There tends to be more confusion surrounding secondary school tests like the ISEE than college placement tests like the ACT and SAT. This can leave parents frustrated and confused about a process that is already stressful. Here’s what you need to know.

Students take the ISEE–the Independent School Entrance Examination–to gain admission to private middle and high schools. In the past, independent day schools specifically located in metro areas tended to require the ISEE (rather than its sister test, the SSAT), but that has changed a bit in recent years. It’s worth checking with the individual schools you’re applying to in order to see which test they prefer.

There are three “levels” of the ISEE that apply to different age groups:

• Lower Level—taken by current 4th and 5th graders
• Middle Level—taken by current 6th and 7th graders
• Upper Level—taken by current 8th through 11th graders

Our accomplished tutors have spent years working with families on secondary school tests like the ISEE and are here to demystify the process and help your student thrive.

If you are looking to apply to a private school that requires the ISEE or just have questions about the process in general, contact us.