NYC Gifted and Talented Practice Tests
The NYC Gifted and Talented (G&T) tests were assessments used to determine eligibility for the city's gifted programs. However, the program and its associated tests, including the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) and the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT), were discontinued. The last administration of these tests was in 2021. For students interested in gifted programs, alternative options now exist, and some schools or districts may have their own criteria for identifying and serving gifted students.
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What Replaced the NYC G&T Program?
The NYC Department of Education (DOE) replaced the city-wide G&T program with a new approach focused on screening all students in kindergarten and first grade for accelerated learning opportunities. This shift aims to make gifted education more equitable and accessible.
Instead of a single, high-stakes test, the DOE now uses a different system. Specific schools or districts may have their own gifted programs and application processes. Parents should consult the NYC DOE website and their child's school for the most current information on gifted program options and how to apply.
What are the SCAT and JHU?
The School and College Ability Test (SCAT) is a test developed by the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Center for Talented Youth (CTY). It is often used to identify academically advanced students and is part of the application process for JHU's CTY programs. Unlike the former NYC G&T tests, the SCAT is not a city-wide exam but is used by specific organizations to identify high-achieving students for their programs.
The SCAT is a multiple-choice test with two sections: a verbal section that measures reading comprehension and vocabulary, and a quantitative section that assesses mathematical reasoning. The test is administered at different levels based on the student's grade.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
"As a tutor, I've seen firsthand how effective a targeted approach can be for the SCAT. My first piece of advice is to master the vocabulary and analogies for the verbal section. Don't just memorize definitions; focus on understanding the relationships between words. We'll use techniques like creating word webs, identifying prefixes and suffixes, and practicing with different types of analogies—synonyms, antonyms, part-to-whole—to build a robust vocabulary that goes beyond simple flashcards!"
How to Practice for Gifted and Talented Tests
While the NYC G&T tests are no longer administered, the skills assessed on cognitive tests like the OLSAT, NNAT, and CogAT are still valuable for a child's overall development. Try free practice tests.These tests measure a child's problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and logical reasoning—skills that are essential for success in both school and life.
NNAT and OLSAT Video Academy
TestPrep-Online designed the NNAT Video Academy, a five video tutorial series, to help children understand the NNAT section of the test. Additionally, the OLSAT Video Academy, which includes 11 videos, is now included to help children understand the OLSAT section of the test. The videos below provides an inside look at both the NNAT and OLSAT Video Academies, which are included in every NYC G&T Premium Pack. To continue with the OLSAT and NNAT Video Academies, purchase any NYC G&T Premium Pack.
Comprehensive OLSAT Course Overview for NYC Gifted & Talented Test Prep
Explore our in-depth OLSAT course designed to help your child excel in NYC's Gifted and Talented admissions.
TestPrep-Online Tutor's Tip:
"When preparing for the OLSAT and NNAT, the most meaningful tip I can give you is to focus on pattern recognition and spatial reasoning. These tests are designed to assess a child's ability to think visually and identify underlying rules, often without relying on language. We'll spend our time together working through puzzles, shape sequences, and matrices. The goal is to train your eye to see the relationships—how shapes rotate, change size, or move in a sequence—so that when you see a new pattern on the test, your brain can quickly and confidently find the solution. It's about developing a new way of seeing and thinking, not just answering questions."
Master the NNAT: Expert Prep for NYC Gifted & Talented Admissions
Get the best NNAT test prep to boost your child's chances of success in NYC’s Gifted and Talented admissions.
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Gain access to comprehensive prep packs for tests like the CogAT, OLSAT, and NNAT, as well as resources to enhance common core skills. Help your child build confidence and critical thinking abilities in a fun and supportive environment.
FAQs about Gifted and Talented (G&T) Testing in NYC
Yes. The standardized OLSAT and NNAT tests that were once used for admission to NYC's city-wide G&T programs have been discontinued. The last administration of these tests was in 2021.
The NYC Department of Education (DOE) has changed its approach to G&T admissions. For kindergarten, eligibility is now based on a number of factors, including a child's demonstrated behaviors that may indicate readiness for accelerated learning, as assessed by their pre-K teacher. For grades 1-4, eligibility is based on a student's grades in core subjects like Math, Reading, and Writing. The specific criteria may vary, so it's essential to check the official NYC DOE website for the most current information.
While the specific NYC G&T tests (OLSAT and NNAT) are no longer used for city-wide admissions, the skills they measure—verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative reasoning—are fundamental to a child's cognitive development. A TestPrep-Online Family Membership provides unlimited access to a wide range of practice materials for various G&T tests, including the CogAT, OLSAT, and NNAT. This allows you to help your child build a strong foundation in problem-solving and critical thinking, regardless of which test they may encounter in other contexts (e.g., private school admissions, other gifted programs, or even just for general academic enrichment).
