What is the ISEE?
The ISEE (“Independent School Entrance Exam”) is a test to assess applicants for admission to private middle and high schools. For students hoping to attend a competitive private middle or high school, this is a critical test. The ISEE is a tough test and preparation is essential!
What is the format of the ISEE?
There are different levels of the ISEE. The test is divided into Lower (5th and 6th grade), Middle (7th and 8th grade) and Upper (9th and above) levels. For all levels of the test, the ISEE is divided into four sections that test Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics Achievement, plus an unscored essay sent directly to schools. The ISEE test takes about 3.5 hours. The test is offered in both paper and online format.
How do you prepare for the ISEE?
First, it’s important to understand that due to the comprehensive nature of the ISEE, it’s hard to “cram”. You will want to have plenty of time to review. Spend some time researching the test. Then, take a diagnostic test to see where you are. There are many free online resources. Alternatively, you can book an appointment to take a practice test with us. The test would be under real timed conditions to see how well you would do right now. Once you know where you stand, you can set a realistic goal for improvement. It also depends on how much time you have to prepare.
There are many excellent test prep books and resources available, as well as online resources. Practicing under timed conditions is essential to improve your speed as well as your accuracy. We also recommend working with a test prep tutor as the most effective way to quickly improve your score. A tutor can help you practice essential test-taking strategies, identify weak areas, and reinforce comprehension. This is especially valuable for Lower and Middle ISEE test takers. That is because at school, students may not have learned enough of the math and vocabulary content on the ISEE test. As a result, they may need significant catch-up work. In addition, a tutor will hold you accountable for homework and practice tests!
At Aegis Advisors, we also offer online tutoring so our students can learn effectively, wherever they are.
Any questions? Contact us!