Gifted and Talented testing is designed to identify students who demonstrate exceptional abilities or potential, often in areas like intellectual ability, creativity, leadership, or specific subjects such as math or language arts. This post provides information on whether you are generally looking for a gifted and talented assessment for your child or if there is a specific gifted and talented program test they need. We also provide gifted and talented test preparation services. If you have specific questions about how our services could benefit your child, please feel free to contact us or schedule a consultation anytime.
This post goes over the gifted and talented assessment process, what it can lead to, and why it is important.
Gifted and Talented Testing Overview 
Here’s an overview of the gifted and talented assessment process.
1. Goals of Gifted and Talented Testing
- Identify students who perform at a level significantly above their peers.
- Provide or suggest appropriate educational services or enrichment programs tailored to the student’s abilities.
- Assess academic aptitude, creative thinking, problem-solving, and sometimes leadership potential.
2. Gifted and Talented Testing: Measures Used
Gifted and talented testing often includes multiple measures to get a complete picture of a student’s abilities. We provide gifted and talented assessments virtually and in person, so we have indicated below which measures can be given virtually.
Cognitive Ability
These are all established and empirically-based measures that assess reasoning skills and intellectual ability:
- CogAT (Cognitive Abilities): Measures verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal reasoning.
- OLSAT (Otis-Lennon School Ability Test): Evaluates abstract thinking and reasoning and can be given virtually
- WISC (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children): A comprehensive IQ test for children, but only parts of this assessment can be given virtually.
- Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scales (RIAS): This wide-ranging type of intelligence test can be given virtually.
Creativity
Some programs measure creative problem-solving and divergent thinking:
- Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT): Parts of this measure can be given virtually, usually enough to determine giftedness
Teacher and Parent Surveys
As part of comprehensive gifted and talented testing, rating scales help gather observations on other areas related to intelligence, such as:
- Learning behaviors
- Leadership skills
- Creative expression
- Social and emotional development
Portfolios and Performance Tasks
- Sometimes, we ask clients to submit work samples or complete open-ended, complex tasks demonstrating their talents.
3. Gifted and Talented Testing Process
- Referrals: Teachers, parents, or older students can request gifted and talented testing.
- Screening: Schools may use universal screening or initial evaluation to determine who takes a full assessment. Note, however, that in most cases, schools are not obligated to provide gifted and talented assessments, but they do respond to the results.
- Evaluation: We or another outside provider conduct a formal evaluation (unless the school agrees to do it themselves, which is rare), and scores are compared to specific thresholds or norms.
- Decisions: A team reviews all data (including observations and work samples) to determine eligibility for the school’s specific programs. Also, our psychological testing report recommends activities and opportunities outside of school to help the client express and explore their high intelligence.
4. Gifted and Talented Assessment Accommodations
If a student has ADHD, autism, or other learning differences, accommodations are often provided during gifted and talented assessments, such as:
- Extended time
- Breaks as needed
- Instructions clarified or read aloud
- Sensory-friendly environments are used (though in this case, we may decide that in-person gifted and talented testing is warranted)
These ensure we measure a child’s abilities rather than the impact of learning disorders or attention challenges.
5. Next Steps After Gifted and Talented Testing
Once identified, students often:
- Participate in enrichment programs (e.g., STEM clubs, arts programs)
- Receive accelerated coursework or subject-specific advanced learning
- Enroll in gifted classes or specialized schools
- Gain access to additional opportunities like competitions or mentorship programs.
- Join societies such as Mensa and others that also offer opportunities
Gifted and Talented Program Test Overview
A Gifted and Talented (GT) Program is an educational initiative designed to meet the unique needs of students who demonstrate exceptional abilities, skills, or potential in one or more areas. These programs aim to provide enriched, accelerated, or differentiated instruction that challenges advanced learners beyond the standard curriculum.
Characteristics of Gifted and Talented Programs
- Enrichment Activities: Expanding upon the regular curriculum with deeper, more complex content.
- Acceleration: Allowing students to progress through material at a faster pace (e.g., grade skipping, subject acceleration).
