If you would like to get high-quality Washington, DC ISEE prep assistance for your student, contact Varsity Tutors today. Choose from options that fit your student's preferred way of learning and your family's schedule. We have ISEE prep courses and also offer one-on-one ISEE tutoring. You can even choose to have your student spend time studying in both of these settings.
The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is a standardized test that provides admissions professionals accurate insights into your student's abilities and personality. It's one of the pieces they look at along with other application materials. Whether your student would prefer to take part in a Washington, DC ISEE prep class or work with an ISEE tutor, or both, we can support them as they work towards preparing to do their best on test day.
What subjects can be covered in a Washington, DC ISEE prep class or by an ISEE tutor?
To provide an accurate and precise measure of your student's abilities, there are six levels of ISEE. For the youngest students, there are the Primary 2, 3, and 4 Level tests, given to students entering the grade number in the test's title. As students get older, there are the Lower, Middle, and Upper Level tests, given to students entering grades 5 or 6, grades 7 or 8, or any year of high school, respectively. We'll see a quick overview of the three Primary Level exams first and then look at the latter three.
Primary Level 2 has a unique Auditory Comprehension section, where they listen to passages and answer questions about them. All Primary Levels have a Math and Reading section with multiple-choice questions testing students on grade-appropriate topics like basic math operations and vocabulary. The final piece is a Writing Sample, given to students as a picture prompt for them to write a story about. This unscored piece is used by schools to see a student's personality, creativity, and writing ability.
The Lower, Middle, and Upper Levels each have the same sections, with the only difference being the grade level the content is targeted towards. The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates your student's understanding of grade-appropriate vocabulary, ability to recognize context clues to word meanings and other elements, recognition of prefixes and suffixes and how they can help define an unknown word, and parts of speech.
On the Reading Comprehension section, students showcase their ability to understand passages they read. They prove they can identify the main points and the supporting details and ideas, the purpose, and the piece's tone based on the author's word choices. They'll also infer details and draw conclusions not specifically stated, locate data in the passage and apply it to practical questions, recognize cause-and-effect relationships, and compare and contrast information.
There are two math-related sections on each test. The Math Achievement section focuses on the ability to correctly complete math operations. The Quantitative Reasoning section more about mathematical thinking. Both have problems with numbers and equations, variables and exponents that use algebra, measurement, geometry, and problem-solving skills. The differences between the sections are subtle, and that's something an instructor can discuss during a Washington, DC ISEE class session.
The Essay conveys an indication of your student's personality and writing abilities. Each test provides a prompt reflecting a topic generally interesting to students at the targeted grade level. The way your student responds conveys more about them as a person and as a student.
This is a quick glance at the information your student will be reviewing in their ISEE class or tutoring sessions. If they're taking either the two- or four-week ISEE course and having an especially hard time with one or two topics, you can sign them up for individual instruction sessions provided by Varsity Tutors. They can work at their own pace, taking the time they need with their tutor to fully understand the subject and feel confident they've mastered it.
How do I know which Washington DC ISEE prep study option to enroll my student in?
For some students, the choice will be easy. If your student thrives in a classroom setting, the Washington DC ISEE prep course is probably going to be your best choice. On the other hand, if they're motivated and concentrate better in one-on-one settings, you should consider signing them up for lessons with a Washington DC ISEE tutor. If the choice isn't that obvious for your student, continue reading to learn more about the benefits of each option.
Working in the collaborative environment found in a group class, including one that meets online, can help with learning and retention. Another benefit of the virtual classroom test prep option is the ability to get ideas from the instructor and from other students. Since there's more than content review involved in preparing for a standardized test like the ISEE, those who have taken it previously might be able to offer suggestions on how to handle it when your student runs into a question they don't know, how to make sure they have enough time to finish all the problems within the time limits, and other test-taking strategies. If your student's understanding of the ISEE topics is pretty evenly distributed, and the other factors mentioned here resonate with them, the Washington DC ISEE prep class may be the best choice.
If your student has uneven skills and could use some customization in their ISEE review process, working with a private ISEE instructor might help. When meeting with a group of students, the study schedule can't be changed whenever one or two students need more or less time with a subject. A private tutor can do exactly that, and the ability to customize sessions is probably the best reason to choose this option.
How can I get my student signed up for a Washington DC ISEE prep class or tutor now?
To get started, simply contact Varsity Tutors, answer a few questions about your student's grade level, goals, and your family's schedule, and our educational consultants will sign your student up for the Washington, DC ISEE preparation choice that you feel will work best for your child.

