The test includes five sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an unscored Essay. Each section requires different skills—verbal reasoning tests vocabulary and logic, quantitative reasoning focuses on word problems and patterns, reading comprehension evaluates comprehension of complex passages, and math achievement covers algebra, geometry, and other grade-level math concepts.

Many students struggle with the test's fast pace and the vocabulary-heavy verbal reasoning section, which requires knowledge of advanced words in context. The quantitative reasoning section challenges students with complex word problems that require careful reading and multi-step thinking. Additionally, balancing ISEE prep with regular schoolwork can be difficult, especially when students aren't sure which skills need the most attention.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify your specific strengths and weaknesses across all five sections, then create a targeted study plan. Rather than generic test prep, tutors can focus extra time on challenging areas like vocabulary building or quantitative reasoning strategies, while reinforcing concepts you've already mastered. This focused approach typically leads to faster improvement and greater confidence on test day.

Most students benefit from 2-4 months of consistent preparation, though the timeline depends on your starting point and target score. Students who begin tutoring 3-4 months before their test date usually have time to build foundational skills, practice test-taking strategies, and complete full-length practice tests. Starting earlier allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper mastery of challenging concepts.

The first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to evaluate your current skills across verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and reading comprehension. Your tutor will review your strengths, identify areas needing improvement, discuss your target schools and score goals, and outline a personalized study plan. This foundation helps ensure every subsequent session is focused on the skills that matter most for your success.

Look for tutors with proven experience in standardized test preparation and deep knowledge of the ISEE format, content, and scoring. Ideal tutors understand both the academic content (advanced vocabulary, algebra, geometry) and test-taking strategies specific to the ISEE. They should also have a track record of helping students improve their scores and gain admission to their target schools.

Score improvement varies based on your starting point and the intensity of preparation, but students working with tutors typically see meaningful gains within 2-3 months of consistent study. Many students improve by 10-20+ percentile points when they focus on targeted skill-building and practice. The key is identifying which sections need the most work and dedicating focused time to those areas each week.