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.

Samantha: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...or economics, my approach to tutoring is to find what strategies work best for the student and work on methods for students to be able to make progress both in and out of tutoring sessions. My favorite part of tutoring is seeing students improve and build confidence in areas they used to be nervous about or dislike. One of the reasons I enjoy tutoring French is that I myself was initially very afraid to learn...
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
- MCAT Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
- SAT Writing and Language
- +96 subjects

Alexandra: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...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 to 5 job...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, History and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Test Prep
- Advanced Placement
- History
- +23 subjects

Rohiel: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...utilize my knowledge in General Chemistry and Math to tutor others who are having difficulty with these subjects. I am currently attending the University of Maryland at Baltimore County for Math and Chemical Engineering B.S. degrees. I have been tutoring for over two years and absolutely love it! My teaching style depends on the student I am teaching. I am comfortable with any type of student and all learning styles and tailor my tutoring sessions...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ISEE- Middle Level
- AP Calculus AB
- Algebra 3/4
- +25 subjects

Samuel: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...2015, graduating with an honors degree in International Relations. Outside of class, I was heavily involved with Model United Nations as a conference planner and attendee. I helped produce musical theater and was a member of a gender inclusive Greek Society. I worked as a teaching assistant with Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth from 2013-2015, helping teach classes on international relations and human rights. Working with CTY has been an amazing experience; there's nothing...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SAT Writing and Language
- Reading
- AP United States History
- +35 subjects

Kate: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...Civics and Government, from when I received my Bachelor's Degree in Criminology and Justice Studies at The College of New Jersey. I minored in French and have been studying and learning the language since I was a child. Another strength of mine is paper and essay writing - I loved it when professors would assign a term paper instead of an exam as our midterm or final! I think college entrance essays, particularly, can be...
Education & Certification
- The College of New Jersey - Bachelors, Criminology
- University of Maryland-College Park - Masters, Masters of Business Administration
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Business
- English Grammar and Syntax
- AP U.S. Government & Politics
- +49 subjects

Matt: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...now, and have absolutely loved it! I enjoy working with kids, and helping students develop academically and prepare themselves for important tests like the SAT and ACT is very fulfilling for me. I have an excellent academic record and have done very well on standardized tests such as the SAT and the LSAT. I understand the skills and strategies needed to succeed on these tests, and how to present them to students in a way...
Education & Certification
- William and Mary - Bachelors, Psychology and Philosophy Double Major
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- LSAT Analytical Reasoning
- Test Prep
- SAT
- +22 subjects

Clare: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...8th grade who were reading and doing math at a 1st grade level and up in an intense specials rotation. I know how to work with students of all ages. The work I do with my own students on a daily basis is the same dedication and level of differentiation that I would bring to students that I tutor. I love working with students and I believe that all students can make goals and in...
Education & Certification
- Elon University - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
- Fontbonne University - Master of Arts Teaching, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- 4th Grade Reading
- SAT
- Reading
- +83 subjects

Cornelia: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...status, but with education they can navigate their network and privilege. One may be born into destitute circumstances, but with their education can rise above their situation. One of the only things that a child should not have to earn is their right to knowledge. Education is a human right. Every single child should be fully equipped to chose their own path in life. Every student under my tutelage will be given access to the...
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication
- Lesley College - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Summer
- Elementary School Math
- SAT Reading
- +23 subjects

David: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...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 their goals on...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Study Skills
- AP United States History
- Graduate Test Prep
- +52 subjects

Sarah: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...they try, they can improve and succeed. An example of my work includes a student who spoke English as a second language and also had special needs. As I worked with him daily, his reading level increased ten levels and his math scores went from below average to earning over 80% in his final math testing that year. Trekking in Nepal with my husband was a highlight of 2014 and rescuing my first dog is...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-College Park - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Other
- Math
- High School English
- +14 subjects

