NNAT Scores Explained

1. Raw Score: Total number of correct answers out of 48.

2. Naglieri Ability Index (NAI): The raw score is converted to a standardized NAI, with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15.

3. Percentile Rank: Indicates how a student compares to others of the same age.

Gifted program eligibility varies by district, but here are common benchmarks:

• 92nd percentile or higher: May qualify for local gifted programs
• 95th percentile or higher: Required by many top programs
• 97th percentile or higher: Often the cutoff for highly selective citywide gifted programs
• In terms of NAI:
• 130+ = Gifted (98th percentile)
• 145+ = Highly Gifted (99.7th percentile)

• Use Realistic Practice Tests – Full-length simulations train focus and familiarity.
• Break Down Mistakes – Use detailed explanations to fix reasoning gaps.
• Practice in Small Chunks – 10–15 minutes of focused practice is better than long, tiring sessions.
• Model Strategic Thinking – Work through a few questions together and explain your logic.
• Build Confidence Early – Practice removes the fear of the unknown.

The score considered "gifted" on the NNAT can vary depending on the school district or program, but generally: 

• Many districts consider scores at or above the 92nd percentile as qualifying for gifted programs 

• Some programs use the 95th percentile as a cutoff 

• More selective programs may require scores at or above the 97th percentile 

In terms of the Naglieri Ability Index (NAI): 

• A score of 130 or above (98th percentile) is often considered gifted 

• Highly gifted is typically considered 145 or above (99.7th percentile) 

What is a good NNAT raw score? 

• The raw score alone doesn't provide much information about a child's ability or giftedness 
• The maximum raw score possible is 48, as there are 48 questions on the NNAT 
• However, raw scores are converted to scaled scores and then to the NAI for meaningful interpretation. 

What is the 99th percentile NNAT score? 

• The 99th percentile on the NNAT corresponds to a Naglieri Ability Index (NAI) of 135 or higher 
• It's worth noting that the NAI can differentiate scores at this high level better than percentile ranks, as percentile ranks cannot distinguish among students with NAIs of 135 or higher 

What is a 134 NNAT score? 

An NAI score of 134 is considered very high, falling just below the 99th percentile. To provide context: 

• The average NAI is 100 
• About 68% of students score between 84 and 116 
• Scores above 116 are considered above average 
• A score of 134 would likely qualify a student for most gifted programs, as it's well above the typical cutoffs mentioned earlier. 

Remember that while these scores are important indicators, many schools and programs consider multiple factors when evaluating students for gifted programs. 

Each school district sets its own requirements for gifted program admission using NNAT test scores. Here's what you need to know:

Typical Score Requirements:

• Many districts accept students who score at the 92nd percentile or higher
• Some schools require scores at the 95th percentile or above
• Students scoring between the 85th-92nd percentile may qualify for additional review

Houston Schools:

• Uses a point system for their Vanguard gifted program
• NNAT score counts for about half of the total application

New York City:

• Uses both NNAT and OLSAT tests combined
• Both tests are weighted equally
• 97th percentile or higher: Eligible for citywide AND district gifted programs
• 90th percentile or higher: Eligible for district programs only

Our prep packs go beyond repetition. They’re designed to help your child understand how to approach visual puzzles and develop true nonverbal reasoning.

Each Pack Includes:

• Full-length practice tests
• Timed and untimed quizzes
• Step-by-step solutions
• Video tutorials (Video Academy)
• Printable and mobile-friendly formats

"The first time my daughter took the NNAT, she was overwhelmed by the visuals. After using TestPrep-Online, she started to enjoy the challenge—and scored in the 97th percentile!"

Familiarizing your child with the different types of questions they will see on the NNAT is very important.

To help your child prepare for the NNAT:

• Familiarize them with the test format and question types
• Practice nonverbal reasoning skills through puzzles and pattern recognition activities.
• Ensure your child is well-rested and comfortable on the test day.
• Consider using official NNAT practice materials or tutoring services

Remember, while preparation can be helpful, the NNAT is designed to measure innate abilities rather than learned knowledge.