1. What is the Johns Hopkins Talent Search?

• The Johns Hopkins University Talent search is designed to identify, assess, and recognize students with exceptional mathematical and/or verbal reasoning abilities.
• The Talent Search can help students, parents, and schools better understand a student's reasoning abilities. If students are scoring in the top three percentiles, they are "hitting the ceiling " of their regular tests. The Talent Search gives students the opportunity to take a test designed for older students. This testing will reveal more about their academic abilities and will allow them to compare their results with those of other highly able students. They will also learn about educational options and opportunities for students with their abilities, and they will receive recognition for their outstanding achievements. Another plus for taking the SAT is the introduction of an important test to young students in a "low stakes environment.

2. Who is eligible for the Johns Hopkins Talent Search and how do they find out about it?

• Students must be in the seventh grade as of November 15 and scored in the 97th percentile level on a most recent nationally standardized aptitude or achievement test. This percentile can be on one of the subtests for verbal or mathematical reasoning OR on the total score.
• The Gifted Resource Specialist at each middle school will look at each seventh grader's most recent nationally standardized test scores. The students scoring in the 97 percentile in mathematical reasoning or verbal OR on the total score will receive a letter inviting them to participate in the Talent Search. The Gifted Resource Specialist will also meet with the students and explain the process and invite questions from students and parents.
• Click here for their web site. http://www.jhu.edu/gifted/ts/

3. What are the disadvantages for students taking the SAT early?

• Cost is the major concern. The fees are $33.00 to Talent Search and $28.50 to SAT 7. This cost is the responsibility of the parent. Many feel the registration package is difficult to understand. We have found the students have little or no problem. Location is out of town for most students such as Harrisonburg or Winchester and transportation must be provided by parent.

4. What is the PSAT ?

• The PSAT is a preliminary SAT that has three parts - verbal, math, and writing skills. It is given only ONCE a year, usually in October. Students take it at their own school.

5. Who should take the PSAT?

• Currently SCPS pay for all juniors working on a Standard or Advanced Studies diploma to take this test. Other students may pay to take the test, BUT it is important to remember that students need to take the test during their junior year to qualify for National Merit scholarship programs.
• For more information go to www.collegeboard.com

6. What is the parent's role in the period before college?

• Click below for an article by Marjorie Nieuwenhuis titled A Parent's Guide to College Admissions.

7. College Application Season: The Pressure's On

• Click below for a washington.com article by Patricia Dalton, The Pressure's On - March 28, 2004