Top 10 Most Competitive ISEE Schools

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Top 10 Most Competitive ISEE Schools

Are you applying to an independent school? Here are the top 10 most competitive ISEE schools, based on the number of students who stated their intention to apply: 

  1. Harvard-Westlake, Los Angeles, CA
  2. Menlo School, Atherton, CA
  3. Boston Latin School, Boston, MA
  4. Boston Latin Academy, Boston, MA
  5. The Kinkaid School, Houston, TX
  6. Horace Mann, New York City, NY
  7. John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Sciences, Boston, MA
  8. Castilleja School, Palo Alto, CA
  9. Polytechnic School, Pasadena, CA
  10. St. John’s School, Houston, TX

What This Means for You:

If you’re applying to one of the schools above, expect a highly competitive applicant pool. To give yourself the best chances:

  • Start preparing early
  • Aim for top percentile ISEE scores
  • Focus on your entire application: essays, interviews, and recommendations matter just as much as your test scores 

Need help getting ready? Our diagnostic tests, study tools, and expert tutors can help you stand out from the crowd. Start prepping with Test Innovators today!

Start preparing today!

Originally published on May 18 2016. Updated on June 10, 2025. 

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