If you have a student who is gearing up to take the ISEE, you may benefit from enrolling them in a Chicago ISEE prep course provided by Varsity Tutors. The ISEE, or Independent School Entrance Examination, is used by independent and private schools to assess potential students entering grade levels 2 through 12. The exact content of the test will change depending on the level of the student, but regardless of your student's grade level, a Chicago ISEE course can provide support and get your student ready to do their best on the exam.
These prep classes are taught entirely online, and students will attend class discussions led by a qualified teacher, getting to grips with the ISEE alongside their peers. A group class can be a great way to get your student more involved in their ISEE prep, and a class will cover not only the content material of the course but also will provide knowledge as to how the test is structured and scored, so you can be sure your student is ready for test day.
What can a Chicago ISEE course do to help my student prepare?
The ISEE comes in four different formats. The Primary Level test is taken by students entering 2nd through 4th grade, the Lower Level is for 5th and 6th, the Middle Level covers 7th and 8th, and the Upper Level ISEE is for students entering 9th grade and above. Let's take a quick look at what will be covered on each of the levels of the ISEE, so you can have a better idea of what your student will be learning in a Chicago ISEE class.
The Primary Level ISEE includes Reading and Math sections, which will ask your student to show their reading comprehension skills and vocabulary, as well as their basic math skills, respectively. There is also a Writing section, in which students will be given a picture prompt and asked to write a simple story about the picture. The Writing section is not scored but is instead an opportunity for schools to get to know your student and see their creative side. For 2nd grade admission, there is also an Auditory Comprehension section, which will ask your student to listen to passages and answer questions about them.
The Lower Level ISEE consists of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Math Achievement, and Essay sections. For the Verbal Reasoning section, students will have to know age-appropriate vocabulary words and be able to use context to complete sentences. On the Quantitative Reasoning section, students will be tested on their skill with basic arithmetic and logic and will answer probability questions. The Reading Comprehension section will ask students to read passages and locate relevant information to answer questions. The Math Achievement section will require students to perform math operations, identify patterns, use decimals, and understand simple geometry. Last is the Essay section, where students will be able to respond to a prompt about a topic appropriate to their grade level. This section is an opportunity for the school to learn more about your student and their interests.
For the Middle Level of the ISEE, the sections and the time allotted for them are the same as the Lower Level. However, here the Verbal Reasoning section will expect students to have a middle school to high school-level vocabulary and to be able to use suffixes, prefixes, and context to understand words. The Quantitative Reasoning section will ask students to understand how to find variables, length of lines, and the areas of quadrilateral shapes, as well as work with square roots and formulas. The Reading Comprehension section will ask students to contrast information from passages, infer non-explicit information, and understand figurative and non-figurative language. The Math Achievement section will cover prime factorization, ratios and proportions, and geometry involving quadrilaterals and triangles. Students will also complete an Essay section with a prompt suited to students entering high school.
Finally, we come to the Upper Level ISEE. Here the Verbal Reasoning section will demand a high school-level vocabulary and put an emphasis on using context clues to discern meaning. The Quantitative Reasoning section will require students to demonstrate a real understanding of mathematical thought, rather than just performing operations, through problem-solving and probability questions. The Reading Comprehension will ask students to infer information, understand cause and effect in written arguments, understand literary genres and their relationships, and to be able to read authorial intent into a passage. At this level, the Math Achievement section will add word problems, and solving equations here will require knowledge of geometry, algebra, and math problem-solving. There will be an Essay section, which will ask students to write an essay based on a prompt and show their ability to write a grammatically, structurally, and mechanically sound essay.
How will a Chicago ISEE class prepare my student?
We know that both you and your student may have very full lives, and adding a prep course to your schedule might seem like a challenge. This is why these courses are designed to be accessible to a wide variety of students with diverse needs. These courses are taught in an online classroom, where your student will engage with their peers in discussion sessions and be taught by a knowledgeable instructor. This online classroom works just like a brick-and-mortar classroom, with the added advantage of no commute times and a range of class times to pick from. New classes start on a weekly basis, and both 2-week and 4-week class sections are available, so getting signed up is simple as well.
Working through material with other students can be an excellent way to learn, and has in fact been shown to promote understanding and retention of information. However, it can be useful to ask questions in a more private context, too. This is why, in addition to class sessions where the instructor will work on ISEE content material and test-taking skills with the group, your student will also be able to request one-on-one time with their teacher in order to brush up on any material they might struggle to understand. A Chicago ISEE course aims to provide you and your student with the options you need to pursue success on the exam.
How can I get my student signed up for a Chicago ISEE course?
No matter where your student is at in their ISEE prep, Varsity Tutors is providing Chicago ISEE courses that can suit your needs and schedule. A Chicago ISEE prep course can provide insight into how the test functions, and what skills your student can employ in their approach to the ISEE, which can build their confidence as they approach other standardized tests throughout their academic career. Contact us today and we can provide you with more information on our course offerings and get you signed up for a course that can deepen your student's understanding of the material they'll need to know to perform well on the ISEE, and set them up to pursue success throughout their academic career.

