isee essay grading

• Jan 17, 2023

The ISEE Essay: Tips and Practice Prompts

Essay overview.

The ISEE essay is the last section of the ISEE. Students are given 30 minutes to respond to a prompt. The essay is not scored, but a copy of the writing sample is sent to the schools to which the ISEE score report is sent.

The essay has two purposes: it shows schools how well you can write, and it also gives the admissions officers another opportunity to learn about you. Keep this in mind when writing your essay, and make sure to focus your essay on yourself. For example, if the essay asks you to write about your role model, write about the person you choose, but make sure to also write about yourself. How does this person inspire you? How has this person changed your life? Has this person taught you anything that you use in your everyday life?

Read the Directions: On the official ISEE, you’re asked to write in a blue or black pen. You’re also asked to rewrite the essay prompt at the top of the first page of your essay. Make sure to carefully read the directions before starting your essay.

Manage your Time: Make sure you manage your time effectively. Give yourself time to organize and plan your essay, time to write your essay, and time to revise and edit your essay.

Structure your Essay: While there are no rules for how to structure your essay, it is recommended to have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. We recommend the body of your essay be two to four paragraphs long.

Write Neatly: You are not graded on how neatly you write your essay, but make sure to write neatly enough so someone can read your writing.

Choose a Subject That Appeals to You: While you will be asked to respond to a specific prompt, the prompts often involve broad subjects. For example, a prompt may ask you to write about your role model. When choosing a specific topic to write about, choose something that interests you and shows you in a positive light. Use specific details and examples; after you choose your topic, be sure to think of two to three specific supporting details or examples. If you are asked to write about your role model, and you choose your dad, a supporting example could be the following: “My dad is my role model because he taught me the importance of hard work. He started working at the age of 16 and now runs his own business.”

Essay Practice Prompts

Below you’ll find five practice prompts for each level of the ISEE. For each prompt, set a timer for 30 minutes, and make sure to go somewhere quiet to write your essay. Write your essay on a sheet of lined paper (you can use the front and back of the sheet, but no more). Once you’ve finished, have an adult read over your essay and give you feedback.

Lower Level Practice Prompts

What is your favorite subject in school and why?

If you could go on your dream vacation, where would you go and why?

What is one of your favorite books?

What is your favorite activity to do outside of school?

What qualities do you think are important in a friend?

Middle Level Practice Prompts

What is a problem facing your community and how would you help fix this problem?

If you could travel back in time, what time period would you travel to and why?

Describe a time where you overcame a challenge. What did you learn from this experience?

Who is someone who has had a significant impact on your life? Describe the impact this person had and why it was so important to you.

What is a career you are interested in? What skills do you have that would make you succeed in this career?

Upper Level Practice Prompts

What does “being successful” mean to you? What are some ways that people can achieve success?

Who is one person, living or dead, that inspires you?

Write about a value that is important to you (examples: honestly, loyalty, dedication, open-mindedness). Why is this value so important to you?

What is your greatest skill? How do you use this skill in your everyday life?

What is something you are passionate about? How do you incorporate this passion into your life?

• ISEE Upper Level
• ISEE Middle Level
• ISEE Lower Level

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Overview of the ISEE Lower Level

Overview of the ISEE Upper Level

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, what is a good isee score.

Other High School , Early Achievers (7th/8th Grade)

The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is a standardized test for students in grades 2 through 12 take to apply to many private schools. ISEE score reports are known for containing a lot of information, most of it not very intuitive. So what do these scores mean? Which are the ones schools care about? And what is a good ISEE score? Read on for the answers to all these questions!

How Does ISEE Scoring Work?

There are four scored sections on the ISEE:

• Verbal Reasoning
• Quantitative Reasoning
• Reading Comprehension
• Mathematics Achievement

There is also an essay section, but it isn’t scored by the ISEE. Instead, it’s forwarded to the schools the student applied to so that the schools themselves can review it. The ISEE score report students receive will have several scores for each section of the test. Most students receive their ISEE test scores between seven to ten business days after they complete the test, and ISEE test scores are automatically sent to the schools you’ve selected.

Raw and Scaled Scores

For each section, students will receive a scaled score from 760 to 940. How are these scores calculated? For raw scoring, each correct answer on the ISEE is worth one point, and no points are gained or lost for skipping a question or answering it incorrectly. The raw score is the sum of correctly-answered questions.

That raw score is then scaled. Scaling is done to account for differences in difficulty between different test dates. So if an ISEE exam in December is more difficult than one given in October, the students taking the December exam won’t be penalized for taking the harder test because the scaling will even out the differences in difficulty. The scaled scores are those that are between 760 and 940.

Percentile Rankings

You'll also receive a percentile rank for each of your section scores. Percentile ranking ranges from 1 to 99, and it is determined by how your scaled ISEE scores compare to the scores of other students in the same grade who have taken the ISEE in the past three years. The higher the percentile ranking, the better you did compared to other test takers. If you received a percentile score of 58, then you scored as well as or higher than 58 percent (and lower than 42 percent) of the other students in the group.

Stanine Scores

Stanine scores are based on percentile rankings, and they separate test takers into nine groups. As with percentile rankings, the higher a student’s stanine score (from 1 to 9), the better the student did on the ISEE. It provides a simple way for parents and schools to see how a student’s ISEE scores compared to other test-takers’ scores. As you can see in the chart below, most students score in the middle range, 4 to 6.

What Is the Average ISEE Score?

There isn’t data on what an average score is for the scaled scores of 760 to 940, but the percentile ranking and stanine scores for the ISEE are calculated so that the average score on the ISEE corresponds to the average value of each of these rankings. So the average ISEE test-taker has a percentile ranking of 50 percent and a stanine score of 5. Scores/percentiles higher than this are above average, and scores lower are below average.

Slightly over half (54%) of students who take the ISEE receive one of the middle scores of 4-6. It’s rarer to receive a score on either end of the spectrum. Only 23% of students receive a score of 1-3, and another 23% receive a score of 7-9. Only 4% of students receive a stanine score of 9, and 7% receive a score of 8.

How Do Schools Use ISEE Scores? What Is a Good ISEE Score?

It’s important to remember that ISEE scores are only one component of a student’s application, and they are rarely the most important piece. Schools also consider an applicant’s school grades, extracurricular activities, teacher recommendations, essays, etc. Low ISEE scores can be made up for in other parts of the application, and even outstanding ISEE scores likely won’t be enough to get a student admitted into a competitive school if the rest of the application is weak.

Another important factor to be aware of is that many students score lower on the ISEE than they and their parents might expect. There are two reasons for this. First, the ISEE is likely one of the most difficult tests the student has taken, and some of the information will simply be beyond their current knowledge. Second, the cohort that takes the ISEE tends to be academically stronger than the average student body, so that skews the averages. It’s not uncommon for a student who is used to scoring in, say, the 80th percentile on statewide exams to get closer to a 50th percentile score on the ISEE. Therefore, receiving an average score on the ISEE doesn’t mean the test-taker is an average student.

But how does this impact how schools look at ISEE scores, and what is a good score on the ISEE? The data schools are most interested in are the stanine scores. The scaled scores are not particularly useful information, and percentile scores can be too specific and cause admissions teams to split hairs over minutia (Is a percentile score of 77 really that much better than a percentile score of 75?).

Stanine scores separate students into nine groups, which makes it easy for them to be compared to other test-takers as well as average ISEE scores.

So what is a good ISEE score, one that will get a student accepted into a private school? That highly depends on the school. For many schools, ISEE test scores of 4 or higher are seen as acceptable. Other, more competitive schools, prefer scores of 7 or higher. In general, a score of 3 or lower will be seen as a weak area of a student’s application, and a score of 7 or higher will be seen as a strong score for nearly all schools (some elite institutions prefer scores of 8 or 9 but will accept students who score lower than that). 

For most schools, ISEE scores of 5 or higher are high enough for the applicant to be considered for admission, although remember that the other parts of the student’s application must be strong as well for them to be admitted.

Summary: What Is a Good Score on the ISEE?

What is a good ISEE score? The ISEE is a standardized test many private schools require applicants to take. Students who take the test are scored in four areas, and they’ll receive several different types of ISEE test scores: scaled scores, percentile rank, and stanine scores.

Stanine scores (which range from 1 to 9) are the most important and are the scores schools pay the most attention to. But what is a good score on the ISEE? A score of 5 or higher will be enough to put students in the running for most schools, although some elite private schools want applicants to have ISEE test results of 7 or higher.

What's Next?

How does the ISEE differ from the SSAT? Learn about the similarities and differences between the two exams in our I SEE vs SSAT guide . 

Ready to start your ISEE practice?  We've collected all the best ISEE practice resources for you to begin your studying. 

How many AP classes should you take in high school? How many APs do you need to impress colleges? Get your answer in our guide on how many AP classes to take.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Understanding the ISEE

If this is your first time participating in the private school admissions game, you’ve probably caught wind of the anxiety most parents and students have about the ISEE. In an effort to help you condense and digest the massive amount of information available online (and dispel common myths about the exam), we’ve compiled a central ISEE resource here.

Hopefully, after reading this FAQ, you’ll feel enlightened, energized, and ready to tackle the most important part of the admissions process: selecting the right school for your child!

What is the ISEE?

The ISEE, or, the Independent School Entrance Exam, is a measure used by independent elementary and secondary schools to discern the academic abilities of applicants, and concurrently, eligibility for admission.

For admission to grades 5-12, the most common entry points of matriculation, there are three levels of the exam:

The Lower Level Exam:  for application to 5th and 6th grade The Middle Level Exam:  for application to 7th and 8th grade The Upper Level Exam:  for application to 9th-12th grade

It is worth noting that there are now versions of the ISEE for students applying to grades 2-4. These exams veer significantly from the content and format of the Lower, Middle, Upper Level exams, so they will not be covered in this FAQ.

There are five sections of the ISEE. Four of these sections are scored on a stanine scale* of 1-9, including Verbal Reasoning (VR), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Reading Comprehension (RC), and Math Achievement (MA). The fifth section, the Essay, is un-scored and simply sent to admissions directors for review.

Verbal Reasoning? Quantitative Reasoning? Can you explain what these words actually mean?

In layman’s terms, here’s what each of these sections contains:

Verbal Reasoning: This section is a test of vocabulary. Plain and simple. Quantitative Reasoning: This section is composed of math word problems that are assembled in confusing ways. Reading Comprehension: This section contains boring reading passages with tricky questions. Math Achievement: This section contains honest-to-goodness math—the straightforward stuff you see in your child’s workbooks in school.

How do I interpret the ISEE score report? What are scaled scores, percentiles, and stanines?

Test Profile

This portion of the report provides information about the student’s overall performance on four test sections: Verbal Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Reasoning, and Mathematics Achievement. The Test Profile reports ISEE scores both as scaled scores and as percentile ranks with reference to ISEE norms. These norms are based on independent school applicants in the same grade who have taken the ISEE during the past three years.

Scaled Scores

ISEE scaled scores for each section range from 760 to 940. The scaled score is more useful than the raw score because the scaled score has the same meaning regardless of which version of the test was used. ERB administers many different versions of the test each year. The scaled score takes these slight differences into account and allows ERB to report a score on a common scale that has the same meaning for all students, regardless of version taken.

Percentile Ranks

This is where the student stands relative to all students in the same grade who took this test over the past three years; it is not the percentage of questions the student answered correctly. A percentile rank of 63 on an ISEE test section, for example, indicates that the student scored as well as or higher than 63 percent (and lower than 36 percent) of all students in the norm group.

Note: the group of students at this grade level who took a form of this test over the past three years is quite different from the group of students who took the standardized test the student may have taken as part of a large-scale testing program.

Parents are frequently surprised when they see, for example, a 75th percentile score for a child who scored at the 95th percentile last year on a test based on state or national norms. The ISEE norm group is much more selective.

This is an abbreviated version of the percentile. While there are 99 percentile ranks, which are ideal for fine distinctions among students, the stanine has only 9 possible values and divides students into nine groups:

Sign up for a free diagnostic ISEE with ArborBridge and receive a fully customized score report just for your child.

