What is the ISEE and which Bay Area schools require it?

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is a standardized test used by many elite Bay Area private schools for admissions. Think of it as a tool that helps schools get a clear picture of a student’s academic skills. It covers areas such as Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics. There is also an essay section, though typically unscored and sent directly to the schools for them to review your child’s writing abilities. 

Top private schools require or recommend the ISEE, particularly for students applying to middle and upper school. You’ll often see it as an option alongside the SSAT. Some of the well-known schools that use the ISEE include: Harker, Woodside Priory, The College Preparatory School, Stanford Online High School, among others.