How to Prepare for the ISEE to Get Into Top Private Schools

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is required by many top American private schools for admission and is divided into four levels, from Primary to Upper. Students applying for grades 9 through 12 need to take the Upper Level exam, which includes five sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an Essay. Top private schools typically require students to achieve a high percentile ranking on the ISEE.

The core of ISEE preparation is comprehensively improving abilities across all sections. The Verbal Reasoning section tests vocabulary and logical reasoning skills, and is best strengthened through extensive reading and targeted vocabulary practice. The Quantitative Reasoning and Mathematics Achievement sections both involve math but have different emphases: Quantitative Reasoning focuses more on logical reasoning and problem analysis, while Mathematics Achievement emphasizes computational skills and content knowledge mastery.

The Reading Comprehension section requires students to quickly understand passages of various genres and accurately answer questions. Students are advised to maintain at least 30 minutes of English reading daily during preparation and practice taking reading notes and summaries. Although the Essay section is not scored separately, schools use writing samples as part of their admissions evaluation. EDUBUS ISEE preparation courses use a small-class teaching format, targeting students' weak areas for precise improvement and helping them secure admission to top private schools.