So what score does my child need to be admitted to the best schools what is a good score on the isee.

These are undoubtedly the most common questions we receive. A student’s scores on the ISEE—her stanines—are a point of fixation for many families. After chatting with admission directors at the best independent schools in LA and NYC, we’ve uncovered several things:

1) Stanines of 5 or above are usually enough for a student to be ‘in the running’ at a top school. This cutoff score may vary from school to school, particularly those that are more competitive and academically rigorous. We’ve also heard the expression, ‘With a 4 you’re in the door!’ So there’s a chance that a ‘good ISEE score’ can dip as low as a 4.

2) Your child’s previous standardized test scores (e.g. the ERBs, CTP4s, STAR Testing, etc.) have little predictive power when it comes to the ISEE. For instance, it is not uncommon for a child to score in the 95th percentile on the Math Achievement section of the CTP4s and then score below the 50th percentile on the ISEE. This is because…

3) The ISEE is a test of exceptionalism among an incredibly bright, competitive pool of test-takers. The exam is meant to highlight students who have extraordinary verbal, reading, and math abilities (i.e. those who score stanines of 7-9 per section). The majority of test-takers score somewhere in the 4-6 range on each section of the exam.

It is also worth pointing out that the CTP4s and other annual standardized tests are designed for schools to understand their proficiency in teaching fundamental math, reading, and language concepts. These exams contain much less sophisticated content than the ISEE, which explains the preponderance of higher scores.

4) Students who attend schools with less intensive math programs tend to score lower than their peers on Quantitative Reasoning and Math Achievement; however, these same students often see the biggest increases after preparing with a private tutor.

5) Admission directors are looking to build balanced classes of students. For many schools, this means accepting a wide range of applicants, not just those who show a penchant for academics and standardized tests. Other components of the application—especially the parent interview—may outweigh performance on the ISEE.

When and where can my child take the ISEE?

UPDATE:  The ERB announced that students will now be able to take the ISEE multiple times within three distinct testing windows. Learn more here .

Students may register to take the ISEE one time in any or all of three testing seasons. The ISEE testing seasons are defined as Fall (August–November), Winter (December–March), and Spring/Summer (April–July). Application deadlines for most independent schools are in late January or early February. Accordingly, students will want their final sitting to take plane in December or January in order to meet these deadlines. Paper score reports are mailed to families 2-3 weeks after exam; however, online score reports are ready and can be viewed online the week following the exam. This can be facilitated most easily after registering for test dates and creating an online account on the ERB website .

How do I register my child for the ISEE?

Visit the ERB website to register. As mentioned, there are mailing and phone registration options as well, but they are way less convenient in the long-run (see below).

Advantages to online registration: 1) View and reserve a seat at testing location 2) Edit student information 3) Edit recipients of score reports 4) Reprint verification letter/admission ticket 5) Change testing location 6) Request to receive ISEE scores online (additional $30 fee) 7) Submit late registration up to two weeks before testing date ($20 additional fee)

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How to prepare for the ISEE

How to prepare for the isee: a guide to getting ready for test day.

Bonus Material: PrepMaven’s step-by-step strategy guide to preparing for the ISEE

Taking the ISEE

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is an important component of private school admissions. If you or your student is planning to apply to private school, scoring well on the ISEE helps to boost your chances for successful admission to your school of choice. 

The first step to achieving this goal, whether you’re working independently or with a private tutoring company, should be to formulate a strategic ISEE study plan. 

Since 2005, we’ve helped students boost their ISEE scores and get into their top choice private schools.

In this post, we’ll share valuable information about when  to start prepping for the ISEE, how to create a strategic ISEE study plan, and how to best prepare your student or yourself for success on your testing day. 

Want a step-by-step-guide on how to prepare for the ISEE? Our Step-by-Step Guide to Making an ISEE Plan covers ISEE test prep strategy, a month-to-month test plan guide, quirks of the ISEE, and resources you can use to maximize your score. Download our guide for free here. 

Download our Step-by-step guide to preparing for the ISEE

Jump to section: What is the ISEE? Keys to Preparing for the ISEE   Start Early   Take a Diagnostic   Analyze the Diagnostic   Determine Your Resources   Learn the Test Itself   Strategically review important concepts    Use the predictability of the test to your advantage Ready to get started? 

What is the ISEE?

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is a standardized test that many private schools require as part of the admissions process.  Be sure to reach out to the school’s admissions office to understand their testing requirements.  

A strong score, along with other strong application materials, can boost a student’s chances for admissions at the school of their choice. 

For more detailed information about the ISEE, check out our post: What is the ISEE ?

Keys to Preparing for the ISEE

1. start early .

If you do elect to take the ISEE, it’s important to start prepping early. Sometimes students prepare too last-minute for the ISEE test and find themselves rushing to learn the test and its concepts. 

We suggest you start prepping as soon as possible, but generally not less than three months prior to your testing date if possible. 

Some students choose to start preparing 1+ years beforehand, which is a great way to effectively build vocabulary, learn academic concepts that appear on the ISEE that may not have been covered in their school curriculum, and develop standardized testing skills. 

Because students are limited to taking the ISEE three times, it’s important that they are ready to earn a high percentile score on their first, second, or third try. 

Starting early and getting to know the structure of the test, and identifying any weaknesses such as gaps in academic knowledge or any issues with time management skills, will help control exam stress and maximize a student’s chance for success on the ISEE. 

2. Take a diagnostic  

Take a full-length practice test under actual testing circumstances. Time (or have a friend or parent time) each part of the test, and do the entire test in one session with real time constraints. 

Finish each section under the time limit indicated on the exam. Taking a diagnostic will help students measure their progress and compare their starting score to their final score.  We include suggestions for resources, including practice tests, in our step-by-step strategy guide

3. Analyze the diagnostic  

Score the test. It will be hard to have an exact picture of an ISEE score from a practice test because ISEE scores are compared to other students’ who took the test on that date; their percentile rank is determined by their test performance compared to other students. 

This is then converted to something called a “stanine score.” This stanine score is what most committees consider for admissions. 

It can be difficult to determine an accurate score report from a practice test because of the confusing way that ISEE scores the test. You can read more about ISEE scoring in our post about the ISEE here: What is the ISEE .

One way to estimate a stanine score is to take the number of correct answers and then divide it by the total number of questions, then multiply that result by 100. The percentage can be estimated as follows:

• 90% or above – 9 stanine score
• 80 – 89% – 8 stanine score
• 70 – 79% – 7 stanine score

And so on. While this won’t give an exact stanine score, it will help students to estimate their performance on the ISEE test. 

However, the ISEE test analysis can go further than just stanine scores and percentile scores. Again, this is another instance where an experienced tutor can help by creating a personalized, targeted study guide. The ISEE diagnostic should be analyzed for academic concepts where a student is weaker. 

Instead of reviewing all the academic concepts on the tests, students should focus only on the concepts they need. By determining which question type is the most difficult for the individual student and using our free ISEE study guide , the student can maximize their study time.

4. Determine your resources  

Once the student decides what concepts they will need to review, they should determine what learning tools are available to them and what practice materials are best for them. 

Students should ask themselves: What books will I use? Are there additional resources online that will be helpful to me? 

PrepMaven helps guide students to the right resources to use to prepare for the ISEE and resources for additional practice exercises. 

They also provide complete practice tests for students to measure their progress. Contact us today to learn more about what ISEE prep packages we offer and how we can boost your student’s chances for success on the ISEE. 

5. Learn the test itself  

Learn the different levels of the ISEE, and what you’ll be responsible for on the test. Get to know the ISEE, what’s on it, what the different timed sections consist of, the types of questions you’ll see, and what you should expect on the day of the test. 

Students will answer multiple choice questions and one essay question. The amount of questions and time on each section will depend on whether the student is taking a Primary Level, Lower Level, or Middle Level/Upper Level ISEE exam. There are time sections that differ in timing depending on the level of the test. 

Primary Level

Lower Level

Middle Level and Upper Level

6. Strategically review important concepts such as vocabulary, reading concepts, and mathematics topics  

Some ways to get started prepping for test day:

• Review vocabulary. Consult a list of vocabulary that commonly appears on the ISEE, and consider making flashcards or asking a parent or friend to quiz you week-to-week to see how your vocabulary skills are building up and how your level of knowledge is improving. 
• Read both to build skills and for enjoyment. Reading regularly builds important reading and verbal skills. Head to your local library and build important ISEE skills while enjoying a good book. 
• Build important mathematics skills for success on the two math sections of the exam. Target any math weaknesses that the diagnostic test reveals. Take time to do regular homework with practice questions and practice drills, targeting any skills in math that need improvement. 
• Build a comprehensive study plan and stick to a study schedule to prepare in time for your ISEE testing date. Again, a private tutor can help you use the right prep materials and applicable practice exercises combined with a practice schedule to fulfill an efficient and effective study process. 
• Consistent practice is key! It can be very helpful to have someone help to keep you accountable despite busy schedules from school and extracurriculars. 

7. Use the predictability of the test to your advantage  

There are aspects of the test that can be confusing at first–however, it’s important to think like a test-maker, not a test-taker. The average student may not be used to some of the unusual aspects of standardized tests and how they differ from in-school testing. 

Once you learn the quirks of the test and exam format, you can use the predictability and regularity of the test to your advantage. The higher the level of knowledge you build about the exam, the better! Building your comfort level and confidence level with the exam will mean anxiety reduction and thus more success on the day of the test. 

Since the ISEE test covers a finite number of concepts, it’s possible to learn all the concepts that will be covered on the test. 

The test’s structure doesn’t change, so it’s also possible to learn important test-taking skills that will help improve your chances of a better score. These skills also combat test anxiety because they’re simple, straightforward ideas that can be used even if the ISEE is a difficult test. Some important skills are: 

• Process of elimination: narrow down the answer choices to one or two possibilities. 
• Time management insights: making sure you don’t spend too long on any one question, and even doing the test out of order if it means answering questions accurately and quickly. 
• Not falling into the usual tricks and traps of the ISEE. Again, working with an ISEE test prep professional, such as one of PrepMaven’s tutors, can help you avoid the most common mistakes made by students on the ISEE. 

Ready to get started? 

Navigating how to prepare for the ISEE is daunting. The ISEE itself is complicated in structure and it can be difficult to know how much time to devote to the various topics you’ll be tested on. 

A professional tutor will help you strategize a prep plan, assign you homework to build skills from week to week, hold you accountable for putting in prep and practice time, and measure your progress. 

Maximize your chances for success by contacting us today to learn how a personalized ISEE prep plan can work for you. 

Our Step-by-Step Guide to Making an ISEE Plan covers ISEE test prep strategy, a month-to-month test plan guide, quirks of the ISEE, and resources you can use to maximize your score. Download our guide for free here. 

Download our guide to making an ISEE Prep Plan

Alexis graduated from Princeton University and holds a Masters in Music from Mannes College. She was a Fulbright scholar to Austria and a research fellow at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York. She is enrolled in a doctoral program at City University New York, where she is on a prestigious Five-Year Fellowship. She has over a decade of subject tutoring and test prep (SSAT / ISEE / SAT / ACT) experience.

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What Is the ISEE Admission Test? 15 Frequently Asked Questions

We know that there’s a lot for families to do as their student applies to independent schools, and certain schools of interest may require your student to take the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE).  

The ISEE is an admission assessment taken by students around the world applying to select independent and private schools for entry in Grades 2-12. The ISEE provides admission teams with objective data points that can benefit both schools – by helping them make admission decisions – and families, by ensuring they find the right school fit for their student.

So, what is the ISEE, and what else do families need to know? Below are answers to some of the most common questions families ask about the ISEE. We hope these insights will help your family feel confident as you identify a good fit!

Everything You Need to Know About the ISEE Admission Test

Q: what is the isee.

A: The ISEE is a comprehensive admission test accepted by over 1,200 independent schools. Used for students entering Grades 2-12, the ISEE offers valuable insights to both schools and families. It stands out due to its rigorous and reliable nature, as well as its flexible testing options including a variety of in-person and at-home administrations.

At the Primary level – which encompasses applicants to Grades 2-4 – the ISEE assesses students on two categories: reading and mathematics. 

