If your child is applying to a private or independent school for grades 7 or 8, they may be required to take the Middle Level ISEE — a rigorous standardized test used in many school admissions processes.
While it can feel intimidating at first, understanding the structure of the test (and how to prepare) can give your child the confidence they need to succeed.
What Is the Middle Level ISEE?
The Middle Level ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is a standardized test for students entering grades 7 and 8. It’s designed to assess academic readiness for competitive middle and upper schools.
The exam is used by private and independent schools across the U.S. and can be taken in-person or online through school-based sites, Prometric test centers, or remote proctoring.
What’s on the Middle Level ISEE?
The test consists of five sections, taken in a fixed order:
1. Verbal Reasoning
Tests vocabulary and reasoning using synonyms and sentence completions
🕐 20 minutes | 40 questions
2. Quantitative Reasoning
Assesses mathematical reasoning and problem-solving without requiring detailed calculations
🕐 35 minutes | 37 questions
3. Reading Comprehension
Measures a student’s ability to read, analyze, and interpret academic passages
🕐 35 minutes | 36 questions
4. Mathematics Achievement
Tests math operations and concepts based on grade-level expectations
🕐 40 minutes | 47 questions
5. Essay (Unscored)
Students respond to a personal or creative prompt. This writing sample is sent directly to schools as part of the application — so strong grammar, organization, and voice matter.
🕐 30 minutes | 1 prompt
How Is the ISEE Scored?
Students receive:
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Scaled scores (760–940 for each multiple-choice section)
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Percentile ranks (compared to a norm group from the past three years)
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Stanines (1–9 scale summarizing where a student falls compared to peers)
The essay is not scored, but schools review it closely to assess writing fluency, structure, and how well the student answers the prompt.
When Should My Child Take the ISEE?
Most students take the Middle Level ISEE in fall or early winter, aligning with private school application deadlines.
Some schools allow students to test more than once in a calendar year (with specific ISEE testing windows), so it can be helpful to start early in case a second attempt is needed.
How Should We Prepare?
The Middle Level ISEE requires both academic strength and test-taking confidence. Here’s what a smart prep plan includes:
✅ A diagnostic test to establish a baseline and identify gaps
✅ Targeted review in math, vocabulary, and reading comprehension
✅ Practice with timed sections to build stamina
✅ Essay writing practice to improve structure and clarity
✅ Strategy coaching to boost pacing and reduce anxiety
At Thrive, we personalize every ISEE prep plan to fit your student’s goals and learning style. We also offer full-length proctored diagnostics and one-on-one tutoring with top-tier educators who know the exam inside and out.
Final Thought
The ISEE is a big step — but with the right preparation and support, your child can walk in with confidence and walk out with options. We’re here to help your family navigate the process with clarity and calm.
👉 Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
