Testing Rules & Exemptions
One test per year only!
A student who tested in Spring 2025 cannot test again until Spring 2026
1st and 5th graders already take a universal test in the fall with the NGAT—so they do not need to fill out a nomination form
Students with Magnet Eligible (ME) or Highly Gifted (HGT) labels do not need another cognitive test, as they already have a qualifying score.
GT Identified or Talent Pool students can test again to see if they now qualify for magnet schools or HGT status. Talk to your school’s GT teacher for information.
Children must be at least 4 years old. For younger kids, see the Early Childhood or Early Access pages. For more information, see the Early Access page.
In recent years, Denver Public Schools (DPS) has noticed more students taking yearly tests to qualify for gifted programs. However, many—about 70%—do not qualify each time they re-test. This frequent testing can be tough on students and families because cognitive tests often show similar results each year.
DPS GT recommends not nominating students every year for cognitive testing. Cognitive test scores have minimal change over time and are not assessments that can be practiced or studied for to impact scores. Ideally, students should only be cognitively tested once every three years.
Why Less Testing is Recommended
Mental Wellbeing: Testing every year can be stressful. Imagine being told each year that you don’t qualify for gifted programs.
Cognitive Scores: Unlike tests for school subjects, which can improve with practice, cognitive tests often show similar scores over time.
What Parents Should Know
Testing Guidelines: DPS Gifted and Talented recommends cognitive testing a student for gifted programs every three years, not yearly.
Other Ways to Qualify: There are many ways for students to qualify for gifted programs besides cognitive tests. In fact, there are 35 different ways to qualify, with 24 not needing a cognitive test.
Options for Families
Talk to Your Child's GT Teacher: Discuss your child’s strengths and areas of interest with their teacher. They can provide insights and support in finding the best educational opportunities for your child.
Outside Testing: If your child cannot take a cognitive assessment this year due to previous testing, you may consider private cognitive testing (at your own expense) for special programs like magnet schools. All scores must be reviewed by the DPS Central Office before they can be used for magnet placement. This testing is an option for your unique circumstance, but it is not required by DPS Gifted and Talented.
You can nominate your child for testing by utilizing these links:
Note: In-district students in 1st and 5th grade will be assessed as part of our Fall Universal Screening; a nomination form is not necessary.