At the Lower, Middle, and Upper levels for applicants to Grades 5-12, the ISEE assesses applicants on four interconnected categories: quantitative reasoning, mathematics achievement, verbal reasoning, and reading comprehension. The comprehension and achievement sections measure knowledge, or what students have learned. The reasoning sections measure students’ logical thinking skills and their capacity to learn. There is also an essay component to the ISEE, which allows students to showcase their writing abilities.

2023-2024 ISEE Quick Facts Guide

Download the ISEE Quick Facts Guide for students and their families, with details on registration, the types of questions on the exam, and preparing for test day.

Q: Who should take the ISEE?

A: Any student seeking admission to an independent school that accepts the ISEE as part of their admission process should consider taking this exam. Use this search tool to check if a school your student is applying to accepts the ISEE for admission.

Q: How do I register my child for the ISEE?

A: The easiest way to register is online at iseeonline.erblearn.org , where you can create an account to manage multiple students and testing dates. Alternatively, registration is available by mail or by phone at (800) 446-0320 or (919) 956-8524.

Regardless of your registration method, you can send your child’s results to up to six schools.

Q: Where is the ISEE administered?

A: The ISEE can be taken in several different formats: a paper-based or online test at a designated location – a member school campus, an online test at a Prometric testing center, or an online test from the comfort of your home. You can find available test dates here .

To find your preferred testing method and location:

• For in-person tests, whether paper or online, select the grade your child is applying for, your country, and your state under “I’m looking for in-person tests.”
• For at-home online tests , select the grade your child is applying for and your time zone under “I’m looking for at-home tests.”

1,200+ Number of independent schools that accept the ISEE as a comprehensive admission test, offering data insights to schools and families.

Grades 2-12 The Primary level test encompasses Grades 2-4, while the Lower, Middle, and Upper levels assess applicants in Grades 5-12.

Q: How often can my child take the ISEE?

A: Your child can take the ISEE once per testing season, up to three times per school year. The seasons include Fall (August-November), Winter (December-March), and Spring/Summer (April-July).

We suggest students take the test twice if possible. Knowing they have a second chance can help reduce the pressure that comes with testing. If the first attempt goes well, there’s no need for a retest.

When scheduling test dates, be sure to consider the unique deadline for each school’s application. Generally, scores are due in January or February, so you may want to plan for a test in the Fall and another in the Winter. We recommend the first test in October or November and the second in December or January, depending on school deadlines.

Q: How much does it cost to take the ISEE?

A: The cost to take the ISEE varies based on both the testing method and your student’s grade level. 

• At-school testing , offered by many ERB Member Schools, costs between $125 and $155, with the higher cost for Lower, Middle, and Upper Level exams. 
• In-office testing , available at specific ISEE offices, ranges from $180-$245, depending on the grade level. 
• Online testing at Prometric Test Centers is available for Grades 5-12 at a flat rate of $235. 
• At-home testing options are also available, administered either by ERB Member Schools or directly by ERB, with prices ranging from $125-$205 depending on which grade the student is applying for and who is administering the exam (a school or ERB).
• Registration , which operates on a first-come, first-served basis, can be done online for free or over the phone for an additional $30 fee (call ISEE Operations at (800) 446-0320, available between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday).

Q: Does the ISEE have a time limit? How long is the test?

A: Yes, the ISEE exam does have a time limit, which varies based on the level. 

• For Primary 2, 3, and 4 levels (applicants to Grades 2, 3, and 4, respectively), the total test times are 53, 54, and 60 minutes respectively with one short break. 
• For Lower Level applicants (Grades 5 and 6), the exam lasts 2 hours and 20 minutes with two breaks. 
• For Middle and Upper Level applicants (Grades 7 and 8, and Grades 9 to 12, respectively), the exam duration is 2 hours and 40 minutes, also with two breaks.

Q: What should I bring to the test site on exam day? What am I permitted to bring?

A: For the ISEE exam, students should bring a snack, drink, and writing materials. For in-person tests, bring four #2 or HB pencils, four erasers, and two black or blue ballpoint pens. For at-home tests, students should have scratch paper, pencils, and/or pens available. 

Items not allowed include books, rulers, calculators (unless ERB-approved), smartwatches, and mobile devices. Non-compliance may lead to test invalidation without a refund.

Q: What are ISEE fee waivers and how do I get one?

A: Admission test fee waivers are an equity measure removing the cost of ISEE registration and test prep as a potential obstacle for low-income families. These waivers allow students to access Test Innovators’ top-tier test preparation package and take the exam at no cost.

There are two types of ISEE fee waivers:

• ISEE Universal Fee Waivers: These cover the costs for testing at a school or at home.
• ISEE Prometric Fee Waivers: These cover the testing fee for testing at a Prometric Testing Center.

To obtain a fee waiver, you should reach out directly to the schools to which you’re applying. The ISEE Operations Office or ERB does not handle fee-waiver inquiries. Each school has its own process for distributing waivers, so make sure to ask about their specific requirements.

Q: How can I prepare for the ISEE? Where can I find sample test questions?

A: ERB provides free online sample tests to help students familiarize themselves with the exam portal and question types. ERB also partners with Test Innovators to provide personalized test prep that teaches test-taking strategies, offers time management feedback, and highlights areas for improvement. ERB strives to remove financial barriers to provide all families with equal access to the best educational opportunities, so free advanced test practice and the entire suite of resources are offered to ISEE fee waiver-eligible students.

More information on these resources can be found at www.iseepracticetest.org and here .

Q: How is the ISEE scored? What does the score report include?

A: ISEE score reports, also known as Individual Student Reports (ISRs), are based solely on the number of questions your child answered correctly; incorrect answers do not deduct from their score. This scoring system encourages students to make educated guesses without fear of penalty.

The ISR provides an overview of your child’s performance on each test section relative to their peers. It also offers a detailed breakdown by question type. ERB advises member schools to consider each section score separately to gain a nuanced understanding of a student’s skills. Please note that the ISR does not indicate how many times a student has tested within a 12-month admission cycle nor does it list any score recipients other than the individual school receiving the report.

A copy of your student’s unscored essay will be sent to the selected schools for applicants to Grades 5-12. Students applying to Grades 2-4 are not required to complete a writing sample. Families do not receive a copy of the essay for security purposes.

Video: Understanding Your ISEE Scores

Q: When and where can I access my ISEE scores?

A: Your child’s ISEE scores will be available online at iseeonline.erblearn.org . You will receive an email notification when the Individual Student Report is posted to your account. The timeline for receiving score reports varies depending on the test modality and grade level:

• Students who took online exams will receive score reports within 3-5 days.
• Students applying to Grades 2-4 who took paper exams will receive score reports within 7-14 days.
• Students applying to Grades 5-12 who took paper exams will receive score reports within 5-10 days.

Q: How long are the breaks during the ISEE?

A: The length and number of breaks during the ISEE depends on the level of the test:

• Primary Level ISEEs: 1 break lasting 5-10 minutes
• Lower, Middle, or Upper Level ISEEs: Two breaks, each lasting 5-10 minutes

These breaks give students a chance to rest and recharge before continuing with the test.

Q: How is the writing sample of the ISEE scored?

A: The writing sample is not scored in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s sent to the schools your child is applying to without a grade. Admission teams look at the essay to assess the student’s ability to express their ideas clearly, their mastery of English grammar and spelling, and their personal thoughts and values. Additionally, since the ISEE essay was written under secure conditions, many schools compare it with other written works submitted as part of an application to help confirm that the student is the author of their application materials. This makes the essay a critical part of the ISEE test, and it’s important to prepare thoroughly.

Q: What should I do if the school my child is applying to accepts both the SSAT and ISEE?

A: If the school your child is applying to accepts both the SSAT and ISEE, you have a couple of options:

• Contact the School: You might want to reach out to the school’s admission office directly and ask if they have a preference between the two exams. Some schools may not have a preference, but others might lean towards one over the other.
• Evaluate Your Child’s Strengths: If the school doesn’t express a preference, consider which exam best aligns with your child’s skills and abilities. The SSAT and ISEE are similar but have slight differences in format and content. It can be beneficial to have your child try practice tests for both exams to see which they perform better on or feel more comfortable.

Remember, the goal of these exams is to help schools understand your child’s academic abilities, so choose the exam that will allow your child to best showcase their strengths.

ERB has created the ISEE to provide objective data points for assisting both schools and students in ensuring the right fit. We hope that answering these common questions contributes to a seamless and stress-free testing experience for you and your child. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to answer them.

Get all of the information you need about the ISEE admission assessment, currently accepted by more than 1,200 independent schools — from registration to score reports to testing accommodations.

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ISEE Writing Prompts: Prepare for Your ISEE Exam

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Are you ready to tackle the writing portion of the ISEE exam with confidence? Whether you’re a middle or high school student , mastering the art of writing is essential for academic success. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the ISEE writing prompts, preparing you to express your ideas eloquently and impress the admissions committees. In this article, we’ll delve into the various types of ISEE writing prompts and provide you with valuable strategies and tips to ace this section of the exam. So, let’s dive in and unlock your writing potential!

Understanding the ISEE Writing Prompts

Unraveling the isee writing prompts, mastering the structure and format of the isee essay, developing a strong thesis statement for your isee essay, crafting well-supported arguments in your isee essay, enhancing your isee essay with strong vocabulary and sentence structure, practicing time management for a high-scoring isee essay, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

Writing prompts in the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) can be daunting, but with a solid understanding of what they entail, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle them head-on. Here are a few key points to help you navigate these prompts effectively:

• Grasp the prompt type: ISEE writing prompts usually fall into three categories – creative, analytical, and open-ended. Creative prompts encourage imaginative storytelling, analytical prompts require critical thinking and analysis, while open-ended prompts allow you to freely express your thoughts. Identifying the prompt type helps you frame your response accordingly.
• Read thoroughly and analyze: Before diving into crafting your response, take the time to read and comprehend the prompt thoroughly. Highlight any keywords or instructions that will guide your writing. Once you have a clear understanding of the prompt’s expectations, analyze the subject matter and brainstorm various angles or perspectives you can adopt in your essay.
• Construct a well-organized response: Successful ISEE essays are not only well-written but also well-structured. Begin with a captivating introduction that sets the tone for your essay, followed by well-developed paragraphs that support your main points. Ensure logical transitions between ideas, and wrap up with a strong conclusion that summarizes your key arguments.

By familiarizing yourself with the diverse ISEE writing prompts and employing these strategies, you can confidently approach these essay questions and showcase your writing capabilities. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to refine your skills. With dedication and preparation, you’ll be ready to conquer the ISEE writing section!

The ISEE essay is an important component of the Independent School Entrance Examination. To excel in this section, it is crucial to understand the structure and format of the essay. Here are some key tips to help you master the art of essay writing for the ISEE:

• Introduction: Start your essay with a concise opening paragraph that clearly states your main argument or thesis. This should grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your essay.
• Body paragraphs: The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each focusing on a different supporting point. Make sure to provide evidence and examples to validate your points. Use logical transitions to smoothly connect your ideas and maintain coherence throughout.
• Conclusion: End your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis. Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion; instead, leave the reader with a lasting impression of your argument.

Additionally, here are some additional tips to enhance your essay writing skills for the ISEE:

• Practice time management: Allocate sufficient time for planning, writing, and revising your essay. Ensure that you allow enough time to proofread for grammatical and spelling errors.
• Vary sentence structure and vocabulary: Employ a mix of sentence types, including simple, compound, and complex sentences. Utilize a wide range of vocabulary to showcase your language proficiency.
• Stay focused and concise: Stick to the topic and avoid going off on tangents. Be concise and precise in your writing to ensure you effectively communicate your ideas.

By and implementing these writing tips, you can significantly improve your performance in this crucial section. Practice regularly, develop your own unique writing style, and approach each essay with confidence.

