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USA
Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE)
600 questions
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About this exam
The Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE) is an admissions assessment used by many independent schools in the United States. Students usually take it when applying to a school or preparatory program that considers ISEE results as part of its admissions process. The exam has levels designed for different grade groups: Primary, Lower, Middle, and Upper. The appropriate level generally depends on the grade a student is seeking to enter, so applicants should confirm the requirement with each school.
At the Lower, Middle, and Upper levels, the ISEE includes Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics Achievement, plus an essay that is sent to schools but is not scored by ERB. Verbal Reasoning includes synonyms and sentence completion; reading questions assess understanding of main ideas, supporting details, and inferences. The test level and format vary, especially for Primary applicants. Schools interpret results alongside other application materials, so there is no universal ISEE pass score.
How to prepare for the ISEE
- Check the ERB ISEE information and each school’s admissions guidance to confirm the required test level, format, and current application requirements.
- Review vocabulary and synonym relationships, sentence completion, reading for main ideas and textual evidence, and the math skills tested at your level.
- Use timed practice by section, then review every answer—including guesses—to identify whether errors come from knowledge gaps, rushed reading, or pacing.
FAQ
Who takes the ISEE?
Students applying to independent schools or programs that use the ISEE may take it. Schools set their own admissions requirements, so check with the schools on your list and confirm which ISEE level matches the grade you are seeking to enter.
What is the format of the ISEE?
For Lower, Middle, and Upper levels, the exam has four multiple-choice sections—Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics Achievement—followed by an essay. The essay is provided to schools but is not scored by ERB. Primary-level testing differs.
What should I study for the ISEE?
Review the skills for your level, including synonyms, sentence completion, reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, and mathematics. Practice pacing and examine your mistakes carefully; use ERB guidance and the admissions instructions from your schools to confirm what applies to your test.