ISEE Tutoring in Maryland

The Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE) is an admission entrance exam for grades 2-12. The tested material changes based on a student's grade level, however, all exams include an unscored essay, which will be sent to the schools where you're applying.

When do students take the test?
The ISEE is given several times throughout the year, but the majority of the testing dates fall during the fall and early winter.

What makes the ISEE challenging?

• ISEE scores are normed using other ISEE test-takers, who comprise a selective group of students with higher-than-average achievement.
• ISEE questions often include many above-grade-level concepts.
• The ISEE is fast-paced, so many students are unable to finish every question.
• Unlike the SAT, students are not allowed to use a calculator on the math section of the test.
• ISEE questions are often written in a more challenging way than a standard grade-level test. 

In addition, the ISEE tests multiple grade levels using the same test. For example, students going into seventh and eighth grade both take the middle level test. Though they are scored based on how they compare with other students in their same grade-level, some may find it overwhelming to take a test with questions about unfamiliar concepts.

How can a student prepare for the ISEE?
Practice and preparation can help your child to improve their skills and their confidence going into the exam.  ISEE tutoring can be useful for several reasons:

• Pacing- The ISEE is a fast-paced test, and it is a good idea to prepare for that ahead of time. For example, students who have been taught to underline and make notes on a reading passage will probably find that they run out of time before they finish the Reading Comprehension section, so they will need to learn and use a different reading strategy for the test. Through practice and preparation, students can know how to pace themselves appropriately.
• Advanced concepts and skills- Unlike the tests students take during school, the ISEE contains some questions with above-grade-level vocabulary words and skills, which they will not learn at school until after the test. A quality tutoring program can teach students these skills.
• Extra practice with academic skills- The good news about the ISEE is that it tests useful skills that extend beyond the test. Students who prepare for the ISEE will learn new vocabulary words, reading comprehension strategies, review previously-learned math concepts, and get a head start on more advanced math concepts. Some students find that their grades in school go up after ISEE tutoring because they are already familiar with many of the concepts taught in class.
• Confidence- The ISEE can be a daunting test, especially for young students. By practicing their skills and knowing what to expect, students can have the confidence to do their best and feel more comfortable during the test, even when they encounter challenging questions.

Total Tutoring Services has many highly qualified tutors who are experienced in teaching the ISEE and can help students prepare for the test. Through practice and preparation, the challenge of the ISEE can be turned into a valuable learning opportunity.

Our tutors are available seven days a week to travel to your home or meet with your child virtually for personalized one-on-one lessons.  We tailor our test preparation to meet your child's needs and provide you with a progress report after each session detailing progress that was made and areas that still need to be addressed.  ​

​Call us now at 443-604-9358 and let us help your child improve their skills and their confidence!