When writing your ISEE essay, one of the most crucial elements is developing a strong thesis statement. Your thesis statement sets the tone and direction for your entire essay, so it’s essential to craft it carefully. Here are some tips to help you create a compelling thesis statement that will impress the graders:

• Be clear and concise: A strong thesis statement should clearly state what your essay is about and the main argument you will be making. Avoid vague or broad statements; instead, focus on a specific and debatable point that you can support with evidence.
• Choose a unique perspective: To stand out from other essays, try to approach the topic from a fresh and unique angle. Think outside the box and offer a perspective that is thought-provoking and different from the obvious.
• Evidence-based reasoning: Your thesis statement should be supported by evidence and logical reasoning. It’s important to demonstrate that you have carefully considered different viewpoints and can support your argument with facts or examples.

Remember, your thesis statement is the backbone of your essay. It lays the foundation for the arguments you will make in the body paragraphs. Take your time to refine and polish your thesis statement, ensuring that it captures the essence of your essay and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

When writing your ISEE essay, it is crucial to craft well-supported arguments that effectively convey your ideas to the reader. Here are some tips to help you create compelling and persuasive arguments:

• Evidence is Key: Support your claims with relevant evidence such as facts, statistics, or examples. This not only adds credibility to your argument but also strengthens your overall essay. Remember to use reputable sources and ensure that the evidence directly relates to your main points.
• Logical Reasoning: Use logical reasoning to connect your evidence to your claims. Present a clear chain of reasoning that demonstrates how your evidence supports your argument. This will make your essay more cohesive and convincing to the reader.
• Counterarguments: Address counterarguments to showcase your ability to consider different perspectives. Anticipate opposing viewpoints and provide thoughtful rebuttals. By doing so, you demonstrate your understanding of the topic and strengthen your own argument.

Organization: Structure your essay in a logical and coherent manner. Start with a strong thesis statement that clearly states your position. Then, organize your body paragraphs by presenting one main idea or argument per paragraph. Make sure each paragraph supports your thesis and flows smoothly into the next. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

By following these strategies, you can develop well-supported arguments that grab the attention of your readers and persuade them to accept your viewpoint.

To make your ISEE essay stand out and impress the graders, it is crucial to incorporate strong vocabulary and sentence structure. By doing so, you will not only demonstrate your command of the English language but also convey your ideas with clarity and eloquence. Here are some effective tips to enhance your essay:

• Expand your vocabulary: Incorporate diverse and sophisticated vocabulary words into your essay. This will add depth and precision to your writing. Make use of synonyms, antonyms, and idiomatic expressions to paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.
• Utilize precise language: Choose words that accurately convey your intended meaning. Avoid ambiguity by using precise language. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure your message is communicated effectively.
• Employ varied sentence structures: Avoid using repetitive sentence structures that make your essay sound monotonous. Instead, experiment with different sentence types, such as compound, complex, and simple sentences. This will add variety and flow to your writing.

Furthermore, it is important to maintain coherence and cohesion throughout your essay:

• Organize your ideas logically: Structure your essay in a way that presents your arguments in a clear and logical manner. Begin with an engaging introduction, develop your ideas coherently in the body paragraphs, and conclude with a strong closing statement.
• Use transitional words and phrases: Smoothly connect your ideas using transitional words and phrases, such as “however,” “in addition,” or “moreover.” These transitional elements help guide the reader through your essay and create a seamless flow of thoughts.
• Proofread and revise: Finally, ensure your essay is error-free by proofreading and revising it carefully. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. Eliminate unnecessary repetition and refine your sentences to improve their clarity and conciseness.

Mastering time management is essential when it comes to excelling in the ISEE essay section. To maximize your scoring potential, it’s crucial to allocate your time effectively and efficiently. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your limited writing time:

• Plan your essay before you begin writing: Spending a few minutes brainstorming and organizing your ideas can save valuable time later. Create a clear outline that includes your main arguments and supporting evidence. This will provide structure to your essay and prevent you from getting sidetracked.
• Manage your time wisely during the writing process: Divide your available time into manageable chunks for each section of your essay – introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Stick to these time limits to keep yourself focused and ensure a balanced essay. Remember, editing and proofreading are equally important, so set aside time for these tasks as well.

Additionally, prioritize your thoughts and don’t get bogged down by perfectionism. It’s crucial to maintain a steady pace and avoid getting stuck on a single sentence or idea.

Furthermore, practice timed essays to build your speed and improve your time management skills . Set a timer and simulate exam conditions as closely as possible. This will help you become familiar with writing under time pressure, allowing you to refine your technique and confidence. By honing your time management skills, you’ll not only produce a high-scoring ISEE essay but also cultivate a valuable skill for future academic and professional endeavors.

Q: What is the purpose of the ISEE Writing Prompts?

A: The ISEE Writing Prompts are designed to assess a student’s writing skills and ability to generate well-structured, cohesive, and persuasive responses within a limited time frame. They are an essential part of the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) and play a crucial role in the admissions process for many prestigious private schools.

Q: How many writing prompts can a student expect to encounter on the ISEE exam?

A: The ISEE exam consists of one writing prompt for each test level. Therefore, depending on the level of the exam you are taking (Lower, Middle, or Upper), you can expect to encounter one unique writing prompt.

Q: What types of writing prompts can be expected on the ISEE exam?

A: The ISEE exam typically presents students with either a narrative or an essay prompt. The narrative prompt usually asks students to write a creative story, while the essay prompt requires students to offer a well-structured opinion or argument on a given topic.

Q: How much time is provided to complete the writing prompts during the ISEE exam?

A: Students are provided with 30 minutes to complete the writing prompt section of the ISEE exam. It is crucial to manage your time wisely, as this time constraint allows admissions officers to evaluate your ability to think quickly and respond effectively under pressure.

Q: What scoring criteria do the examiners use to assess the writing prompts?

A: The ISEE writing prompts are evaluated based on various criteria, including the quality of ideas and content, organization and structure, language and vocabulary usage, and grammar and mechanics. Admissions officers assess how well students address the prompt, develop their ideas, use examples and evidence, and exhibit a strong command of the English language.

Q: How can students best prepare for the ISEE writing section?

A: To excel in the ISEE writing section, it is important to practice writing in a timed environment. Familiarize yourself with the different types of writing prompts that might appear on the exam and develop a clear and concise writing style. Practice outlining and proofreading your work to ensure a well-structured and error-free response.

Q: Are there any specific resources available for ISEE writing prompt practice?

A: Yes, various study guides and online resources offer practice materials and sample prompts to help students prepare for the ISEE writing section. These resources can provide valuable insights into the expectations and requirements of the exam, allowing students to enhance their writing skills and gain confidence before their test date.

Q: Is it advisable to seek additional writing assistance or tutoring for the ISEE exam?

A: In some cases, students may find it beneficial to seek additional writing assistance or tutoring to sharpen their skills further. Professional tutors can provide personalized guidance and feedback, helping students understand their strengths and weaknesses and develop effective strategies for tackling the ISEE writing prompts.

Q: How important is the ISEE writing section in the overall admissions process?

A: While the weight given to the ISEE writing section may vary from school to school, it is an essential component of the admissions process. Admissions officers utilize the writing prompts as an indicator of a student’s ability to express themselves clearly and effectively. Therefore, giving your best effort and practicing beforehand can greatly enhance your chances of gaining acceptance to your desired school.

In conclusion, practicing ISEE writing prompts is crucial for success on the exam. Taking the time to prepare will boost your confidence and improve your chances of achieving a high score. So start practicing today to excel on the ISEE!

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What You Need to Know About the ISEE Test: Complete Guide

If you plan on attending a private school, you may need to take an entrance exam to qualify. Here you’ll find our detailed guide on everything to know before the ISEE test .

The ISEE test , or the Independent School Entrance Exam, is a strong option for students looking to take an admissions test for a private school. If you need an admission test with flexible options, an extensive online support system, and a penalty-free exam question model, the ISEE test may be the right choice.

If you’re looking for answers to what is the ISEE test or how long is the ISEE test, read on!

What Is the ISEE?

The ISEE test is a multi-level competitive entrance exam for second through twelfth-grade students used by private and independent schools to determine eligibility and proficiency in different subjects for class placement. The exam assigns six levels based on the student’s grade, covering different English and Math topics.

What’s on the ISEE?

The ISEE test uses material based on the grade level and adds extra sections as it increases in difficulty. Each level groups different grades, expecting the students to know everything on the exam even if they haven’t covered all the material. 

Below you’ll find a breakdown of what’s on each exam level .

Primary Exams

The ISEE offers three primary exams for the second, third, and fourth grades individually. Each exam has marginally different structures to better suit students in these grade levels. 

• Primary Two starts with six Auditory Comprehension questions, each read aloud by the exam proctor. Students will then have twenty minutes for eighteen reading questions and twenty-six minutes for twenty-four math questions. The test should last about an hour with a break. 
• Primary Three and Four have the same overall structure, with twenty-four on three and twenty-eight on four reading and math questions. Each exam takes roughly one hour, with a break between each section. 

Lower Level 

Students in the fifth and sixth grades take the lower-level ISEE test. This version includes four multiple-choice sections: Verbal Reasoning with thirty-four questions, Quantitative Reasoning with thirty-eight, Reading Comprehension with twenty-five, and Mathematics Achievement with thirty. The exam finishes with the standard ISEE essay. 

The lower-level exam takes about two hours and twenty minutes to complete, not including two five to ten-minute breaks.   

Middle Level

Seventh and eighth-grade students take the middle-level exam, covering the same major sections with different question totals. Verbal reasoning has forty, Quantitative has thirty-seven, Reading has thirty-six, and Mathematics has forty-seven. Middle Level also includes the essay. Expect this exam to cover what you’ve learned from these grades. 

Students taking the middle level have two hours and forty minutes to finish the exam.  

Upper Level

The upper-level ISEE has the same topic sections, question totals, and exam time as the middle level. However, Upper is designed for students in ninth through twelve grades to take it, covering everything they’re expected to learn in high school.    

Students are expected to know everything in their assigned exam level, regardless of being grouped with higher grades. This factor can make the ISEE more challenging, so careful planning of when you should take the ISEE and a strong study schedule is strongly recommended. 

How Is the ISEE Scored?

The ISEE uses a unique percentile-based system to assign students a score of one to nine. Since the entire exam is competitive, the test is designed to compare students across all grade levels to determine their eligibility for private school and individual abilities so that their future school can place them in appropriate classes.

After the exam, you might have trouble understanding your ISEE test score . Your results break down into two lists: the number of questions you got wrong and right in each section and your number for how you placed. A score between seven and nine should be good enough for admission into most private schools. 

The ISEE is also notable for not counting wrong answers, unlike the SSAT , which does on upper-level exams. Knowing this, students can better develop strong guessing strategies on the exam and increase their scores.

When to Take the ISEE

If you plan on attending a private school, you must take the ISEE or any other admission test. The best time to take the ISEE is after deciding to attend a private school but before choosing a specific one. Having your score ahead of time will help you determine what private schools you should apply for .  

How to Register for the ISEE

The best way to register for the ISEE is online. Parents should register students for the exam and work together to pick their test date. ISEE takes registration on a first come, first served basis, so the earlier you sign up before your desired exam day, the better. A testing calendar is available for students that need to schedule in advance. 

The ISEE has the most testing location options and dates for any private admissions exam. Students must only include their specifications and desired testing environment, and they are sure to find an ISSE test option that works for them. The ISEE offers larger in-school, in-office, and testing centers for students that need different accommodations. 

For more information and options on registering for the ISEE, the ISEE Test Quick Facts Guide should help. With seasonal testing options for students year-round, even students with busy schedules can find a reasonable testing date.

FAQs: What Is the ISEE?

Below you’ll find some common questions from students preparing for the ISSE.

1. What Is a Good Score on the ISEE?

A good score on the ISEE test is seven or higher. Understanding how the ISEE is scored is important, as the exam is competitive. The ISEE test uses percentile-based scoring, ranging between one and nine. With a seven or higher, you’ll land comfortably between the 77th and 99th percent of students with a competitive edge.  

2. How Long Is the ISEE Test?

For students wondering, “How long is the ISEE test?” the ISEE test takes varying amounts of time to complete. The test has different versions based on grouped grade levels that increase the difficulty and length. 