Rebecca: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...Studies. I am currently pursuing a masters degree in social work at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration. I am passionate about tutoring because I want everyone to be able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- IB Psychology HL
- Elementary Math
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +53 subjects

Stephen: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...as they increase towards their goal. When I tutor, I aim to lead students to an answer by example so that they can see the reasoning involved themselves, rather than me just telling them the answer. The more the students can come to their own solutions, the more memorable the lessons will be. In my spare time I enjoy reading, playing skill games like scrabble, bridge, and poker, and outdoor activities like biking, camping, and...
Education & Certification
- Grinnell College - Bachelor in Arts, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Pre-Algebra
- Social Studies
- Chemistry
- +69 subjects

Brian: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...transfer. While at Marquette I did research on thermal transfer in turbulent flow. While at Marquette, I spent a summer at Northwestern University doing research in bandgap theory and kinetic energy harvesters. I moved back to my hometown of Chicago to get my Masters at Illinois Institute of Technology. I studied Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Thermal Science and Fluid Mechanics. I have a strong passion for the academic realm and believe...
Education & Certification
- Marquette University - Bachelor of Science, Physics
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Master of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Pre-Calculus
- Engineering
- IB Physics
- +45 subjects

Janet: Chicago ISEE course instructor
As an educator for 20 years in both the US and Canada, I enjoying working with students of all ages. With a background in Special Education and tutoring for test prep (GED, ACT, SAT), I have a heart for those who find it difficult to succeed in the classroom. It is my passion to encourage students and help them learn strategies to succeed in their education and in life. ... All students have the ability to learn, so the challenge, as a teacher or tutor, is to understand how the student learns best. Utilizing that learning style, I desire to encourage the student and provide opportunities for the student to succeed. Beyond the current learning style, I believe it is important to equip the student with skills to learn in any classroom environment which they may encounter. Critical thinking skills are equally important to prepare the student for both classroom success and life.
Education & Certification
- Moody Bible Institue - Bachelors, International Mnistries
- Lamar University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER ESL
- Algebra
- High School Level American History
- +64 subjects

Katherine: Chicago ISEE course instructor
I am a multi-level, multi-subject educator offering 8+ years experience in instruction; consistent performance record and excellent reviews; and innovative instructional methods to maximize student understanding and performance across various learning styles, abilities, and interests. It is my pleasure to educate through Varsity Tutors.... My philosophy in education is that all students are smart. It is my job as an educator to meet each student where they are and to guide them in the achievement of their educational goals. Learning should be personalized and fun.
Education & Certification
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Loyola Marymount University - Master of Arts, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Literature
- IB Psychology SL
- IB World Religions SL
- +53 subjects

Shea: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...and my mission as a teacher. Ever since I started teaching 5 years ago, I have been committed to accommodating the needs of each individual student, and instilling a lifelong love of learning in all of my students. As a very passionate, caring, nurturing, and knowledgeable teacher, I thrive on the success of my students ??? our future. As a tutor with Varsity Tutors, I???m eager to have the opportunity to help more of our...
Education & Certification
- Western Illinois University - Bachelors, Computer Science
- National-Louis University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary School Math
- High School English
- Reading
- +14 subjects

Amy: Chicago ISEE course instructor
I am currently a school teacher. I teach both special education and general education elementary and middle school students. I am able to break down skills in a way that children can understand. I love it when everything clicks for the student. ... My teaching philosophy is that every person can learn; it is just a matter of finding out how they learn.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelors, Theatre
- National Louis University - Masters, Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- College English
- Special Education
- Test Prep
- +18 subjects

Ethan: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...Chicago. I attended the Horace Mann School in New York City. I love teaching and working with students because I feel that there is nothing more rewarding than being able to provide the extra push that students might need to be successful. I am passionate about helping students learn and making sure they are having fun doing so. I'm also happy to talk about anything a student might want to talk about, academically, extracurricularly, or...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Current Undergrad, Public Policy/Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary School Science
- Spanish 2
- REGENTS
- +57 subjects

Gregory: Chicago ISEE course instructor
empty... Relaxed and accommodating, but direct and impact-driven.... Get to know their background and the best way they retain information.... Provide self-prep materials, and evaluate their performance.... Show impact of results and progress.... Find alternative approaches, and practice.... Help them practice reading and understand main concepts.... Give them effective instruction, but also time.... Provide fun examples or real-life applications.... Asking questions throughout teaching the session.... With conversation about the subject and practice-test results.... What is their most effective way of learning, and what are their biggest struggles and strengths?
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelors, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Competition Math
- SAT Subject Tests
- Korean
- +38 subjects

