ISEE Tutoring in NYC

Comprehensive Private ISEE Tutoring Services


Navigating the competitive landscape of New York City's private school admissions can be challenging. At the heart of this process lies the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) - an essential standardized test used to evaluate applicants. The ISEE isn’t just any test, though; it's the key that opens the door to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the city.

In such a demanding environment, generic study methods often fall short. That's where we come in. Our one-on-one private tutoring approach is tailored to your child's unique strengths and weaknesses, ensuring not just preparation, but confidence as well. With the right guidance, students can unlock potential they never knew they had, allowing them to overcome test-taking anxiety and achieve their academic goals.

Test-Taking Skills


Our experienced tutors specialize in more than just content; they're experts in test-taking strategies tailored for the ISEE. Recognizing that every student has their own learning style, we hone in on techniques that optimize speed, accuracy, and confidence. From time management to understanding question nuances, our approach ensures students are primed to excel on test day.

Practice Exams


Consistent feedback is crucial for growth. That's why we implement regular practice tests, allowing both students and parents to track progress in real-time. These practice exams provide invaluable insights into areas of strength and those needing further attention. Moreover, they give students the necessary "reps" required to master the format and pace of the test.

Flexible Scheduling


We understand that many students and their families are balancing different commitments outside of school. This is why we offer both in-person and remote tutoring sessions, seven days per week. Our qualified tutors will work around your schedule to keep your student on track.

Join Honors Prep


Whether your student is applying to an independent day school or a boarding school, the tutors at Honors Prep possess the unique combination of extensive tutoring experience, test-taking knowhow, and carefully crafted courses of study to ensure your child shines through on the ISEE. 

FAQs

What is the ISEE?

The ISEE, also known as the Independent School Entrance Examination, is a popular test used by many independent and private schools to screen for admission. There are four versions of the test: Primary level (for entrance to grades 2-4), Lower level (for entrance grades to 5-6), Middle level (for entrance to grades 7-8), and Upper Level (for entrance to grades 9-12). The test is administered by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB).

What grade do you take the ISEE for?

Different versions of the ISEE are administered depending on the student's grade level.

  • For students entering 2nd grade, 3rd grade and 4th grade, the Primary Level ISEE is administered.

  • For students entering 5th grade and 6th grade, the Lower Level ISEE is administered.

  • For middle school students entering 7th grade and 8th grade, the Middle Level ISEE is administered.

  • For students entering 9th grade, 10th grade, 11th grade, and 12th grade, the Upper Level ISEE is administered.

How many sections are on the ISEE?

The ISEE tests a variety of subjects. Depending on the level, the test has as few as two sections and as many as five sections.

How many questions are on the ISEE?

  • Primary 2: Auditory Comprehension (6 questions, 7 minutes), Reading (18 questions, 20 minutes), and Mathematics (24 questions, 26 minutes)

  • Primary 3: Reading (24 questions, 28 minutes), Mathematics (24 questions, 26 minutes)

  • Primary 4: Reading (28 questions, 30 minutes), Mathematics (28 questions, 30 minutes)

  • Lower Level: Verbal Reasoning (34 questions, 20 minutes), Quantitative Reasoning (38 questions, 35 minutes), Reading Comprehension (25 questions, 25 minutes), Mathematics Achievement (30 questions, 30 minutes), Essay (1 prompt, 30 minutes)

  • Middle Level: Verbal Reasoning (40 questions, 20 minutes), Quantitative Reasoning (37 questions, 35 minutes), Reading Comprehension (36 questions, 35 minutes), Mathematics Achievement (47 questions, 40 minutes), Essay (1 prompt, 30 minutes)

  • Upper Level: Verbal Reasoning (40 questions, 20 minutes), Quantitative Reasoning (37 questions, 35 minutes), Reading Comprehension (36 questions, 35 minutes), Mathematics Achievement (47 questions, 40 minutes), Essay (1 prompt, 30 minutes)

How is the ISEE scored?

The ERB issues each student a stanine score for each section of the test (except for the essay, which is not scored). Scores range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest possible score. These scores are calculated based on how the student scored as a percentile relative to the other students who took the test. 

What is a good score on the ISEE?

Generally speaking, a stanine score of 7 or 8 is considered a strong score on the ISEE.

When is the ISEE administered?

The ISEE is administered throughout the year. The ERB divides the year into three seasons: Fall (August-November), Winter (December-March), and Spring/Summer (April-July). A student may take the test once per season, up to three times per year.

How much does it cost to take the ISEE?

Depending on when and how you register, it costs anywhere from $135 to $245 to take the ISEE.

When will I receive my scores?

Students who take the ISEE online will receive their scores within five days of taking the test. Students who take the ISEE in-person will receive their scores within ten days of taking the test.

When should I start studying for the ISEE?

Most students begin preparing for the ISEE approximately six months before their test date.

Are there any practice tests available for the ISEE?

The ERB makes several practice tests available on this page.