What test is used?

• We use The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT), which is a multiple choice test published by Riverside Publishing. 

• It is used to measure cognitive development among children. 

• The CogAT-7 is often used to identify gifted children for admission into gifted and talented programs across the United States. 

• It was first published in 1968. The most current version of the CogAT, the CogAT Form 7, was published in 2011. 

Who gets tested?

• There is universal screening of 3rd graders, meaning all 3rd graders will be tested unless a parent opts out of testing. 

• The District’s Search and Serve Process screens for potential GATE students in grades 4- 12. This is done via outreach to parents, community, teachers, administrators, and support personnel.

When and where does testing take place?

• Testing occurs each year in January. Students are tested at their school sites, usually in their regular classroom. Teachers and school site GATE Coordinators should be able to provide more detailed information about exact test dates/locations closer to the testing window. 

• We also offer Summer GATE Testing to students newly enrolling in the district. A flyer will be posted each spring about testing dates.