The ISEE is a peer-normed test graded along a normal curve, which is split into 9, evenly divided sections. Scores of 4, 5, and 6 are average while scores of 7, 8, and 9 are highest. A 1 approximately represents the bottom 3% of test-takers while a 9 represents the top 3% of test-takers.
In Houston, students applying to the most academically rigorous private schools like Annunciation Orthodox, St. John’s, Kinkaid, Strake Jesuit, or St. Agnes tend to have the best chances of admission with scores of 7 or higher.
Larger private schools with a more academically diverse population like Episcopal, Houston Christian, or St. Pius are more welcoming of average scores of 5 and 6.