutoring may be the right option for your student if they've previously done well when working directly with their educator. ISEE tutors offer the chance to get personalized feedback throughout the entire ISEE preparation process. Your student's ISEE tutors can set them up with a customized ISEE preparation plan that takes their specific needs into account. Your child will be able to work through each of these ISEE prep sessions at their own speed, stopping to get additional guidance from their ISEE prep instructor whenever they need it.
In our ISEE classes, your student receives one-on-one attention with an instructor who's an expert in their field. These ISEE tutors are knowledgeable in reading and math topics, so your student can ask them for assistance on anything that's troubling them. The personalization that your student will receive through their ISEE prep process could help them to create a more efficient ISEE test preparation plan.
What's great about our ISEE courses is that they assist gifted students. Maybe your student is studying for an ISEE Middle Level Exam, even though they're younger than the average junior high pupil. These ISEE class instructors are more than happy to nurture bright minds by helping them study challenging material. Does your student struggle with staying on task? In an ISEE course, a tutor can try to assist them with focusing on their studies by giving them handy time management advice. A tutor can also customize an ISEE prep session to suit your student's personal learning style. Pupils in our ISEE test prep programs can request a tutor to read a passage aloud or use slides if they feel it helps them absorb information better. We love the fact that our ISEE prep services can assist young students in several ways.
Another ISEE prep option you may want to consider is signing your student up for a small group-based ISEE class. This ISEE prep resource gives your child the chance to learn from an expert educator alongside a small group of peers. Taking an ISEE class may be right for your student if they've previously found success in the traditional classroom learning environment. In fact, ISEE classes combine the best of two different worlds. Your student will get all of the benefits of traditional ISEE classes with the convenience of online learning when they sign up to take a group ISEE course.
In fact, each of our ISEE test preparation options are flexible. We make every effort to connect you with an educator who is able to work around your child's schedule. This ensures that they can get the help they need preparing for their upcoming exam without having to worry about making any sacrifices in the other important parts of their lives. You can even sign your student up for an ISEE course that fits neatly into your own schedule.
Scoring the Independent School Entrance Examination
The ISEE has a percentile-based scoring system. This means that your student will earn both a raw score and a percentile rank for each test section they complete. For instance, if your child's raw score in their Math Achievement section was better than 80% of the other students who took the same level ISEE exam, they would earn an 80th percentile ranking for that section. This grading style was designed to give admissions committees a chance to see how the students who apply to their school compare to one another.
The majority, about 54%, of students who take the ISEE end up earning a percentile score somewhere between the 40th and 70th percentiles. Comparatively, about 23% of students score between the 1st and 30th percentiles. The same number, 23%, also score between the 70th and 90th percentiles. Taking ISEE courses can help your student develop the skills they need to be more confident while taking each part of the ISEE. If you think your student would benefit from ISEE courses, then consider contacting us today.
Getting Started
Like any standardized exam, taking the ISEE can be a challenging thing to do. However, your student doesn't have to go through the test preparation process alone. Instead, why not let Varsity Tutors help them get more out of their study sessions with the test preparation plan of their choice? We'd love to use our expertise in the test preparation industry to help your student feel more confident on the day of their exam.
If your student is approaching high school and wants to review anything for test, an ISEE test prep tutor is at their side to help them study. Your student can time themselves with a practice writing prompt or have an instructor drill them on math problems. Rather than spending time online looking up "ISEE help near me", you can easily get your child started with their own ideal test preparation plan by connecting with Varsity Tutors today.
Whatever the age of your student, the lessons they may learn in an ISEE prep program won't just help them now; they could benefit them greatly in the future, especially if they want to pursue higher education. Our ISEE test prep programs are all online, so your student doesn't need to leave home to engage in lessons. To get more information about our ISEE prep services, please contact Varsity Tutors today. Representatives are standing by to assist you in signing your student up for an ISEE test prep program.

