The ISEE is generally taken for admission into private elementary and middle schools. The Avalon Prep Plan for ISEE incorporates effective test-taking strategies and practice with 5-10 ISEE tests and hundreds of practice questions. Avalon tutors and students then follow the plan, which addresses basic weaknesses and strengthens overall test-taking performance in all areas tested by the ISEE. Our recommended number of hours is 18 to 24 which includes all English sections and math sections. As with all tests, some students will require more tutoring, and some will require less. Generally speaking, we recommend a regular weekly regimen of tutoring for as long as possible, leading up to the date of the tests.
ISEE and SSAT Test Dates:
The ISEE is offered eight times per year, from October through June. Students can take the ISEE three times per year, once during each of three testing “windows”: Fall (August–November) Winter (December–March) and Spring/Summer (April–July). There’s no penalty for taking the ISEE multiple times. Families are able to select which scores are sent to private schools and which are not.
The SSAT is offered six times per year from September – April. Students may also take a private or small group “flex test” once within a 12-month period. Flex testing is done through local private agencies.
We recommend taking the SSAT for the first time in September or October. If necessary, students can repeat the test one or more times in November, December, or even early January. Most private school applications are due on January 15, and the test scores from the early January administration will be ready in time. There’s no penalty for taking the SSAT multiple times. Families are able to select which scores are sent to private schools and which are not.
