Understanding the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE)
What Topics Are Covered on the ISEE?
The ISEE assesses a student’s readiness for independent school through a range of academic subjects tailored to their grade level. Across all levels—Primary, Lower, Middle, and Upper—the test includes five main sections: Verbal Reasoning (vocabulary and logic), Quantitative Reasoning (math-based problem-solving), Reading Comprehension (passage analysis), Mathematics Achievement (core math skills), and a personal Essay. Topics covered include synonyms, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, reading analysis, and writing organization. The content difficulty increases with the level of the exam, ensuring an age-appropriate challenge for each student.
The Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE) is a widely used admissions test for students seeking entry into private and magnet schools across the United States. Administered by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB), the ISEE helps schools assess a student’s academic skills and potential. It is often considered a counterpart to the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT), with many institutions accepting either test for admissions.
ISEE Levels by Grade
The ISEE is tailored to students based on their grade level, and it is divided into four distinct levels:
Primary Level: For students entering grades 2 through 4
Lower Level: For students entering grades 5 and 6
Middle Level: For students entering grades 7 and 8
Upper Level: For students entering grades 9 through 12
Each level is designed to align with the academic expectations and developmental stage of the student.
ISEE Test Sections
Regardless of the level, the ISEE consists of five sections that evaluate core academic competencies:
Verbal Reasoning: Assesses vocabulary and ability to reason using verbal concepts
Quantitative Reasoning: Measures problem-solving skills using mathematical concepts
Reading Comprehension: Evaluates a student’s ability to understand and interpret reading passages
Mathematics Achievement: Tests knowledge of grade-appropriate math operations and concepts
Essay (30 minutes): A timed writing sample sent to schools for evaluation of writing skills
ISEE vs. SSAT
The ISEE is often compared to the SSAT, as both serve similar purposes and formats. However, the choice between the two may depend on school preferences or a student’s testing strengths. While the ISEE focuses more on math and reading skills, the SSAT places slightly more emphasis on analogies and writing structure.
Why Take the ISEE?
Independent schools use the ISEE to ensure they admit students prepared to meet rigorous academic standards. High scores on the ISEE can significantly strengthen a student’s application and open the door to top-tier educational opportunities.
FAQ
Students applying to independent or magnet schools in grades 2 through 12.
Students may take the ISEE once per testing season: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer.
Students receive scaled scores, percentile ranks, and stanines for each section except the essay.
The ISEE is offered at schools, test centers, and online (at-home testing).