Ellis: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...the law. I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Law School (widely recognized as one of the premier law schools in the United States) and a former practicing attorney and law professor. I have helped students to prepare for the LSAT and to draft the Personal Statement required by law schools. I was...
Education & Certification
- Trinity College Hartford CT - Bachelors, Modern Languages
- University of Pennsylvania School of Law - PHD, Law
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CLEP
- SAT
- TACHS
- +118 subjects

Max: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...the entire world with the Yale Whiffenpoofs, America's oldest collegiate a cappella singing group. Apart from singing, I'm is passionate about education, particularly in helping high school students achieve their academic goals as they work their way towards college. I volunteer in New Haven as a math teacher and coach at a public middle school...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- +104 subjects

Kayla: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...at an elementary school, as well as a tutor. I earned a Bachelors in Science in Elementary Education. I am certified to teach kindergarten through sixth grade. I have my Masters in Teaching and Learning in Technology. I believe all students can learn. A tutor’s job is to use the student’s strengths as a leaner,...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelors, Elementary education
- Western Governors University - Masters, Teaching and learning with technology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- High School English
- College English
- +10 subjects

David: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...student -- lots of feedback and one-to-one attention, not so much lecture. I've been working in education for nearly 10 years, as a tutor, classroom teacher (I am certified in Math 7-12 in Connecticut), and developer of teaching materials. My most recent gigs have been hourly / independent contractor / free-lance, which I haven't put...
Education & Certification
- Union College - Bachelors, Computer Science
- Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion-New York - Masters, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- ACT
- SSAT
- +45 subjects
Education & Certification
- Bay Path College - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- Bay Path College - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- TOEFL
- CLEP
- +31 subjects

Keisha: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...Aunt who is a teacher in Florida. It was through her Aunt's influence Keisha discovered she wanted to be a teacher. In 2004, she went to Sacred Heart University and graduated with a Bachelors in Sociology. Keisha's extracurricular activities during college focused on working with students in urban areas where she tutored and mentored. After...
Education & Certification
- Sacred Heart University - Bachelors, Sociology
- Cambridge College - Masters, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Study Skills
- Test Prep
- +21 subjects

Midori: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...more than 20 years, especially, I teach a full range of mathematics (Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus 1 & 2, Multivariable Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, and high school Statistics). Also, I am available to teach high school Chemistry and Organic Chemistry. I have lots of passion to help students learning in...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor in Arts, Applied Mathematics
- University of Southern California - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- SAT Subject Tests
- CLEP
- +75 subjects

Eric: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
I have a deep commitment to education and exploring our world. I have studied at an intense conservatory for music as well at the esteemed Yale University. With a passion for a broad variety of subjects, I hope we can walk together on the journey of education.
Education & Certification
- The New England Conservatory of Music - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Music Performance
- Yale University School of Music - Master of Fine Arts, Music Performance
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- ACT
- PSAT
- +74 subjects

Katie : Portland ISEE test prep instructor
I graduated from the University of Connecticut with degrees in both Accounting and English. I worked as an accountant for a year before I went back to school to earn my Masters in Education. I currently teach high school English and Theater. As a tutor, I use modeling and mini-lessons to help my students reach...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, English and Accounting
- University of Connecticut - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SSAT
- SAT
- +18 subjects

Riya: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...program at Relay Graduate School for Education in New Haven, CT. I am originally from New Jersey, and have been living in Connecticut for a year now; so far I love it here! I enjoy working with student's from all backgrounds and all ages. My favorite age group(s) to work with are grades seven through...
Education & Certification
- Montclair State University - Bachelor of Education, English
- Relay Graduate School of Education - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +182 subjects

Spencer: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...a closer understanding of truth within every facet of classical education. This truth arises via the cultivation of keener abilities of judgment and analysis, within the mind of the pupil. The student is encouraged through an array of pedagogical techniques, with a resilient focus toward understanding the character and mindset of each learner. The classroom...
Education & Certification
- California Baptist University - Bachelors, Philosophy
- St. John's College - Masters, Liberal Arts
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Comparative Literature
- English
- College World History
- +20 subjects

