Many students struggle with the pacing of the timed sections, the unique question formats (particularly analogies and sentence completions in the verbal section), and the transition from classroom math to the test's problem-solving style. Additionally, managing test anxiety during a high-stakes exam can impact performance. Personalized instruction helps students work through these specific challenges at their own pace rather than keeping up with a classroom schedule.

Most students benefit from 2-3 months of focused preparation, though this varies based on individual needs and starting point. Some students may need more time to build foundational skills or develop test-taking strategies, while others might need less. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can assess your student's readiness and create a customized study plan that fits their timeline and learning pace.

In a typical classroom setting, instruction moves at a fixed pace regardless of individual student needs—a challenge particularly relevant given Oklahoma City's average student-teacher ratio of 16.6:1. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to target your student's specific weaknesses, skip material they've already mastered, and adjust teaching methods to match their learning style. This focused approach typically leads to faster improvement and stronger confidence on test day.

The first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your student's current strengths and areas for growth across all ISEE sections. The tutor will discuss your student's goals, test timeline, and learning preferences, then outline a personalized study plan. This foundation ensures that subsequent sessions are strategically focused on maximizing improvement.

Effective ISEE tutoring includes regular practice tests and section-by-section assessments to track score improvement and skill development. Tutors typically review performance data with students to identify which strategies are working and where additional focus is needed. Clear benchmarks—such as improving from 40th to 60th percentile or mastering a specific question type—help students and parents see tangible progress throughout the preparation process.

Expert tutors should have deep knowledge of the ISEE Lower Level format, scoring, and content; experience working with upper elementary students; and proven success helping students improve their scores. They should also be skilled at explaining concepts clearly, managing test anxiety, and adapting their teaching approach to different learning styles. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who meet these standards and have a track record of helping students succeed.

Several selective independent schools in the Oklahoma City area use the ISEE as part of their admissions process, including schools that prioritize rigorous academics and individualized learning. Since school requirements vary, it's worth checking directly with schools your student is interested in attending. Regardless of which schools you're targeting, strong ISEE performance strengthens your student's application and demonstrates readiness for advanced coursework.