What is on the Middle Level ISEE?
The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is a test used by many independent schools as a part of their admissions process. The Middle Level ISEE is intended for students applying to grades 7 and 8.
The test can be taken remotely using a secure browser on the computer or in-person on paper. The Middle Level ISEE consists of five sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and the Essay.
Here’s an overview of the test format:
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 40 questions | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 37 questions | 35 minutes |
| Break | — | 5-10 minutes |
| Reading Comprehension | 36 questions | 35 minutes |
| Mathematics Achievement | 47 questions | 40 minutes |
| Break | — | 5-10 minutes |
| Essay | 1 prompt | 30 minutes |
All sections, except the Essay, feature multiple-choice questions with four answer choices. Within each section, there are experimental questions that are not scored. These questions are randomly included to help develop future versions of the ISEE.
Below, please find more information about each section, including sample questions from the Test Innovators ISEE practice platform.
Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning section consists of 40 questions: 17-23 synonym questions and 17-23 sentence completion questions. Of the 40 questions, 35 are scored and 5 are unscored.
Synonym questions provide a word and ask the test-taker to choose the most similar word from four options.
Example:
Sentence completion questions ask the test-taker to fill in the blank in a sentence with the most fitting word choice.
Example:
Quantitative Reasoning
The Quantitative Reasoning section focuses primarily on problem-solving and critical thinking skills. There are 18-21 word problems and 14-17 quantitative comparison questions making a total of 37 questions. Of the 37 questions, 32 are scored and 5 are unscored.
It’s important to note that calculators are not allowed during the Quantitative Reasoning section, but scratch paper is permitted. Students taking the online test may use up to four pieces of scratch paper, while those taking the paper test should use the blank space provided in their test booklet.
Word Problems are 1-3 sentences long and cover a variety of subjects, including algebraic concepts, data analysis & probability, geometry, measurement, and number sense.
Example:
Quantitative comparison questions list two quantities (A and B) and ask the test-taker to evaluate the relationship between them. Most questions require only simple calculations, if any at all.
Example:
Reading Comprehension
The Reading Comprehension section consists of six reading passages, and each passage is followed by six questions. Of the 36 questions, 30 are scored and 6 are unscored.
Students are asked questions regarding the passage’s main idea and supporting ideas, organization & logic, vocabulary, and tone, as well as inference-based questions.
Example:
Mathematics Achievement
The Mathematics Achievement section is aligned with grade-level standards, so it covers topics that students have learned in school. Of the 47 questions, 42 are scored and 5 are unscored. As with the Quantitative Reasoning section, calculators are not allowed, but scratch paper is permitted.
The topics covered on the Middle Level ISEE are:
- Algebraic concepts (9-13 questions)
- Data analysis & probability (5-9 questions)
- Decimals, percents & fractions (7-10 questions)
- Geometry (4-6 questions)
- Measurement (4-6 questions)
- Whole numbers (7-11 questions)
Example:
Essay
The Essay section asks you to respond to a personal writing prompt, which is an opportunity to showcase something about yourself. The Essay gives you the chance to show schools how well you can express yourself, organize your thoughts, and address a prompt in a logical manner.
Note: The Essay is not scored. Rather, a copy of your essay is sent along with your score report.
Example:
The best way to prepare for the ISEE is to take full-length practice tests. Familiarizing your child with the test format and question types is key to success. Utilizing practice tests also helps improve time management and boosts confidence. Get started with your test prep today with Test Innovators
Originally published on December 16, 2020. Updated on Jul 16, 2025.
