Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why start in the 5th grade preparing for the ISEE?

A: Much of the material on the ISEE exam will be new material for your child. There is a great deal of information that your child needs to cover, and feel comfortable with, in order to do well on the test. The more advance preparation your child has to study for the test, the better they will do. They will also feel less of the pressure and stress that is often associated with trying to prepare for a test in a few short weeks.

Q: What is the formula for acceptance to the Boston exam schools?

A: The formula the Boston Public Schools uses for acceptance to the exam schools is a 50/50 weighting - 50% is the student's performance on the test, and the other 50% is the student's class rank and grades from 5th grade, and the first semester of 6th grade.

Q: How often should my child attend classes?

A: How often your child needs to attend is a decision that is based on many factors: how comfortable your child is with the material, how much preparation you and your child feel they need, how far in advance you start preparing for the test, how much work your child is motivated to do on their own (on a regular basis), how much work you will do with your child (and how much time you can spend with them working on test prep), and how disciplined your child is about keeping up with the work.

Q: How do I know what my child needs in terms of test prep services?

A: The beauty of our program is that we insist on a diagnostic test during the first session of both the math and vocabulary classes, so that at the end of the first session you will have an idea of how your child scored on the practice test, and what they need to work on. After the Diagnostic Test, the math and vocabulary programs are designed to focus on the areas where your child needs assistance in learning the material. We strive to tailor the material to student needs, rather than following a prescribed lesson plan.

Q: What are the benefits for my child in attending this program?

A: Your child will be taught a system for increasing their vocabulary in a way that is manageable. They will be able to retain the information they learn using several methods to help them remember word meanings and usage. They will feel more confident about their ability to do well on the test, and experience less anxiety about the test. Increasing their vocabulary will serve them well throughout their academic career (and beyond) as they enter a new school, take on new and challenging classes, and adjust to rigorous new academic expectations.

Q: Why the focus on vocabulary?

A: One of the major components of the ISEE is vocabulary. Vocabulary is a part of the Reading Comprehension, Sentence Completion, Synonym, and Essay sections. Close to 60% of the test involves questions that require students to use their vocabulary skills in order to do well in these sections. The best way to increase your child's vocabulary is to start early, and work with them often to build up their vocabulary prior to the test.

Q: What can I expect from Boston ISEE Prep?

A: You can expect that your child will receive personal attention to help them address their specific needs. Your child will be taught a system for vocabulary retention and usage. Regular attendance in the program will help them increase their vocabulary, reduce their stress, and build their confidence. Please see our Small Group Classes section for more details on classes. While no program can guarantee your child admission to an exam school or private school, dedication to test preparation and attendance at a test prep program can greatly increase your child's chances.

Q: How do I guarantee a seat for my child in a class?

A: Booking far enough in advance will help to ensure your child has a seat in a class. Contacting us a year before your child takes the test is recommended. Classes fill up fast, and are usually full for the rest of the year by January. Call today to find out if spaces are available.

Q: When are classes held?

A: Please see our Schedule section for information on class schedules.

Q: Where are classes held?

A: Classes are held in West Roxbury, at the Boston Tutoring Center, 1208 VFW Parkway, Suite 202. Directions to the program location will be provided with registration.

Q: What is the cost of the program?

A: Please see our Pricing section for pricing, payment and terms.

Q: When should I enroll my child?

A: You should enroll your child as soon as possible! We start taking reservations in November for the test the following November. By January, the program is usually full. Last year many parents called in September desperate for slots, and we unfortunately had to tell them we were full. Please do not let this happen to you and your child! Plan in advance so you are guaranteed a space for your child.

Q: Who runs Boston ISEE Prep, and how are they qualified to run the program?

A: Please see our About Us section for complete details on the instructors and the program.

Q: How do I contact Boston ISEE Test prep?

A: Please see our Contact Us section for phone and e-mail contact information.