No points are deducted for incorrect or omitted answers. Speed of completion does not affect scoring for any section. The raw score is simply the total number of correct answers.
Raw scores are converted into scaled scores to account for differences in test difficulty across administrations. The ISEE is scored on a scale from 760 to 940. Scaled scores are determined using tables produced by the test maker. Scaled scores are then compared to a 3-year rolling average of scores from students of the same grade level nationally.
Program percentiles compare individual students to peers of the same age and grade who have taken the ISEE.
- ISEE scores between the 50th and 74th percentiles are considered "barely above average."
- ISEE scores at or above the 75th percentile are "very strong."
A student who normally scores above the 50th percentile on other standardized tests may score below the 50th percentile on the ISEE. Students who typically score above the 90th percentile can end up with barely above-average ISEE results. This reflects the highly competitive applicant pool taking the ISEE.
ISEE essays are not scored. They are forwarded to designated schools for individual review by admissions committees. The essays provide insight into the students' writing abilities.
ISEE score reports are released to the schools, consultants, and organizations specified during registration. Scores remain valid for one academic year. Admissions requirements vary by school - contact your preferred schools directly for details.