What's the ISEE test?

Can someone explain what the ISEE test is and who usually takes it? Is it related to college admissions or is it more for private schools before college?

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is a standardized test used by many private and independent schools, primarily in the United States, for their admissions process. The test is administered by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) and is designed for students seeking admission to private schools for grades 2-12. It is not related to college admissions, but rather serves as an assessment for entry into private elementary, middle, and high schools.

There are four levels of the ISEE exam, based on the grade a student is applying for:

1. Primary Level: For students entering grades 2-4

2. Lower Level: For students entering grades 5-6

3. Middle Level: For students entering grades 7-8

4. Upper Level: For students entering grades 9-12

The ISEE test consists of multiple-choice questions covering areas such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, and mathematics achievement. Additionally, there is an unscored essay section that gives the student an opportunity to showcase their writing skills. The essay is sent directly to the schools a student is applying to, where the admissions committees will review it alongside the rest of their application.

To prepare for the ISEE, students can utilize official ERB-provided materials, practice tests, and study guides. It is important to note that each private school has its specific admissions criteria and standards, and the ISEE is just one component of the overall process. Schools may also consider a student's grades, recommendations, interviews, and extracurricular involvement when making their admission decisions.

I hope this information clears up your confusion!