- Differentiation: Tailoring instruction to students’ individual strengths, interests, and learning styles.
- Focus Areas: Some programs emphasize specific domains like STEM, arts, leadership, or creative thinking.
Goals of Gifted and Talented Programs
- Challenge students and prevent underachievement due to lack of intellectual stimulation.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills.
- Nurture talents and strengths for personal and academic growth.
- Provide opportunities for peer interaction with other advanced learners.
Gifted and Talented Program Test Process
Students are identified through a combination of gifted and talented program test methods, which may include:
- Standardized Assessments:
- Cognitive ability (e.g., CogAT, WISC-V, NNAT, OLSAT)
- Achievement (e.g., MAP, Iowa Assessments)
- Teacher and Parent Nominations: Observations of advanced learning behaviors, creativity, or leadership abilities.
- Portfolios/Work Samples: Demonstrations of talent through academic work, projects, or creative outputs.
- Performance Tasks: Open-ended activities that measure problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking.
- Creativity Assessments: Such as the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking evaluate creative potential.
Types of Gifted and Talented Programs
- Pull-Out Programs: Students leave their regular classroom for part of the day/week to receive specialized instruction.
- Enrichment Programs: Students work on advanced, hands-on projects or problem-solving activities.
- Acceleration Programs:
- Grade Skipping or early entrance to kindergarten/college.
- Subject-Specific Acceleration (e.g., advanced math or science classes).
- Honors/AP Classes: Challenging high school courses that prepare students for college.
- Magnet Schools: Specialized schools focus on specific subject areas (e.g., STEM or arts).
- Dual Enrollment Programs: High school students take college-level courses for credit.
- Cluster Grouping: GT students are grouped within a regular classroom.
- Online Programs: Virtual learning opportunities for advanced coursework and independent study.
Gifted and Talented Programs for Neurodivergent Students
Neurodivergent students (e.g., those with ADHD, autism, or learning disabilities) may exhibit giftedness, often referred to as being “twice-exceptional (2e)”. Programs can be tailored to support their needs:
- Exam accommodations are provided during testing and instruction (e.g., extra time and sensory support).
- Differentiation to leverage strengths while addressing areas of challenge.
- Focus on interest-driven learning to engage attention and motivation.
Benefits and Challenges of GT Programs
Benefits:
- Encourages intellectual curiosity and a love of learning.
- Prevents boredom and disengagement in school.
- Supports social-emotional growth through interaction with like-minded peers.
- Builds skills for future academic success (e.g., critical thinking, time management).
Challenges:
- Identification Bias: Some underrepresented groups (e.g., minority students, English language learners, and 2e students) may be overlooked.
- Limited Resources: GT programs may not be available in all schools or districts.
- Pressure to Perform: GT students may experience stress or perfectionism.
How to Advocate for Gifted and Talented Program Test Services
- Work with teachers and administrators to explore gifted and talented program test options.
- Request gifted and talented program test accommodations for neurodivergent students, if needed.
- Research state laws and local policies regarding GT identification and services that guide how to pursue the gifted and talented program test.
Gifted and Talented Test Preparation
Preparing for a Gifted and Talented (GT) test can help students familiarize themselves with the format and enhance their problem-solving, reasoning, and creative thinking skills. Here are some strategies and resources for effective preparation:
Gifted and Talented Test Preparation Steps
We are available to provide gifted and talented test preparation, including helping you develop a plan that involves the following steps.
1. Understand the Gifted and Talented Assessment Format
Knowing the structure helps reduce anxiety. Common components of gifted and talented assessments may include:
- Cognitive Ability (e.g., CogAT, NNAT, OLSAT): These typically include:
- Verbal reasoning (analogies, vocabulary)
- Quantitative reasoning (number patterns, sequences)
- Nonverbal reasoning (pattern recognition with shapes and figures)
- Achievement Tests (e.g., MAP Growth, Iowa Assessments): These measure cxacademic proficiency in subjects like reading, math, and language arts.
- Creativity Assessments (e.g., Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking): These measure creative thinking, problem-solving, and originality.
