Firat Education · ISEE Resources
The ISEE is for students applying to independent and private schools that require standardized testing. Students usually take it when applying to a new school, at four levels based on the grade they are entering. It serves applicants from every background, including public, private, charter, homeschool, and international students.
While not every private school uses the ISEE, it is one of the most widely accepted entrance exams in the United States. Students typically take it when applying for admission to a new school, whether entering elementary, middle, or high school. In many cases students take the exam once during an admissions cycle, though some families retest if their target schools permit it.
Because grading systems, curricula, and classroom expectations vary from school to school, the ISEE gives admissions offices one additional, consistent measure. It is used by families coming from:
The exam is offered at four levels based on the grade a student will be entering, not their current grade.
| ISEE Level | Students Entering |
|---|---|
| Primary | Grades 2–4 |
| Lower | Grades 5–6 |
| Middle | Grades 7–8 |
| Upper | Grades 9–12 |
For example, a student currently in 4th grade applying to enter 5th grade would take the Lower Level ISEE.
Requirements vary by school and grade. Some schools require the ISEE, others require the SSAT, some accept either, and a growing number are test-optional. Confirm the admissions requirements for every school on your list, or see Schools That Require the ISEE.