Alexandra: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...of twenty to two hundred students twice a week for three years. I have over 150 hours of teacher training and countless hours in the classroom. Furthermore, I was the editor of our student newspaper, The Daily Cardinal, and have extensive writing-coaching skills in addition to a strong grasp on the English language. I am currently employed by an educational non-profit in Alexandria, Virginia and would like to spend time outside of my regular 9...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, History and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- ACT
- Advanced Placement
- +23 subjects

Samantha: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...as a child and had to attend speech therapy, so I know very well how nerve-wracking it can be to learn, and especially speak, a foreign language. But not only did I learn French, in my last job I used French often to speak with foreign government officials and even briefly interpreted for a Member of Parliament. So no matter how frustrating you find learning French to be or preparing for a standardized test or...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, 1. International and Comparative Political Science 2. Economics
- Johns Hopkins University-Schools of Advanced International Studies - Current Grad Student, 1. Conflict Management 2. International Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CogAT
- GED
- ASVAB
- +96 subjects

Leah: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...is why I like to tutor students in math, to show that it is doable and something they can excel at too! My favorite areas to teach are Arithmetic, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Calculus, but am happy to teach most math areas. During my time in High School I helped tutor my fellow peers in math; In college I tutored elementary school students in reading and math and middle schoolers about environmental issues; Lastly I was...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- Algebra 2
- ACT Reading
- +22 subjects

Erin: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...teaching biology, chemistry, physics, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus to high school and university students for about 12 years. Similarly, have 12 years of experience with the SAT, ACT, and ISEE/SSAT, and about 4 years of experience teaching GRE and GMAT. As far as hobbies go, I enjoy reading science fiction, classic literature, and comic books. Rock-climbing is a big thing for me, as is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I'm also into dancing, including salsa, bachata, zouk, swing,...
Education & Certification
- Stanford - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SSAT
- +77 subjects

Samuel: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...and having my students understand and internalize the complex material. I believe that every student is capable of success; my job as a tutor is to help them overcome academic roadblocks. I work with my students to find interesting and exciting new ways to attack a subject; I know from experience that by connecting academic work to a topic of personal interest, a student will be much more willing to engage with the work at...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +35 subjects

David: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about the LSAT, ACT, US History, European History, and Writing. I very much enjoy teaching LSAT test preparation. It is a challenging obstacle for many students. However, once you understand what the test is trying to accomplish, it actually becomes enjoyable. Receiving a high score on the LSAT can open up a lot of doors for a motivated individual. I am most passionate about helping my students achieve...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- HSPT
- SSAT
- +52 subjects

David: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...taught argumentation and debate at the Harvard Debate Council summer workshops, and have developed and taught a political philosophy curriculum at the Harvard Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece. I love working with kids, and I read and write children's books and young adult fiction in my spare time (as well as poetry and adult fiction). I love exploring ideas in fields from Literature to Neuroscience, and have a lot of experience working and volunteering...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Current Undergrad, English
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +34 subjects

Paula: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...ability to accommodate various learning styles, behaviors, and abilities while making learning an exciting, positive experience. Learners are diverse in every way, and each student requires unique strategies, motivators, and reinforcers to be successful throughout the learning process. I take pride in knowing that my students look forward to learning and gain confidence to tackle new challenges; as they begin to take the necessary steps toward becoming independent learners. I enjoy getting to know my...
Education & Certification
- Notre Dame of Maryland University - Bachelors, Elementary/Special Education
- Loyola University Maryland - Current Grad Student, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT
- Elementary School
- Math
- +13 subjects

Akash: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...including test prep i.e the SHSAT& HSPT. My favorite subject to tutor is math because I love solving problems and there is always a right answer! I believe that every student has their own way of understanding and learning different concepts. I ask questions and listen to my students so I can pinpoint the problem areas. To learn well you have to maintain a positive attitude and be curious! In my spare time, I dance...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Queens College - Bachelor of Science, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- REGENTS
- SHSAT
- +55 subjects

Jennifer: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...of students learn a wide variety of subjects. I want to help others succeed, and I like helping people to learn. I find the most joy in seeing a students eyes light up when what I have been teaching them clicks in their heads. I enjoy tutoring one-on-one since I have found that engaging a student directly in the learning process helps him/her to understand (and remember) the topic more fully, rather than letting them...
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Bachelor in Arts, Classical Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- SSAT
- PSAT
- +15 subjects