Lindsey: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
I graduated from Washington College with a degree in Human development with certification in grades 1-6 and a math minor. I have experience teaching most elementary grades as well as students with special needs. I am also certified to teach middle school math. I enjoy sports, and played softball, volleyball and basketball growing up. I enjoy traveling and hiking with family and friends. I also do many different crafts, including knitting, scrapbooking, and sewing.
Education & Certification
- Washington College - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Math
- Writing
- English
- +16 subjects
Education & Certification
- Howard University - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- University of Kansas - Current Grad Student, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Latin 3
- 4th Grade Reading
- SAT Subject Test in Latin
- +55 subjects

Katelyn: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...lot of psychology in my life, so while I am happy to assist others with their psychology classes, tutoring gives me a chance to take a break from it all and indulge myself in the other subjects I love! Outside of what must sound like an incredibly academic life, I do find time to entertain myself. I love going to museums and am definitely interested in some recommendations for the must-see museums in Baltimore. I'm a...
Education & Certification
- Heidelberg University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Test Prep
- ACT Reading
- Other
- +56 subjects
Education & Certification
- George Mason University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- Fortis College - Honorary Degree, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Calculus 3
- Elementary School Reading
- Writing
- +84 subjects

Beverly: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...in a way that makes sense to them. I often make use of visuals and manipulatives in teaching various concepts. My goal is to enable students to really understand the material they are studying. I am happy to use whatever school or other materials that parents and/or students would like. I am also prepared to suggest additional materials that might be helpful for a particular student in a specific subject area. I am familiar with...
Education & Certification
- Wesleyan University - Bachelors, Mathematics
- The University of Texas at Arlington - Masters, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Test Prep
- ACT
- ISEE-Lower Level Mathematics Achievement
- +84 subjects

Edward: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...strict tutors but to engaging, fun, and supportive tutors. A quality education opens up a world of opportunity which is something I have experienced firsthand, and I welcome the opportunity to help others access a quality education. In my down time I like to read historical fiction and classic literature, I like to write historical fiction stories, I like to debate (on just about any topic), I like to catch up on television shows, and...
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, History, Political Science
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Social Sciences
- AP Comparative Government and Politics
- Geography
- +31 subjects

Carla: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...prep, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening & speaking and writing/grammar. I have additional experience tutoring academic subjects such as elementary math, reading, writing and sol test prep. I have experience teaching and tutoring learners of all ages and of all skill levels. I use fun games and engaging activities. I use interesting stories and texts when teaching reading comprehension. I teach key strategies for improving scores. The strategies I teach will serve any student well beyond the...
Education & Certification
- College of William and Mary - Bachelors, Linguistics/Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languges
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER ESL
- Reading
- Phonics
- +12 subjects

Samuel: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...like a beautiful puzzle with many pieces that always fit together despite the challenge, and despite the fact that different learners see the pieces differently. My role as a tutor (and indeed a puzzle master), is simply helping to channel learners' abilities towards the best and most sophisticated methods of learning and applying important mathematical concepts and techniques. With a PhD in Political Science and Int'l Political Ecolomy, backgrounds in engineering, accounting, math and quantitative...
Education & Certification
- Don Bosco Polytechnic Now Stella Maris University Monrovia Liberia - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- University of Notre Dame - Master of Arts, Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- GED
- IB Mathematics
- GRE
- +26 subjects

Jade: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...middle school. It was then that I realized I loved helping people, especially young children, improve and further their education. Since then I have tutored elementary and middle school math, high school chemistry, and reading comprehension. Working with students from my local elementary school is still one of my favorite ways to help my community. Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Sociology and Community Health at the University of Maryland. Other interests of mine...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-College Park - Current Grad Student, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Study Skills and Organization
- ACCUPLACER ESL
- Study Skills
- +74 subjects

Terry: Washington ISEE test prep instructor
...or recognizing the root of the confusion. Therefore, I believe that a tutor should guide the student through the material to a point of comfort and understanding. In this way, I think that students gain strong building blocks for future learning both with language as a whole and with the process of learning. I love studying both English and Latin, and I am delighted at the opportunity to share these languages with my students.
Education & Certification
- Franklin and Marshall College - Bachelor in Arts, Latin, Anthropology
- University of Colorado Boulder - Master of Arts, Classics (Latin)
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER WritePlacer
- High School English
- Foreign Language
- +39 subjects