Firat Education · ISEE Resources
ISEE Resources: A Houston Parent's Guide to the ISEE
Written by Ibrahim C. Firat, MBA · IECA Professional Member and past Board President · Guiding Houston families since 2008
The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Examination) is the entrance test most Houston private schools use, offered in four levels from Primary to Upper and scored on a 1 to 9 stanine. These free guides explain what the test is, who takes it, when to prepare, how scoring works, and how Houston schools use it, so your family can approach it with confidence.
Start here
What is the ISEE?
The format, the four levels, and what to expect on test day. The best place to begin.
Understand the test
What is the ISEE?
Format, the four levels, and test day.
Read →Who takes the ISEE?
The four levels and who each is for, including public, charter, and homeschool applicants.
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Prepare for the test
When should my child start prep?
Work backward from Houston's admissions calendar.
Read →How much tutoring does my child need?
The variables that set your ideal plan.
Read →How Firat builds an ISEE prep plan
Our data-driven process, start to finish.
Read →Can you retake the ISEE?
Retake rules and whether it helps.
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Understand the scores
Understanding ISEE scores
Scaled scores, percentiles, and the 1–9 stanine bands.
Read →
Houston private school admissions
Schools that require the ISEE
Which Houston schools use it, by grade.
Read →Admissions timeline & milestones
The full year, month by month.
Read →Choosing the right school
Using the FIRAT Fit Method.
Read →
Can You Retake the ISEE?
Read →
Prefer expert help with the ISEE? Firat Education is Houston's ISEE prep specialist, with one-on-one tutoring, real diagnostic practice tests, and a plan tied to your child's target schools.
Explore ISEE Test Prep →Start the Roadmap
Where the ISEE fits in the bigger picture: see our Admissions Tests & Assessments guide and the FIRAT Fit Method for choosing schools.
Frequently asked
What is a good ISEE score?
Scores use a 1 to 9 stanine; schools read them holistically, so "good" depends on the school and grade. See Understanding ISEE Scores.
How many times can you take the ISEE?
The ISEE can be taken once per testing season. Plan the timing carefully.
Which Houston schools require the ISEE?
Most Houston private schools accept it; requirements vary by school and grade. See Schools That Require the ISEE.
