The Lower Level ISEE: A Parent’s Guide to Preparing

The Lower Level ISEE test is an entrance test for students applying to 5th or 6th grade that is taken when the student is in 4th or 5th grade. Here are some tips for preparing your student for the test:

Register for the test

The ISEE test can be taken only once per season, but it is possible to take the test more than once a year. In order for your student to take the test more than once, you will need to register for the test in different seasons. The seasons are defined as Fall (August – November), Winter (December – March), and Spring/Summer (April – July).

You can register for the official test on the ERB’s website here.

Learn about the test

Sign up for a free account and read the What to Expect Guide published by the ERB. This document details how to register for the test, what to expect on the test, how the test is scored, and includes a sample test.

Understand the sections and the types of questions and materials covered on the test. Familiarize yourself with the timing allocated for each section.

Take practice tests

Take several practice tests. Each time you take a practice test, treat it as if it were a real test. Set up a test environment at home. Have your student take the entire test in one sitting and in a quiet area without interruptions. Try to even take the test at the same time of day as the scheduled test.

The Lower Level ISEE test takes over 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete, and most students in 4th and 5th grade are not used to taking such a long test. Use the practice tests to help your child build stamina for their focus to last for the duration of the test.

Review results of practice tests

After completing the practice test, review all the questions that were incorrect. Understand which questions and concepts you need to work on with your student. Formulate a work plan to address these concepts in a methodical way.

Use timing data from iseepracticetest.com to help your student allocate their time on questions appropriately. The ISEE is a challenging assessment exam and there will be concepts, themes, and vocabulary your student hasn’t learned before, so time management is especially crucial.

Ready to get started? Check out our Lower Level ISEE practice tests!