- Teacher/Parent Assessments: Observations about creativity, leadership, and independent learning.
2. Practice Cognitive and Nonverbal Reasoning
Focusing on logic and pattern recognition as part of gifted and talented test preparation will help students perform well in the reasoning sections of the test.
- Practice Pattern Recognition: Use puzzles, brain teasers, or apps that focus on logic and visual-spatial reasoning.
- Example: Tangrams, Sudoku, or crossword puzzles.
- Work with Number Sequences: Solve number series and practice finding the next number in a sequence.
- Example: What comes next in the sequence 2, 6, 12, 20, _?
3. Enhance Verbal Reasoning Skills
Focusing on language development and problem-solving during gifted and talented test preparation can help students improve their verbal reasoning skills.
- Vocabulary Building: Regular reading and making flashcards for unfamiliar words can boost vocabulary.
- Try word games or apps like Quizlet to practice synonyms, antonyms, and definitions.
- Reading Comprehension: Practice reading more complex texts and answering questions based on the text.
- Try websites like ReadWorks or Khan Academy for practice passages and comprehension exercises.
4. Practice Creative Thinking
For creativity-based gifted and talented testing, students should practice thinking divergently—coming up with multiple solutions or responses to a single prompt.
- Drawing and Storytelling: Practice drawing pictures and writing stories based on prompts (e.g., “Draw a creature from another planet and describe its behavior”).
- Brainstorming: Encourage brainstorming sessions where students develop multiple uses for a common object (e.g., a paperclip, a rock).
- Mind Mapping: Use mind maps to expand on ideas and explore different solutions to a problem.
5. Take Full-Length Practice Gifted and Talented Assessment Tests
Taking a gifted and talented program test under timed conditions can help students become familiar with the format and manage their time effectively. Many websites offer free or paid practice gifted and talented testing:
- CogAT Practice Tests: Several websites and books, including Test Prep Review and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, offer practice tests for the CogAT.
- MAP Growth Practice: Use NWEA’s practice tests to familiarize students with common question types.
- Online GT Test Preparation: Websites offer practice materials, test simulations, and sample questions.
6. Focus on Strategies
Gifted and talented program test-taking strategies can help maximize performance.
- Read Directions Carefully: Encourage students to read the instructions for each section carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
- Answer Easy Questions First: Skip difficult questions and come back to them if time permits.
- Pace Yourself: Practice managing time so that the student doesn’t spend too long on any single question.
- Stay Calm: Help students practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to reduce test anxiety.
7. Build Confidence
Gifted and talented test preparation should help students build confidence by praising their efforts, not just their results.
- Create a Positive Learning Environment: Encourage curiosity, praise effort, and provide constructive feedback.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Reward progress and achievement in practice sessions to build motivation.
Specific Help With Gifted and Talented Test Preparation
We can develop a comprehensive plan to help with gifted and talented test preparation. This service is relatively inexpensive since much of the work will be homework for the client to do on their own time, with check-ins with us to ensure they are moving along the path to being fully prepared, adding new challenges and steps along the way. We will develop a unique plan for each client that maximizes their strengths and works to identify and overcome weaknesses.
9. Gifted and Talented Testing Support
If the student has ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergent traits, it’s essential to consider accommodations or adjustments during preparation:
- Breaks and Movement: Short breaks can help improve focus during study sessions.
- Quiet or Sensory-Friendly Space: Minimize distractions to help the student concentrate.
- Visual Aids: Use graphic organizers or charts to help with memory and organization.
Preparing for a gifted and talented program test should balance focused practice with allowing the student to enjoy learning in a relaxed environment.
Summary and Our Work
We can provide a gifted and talented assessment starting at age three and gifted and talented test preparation for those getting their testing elsewhere. We also provide gifted and talented test preparation services for those getting their assessment elsewhere. We welcome any questions you have about gifted and talented testing, or closely related testing for twice-exceptional students (those who are gifted and talented but also have emotional, learning, or social challenges), so please feel free to contact us or schedule a consultation anytime.