Students in grade levels seven through twelfth have two hours and forty minutes to answer 160 questions and an essay. Fifth and sixth-grade students have two hours and twenty minutes to complete 127 questions and an essay. Elementary-level tests take just under an hour for 48 to 56 questions.

3. How Long Should You Study for the ISEE?

There’s no right answer to how long you should study for the ISEE test. The amount of studying to aim for depends on how much  you need. With your grade and exam difficulty in mind, you should build a study schedule over the time you have before the exam. A good benchmark is 20-30 hours of real studying time.    

4. What Is the Hardest Section on the ISEE?

There is no consensus on what the hardest section of the ISEE test is. The entire exam is difficult because each level expects you to know everything on the test , even if you’re not in the highest grade level for that exam level. If you’re taking the high school exam, you can expect to see twelfth-grade level questions despite being in a lower grade.

5. What Is the Difference Between SSAT and ISEE?

The SSAT and ISEE tests exist as separate private school admissions exams options. The two exams have different structures, time limits, and scoring systems. The ISEE takes students in second through twelfth grade, while the SSAT only covers students in third through eleventh. 

Weigh your options carefully when considering which test is based on these differences.  The SSAT is more commonly accepted by private boarding schools than  the ISEE is. 

Final Thoughts

The ISEE is a great entrance exam option for acceptance into private and independent schools. With strong options for testing dates and settings, allowing for retakes, no penalty for wrong answers, and diversity in exam levels for students at different points in their education, the ISEE is ready and available for its students. 

However, do not take the exam difficulty for granted- the ISEE test will challenge even some of the most prepared students. Come prepared for the exam with plenty of study time, rest, and knowing strategies and ISEE tips that will lead to your success. 

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What is the ISEE, and what is it for?

What is the isee ®.

The ISEE is the Independent School Entrance Examination, and it's used for admission to private middle schools and high schools. If you're looking to attend an elite private middle or high school, this is a test you'll need to do well on.

What's on it, and why are there different levels?

Because the ISEE helps test students for admission to private middle and high schools, different levels of the test are offered depending on where you are in your education. The Upper Level is designed for applicants in 9 th grade and above. The Middle Level is for applicants in 7 th and 8 th grade, and the Lower Level is for applicants in 5 th and 6 th grade. No matter which level of the test you'll be taking, the ISEE will always test the same sections—Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension and Mathematics Achievement—but there are certain differences within the sections depending on the level of the test. The test also contains an unscored essay that is sent to the schools you're applying to.

When can I take it, and how do I sign up?

The ISEE is given several times throughout the year, but the majority of the testing dates fall during the fall and early winter. The number of available ISEE test dates will depend on your location, and you can take the ISEE only once in a six month period. Register now. What's the difference between the SSAT ® and the ISEE? Both the ISEE and the SSAT are used for admission to private middle and high schools and test Vocabulary, Math and Reading Comprehension. Many schools will accept either test for admission, which gives you the option of choosing the test that better suits you and your abilities. The major difference between the tests is in how they test your abilities in each section of the exam. The ISEE uses synonyms and sentence completion to test vocabulary, while the SSAT uses synonyms and analogies. The reading passages on the ISEE tend to be longer than those on the SSAT , but the SSAT includes a broader range of genres, including poetry. The ISEE also places a heavier emphasis on mathematical reasoning than the SSAT does. If the schools you're applying to will take either test, choose the one that's better suited to your abilities.

How is the ISEE scored?

Verbal reasoning.

• 797-935 (Upper Level)
• 782-926 (Middle Level)
• 760-903 (Lower Level)

Quantitative Reasoning

• 815-940 (Upper Level)
• 791-927 (Middle Level)
• 766-911 (Lower Level)

Reading Comprehension

• 825-940 (Upper Level)
• 799-940 (Middle Level)
• 764-913 (Lower Level)

Mathematics Achievement

• 806-940 (Upper Level)
• 774-907 (Middle Level)
• 769-899 (Lower Level)

It's not scored, but a copy is sent to the schools to which you apply. All scores are converted to a grade-appropriate “stanine,” which represents a percentile range.

ISEE quick facts

Frequency — Location-specific times throughout the year, with the majority taking place in the fall and early winter.

Duration — 2 hours and 50 minutes (Upper and Middle Levels); 2 hours and 30 minutes (Lower Level).

Sections — Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement and an unscored essay.

Test names are the trademarks of their respective owners, who are not affiliated with The Princeton Review. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University.

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How is the ISEE Scored?

An important part of test preparation is understanding the test itself—the timing, structure, and of course, how the test is scored. For the ISEE, students receive a scaled score, percentile, and stanine score for each section of the test.  Note: the Essay section is not scored. Instead, a copy of the essay is sent with the score report to the school recipient.

For the ISEE, the most commonly referenced score is the stanine score. Check out the four steps to calculating stanine scores.

Step 1: The Raw Score

The first step in scoring is calculating a raw score. This is quite simple.

Students receive one point for each correct answer and no points for incorrect answers or unanswered questions.

Tip:  Because there is no score penalty for incorrect answers or unanswered questions, be sure to  answer every single question ! Answering all of the questions can only increase your chances of a higher score.

Step 2: The Scaled Score

Once a raw score has been calculated for each section, it is converted into a scaled score.

This conversion adjusts for the variation in difficulty between different tests. Thus, a lower raw score on a harder test could give you the same scaled score as a higher raw score on an easier test. This process is called equating.

The scaled score for each section ranges from 760 to 940.

Step 3: The Percentile Score

Next, the percentile score for each section is calculated.

Percentiles compare a student’s scaled score to all other same-grade students from the past three years. This is important to understand because the ISEE is taken by students in a range of grades. The Upper Level ISEE, for instance, is taken by students applying to grades 9-12; however, the percentile score is based only on the performance of other students applying to the same grade. Thus, a student applying to 9th grade will not be compared to a student applying to 12th grade.

Here’s an example to help understand percentile scores: scoring in the 40th percentile indicates that a student scored the same or higher than 40% of students in the same grade but lower than 59% of students.

Step 4: The Stanine Score

Finally, the percentile is converted into a stanine score.

Notice that the percentile ranges for the middle stanines of 4-6 are far larger than the ranges for the extreme stanines of 1, 2, 8, or 9. This means that most students taking the ISEE achieve scores in the middle ranges. Only the top 4 percent of all test takers receive a stanine of 9 on any given section, while 20 percent of students receive a stanine of 5.

Now that you understand how the ISEE is scored, the next step is to practice so you can achieve your desired scores. Get started with your  personalized ISEE prep  today!

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What is the ISEE Test? A Complete Overview

If you hope to attend a private school, you’ll likely need to take the ISEE test. This standardized exam helps schools understand the academic prowess of their applicants.

Keep reading to get up to speed on this important exam. 

Overview of the ISEE Test

The ISEE test, also known as the Independent School Entrance Exam, is used by private elementary, middle, and high schools to evaluate the core academic skills of their applicants. The exam is administered by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) and covers students in grades two through 12 with unique tests for different grade levels. The ISEE levels are: 

• Primary for entrance in grades two through four 
• Lower for grades five and six 
• Middle for entrance in grades seven and eight
• Upper for entrance in grades nine through 12 

All levels of the ISEE test cover the same four core competencies—Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics Achievement—however, the material and format vary depending on the group level given the test. Additionally, those taking the Lower, Middle, and Upper ISEE test are also given an essay question to answer. 

What is Tested on the ISEE?

To score well on the ISEE, it’s important to understand its five sections and what they’re testing. 

• Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates a student’s vocabulary and problem-solving ability with questions about synonyms and sentence completion. 
• Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses a variety of math concepts such as algebra, geometry, and statistics with word problems and quantitative comparisons. 
• Reading Comprehension: Tests reading skills such as identifying main and supporting ideas, vocabulary, structure, and tone. Students will read passages on humanities, science, and social studies and answer accompanying questions. 
• Mathematics Achievement: Covers skills such as algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and probability. 
• Essay: Students are given a prompt and tasked with writing a well organized and informed essay. The essay is not scored, but is given to the schools a student applies to and used as a writing sample. 

How Long is the ISEE? 

The upper- and middle-level ISEE tests share the same structure and timeframe, although the upper-level exam features more challenging questions. Below is a look at the format and time limits of the two exams:

Here is the format of the lower-level ISEE test: 

The ISEE primary-level exam is considerably shorter and is unique to the three grade levels it covers:

• The second-grade exam is 53 minutes 
• The third-grade exam is 54 minutes 
• The fourth-grade exam is 60 minutes 

ISEE Test Dates

The ISEE test dates are available throughout the year with the majority of them scheduled in the fall and early winter. The ISEE divides its test dates into three periods and a student is only allowed to take the exam once per period. The ISEE test date periods are: 

• Fall: August through November
• Winter: December through March 
• Spring/Summer: April through July  

ISEE test dates are easily searchable on the ERB’s website . 

How is the ISEE Test Scored?

Every question on the ISEE is of equal value and there is no penalty for wrong answers; consequently, test takers should answer every question, even if it means guessing. ISEE scores are represented in three ways: a scaled score, a percentile score, and a stanine score. 

• Scaled Score: Raw scores are converted into a scaled score between 760 and 940. 
• Percentile Score: Shows how the student compares against a “norm group,” which is made up of students who took the same test, for the same age group, over the past three years. The higher a student’s percentile score (the scale is 1% to 99%), the better they did on the exam. 
• Stanine Score: This is the score commonly used by admissions departments. Stanines group percentage ranges into a nine-point scale. The distribution of scores into stanines remains consistent year to year—only 23% score between a seven and nine and only 23% score between a one and a three. Just 4% of students achieve a nine! 

Below is a look at how the ERB transforms percentiles ino stanines. 

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How to Register for the ISEE? 

ISEE test registration is a fairly straightforward, four-step process: 

• To create a parent account, you will need to submit basic information like your name, address, and contact information.  
• To add a student, you will need to supply information such as name, date of birth, and gender. 
• It is possible to add multiple students, each with their own profiles. 
• Answer a series of questions asked in drop-down menus about the student’s academic history, specific test dates, sites, and methods. Pick the one that works best for you and click register. 
• You will then be directed to the Prometric ProScheduler for the final steps of registration, such as payment and deciding which schools to send scores to. 

It is possible to take the ISEE at home, which is especially convenient during this current pandemic. A certified proctor monitors the exam via webcam and is available for assistance while a unique browser blocks the device the student is using from accessing any other programs. 

Wondering about your odds of acceptance into your dream college? CollegeVine’s free chancing calculator can help answer that question. Using a variety of data points, including GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities, CollegeVine can predict your chances of admission at over 500 colleges, and also let you know how to improve your profile. Register for your free CollegeVine account today to take advantage of this powerful tool.

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Everything You Need to Know About the ISEE Test

You’re probably familiar with standardized tests like the PSAT, the SAT, and the ACT—but what about the ISEE? Many elite private schools require scores from the ISEE test as part of the admissions process. In this post, we’ll answer your burning questions about the ISEE, from “What is a good ISEE score?” to “How important is the ISEE test in the admission process?” and more. We’ll also share preparation tips for an anxiety-free testing experience.

What Is the ISEE Test?

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Examination) is a standardized test administered by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) and contains three levels: ISEE Lower Level for 5th and 6th grade applicants, ISEE Middle Level for 7th and 8th grade applicants, and ISEE Upper Level for 9th through 12th grade applicants.

All levels include the following subject areas in this order: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics Achievement. There is also an essay component. The essay is not scored, however, a copy is sent to the schools to which the applicant is applying and is an important factor in demonstrating the student’s academic abilities.

Who Needs to Take the ISEE Test?

So, how do you know if your child needs to take the ISEE test? Many of the top private schools in San Diego—including The Bishop’s School , Francis Parker School , La Jolla Country Day (LJCDS) , and Pacific Ridge School —require the ISEE. Most schools’ websites include an Admissions page that features information about the admissions process and the materials students are required to submit when they apply. You can also get in touch with the school’s Admissions department via email or phone to ask about testing.

How Long Is the ISEE Test?

