The ISEE is the Independent School Entrance Examination, and is used for admission to private middle schools and high schools. There are 4 ISEE levels: Primary, Lower, Middle and Upper. Your testing level is determined by the grade to which you are applying for admission. Students may take the ISEE once per testing season (fall, winter and spring/summer) for a total of 3 times per year. When registering for test dates, families should verify application deadlines with the school(s) to which their student is applying to ensure that score reports are received in a timely manner.
FAQs:
- Duration: 2 hours and 50 minutes (Upper and Middle Levels); 2 hours and 30 minutes (Lower Level).
- Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an unscored essay.
Preparation:
- Students should set aside approximately 12 weeks for ISEE test prep, which includes preparing for the math and verbal sections of the test, plus test-taking strategies.
The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is a standardized test used by many private and independent schools as part of their admissions process. It evaluates a student’s readiness for academic rigor through sections in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an optional Essay.
The ISEE is offered at multiple levels:
- Lower Level (Grades 5–6)
- Middle Level (Grades 7–8)
- Upper Level (Grades 9–12)
Students applying to competitive private schools in Westchester County, Greenwich, and Fairfield County are often required to submit ISEE scores. Schools such as Brunswick School, Greenwich Academy, Rye Country Day School, Horace Mann, and Hackley School commonly use the ISEE as part of their admissions criteria.
Because these schools are highly selective, strong ISEE performance can play a key role in standing out during the admissions process.
ISEE Preparation — What to Expect
Our ISEE tutoring programs are designed to help students build confidence, master test content, and perform at their best on exam day.
1. Diagnostic Assessment & Level Alignment
We begin by identifying the student’s current level and target schools. This ensures the prep plan aligns with the specific ISEE level and admissions expectations.
2. Section-by-Section Skill Building
Tutoring focuses on:
- Vocabulary development and verbal reasoning strategies
- Quantitative reasoning and problem-solving techniques
- Reading comprehension and passage analysis
- Math accuracy and efficiency
3. Test Strategy & Timing
The ISEE is a timed exam that requires strong pacing skills. We teach students how to manage time effectively, avoid common mistakes, and approach each section with confidence.
4. Practice Testing & Feedback
Students complete practice tests under realistic conditions, with detailed feedback to track improvement and refine strategy.
5. Confidence & Admissions Readiness
Beyond test scores, we help students build confidence and familiarity with the testing experience—an important factor for younger students navigating private school admissions.
Who Needs the ISEE?
The ISEE is typically required for students applying to independent and private schools across the U.S. and Canada.
Locally, families applying to schools in Westchester, Greenwich, and Fairfield County often need ISEE scores as part of the admissions process. Our tutors are familiar with the expectations and competitiveness of these schools, allowing us to tailor preparation accordingly.
Recommended ISEE Prep Timeline
- 4–6 months before applications: Begin tutoring and foundational skill-building
- 2–3 months before test date: Focus on section strategies and timed practice
- Final month: Complete full-length practice exams and refine weak areas
Starting early is especially important for ISEE students, as the test can only be taken a limited number of times per year.
FAQs
How long does ISEE prep take?
Most students prepare for 2–4 months, though timelines may vary depending on their starting level and target schools.
What sections are on the ISEE?
The ISEE includes Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an Essay.
When should my child start preparing for the ISEE?
We recommend starting preparation 3–6 months before the test or application deadlines to allow enough time for improvement and practice.
How many times can you take the ISEE?
Students can take the ISEE up to three times per year (once per testing season), so preparation is important to maximize each attempt.