Varsity Tutors is here to help your student get the San Diego ISEE prep they need to reach for their academic potential. The ISEE is a high-stakes exam that gives private and independent schools a quantifiable, objective data point to consider in their admission process. It is divided into four "levels" based on which grade a student is going into: Primary (grades 2-4), Lower (5-6), Middle (7-8), and Upper (9+).
Few schools use ISEE scores as the sole factor in their admission decisions, but a good score could be a step in the right direction. We provide a comprehensive San Diego ISEE prep course to help students who learn best in a structured classroom environment. Alternatively, we can refer you to a private San Diego ISEE tutor who can design study sessions around your student's unique needs for optimal efficiency. Keep reading to learn more about how we may be able to help you.
What topics will my student study during their San Diego ISEE prep?
The Primary Level ISEE has a completely different format than the rest of the exams. It is split by grade (Primary 2, Primary 3, and Primary 4), with each test having multiple-choice Reading and Math sections that assess a student's skills at the appropriate level. Primary 2 also has an Auditory Comprehension section that requires students to answer questions about a listening passage. All three tests conclude with a picture prompt for a writing assignment.
The Lower, Middle, and Upper Level ISEEs all follow the following structure: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Math Achievement, and Essay. While the formatting is the same, the content becomes more difficult as test-takers get older. Here is a closer look at the content on each section of the test:
1. Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section consists of 40 multiple-choice questions over a testing session of 20 minutes. There are two key question types: synonyms and sentence completions. In addition to grade-appropriate vocabulary, Lower Level test-takers are expected to use context clues to figure out what unfamiliar words mean. Students at the Middle Level work with Greek and Latin word roots, prefixes, suffixes, and word clues (if, although, etc.). Students taking the Upper Level ISEE don't have any new question types but are expected to know more words.
2. Quantitative Reasoning
The first of two ISEE math sections, Quantitative Reasoning places a greater emphasis on mathematical thinking than actually working out math problems. Students at the Lower Level get questions about addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, while Middle Level test-takers add concepts such as square roots and percentages to the mix. The Upper Level ISEE asks students to evaluate data sets and works with algebraic variables. Students have 35 minutes to answer 37 multiple-choice questions on this section.
3. Reading Comprehension
The ISEE's Reading Comprehension section measures a test-taker's reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. Students taking the Lower Level exam must identify the main idea, its supporting details, and an author's intent. Students taking the Middle Level ISEE must draw inferences from the material they've read and analyze cause and effect relationships. The Upper Level ISEE requires students to compare works across literary genres in addition to the topics covered on the other tests. Students have 35 minutes to answer 36 multiple-choice questions.
4. Math Achievement
The second of the ISEE's math sections places a greater emphasis on quantitative problem-solving. Topics include estimation and fractions on the Lower Level ISEE, prime factorization and the geometry of quadrilaterals on the Middle Level ISEE, and Pre-Algebra concepts on the Upper Level ISEE. Students have 40 minutes to answer 47 multiple-choice questions on this section.
5. Essay
The ISEE's writing portion allows students to talk about themselves as an introduction to each of the schools they are applying to. They have 30 minutes to plan and construct their response. This section is not scored, as schools evaluate a student's work for themselves.
Can you explain the benefits of each San Diego ISEE preparation option I can choose from?
If you opt for a San Diego ISEE prep class, your student will attend regular class sessions and discuss both academic concepts and test-taking strategies to increase their self-confidence heading into the exam. Every class we provide takes place on our live virtual platform, an online classroom that makes students feel as though they are in the same room even if they are on opposite sides of the country. Real-time interaction with both the teacher and their classmates is supported, allowing your student to ask for help whenever necessary.
You might think that other students in the room are nothing more than a potential distraction, but in truth studying in a collaborative learning environment offers several important advantages. Completing group assignments can force students to think about things differently, potentially allowing them to approach their studies in a new way. Similarly, students can help each other out to reinforce key concepts. Having multiple students in a class also allows everybody to split the expense, making test prep more affordable than you might think. If you think your student needs individualized attention to overcome a particular obstacle, you also have the right to arrange private study sessions with the teacher outside of your class meeting time.
If you would prefer a private instructor, we can help set that up as well. Studying in a one-on-one learning environment allows sessions to be tailored to your student's specific needs. Some students also take practice exams during tutoring sessions so that they know exactly what to expect on the actual test. Time management is important on every exam, and experiencing what the time available feels like may help a student budget it more effectively.
We also try to make all of our products as convenient as we can. For instance, we offer two-week and four-week courses to make it easier to find one that works for you. Likewise, private study sessions take place on our exclusive Live Learning Platform so you don't need to worry about driving anywhere.
How do I sign up for formal San Diego ISEE prep?
Simply use the contact info below to get in touch with a knowledgeable educational consultant who can walk you through each of the San Diego ISEE prep options Varsity Tutors offers in greater detail. We look forward to hearing from you!