Clare: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...interventions in math and reading. I work with my team to analyze student data and to work with them to create interventions that bring students from a lower test score to passing test score. Before my work as a teacher, I worked on a pilot program with bringing their program into a St. Louis City charter school. In this position, I worked with students from 5th to 8th grade who were reading and doing math...
Education & Certification
- Elon University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Fontbonne University - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SAT
- SSAT
- +83 subjects

Natalie: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...was drawn to this major because of my interest in science as well as mysteries (especially Nancy Drew as a kid!). In my free time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, playing tennis, working on arts and crafts, and traveling My love of learning started at a young age, thanks to my parents and a library card that opened my eyes to a wealth of information. It's my goal to help others enjoy learning as much as...
Education & Certification
- Duquesne University - Bachelors, Biochemistry
- Duquesne University - Masters, Forensic Science and Law
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- REGENTS
- ACT
- SSAT
- +77 subjects

Caleb: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...America. I taught high school biology, Honors biology, chemistry, and Honors chemistry. I regularly helped my students outside of class in these subjects, in addition to math, reading, writing, and SAT Prep. I have a passion for math and science because of the problem skills developed through their study, but I also have a joy for reading and writing and the way language can powerfully capture ideas and meaning. I firmly believe in establishing strong,...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Human Biology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT
- High School English
- SAT Math
- +29 subjects

Lucille: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...I work to empower my students to not only develop their skillsets in the areas that they will be tested on, but also to help them feel capable and confident in their abilities. Personally I genuinely enjoyed taking the logic games portion of the LSAT, and I hope to help my students find bits and pieces of the exam that they can have fun with to make it feel more achievable. Outside of school and...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor of Science, Global Studies
- Georgetown University - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- Contract Law
- Microsoft Excel
- +60 subjects

Sharlene: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...students to good literature and helping them to find the right words for essays. I have a B.A. in English from St. Mary's College of Maryland and an M.A. in Education from Regent University. My teaching has included English for grades 6-12, American Literature, British Literature, AP Literature, DC British Literature, DC Composition and Rhetoric, and DC Literature and Composition. In addition to teaching, the moments I enjoy most with students are teaching them about...
Education & Certification
- Regent University - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT
- CogAT
- OLSAT
- +35 subjects

Tiffany: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...My teaching experiences include adults and children online in Japan; children in person in Samoa as part of my U.S. Peace Corps service; adults while living in China and children again living in the U.S. I am most passionate about tutoring in English, Writing and History. My favourite part of teaching is that 'ah-ha' moment when my students (no matter the age) grasp an idea or concept they were struggling with. I live for those...
Education & Certification
- University of Colorado Boulder - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- ACT
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +29 subjects

Ana: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
I'm a current medical student at Georgetown School of Medicine. I have over ten years of tutoring and teaching experience and am passionate about helping my students reach their potential and achieve their goals. I look forward to sharing my passion and working with your student!
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Associate in Science, Neuroscience
- Georgetown School of Medicine MD - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- PSAT
- TOEFL
- CAHSEE
- +108 subjects

Ryan: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...with standardized test preparation, Reading Comprehension and Writing. I have taught Government, English, World Religions, History and Psychology in the past. I scored in the top 98th percentile on the LSAT and specialize in helping students using proven techniques to increase their scores. Specifically, I can help students more easily break down the types of logic games and to distinguish between right and wrong answers in the Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension sections. I enjoy...
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-Columbia - Bachelor of Science, Education
- Washington University in St Louis - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GRE 5-Week Prep Class
- HSPT
- SAT
- +68 subjects

Christine: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
Think you can't? I know you can. I have proven experience that motivated students can learn anything they want when provided with the right opportunity and handed the correct tools. Since 1996 I have had a long, successful history of helping struggling students improve their grades, confidence, and competency in math.
Education & Certification
- State University of New York at New Paltz - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- SUNY at Albany - Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- REGENTS
- SSAT
- ACT
- +49 subjects

Jamila: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...have learned for even deeper understanding of the past and present. In terms of my tutoring subjects, I am confident in my ability to instruct: - Early Math - Middle School Math - Early High School Math (i.e. Algebra, Geometry) - English/ Language Arts - Social Studies/ History I can also support students in their development of core skills such as goal-setting, time management, and organization. When I am not teaching, I enjoy reading and...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- CLEP
- SSAT
- CHSPE
- +58 subjects