The Strengthening Gifted and Talented Education Act states that a:

 "Gifted and talented student" means a student who possesses or demonstrates a high level of ability in one or more content areas when compared to his chronological peers in the school district and who requires modifications of his educational program if he is to achieve in accordance with his capabilities.

According to the National Association for Gifted Children, Giftedness is defined as: 

"Students with gifts and talents perform - or have the capability to perform - at higher levels compared to others of the same age, experience, and environment in one or more domains. They require modification(s) to their educational experience(s) to learn and realize their potential. 

Student with gifts and talents: 

• Come from all racial, ethnic, and cultural populations, as well as all economic strata. 

• Require sufficient access to appropriate learning opportunities to realize their potential. 

• Can have learning and processing disorders that require specialized intervention and accommodation. 

• Need support and guidance to develop socially and emotionally as well as in their areas of talent. 

• Require varied services based on their changing needs."