Aleksandra: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
I have experience teaching different grade levels and different subjects. I have taught both 6th grade and 4th grade. In each grade level I taught math, reading, writing, and social studies. I have also taught 4th grade science. I...
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Other
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +22 subjects

Katelyn: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
I've been teaching in elementary school for four years. I've taught second and third grade. I love teaching students and seeing how much they can grow academically. I love teaching students math and reading. I like to use a lot of manipulatives while teaching...
Education & Certification
- Texas Tech University - Bachelor in Arts, Russian
- Western Governors University - Masters in Education, Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- MAP
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +26 subjects

Chi-Sun: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...apply formulas and do well on tests. Although they may get good grades, this will be useless later in life. In my teaching experience, when students actually learn the concepts and logic, not only does their math vastly improve, but they also learn to enjoy math, which is the ultimate goal. My qualifications include excelling...
Education & Certification
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- K-11th Grade Standardized Tests
- ACT
- +112 subjects

Alex: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...Science. My tutoring philosophy is not only to help students solve a problem but also to help them understand the thought process of how a certain method is chosen to solve a problem. Higher levels of math and science are built based on their fundamental concepts. Therefore, a solid understanding of these basic concepts is...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Bioengineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- SSAT
- HSPT
- +20 subjects

Matt: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...I especially like tutoring Spanish, literature, and history. I really enjoy tutoring because I get to help people and I love learning! I believe that it is easiest to learn when we can make personal connections with what we are studying, so I seek out ways to connect the learning to your experiences. I also...
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelors, English
- National University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CAHSEE
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +60 subjects

Daniel: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...different needs, and I understand how to shift my approach to best reach the student. I served as an instructor at a Judo dojo that I grew up in beginning when I was 14, working with elementary school children. I additionally assisted in a 10th grade Algebra class in my sophomore year of high school,...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- ACT Science
- +28 subjects

Paul: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...teacher from San Diego Unified School District where I taught primarily 6th grade through 8th grade math. I tutor lower level math to Algebra. My favorite subject to teach/tutor is Pre-Algebra since it is the gateway to the upper level math classes. I try to show the students that there is math all around them...
Education & Certification
- National University - Bachelor in Arts, Math
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ISEE- Middle Level
- Biology
- +15 subjects

Hugo: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
I am a Structural Engineering graduate from UCSD. I specialize in tutoring Math, Science, and test prep (SAT, AP, etc.), though I feel confident tutoring in a wide-range of subject areas. Some of my hobbies include sports (football and soccer) and video games. I look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Structural Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- STAAR
- SSAT
- +51 subjects

Kristie: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...elementary-aged children through the YMCA Mentorship program focusing on daily homework tasks and study skills. Since graduation, I have spent the last year living and working in Washington, DC in the nonprofit sector. I thoroughly enjoyed my work but realized I needed to return to my roots in education. I really enjoy time spent tutoring...
Education & Certification
- UC- San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- STAAR
- +28 subjects

Colin: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...pre-K - 5th in both New Jersey as well as California. While studying in college, I also worked as a Site Director at a before and after school care program. The program consisted of over 60 students in the AM and over 100 students in the afternoon. During my seven years spent with the company...
Education & Certification
- William Paterson University of New Jersey - Bachelor in Arts, Early Childhood Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- History
- +19 subjects

Aaron: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
I just recently graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and a minor in chemistry. I am in the process of applying to medical school. I enjoy teaching others what I have learned. In my free time I like to watch sports and spend time with friends and family.
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- REGENTS
- SAT
- SSAT
- +26 subjects

Jacqueline: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...techniques to tailor instruction to the needs of my students in order to encourage and motivate them to reach their goals. I tutor all elementary subjects, ISEE prep, Literature, and Essay Editing. My passion and specialty is teaching reading. My goal is to instill a love for reading in my students because books allow for...
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor in Arts, Literature
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary Math
- ISEE- Lower Level
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +16 subjects

Ruth: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...and am applying to graduate school to study Molecular Biology. In the meantime, I enjoy working in science and sharing my passion for science to budding students. I love helping students understand how to approach difficult math and science problems without being intimidated, and I hope to relate the importance of a solid education to...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +34 subjects

Ellen: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...I am excited to tutor in a wide range of subjects, I myself love to read and write. I have a great time helping students discover a love of literature and critical thinking, whether that be through an elementary curriculum or critical reading section of the GRE! I am currently studying for LSAT, but when...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelors, International Development Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +43 subjects

Juanita: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...full time elementary teacher looking to tutor part time. I am experienced in working with a variety of students at all ability levels. I would ensure that I am prepared to tutor my student in any subject by doing any necessary research or reviews. My goal is to help students achieve independence and mastery of...
Education & Certification
- San DIego State Univeristy - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- National University - Master of Arts, Cross-cultural Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ACT
- CAHSEE
- +70 subjects

Kevin: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...active teacher at a charter school where I teach elementary classes as well as middle and high school social studies. Teaching is more than just instruction. It is about being passionate towards education and the future of our students. Fundamentally, all students are teachable. It is my responsibility to find what motivates each student and...
Education & Certification
- Wilmington University - Bachelor of Science, General Studies
- Wilmington University - Master of Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SSAT
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +23 subjects

Viraj: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...empirical conclusions from economic data). I recently submitted my applications to a number of law schools, and I plan to accept admission for this Fall. Until then, I will be working as a tutor in the San Diego area. In high school I was a debate captain for a national-level debate team. My job was...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +66 subjects
Education & Certification
- K N T University of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Doctor of Philosophy, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- SAT
- TOEFL
- +115 subjects

Brianna: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...Analytics and a minor in Mathematics. I have 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...
Education & Certification
- University of Richmond - Current Undergrad, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT 8-Week Prep Class
- PSAT
- ACT 4-Week Prep Class
- +217 subjects

Kelsey: San Diego ISEE test prep instructor
...she had worked as a lead tutor at a math-focused center for students ages 5 to 18, had individually tutored numerous students on college entrance exam preparation, and has worked professionally as an editorial assistant for research institutions. Her personal goal is to help students build a foundation of solid study skills that they can...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- PSAT
- GED
- +79 subjects