Sanaea: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. I recently graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with my Master's degree in biology and Bachelor's degree in biology. I am really passionate about helping students get excited about the subjects they are learning and inculcating strong study habits at a young age. I have always enjoyed being involved...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- College Biology
- Psychology
- Elementary School Reading
- +32 subjects

Nancy: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...the ISEE. My students have ranged in age from preschool to college level. I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in education from Southern Connecticut State University and a Sixth Year in education from the University of New England. I hold a TESOL certificate for teaching English to students of other languages. I look forward...
Education & Certification
- Southern Connecticut State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education K-8
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- TOEFL
- ACCUPLACER
- +82 subjects

Amy: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...and earned a B.A. Special Education Teacher k-12. I also earned an M.A. for teaching grades k-12. I worked a full time teaching position for the Hartford public Schools. My classroom was self-contained that was composed of ASD,PDD students, and many had severe behavioral issues. The students in my class were deemed "un-teachable" With the...
Education & Certification
- University of Northern Colorado - Bachelors, Special Education Teacher K-12
- Central Connecticut State University - Masters, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +19 subjects

Lynda: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...professional, my range of expertise includes training, development, analysis and design, policies and procedures, employee relations. I am a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education and Reading. I hold a Leadership Certificate and an MBA in Strategic and Organizational Management from Jack Welch School of Business...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelor of Education, High School Teaching
- Sacred Heart University - Masters in Business Administration, Strategic Intelligence
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Elementary School English
- Pre-Reading Super Skills Class
- +36 subjects

James: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...coach, both at the university level and in the K-12 classroom, I have found success, and deep meaning, in working with students to achieve their goals and exceed their own expectations. Guiding, supporting, and empowering student success has been the highlight of my career. I am a currently a certified English teacher and previously worked...
Education & Certification
- Suffolk University - Bachelor of Science, Philosophy
- Boston University - Bachelor of Science, Philosophy
- University of New Mexico-Main Campus - Doctor of Philosophy, Philosophy
- Clayton State University - Master of Science, Middle School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SSAT
- SAT
- +60 subjects

Alesia: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...the University of Connecticut. I also completed a Master's in Education at Southern CT State University. This summer I am excited to begin my Educational Leadership degree in order to obtain my certification to be a school principal! I am currently a 1st grade teacher. I love working with students and helping them to reach...
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, Psychology
- Southern Connecticut State University - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- HSPT
- English
- +23 subjects

Faisal: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...the University of Vermont and have 18 years of extensive experience tutoring students of all ages. I truly specialize in homework/assignment/project/research help, and exam prep. I have a broad conceptual understanding of Mathematics and Statistics at an advanced level and strive to convey my love for Math and Stats onto my students. I have been...
Education & Certification
- Umm Al-Qura University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Sciences
- University of Vermont - Master of Science, Biostatistics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- UK A Level
- GED
- +52 subjects

Suzanne: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...elementary school children in all areas of the curriculum. I also have 2 1\2 years as an online tutor for a public school district. As an online tutor, I provided instruction and assessment for elementary school students with a variety of abilities. I was responsible for planning, implementing and assessing all online activities. I earned...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelor of Science, Early Childhood Education
- Eastern Connecticut State University - Master of Science, Human Services
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PRAXIS
- Math
- Other
- +23 subjects

Stefania: Portland ISEE test prep instructor
...my students to feel as passionate about reading as I do. I also have a background in languages, which allows me to tutor foreign languages. I have traveled many places and been around many cultures so I feel this has made me a stronger teacher. I like to push my students while tutoring, but I...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelor of Science, English
- University of New Haven - Masters in Education, Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CAHSEE
- Math
- Writing
- +22 subjects