What is on the Primary Level ISEE?
The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) is used by many independent schools as part of their admissions process. The Primary Level ISEE is designed for students applying to grades 2-4.
There are three levels within the Primary ISEE:
- Primary Level 2 – for students applying to 2nd grade
- Primary Level 3 – for students applying to 3rd grade
- Primary Level 4 – for students applying to 4th grade
All of the questions included on the Primary ISEE are multiple choice with four answer choices.
Below, you’ll find more detailed information about each section, including sample questions from the Test Innovators ISEE practice platform.
Primary 2
Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Auditory Comprehension | 6 questions | 7 minutes |
| Reading | 18 questions | 20 minutes |
| Break | — | 5 – 10 minutes |
| Mathematics | 24 questions | 26 minutes |
Note: The Writing Sample was omitted starting in the 2021-2022 testing season.
Auditory Comprehension
In this section, you will listen to a passage–note that the passage is not shown on screen. After listening to the passage, you will hear six questions; the text for said questions will appear on the screen.
Auditory Comprehension questions focus on deducing the main idea of the passage; identifying supporting details, organization, vocabulary, tone; and making inferences based on what you’ve heard.
Example:
Reading
The Reading section consists of three passages, with a mix of fiction and nonfiction. Each passage is followed by six questions. Questions cover main ideas, supporting details, organization/structure, vocabulary, tone, and inference.
Note: Students are expected to read passages and questions on their own.
Example:
Mathematics
The Mathematics section follows national mathematics standards and includes topics such as:
- Algebraic concepts
- Data analysis and probability
- Geometric concepts
- Measurement
- Number sense and operations
Note: Calculators are not allowed.
Example:
Primary 3
Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 24 questions | 28 minutes |
| Break | — | 5 – 10 minutes |
| Mathematics | 24 questions | 26 minutes |
Note: The Writing Sample was omitted starting in the 2021-2022 testing season.
Reading
The Primary 3 Reading section includes four passages, each with six questions.
Question topics include main ideas, supporting details, organization and logic, vocabulary, tone, and inference.
Example:
Mathematics
Aligned with national mathematics standards, this section includes:
- Algebraic concepts
- Data analysis and probability
- Geometric concepts
- Measurement
- Number sense and operations
Note: Calculators are not allowed.
Example:
Primary 4
Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 28 questions | 30 minutes |
| Break | — | 5-10 minutes |
| Mathematics | 28 questions | 30 minutes |
Note: The Writing Sample was omitted starting in the 2021-2022 testing season.
Reading
This section consists of four passages, each followed by seven questions.
Questions focus on main ideas, supporting details, organization and logic, vocabulary, tone, and inference.
Example:
Mathematics
The Mathematics section is aligned with national mathematics standards. It covers topics that students have learned in school, such as:
- Algebraic concepts
- Data analysis and probability
- Geometric concepts
- Measurement
- Number sense and operations
Note: Calculators are not allowed.
Example:
The best way to familiarize yourself with the ISEE is to take full-length practice tests! Get started with your prep today.
Preparing for a different level? Check out a breakdown of the Lower Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level.
Originally published on December 23, 2020. Updated on April 8, 2025.
