When should my child start ISEE prep in Seattle?

Ah, the age-old question—when is the “right” time to start ISEE prep? In Seattle, where private school admissions can feel like an Olympic event (with just as much planning), we recommend starting prep 4 to 6 months before your desired test date. Why? Cramming for a high-stakes standardized test while juggling APs, violin practice, and math club is a recipe for stress and underperformance.

Early prep gives your child room to breathe, time to grow, and multiple chances to take full-length ISEE practice exams under test-day conditions. It also means less panic when that tricky Quantitative Reasoning section shows up. Starting early isn’t about overdoing it—it’s about being strategic.

Whether you’re aiming for Lakeside, The Bush School, or another top Seattle institution, a well-paced approach leads to stronger skills, more confidence, and a smoother admissions season overall. Translation: less stress for your kid—and for you.