The ISEE Lower Level is 2 hours and 30 minutes long. Both the ISEE Middle Level and the ISEE Upper Level are 2 hours and 50 minutes long. All three levels include two 5-minute breaks, one after the Quantitative Reasoning section and one after the Mathematics Achievement section. During breaks, students may have a snack, stretch their legs, use the restroom, or talk—as long as it’s not about the test!

What Is a Good ISEE Score?

First, let’s talk about how the ISEE is scored. Students receive a raw score based on how many questions they answer correctly. Keep in mind that no points are deducted for incorrect answers. Raw scores are then converted into scaled scores for each section, which range from 760 to 940. Scaled scores are accompanied by percentile ranks, which indicate how well the student did relative to other students applying for the same grade level that took the same level of ISEE test within the past three years.

Next, each percentile rank is converted into “stanines”, scores ranging from 1 to 9, with 1 being the lowest and 9 being the highest. These stanine scores are what admissions committees focus on. A stanine of 5 is considered average among the elite group of ISEE test-takers.

From there, the question “What is a good ISEE score?” is best answered by researching the specific school(s) to which the student is applying. Some schools may provide this information on the Admissions page of their website, or they may offer information about the average ISEE stanine achieved by their most recent admitted classes of students.

We always encourage families we support through the private school admissions process here at La Jolla Learning to attend local private school open houses and other admissions events to ask questions like these to each specific school.

How Important Is the ISEE Test?

ISEE scores are just one piece of the student’s application, along with their transcripts, letters of recommendation, extracurriculars, and interviews. Most schools recognize that even very smart and high-achieving students may not test well, and transcripts may be able to demonstrate mastery of a given subject area despite a low score on the ISEE.

Additionally, each section of the test is scored separately, so a high score in one section may make up for a low score in another. In some cases, a good ISEE score can compensate for an applicant’s less-than-stellar grades. Moreover, when two applicants with otherwise similar profiles are evaluated by admissions committees, the applicant with the higher ISEE score has a strong advantage.

ISEE vs. SSAT

The main deciding factor when it comes to whether your child should take the ISEE vs. SSAT is the preference of the school(s) to which they’re applying. If the school(s) accept either, it’s important to know the key differences between the two tests.

• As we’ve already discussed, there is no penalty for wrong answers on the ISEE. On the SSAT, ¼ of a point is deducted for each wrong answer.
• The ISEE offers more options for test dates, but students can only take it once every six months, which is an important consideration when it comes to application deadlines. The SSAT is only offered eight times per year, but there is no limit to how soon you can retake it.
• The ISEE has a more difficult math section and an easier reading/writing component. The SSAT is easier when it comes to math, and more difficult when it comes to reading and writing.
• While the essays are unscored for both tests, the ISEE requires students to write an expository essay. The SSAT requires students at the Middle level to choose between two creative writing prompts, and students at the Upper level to choose between a creative essay and an expository essay.

Tips for Taking the ISEE Stress-Free

• Testing anxiety can often come from fear of the unknown. You’ve already taken a step in the right direction by reading this post and familiarizing yourself and your child with the different subject areas, duration, and scoring of the test. The more your child knows what to expect on testing day, the more confident they will feel.
• Keep in mind that ISEE scores are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to private school admissions. That’s not to say that scores aren’t important, but over-emphasizing the importance of test scores (especially if your child has anxiety around testing!) may heighten their anxiety and be detrimental to their ability to concentrate during test prep and and on the exam itself.
• If your child has learning disabilities, visit the ERB’s website to understand which accommodations your child may be eligible for and how to request accommodations in advance of the test date.
• Practice makes perfect! Taking an ISEE practice test or two will ease your child’s mind by preparing them for the format of the test and the types of questions they are likely to encounter. You can also identify gaps and weaknesses ahead of time and target those areas specifically while studying.

We offer individualized one-on-one ISEE test prep, including ISEE practice tests, personalized learning plans, and regular updates on your child’s progress. We help students develop skills and test-taking strategies so they can go into standardized tests with confidence. Give us a call to find out how we can set your child up for success.

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ISEE Sample Essay Prompts and Responses

The ISEE Essay is the fifth and final section of the ISEE lower, middle, and upper level tests. This personal essay is not scored; however, a copy of it is sent to each school to which families send their scores. Students have 30-minutes in which to write up to 2 pages in response to one prompt.

Although the ISEE essay is not technically scored, it is nonetheless an important opportunity for students to showcase their unfiltered individuality and convey their excellent communication skills.

• Read our in-depth overview of the ISEE Essay
• Download the accompanying ISEE essay brainstorming and outlining worksheet in PDF
• Learn how to tutor the ISEE (for parents and educators)

Browse through our comprehensive Prep Guides:

• ISEE Lower Level Prep Guide
• ISEE Upper and Middle Level Prep Guide

ISEE Essay Sample Prompts

What is something you have accomplished that has made a great impact on you?

Who was your most important role model as a child? Describe this person and his or her influence on you.

If you were in charge of a school trip, where would you go and why?

If you could change an action you took in the past, what would you change and why?

What aspects of high school interest you the most?

If you could gain one new skill, what would it be and why?

If you could have dinner with any person (real or fictional) from any point in time, who would you choose and why?

Describe a community service project you have completed or would like to undertake. Explain why this choice has importance to you.

The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted daily life in 2020. Describe some of the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

The world we live in is far from perfect. Name one issue of importance to you and provide some ideas for how to fix this problem.

Describe in detail a time when you helped a friend or family member in need.

If you could control the weather, what would you do and why?

Example Brainstorming, Outlines, and Responses

Essay prompt 1 - accomplishment, start by brainstorming.

The prompt is asking you about something that you have done that has had an effect on your life in some way. After completing this task, you could be a completely different person, or you are more firmly set on the path towards your goals.

This accomplishment could be big or small, charitable or self‐serving, or serious or hilarious. It doesn’t matter as long as the thing you accomplishment affected you in some meaningful way. For example:

• Victory or defeat in a sport
• Award won or lost in a competition
• Book or book series that you’ve read
• Vacation you’ve taken
• Community service you’ve completed
• Family event you’ve attended
• Church activity in which you’ve participated
• Individual (human or animal) that you’ve formed a relationship with
• Goals that you’ve met in and/or out of school
• Movie that you’ve seen

Then Write a Quick Outline

• (Detail 1) There were lots of small performances.
• (Detail 2) I felt an immediate sense of history.
• (Detail 1) The ruins were awe-inspiring.
• (Detail 2) No one really knows their purpose.
• (Detail 1) My favorite part was the Rosetta Stone.
• (Detail 2) I imagined what it was like to first discover it.
• (Conclusion) My family’s visit to England was eye-opening.

Sample Response

Something that I have accomplished that has made a great impact on me is the vacation I took to England last year, the first time I traveled outside of the country. In English class, we had just learned about Shakespeare and read parts of some plays, and in History class we had been studying Stonehenge and other ruins. My parents thought the trip would be a great connection to my studies. Upon visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, Stonehenge, and museums in London, my interest in the wider world grew immensely. For me, the trip really started when we drove to Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon. At Shakespeare’s house, a woman greeted us with the introduction to “Romeo and Juliet,” and I was impressed with how easily she spoke the words. Then, I felt a wave of goosebumps as we entered his home. By just standing in the middle of his home, I felt a respect for Shakespeare that was greater than anything I had felt in the classroom. The next day, we went to see Stonehenge. When I looked out at the ruin, I felt the same strange feeling as I did in Shakespeare’s home. It was early, and the sun hit the stones in a way that made them seem mystical. Someone placed these enormous stones here centuries ago for an unknown purpose, and I was walking on the same ground they did all those years ago! I spent the rest of the day thinking about the people who built Stonehenge and what it would be like to meet them. For the rest of our trip, we visited many museums around London. In the British Museum, I was most interested in the Rosetta Stone, the large stone tablet that allowed us to decipher several ancient languages. The stone was much larger than I anticipated, and I could clearly see the various markings covering it. I suddenly imagined scientists discovering it and marveling at the opportunities it presented to understanding ancient languages. All in all, my family’s trip to England was an eye-opening experience. Getting to see what I was learning about in school made me truly excited about learning. In the end, visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, Stonehenge, and London’s museums opened me up not only to information but to the desire for that information. I can’t wait for our trip to South America next year!

Essay Prompt 2 - Role Model

The prompt is asking you about the most important individual that you have modeled yourself and/or the things you do in some way and their influence on you. This individual does not need to be someone you have actually met, nor does his or her influence have to have had that great of an impact on you.

However, role models are usually those individuals who have changed or shaped your life in an effective way. Your choice does not necessarily have to be heavy or serious, but you think carefully about your choice. For example, your role model can be a/an:

• family member (parent, grandparent, aunt/uncle, sibling, cousin)
• actor/actress
• sports figure
• historical figure
• fictional character (book, television, comic, video game, etc.)
• (Detail 1) He puts dangerous criminals in jail.
• (Detail 1) As a philanthropist, he improves the life of Gotham’s residents.
• (Detail 1) His parents died when he was young.
• (Conclusion) Batman has inspired me to fight injustice, help others, and be humble.

My most important role model as a child was Batman. I have always admired his actions, and growing up, many of my birthday parties were Batman-themed, and I was always Batman for Halloween. Batman is a great role model as he always tries to do the right thing as a person and as a crime-fighter, he is charitable to those in need, and he has persevered through a very difficult life. When Batman lost his parents as a child at the hands of a criminal, he made it his mission to battle crime in Gotham City. Batman utilizes his intelligence and vast wealth to stop criminals. like Ra’s al Ghul, a man determined to destroy Gotham City. Batman always puts himself in danger to help others, so why can’t I do the same? Once, I saw someone being bullied in the hall and without thinking, I got between them. I was shoved by the bully in the process but eventually the bully walked away. Batman’s alter ego is Bruce Wayne. He inherited a lot of money from his parents, which he uses to help those in need in Gotham City. The Wayne Foundation provides meals for the homeless, funds scientific research, and manages free medical clinics. This inspires me to perform whatever charitable work that I can. Every holiday season, I work in soup kitchens and participate in food and clothing drives with my church. I am also a member of Small Steps, an organization that helps underprivileged young people. Batman has led a very difficult life, but he has made the most of it. When he lost his family at a young age, he found a father figure in the family butler, Alfred. Batman always selflessly seeks to help those in need. Whenever I feel down about how life is treating me, I think of all the hardships that Batman has faced and try to make the most of the situation, because there are many people who have it worse than I do. All in all, Batman was, and still is, the most important role model to me as a child. He inspires me to stop violence and wrongdoing whenever I can, strive to help as many people as possible, and to overcome hardships with optimistic thinking. Although he is fictional, Batman demonstrates what it really means to be a good person.

Essay Prompt 3 - School Trip

The prompt is asking you about an eventful school trip that you would like to go to with your friends. This could be a place that would be educational, sports related, or anything that just interests you.

You should think about all of the necessary things that a class must need for this trip. The trip should also be meaningful in some way. For Example:

• Movie theater
• Baseball game
• Science museum
• The waterpark
• Washington D.C.
• The Texas Renaissance festival
• (Detail 1) NASA’s budget is always getting cut.
• (Detail 2) We should see it in case it closes.
• (Detail 1) NASA astronauts were the first men on the moon.
• (Detail 2) Examine moon artifacts.
• (Detail 1) Understand what it’s like to live in space.
• (Detail 2) See astronaut tools and equipment.
• (Conclusion) A trip to NASA would be historically, culturally, and scientifically valuable.