Bryson: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...self-described "nerd" who really enjoyed expanding my knowledge base and taking on academic challenges. I hope to impart the idea that tackling new concepts can be fun and rewarding at the same time. Additionally, as a generally "good test taker," I enjoy helping students hone their test taking skills to achieve optimal results. When I am not tutoring, I enjoy running, listening to music, a game of tennis, or a good TV-binge session.
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Loyola Marymount University - Master of Arts, Urban Education and Leadership
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Languages
- Statistics Graduate Level
- Inorganic Chemistry
- +51 subjects

Rebecca: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...lives; the ability to reason through a problem and understand the flow of an argument will help any student inside or outside the classroom. As a teacher, I aim to build confidence in my students and decrease anxiety about any difficulties that may arise with the subject matter. I do not believe there is any such thing as a bad question, and strive to make sure my students understand the "why" behind a solution so...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Masters, Applied Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Graduate Test Prep
- ACT Math
- 11th Grade Math
- +72 subjects

Mollie: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...high school in 2020 and then took a gap year, during which time I completed several internships but truly found my passion as an intern at my local legal aid organization. After college, I plan to pursue a law degree and eventually become a lawyer or judge. I had multiple opportunities during high school to work with younger students, from working as a summer cello teacher to volunteering as an assistant kids' tennis coach to...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- Linear Algebra
- SAT Writing and Language
- +69 subjects

Daniel: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...because I have been motivated to make the course content as relevant to our students’ lives as possible in order to best engage them in learning activities and assessments. In order to meet my goals, I consistently reflect on how well I designed a lesson or a learning activity that incorporated the elements of critical thinking, problem solving, analyzing and evaluating. I integrate a question that is stated in the form of a problem, which...
Education & Certification
- Lake Forest College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Social Studies
- Study Skills and Organization
- ACT Science
- +52 subjects

Najla: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...University, as well as a course in pedagogy. Throughout this time, I continued to tutor K-12 students as well, and am comfortable working with students of all ages. Most importantly, however, I absolutely love working with students, and have a sincere passion and enthusiasm for teaching. I consider it a challenging calling, but one that has been immensely gratifying, both personally and professionally. I look forward to meeting and exploring how we can achieve your...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- University of Washington , Columbia University - PHD, History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- 12th Grade Math
- ACT Reading
- Writing
- +108 subjects

Pete: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...of Wisconsin in Madison, I understand the gap that can form between teachers and students first hand. Combining a relational teaching style, and a strong value of education, I believe that the unique needs of every student deserve consideration and that it is the role of the tutor to find the perfect way to teach. It is my personal wish that if a student has a special need, I can fulfill it through flexibility, kindness,...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, Honors English Literature and Mathematics Minor
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Business
- Calculus 3
- AP Microeconomics
- +80 subjects

Lisa: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...see that math is interesting, not scary, and that it is OK to struggle with it sometimes. The way that we learned math when we were in school years ago is drastically different from how I run my classroom and tutoring sessions. I encourage conversations about math, use of manipulatives and games, and I even encourage productive struggle! I use strategic questioning and visuals to guide my students through their struggle to help them realize...
Education & Certification
- Illinois State University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Geometry
- Pre-Algebra
- Elementary Math
- +17 subjects

Shannon: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. Additionally, I minored in Business. I am working toward my Juris Doctor at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. I love sharing my love for learning by helping others reach their academic potential. As a tutor, I believe teaching should be tailored to suit each student's needs. Students learn best from different teaching styles. I am devoted to helping my students in a personalized fashion that allows...
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- Loyola University-Chicago - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- IB Psychology
- Computational Problem Solving
- ISEE-Lower Level Verbal Reasoning
- +181 subjects

Jeff: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...taught nationally and internationally, working with all types of students. I am passionate about working with students in groups or one-on-one to get better class results. I guide students interactively through material so they can get a better understanding of course skills and concepts. I enjoy seeing the looks on students' faces when they grasp material they have been struggling with. Over the years, I have worked with thousands of students on their Public Speaking...
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-Columbia - Bachelor in Arts, Radio and Television
- University of Missouri-Columbia - Doctor of Philosophy, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- World Literature
- Productivity
- Adult ESL/ELL
- +28 subjects

Jouko: Chicago ISEE course instructor
I have a deep love of math and science and teaching. I have a PhD in physical chemistry from the University of Chicago. I have been tutoring and teaching for 15 years. I have experience tutoring all levels of math from arithmetic to calculus, chemistry, and physics.
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- University of Chicago - Doctor of Philosophy, Physical Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT Math
- C++
- Technology and Coding
- +78 subjects

Carol: Chicago ISEE course instructor
...as a Masters of Education in Special Education. I also completed endorsements in Educational Leadership at National Louis University and Director of Special Education at the University of St. Francis. I am an experienced Special Educator and Educational Coordinator with thirty-one years of experience with students of various academic abilities. I have a strong background in social sciences and am skilled in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, public speaking, leadership, Junior High and Secondary Education, communication...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Loyola University-Chicago - Masters in Education, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- College Economics
- Algebra 2
- Learning Differences
- +54 subjects