The ISEE has four levels: Primary (grades 2-3), Lower (grades 4-5), Middle (grades 6-7), and Upper (grades 8-11). The level your student takes depends on their current grade and the grade they're applying to—most students apply to enter a grade one level above their current grade. Varsity Tutors can help you determine which level your student should prepare for and create a targeted study plan.

Many students struggle with the ISEE's verbal reasoning section, which requires strong vocabulary and logical thinking skills that differ from typical classroom instruction. The quantitative reasoning section also challenges students who haven't encountered problem-solving questions that require multiple steps and strategic thinking. Additionally, the test's timed format and unfamiliar question types can create anxiety—personalized tutoring helps students build confidence through targeted practice and test-taking strategies specific to each section.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify your student's specific strengths and weaknesses rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. In a classroom setting with Orlando's average student-teacher ratio of 16.9:1, individual learning gaps often go unaddressed. With personalized tutoring, tutors can spend focused time on weak areas, adapt pacing to your student's learning style, and provide immediate feedback—leading to faster improvement and better retention of test-taking strategies.

Most students benefit from 2-3 months of focused preparation, though this varies based on starting point and target score. Students who begin with strong foundational skills may need 6-8 weeks, while those addressing significant gaps in vocabulary or math concepts may benefit from 3-4 months. Varsity Tutors works with you to create a customized timeline based on your student's current level and the schools you're targeting.

The ISEE includes Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Math Achievement, with an unscored essay section. The test takes approximately 2.5-3 hours depending on the level. Each section has specific time limits that require strategic pacing—a skill personalized tutors help students develop through timed practice tests and section-specific drills.

Score improvement depends on starting point and effort, but students who work consistently with personalized instruction typically see gains of 5-15 percentile points over 2-3 months. Some students show more dramatic improvements in specific sections where targeted instruction addresses foundational gaps. The key is consistent practice combined with expert feedback—tutors help students identify patterns in their mistakes and develop strategies to avoid repeating them.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors experienced in ISEE preparation for students in Orlando. The process starts with an initial consultation to understand your student's current level, target schools, and goals. From there, you'll be matched with a tutor who can create a customized study plan, and your student can begin personalized instruction tailored to their specific needs and timeline.