If I were in charge of a school trip, I would take my fellow classmates to a place that is not only full of excitement and fun, but also must be educational. That is why I would take my class to the NASA Space Center in Houston, Texas. NASA would be the best possible trip because it is a historic place for the United States and highly educational. It is urgent to go soon, though, before there are even more budget cuts. The Space Center holds some of the most indispensable memories from our past. The history of NASA can show us how the race to the moon inspired the advancement of science and technology. There are displays filled with some of the old space suits, equipment, and moon rocks. The Space Center even has simulation areas, where students can experience high speeds, fly in the old space crafts, or even pretend to be the first astronauts to walk on the moon. NASA is still developing new and exciting equipment and tools to help possible missions to Mars and other planets. Recently they have launched numerous satellite missions, landed two rovers on Mars, and created countless inventions to help space travel. All of these things can be seen at the Space Center, too! Just by observing these new gadgets and gizmos, students can be inspired to become future engineers, scientists, physicists, mathematicians, and so much more. We must go to NASA before any more possible budget cuts that could potentially close down the Space Center. The cuts have already stopped the manned missions to space and limited the number of unmanned missions. Most American astronauts now have to go to Russia in order to explore outer space. I would hate to not get the chance to explore this amazing institution that put the first men on the moon. School trips should also consider important moments in our history. They should also inspire students to explore the fascinating world around us, and show the relevance of our studies. And it is important to think about opportunities that may be missed due to time. In the end, the school trip I would plan would be a mission to NASA, where my classmates and I could learn the history and future of space travel before it’s too late!

Essay Prompt 4 - Change Personal Past

The prompt is asking you about a moment in your life that you may regret. Think of something that you may have done that may have affected another person. Maybe you did something that changed your life in a bad way. What would you change and why? For example:

• Not studying for my history test and failing it
• Blaming my sister for breaking the TV
• Pretending to be hurt during the basketball tournament
• Forgetting to get my Mom something for Mother’s day
• Stealing a candy bar from the store
• Burning my thumb trying to light a firework
• (Detail 1) Should not let fear take over.
• (Detail 2) It’s OK to lose.
• (Detail 1) It takes a team to win.
• (Detail 1) Show my little brother it’s okay to lose and play fairly.
• (Conclusion) I shouldn’t have faked an injury, but now I’ve learned form my mistake.

The action I most regret happened last year during the 7th grade boys’ basketball championship match. We were down by ten points with eight minutes left and I was frustrated because I wasn’t playing well. So I fell to the floor and faked an injury. I want to erase this from the history books because I should have stood up to my fears, I could still have won the game, and I could have set an example for my brother. I pretended to be injured because I was afraid to lose. I grew up watching movies where the bad guys are the losers. I never saw myself as a bad person, so when I was losing, I panicked. I wish I could go back in time and tell my old self that it’s OK to lose. If I had faced my fears at that basketball game, I would have had the courage to do other scary things, like ask someone to the 8th grade prom. I let my team down. It was not my job to win the game alone; it was the team’s job to win. Later that year, I had to work with three other students to write a report on the Civil War. I was not familiar with the Southern side of the war, but one of my group was. We worked as a team and earned an A on the assignment. Finally, I could have set an example for my younger brother, who was sitting right behind the bench. If I had acted differently, I could have shown the power of teamwork, and that it’s OK to lose. By staying on the ground, I instead made it OK to lie and give up. If I could take back that night on the court, I would have taught my brother a valuable lesson in sportsmanship. In the end, that night still happened. I still fell on the floor and pretended to feel pain. I cannot take it back, but I can still learn from my mistake. I can now hold my head up when I lose a game. I am extremely proud and grateful to be on a team. And I admitted my mistake to my brother, setting an example about accountability. While I would change this mistake if I could, I am better for the experience.

Essay Prompt 5 - High School

The prompt is asking you about the things that you may hope to learn or do in high school. It is something that may be exciting and interesting to you, but not to everyone else.

You could talk about sports, science, theater, or new friends. As long as it interests you. For example:

• Being on the swim team
• Acting in a high school play
• Learning how to play a new instrument
• Meeting new friends from other middle schools
• Working in the science laboratory
• (Detail 1) Chemistry experiments
• (Detail 1) Learn to play trumpet
• (Detail 2) Dad’s jazz records
• (Detail 1) Learn to act
• (Detail 2) Compare middle & high school plays
• (Conclusion) I am excited about all the new things to learn in high school.

A big aspect of high school that interests me the most is the opportunity to learn new things. In middle school I was on the football, basketball, and swim teams. It is time to challenge myself with something new and exciting. What is more different from sports than science and the arts? In high school I am most interested in the opportunity to take more science classes, learn how to play the trumpet, and act in a play. I have always loved my science classes growing up, and every year I enter the science fair. My favorite subject is chemistry, but my middle school did not have the proper supplies for chemistry experiments. This will not be the case in high school. My brother even told me that the chemistry classes use Bunsen burners. The process to become a scientist starts in high school and I cannot wait to start. Science is not the only new subject I want to learn. I have this urge to play the trumpet. My dad grew up in New Orleans and played the trumpet when he was in high school. Growing up, he would play his old jazz records for me, and sometimes even play along with his trumpet. Some of the records are so old, the labels have fallen off. I am excited to think that, while in high school, I can learn how to play as well as my dad. Maybe I can even play with him one day. I would also love to act in a play. When my older brother was in high school, I went to his performance as Scrooge in their rendition of A Christmas Carol, and it inspired me. In middle school, our holiday performance was much simpler. In high school, even though I might not get to play Scrooge like my brother, the chance to be part of a big performance is something I am really excited about. High school is a time for a student to grow and develop into an adult. The adult I want to become will need science, music, and theater classes. With the information I learn in my science classes, I can go on to get a degree in chemistry. Studying music and drama can bring me closer to my dad and brother. High school seems like a very interesting and memorable place.

Essay Prompt 6 - New Skill

The prompt is asking you about something you may want to learn. It is something that may be exciting and interesting to you, but you haven’t learned yet.

You could talk about a sport that you want to learn, or even a musical instrument. As long as it interests you. For example:

• learn how to play soccer
• learn the rules of basketball
• improve my cooking skills
• be better at math
• learn magic
• take lessons to learn to play the drums
• (Detail 1) Help him in the kitchen.
• (Detail 2) Give him a break.
• (Detail 1) Save money.
• (Detail 2) Eat healthy.
• (Detail 1) Be a television celebrity chef!
• (Detail 2) Open my own restaurant.
• (Conclusion) Learning to cook has many valuable benefits.

There are many different skills that I want to learn, but at the moment I would most like to learn how to cook. I have always enjoyed food, and I feel it is time for me to learn how to make it myself. If I learn the skill of cooking, then I can help my dad with dinner, I can take my skills with me to college, and maybe I can even start a career with it. The main reason why I want to learn this skill is to be able to cook with my dad. Every night he makes an amazing meal with fresh and healthy ingredients, and he always packs me a delicious homemade lunch.. I want to be able to come home from school and help my dad by prepping the necessary ingredients, then he can take over when he gets back from work. Maybe one day my dad can sit back and relax while I cook the whole meal! Learning to cook is also a skill that I can take with me when I finally get to go to college. I would rather learn how to make homemade chicken noodle soup with organic vegetables than eat microwaved broth out of a cup. I learned in my health class that the body needs a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, proteins, and carbs. Homemade food is better for providing these nutrients, which will give me the energy to succeed in college. Cooking could also help me make some money. One day, I could even have my own restaurant! I can take what my dad teaches me and use it at my restaurant. Maybe I would even get a chance to have my own cooking show to share the importance of eating healthy food with other kids. They could pass on what they learn to their brothers and sisters, or even to their own kids in the future. Learning to cook is a very important skill. It might bring my father and me closer together and give him the break he deserves. I could take this skill with me to college. This skill could even end up being a possible career! In the end, learning the skill to cook would better my father’s life, help with my studies, and even give me opportunities to better my life and the lives of others.

Essay Prompt 7 - Dinner Guest

The prompt is asking you who in the world, from history, literature, or even TV you would most like to meet. Maybe this is a person you have always admired, or perhaps it is someone who could teach you a new skill. Maybe they could answer a question about the past you have always had, or maybe you would just like to be their friend.

Start by considering a wide range of possible people, both real and fictional, then narrow it down to the one you are most excited to write about. Your choice of guest does not necessarily have to be heavy or serious! For example, your dinner guest could be a/an:

• world leader (current or historical)
• religious figure
• personal ancestor
• famous athlete
• author, actor, artist, performer
• favorite book or TV character
• superhero or action hero
• (Detail 1) Studied about him in school.
• (Detail 2) Learn about his inspiration.
• (Detail 1) Led a movement, so inspirational.
• (Detail 2) How to handle disagreement.
• (Detail 1) A lot of conflict today.
• (Detail 2) Want guidance for how to improve.
• (Conclusion) Gandhi could inspire me to become a better person.

If I could have dinner with any person from any point in time, I would choose to share a meal with Mahatma Gandhi. I have always found him to be an inspiring figure and am drawn to the way he was both a spiritual and political leader. If we had dinner together, I would want to learn more about non-violent protest and about how to be an effective leader, and I would be curious to see if he had advice about how to live in today’s world. In school, we studied Gandhi’s non-violent protest, or satyagraha. If I had dinner with Gandhi, I would ask him more about this so I could learn his personal perspective, not just what others wrote about him. I want to know where he got his inspiration from, and how he stayed focused on his non-violent goals. Finally, I want to understand why he always promoted non-violence, especially when it seems like violent action might be easier. I also want to talk to Gandhi about how to be a good leader. He led a huge movement in India to help end British rule, and was central to establishing the new government during a stressful period of time. Leadership is hard, and I want to know how he managed to get through it all, particularly when handling disagreements between his followers. I have been very interested in leadership since I became involved in student government. Finally, I want to ask Gandhi for advice about living in today’s world, which is split by so many disagreements and everyone is always so angry. I really believe that Gandhi’s peaceful approach to events in the past could be a model for us today. I would be so interested to hear his suggestions for how to solve conflict, and especially what advice he might have for me personally about how to live more peacefully. Ever since I learned about Gandhi, he has been a big source of inspiration. That is why he is the historical figure I would choose to have dinner with. I would learn more about his approach to non-violence and leadership and get advice for living in the present. Of course, I cannot have dinner with Gandhi, but I can study his life and teachings by reading or watching documentaries and he can still be a valuable role model.

Essay Prompt 8 - Community Service

The prompt is asking you about community service or service learning projects you have completed, or perhaps hypothetical projects you would like to participate in. You may have volunteered with your family, through a community center or religious organization, or even at school. If you have not had a chance to do one of these projects, this is a good opportunity to come up with an idea you feel passionate about.

There are many kinds of community service—you may work directly with people, or you might work “behind the scenes” to ensure that a community has what it needs. For example:

• volunteering at a soup kitchen/food bank
• tutoring or teaching struggling students
• weeding a community garden or park grounds
• helping a non-profit with admin/mailing/filing tasks
• cleaning school classrooms
• participating in a fund drive for charity (read-a-thon, bake sale, charity run, etc.)
• cleaning graffiti off of buildings
• building homes in another country
• (Detail 1) Fun bonding activity.
• (Detail 2) People were so grateful.
• (Detail 1) Everyone needs to eat.
• (Detail 2) Important to provide.
• (Detail 1) Other ways to help out.
• (Detail 2) Bathing/beauty/health supplies.
• (Conclusion) Volunteering made me want to help solve inequality.

One of the most impactful community service projects I participated in was volunteering to help at a local food bank. That experience made me reflect about how people who might not be able to afford food are really no different from you or me. It helped me to understand that everyone deserves equal treatment whatever their circumstances, and it made me want to help my community more in the future. At the food bank, my church youth group was put in charge of a special Thanksgiving meal for the homeless, with turkey and all the side dishes. I helped prepare the mashed potatoes. After they had eaten, some of them shared with us how they became homeless, and I was struck by how many of them were just unlucky. I was also really affected by how grateful they were for a square meal, and to be treated like everyone else. Many of them said how meaningful it was just to be treated with kindness. We are all the same, even if some of us cannot afford food. That is just an external thing, and it doesn’t mean anything about how much value someone has. Homeless people are people, too, and if my family had been as unlucky as some of them, we could be homeless too. That is why it’s so important that we try to provide services for people in need, whether it’s food or clothing or shelter. After my experience at the food bank, I really want to help more often. Talking to one of the homeless guests, they said that one of the hardest things to find are bathroom products like shampoo or soap or deodorant. So this year, I want to organize a donation drive of those kinds of products to give out to the guests at the Thanksgiving dinner. It would be so meaningful to be able to provide things that they actually need and want. It is easy to ignore a problem like homelessness, or pretend that if people can’t afford food it’s somehow their fault. After my experience volunteering at the food bank, I realize that this is not true. We have a responsibility to our fellow citizens, especially if we have more resources than they do. I am really looking forward to future community service projects because I think that it is so important to try and combat inequality.

Essay Prompt 9 - COVID-19

The prompt is asking you about how a global pandemic affected you personally. Your response may vary depending on where you lived and how your family coped with the pandemic. Remember that the prompt is also interested in how you adapted to the changes and, where possible, made the best of difficult situations.

Because the prompt is asking for more than one example, it’s good to brainstorm a wide variety of possibilities. For example:

• attending school online
• having private music lessons online
• not being able to see friends or family in person
• not being able to go on planned trips
• worrying about the health of family and friends
• facing personal fears about illness
• facing personal fears about vaccines/needles
• not having personal space because of parents working at home
• (Detail 1) Really hard to work with my teacher.
• (Detail 2) Learned to be more self-motivated.
• (Detail 1) Disappointed not to go to Europe.
• (Detail 2) Family cooked dinners together.
• (Detail 1) Really sad because they are getting old.
• (Detail 2) Taught them to use new technology.
• (Conclusion) I am now able to see some good things that came out of the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic definitely impacted my daily life in 2020. Before the pandemic, I was expecting to have a normal year a lot like the year before, but once COVID began, everything changed. Three of the biggest changes were that I had to start taking music lessons online, my family’s trip to Europe was canceled, and I couldn’t see my grandparents in person. But I overcame each of these challenges and had new experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise. I have been taking clarinet lessons for three years. When the pandemic hit, my teacher taught lessons using Zoom, but it really wasn’t the same. We realized that it would actually be more helpful if I made a recording before each lesson for us to talk about. In order to make the recording in time, I had to be independently motivated. That motivation is something I’m glad to have found because it has helped me improve much more quickly. Another big change from the pandemic was that my family’s summer trip to Europe was canceled. I was so sad, because I had been really excited to visit all of the different countries. But my parents realized that we could still experience being abroad at home, so every Friday night, we cooked dinner together as a family, picking a different country’s recipes to focus on. It is a new tradition that we will continue even when the pandemic is over. The saddest thing about the pandemic for me was not being able to see my grandparents. Their health is not always good, and I really missed seeing them. When it was clear that the pandemic was lasting a long time, though, they said they wanted to learn how to video-chat and text with us. I got to teach them how to use their smartphones. It was a double blessing: I got to bond with them, and now we text almost every day. Although no one could be happy that COVID-19 happened, I have come to see that there were some silver linings to my experience. I discovered how to self-motivate myself to practice clarinet, my family became closer as a result of our cooking dinner, and I deepened my relationship with my grandparents. Although the pandemic has had many negative impacts, I am glad to be taking these positive changes forward into my life.

Essay Prompt 10 - World Problem

The prompt is asking you about an issue you feel the world is facing, and how you would try to solve this problem. It may be helpful to think of both global and individual solutions. Consider both what a country’s government could do to help and what actions an individual (like you or one of your friends) could take to help.

It will probably be easier to write this essay if you choose a topic that you feel strongly about. Remember that you don’t have to solve all of the world’s problems, just focus on the one you feel most drawn to. For example, you might consider:

• violence/war
• poverty/hunger
• climate change
• political polarization
• disability rights
• LGBTQ+ discrimination
• immigration/refugees
• animal extinction
• (Detail 1) Watched a documentary in school.
• (Detail 2) Discussion groups to learn more.
• (Detail 1) Speaking up for people.
• (Detail 2) Helping friends and family.
• (Detail 1) Make laws that prohibit discrimination.
• (Conclusion) It will take hard work, but we must try to end racism.

The world faces many big problems, but I think one of the most important to solve is racism. Racism exists everywhere, and we need to work to end it if we want to build a better world. There is not just one approach, because it is a complicated issue. The best way to try and solve this problem is to approach it on many different levels, such as in school, through individual actions, and from governmental policy and guidance. An important first step towards ending racism is to educate people. In my school, we watched a documentary about racism through history, and about how it shapes society today. We split into discussion groups with our classmates, and I was really moved by some of my peers’ stories. My understanding of racism completely changed after these experiences, and I think everyone should have a similar curriculum so that we can all learn more. Another important strategy is individual accountability. That means both making sure that I am not saying racist things but also that I try to help my friends or family be less racist, too. When my grandparents were using the word “Oriental” to describe an Asian person, I explained to them that it is not appropriate to say that any more. Now, they don’t use that word. If everyone watches out for this kind of behavior, the world can become a less racist place. The government also has an important role to play. They can make laws that prohibit discrimination, like not hiring non-white people. They can also make sure the punishments for acting in a racist way are severe. Although I think most people probably don’t want to be racist on purpose, there are still some who might not want to change their behavior unless they will be punished. That is where the government comes in and can act as a “bad cop” influence. Racism is a vast problem, and it will not be easy to end it. But I think it is one of the most important issues facing our world and we must work to make racism a thing of the past. It makes me so upset to think that there are people whose lives are so much harder than my own just because their skin is not white like mine. We are all the same, even if we look different.

Essay Prompt 11 - Family

The prompt is asking you about a time you helped out a family member who needed it. It will probably be easier to write about a time that you remember clearly. Start by thinking about all the times you can remember when a family member was in need and how you helped them. Keep in mind that helping someone in need can mean a lot of different things. For example, you might consider writing about:

• offering emotional support to a family member in a difficult situation
• taking care of an family member when they were injured or sick
• doing something kind for a family member to cheer them up
• helping a sibling study or understand homework they struggled with
• taking care of extra chores to relieve some of your parents’ stress
• doing yard work for you grandparents who might not be able to
• (Detail 1) Made it easier for her to get around.
• (Detail 2) We got to spend more time together.
• (Detail 1) The surprise cheered her up.
• (Detail 2) I got to use my art skills to help.
• (Detail 1) Friends were happy to help.
• (Detail 2) Meant a lot to her.
• (Conclusion) I’m closer to my sister after helping her through her injury.

One time that I helped a family member in need was last year when my sister sprained her ankle playing soccer. She was upset because she couldn’t play for eight weeks while she was in a cast. It was also hard for her because she had to use crutches to move around. I wanted to make things easier for her, so I carried her backpack for her at school. That way she didn’t have to deal with carrying it or opening doors. It also helped strengthen our bond because we don’t usually spend time together at school. However, we were able to talk between classes, and we still walk together even though I don’t have to carry her stuff anymore.  My sister also didn’t like her crutches because she thought they were uncomfortable and didn’t match any of her outfits. So, I asked my mom to take me to the store, and I got fabrics in her favorite colors to make cushions for her crutches. That way they didn’t hurt her arms so much and matched her backpack. I liked doing this because it made her happy and she didn’t mind using her crutches as much. It was also nice to practice my art skills. Another thing I did to help my sister was that I got all of her friends to sign a get well card for her. This took a lot of planning because I wanted it to be a surprise, but it was worth it because my sister really appreciated knowing so many people were thinking of her.  In conclusion, it was really sad when my sister hurt her ankle, but I’m glad I was able to help her by carrying her backpack at school, decorating her crutches, and getting a get well card for her. I think that everything I did helped her feel better and made us grow closer. I also learned that it’s important to show your family members that you’re there for them when something goes wrong.

Essay Prompt 12 - Weather

The prompt is asking you about what you would do if you had the ability to control the weather. It may be helpful to think about the weather on both a local and global scale. Consider both what changes you would make to the weather in your area and around the world.

It will probably be easier to write this essay about a weather change you feel most strongly about. Remember that you don’t have to talk about each aspect of the weather that you could change, just focus on the one you feel most drawn to. For example, you might consider:

• temperature
• humidity and dryness
• types of weather (ex. sunny, raining, cloudy)
• natural disasters
• seasonal weather
• (Detail 1) Ice in the Arctic Ocean has melted.
• (Detail 2) If the sea was colder, less ice would melt.
• (Detail 1) Animals in arctic environments are losing their homes.
• (Detail 2) Colder temperatures would help preserve their natural habitats.
• (Detail 1) The heat makes spending time outdoors less enjoyable.
• (Detail 2) Regulating the heat would make being outside more pleasant and safe.
• (Conclusion) If I controlled the weather, I could reduce the negative impacts that global warming has had.

If I could control the weather, I would make the temperature colder all around the world to help fix global warming. Global warming has had significant negative effects on the environment, harmed many species, and caused problems for humans. By regulating the temperature, I could help to reduce some of these negative impacts. I would make the global temperature a few degrees cooler and prevent huge changes in the temperature throughout the year. This would have a positive impact because global warming has greatly harmed the environment. For example, global warming has caused a lot of ice in the Arctic Ocean to melt which has led to rising sea levels. But, if I controlled the weather I would make sure that the ocean was cold enough so that this ice would stay frozen. Another problem I would address if I could control the weather is the harm global warming has caused for a lot of animal species. For instance, polar bears live in the Arctic where a lot of ice is melting. When this ice melts, it destroys the polar bears’ natural habitat and creates a dangerous situation for them. However, if I controlled the weather, I could ensure that Arctic animals’ habitats remain suitable for them. Finally, if I could control the weather, I could help limit the negative effects global warming has had on humans. Many people dislike when it gets very hot outside, and too much heat can even be dangerous. For example, it can be dangerous to play sports when it’s super hot outside because of the increased risk of dehydration and overheating. Therefore, making sure that the temperature never gets dangerously high would allow everyone to safely enjoy spending time outdoors. In conclusion, controlling the weather would allow me to lower the temperature across the world and lessen the negative impact that global warming has had on the environment, endangered species, and humans. If I controlled the weather, I  would regulate the temperature to ensure that these issues don’t worsen.

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11 Comments

Thank you, thank you, thank you! This is totally awesome! Extremely helpful!! This is a VERY CLEAR approach to prompt writing and how to practice for the essay.

As a tutor, I would like to note that this section is extremely useful. The topics are all topics that any student should be able to relate to. I like the way you point out why the essay is important, even though it will not be graded. Emphasis should be on presenting yourself as a thoughtful student who is looking for ways to learn – exactly what schools are looking for. The brainstorming format is simple yet useful in steering the students to good ideas and content. The sample essays are great examples of excellent work. What a great job!

These are very good sample responses, HOWEVER, they are a bit too long. The ISEE only gives you two pages with a limited amount of lines to provide your answer. You are NOT allowed to take more space beyond the two pages provided. The answers above, while very thorough, are unlikely to fit in the official amount of space you will be given even if you write in a super small fashion.

Teeny typo noticed: What aspect of high school interest (interests) you the most? Sincerely, a fellow tutor =)

Thanks for the free tutoring!

Prompt six… bring my father and me closer together not my father and I. Would you say bring I? Me is the direct object of bring.

Yep, you’re completely correct! Thanks for the find!

It’s pretty useful.

I love this promt i feel the same way and this is very helpfull

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Computer Science > Computation and Language

Title: prompting large language models for zero-shot essay scoring via multi-trait specialization.

Abstract: Advances in automated essay scoring (AES) have traditionally relied on labeled essays, requiring tremendous cost and expertise for their acquisition. Recently, large language models (LLMs) have achieved great success in various tasks, but their potential is less explored in AES. In this paper, we propose Multi Trait Specialization (MTS), a zero-shot prompting framework to elicit essay scoring capabilities in LLMs. Specifically, we leverage ChatGPT to decompose writing proficiency into distinct traits and generate scoring criteria for each trait. Then, an LLM is prompted to extract trait scores from several conversational rounds, each round scoring one of the traits based on the scoring criteria. Finally, we derive the overall score via trait averaging and min-max scaling. Experimental results on two benchmark datasets demonstrate that MTS consistently outperforms straightforward prompting (Vanilla) in average QWK across all LLMs and datasets, with maximum gains of 0.437 on TOEFL11 and 0.355 on ASAP. Additionally, with the help of MTS, the small-sized Llama2-13b-chat substantially outperforms ChatGPT, facilitating an effective deployment in real applications.

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