Tests and Testing

Identifying your child’s unique talents through testing with our Talent Search is the first step toward matching them with an appropriate challenge. We offer a range of tests to fit your needs and learning goals.

When deciding which test to take, it’s important to consider:

  • Your child’s grade level
  • The CTY course they intend to take

  • Whether they’d like to practice taking a college entrance exam

The test results then determine their eligibility level, opening up access to courses that best fit their individual strengths. Testing accommodations are available upon request.
 

Eligibility

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Existing Test Scores

We accept qualifying scores from a variety of tests your child may have already taken at school.

Grades 2-12
Receive results in 7 to 10 business days

SCAT

The School and College Ability Test (SCAT) is a multiple-choice test usually taken on a computer. With its short testing time and flexible scheduling, it’s a great option if you’re looking to qualify for CTY programs on a deadline.

Grades 2-12
< 1 hour
Take at a Prometric center
Receive results 
48 hours after test
Computer-based
Verbal and 
quantitative skills

Online SCAT

The School and College Ability Test (SCAT) is a multiple-choice test taken on a computer. Students can take the test within one hour of registration. No software download is required. The short testing time, ease of access, and flexible scheduling make this a great option if you’re looking to qualify for CTY programs on a deadline.

Grades 2-12
< 1 hour
Take at home
Receive results 
in 7 to 10 business days
Computer-based
Verbal and 
quantitative skills

PSAT™ 8/9

The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is a multiple-choice and grid-in test taken on paper. As the precursor to the SAT, it’s also a great way to get a preview of that suite of tests.

Grades 5-6
2.5-3 hours
Administered by
 College Board®
Receive results 
6 weeks after test
Paper-based
Reading, writing,
 and math skills

SAT®

The SAT is a multiple-choice and grid-in test taken on paper with an optional essay section. It’s used across the globe to assess readiness for college, making it a good choice if you are looking for practice.

Grades 7-12
3-4 hours
Administered by
 College Board®
Receive results 
6 weeks after test
Paper-based
Reading, writing,
 and math skills

ACT

The ACT is a multiple-choice test taken on paper with an optional essay section. It’s used primarily in the U.S. to assess readiness for college, making it a good choice if you are looking for practice.

Grades 7-12
3-4 hours
Administered 
by ACT
Receive results 
3–7 weeks after test
Paper-based
English, reading, math,
and science skills

STB

The Spatial Test Battery (STB) is a unique multiple-choice test usually taken on a computer. It focuses on spatial reasoning—a useful skillset in STEM courses that is often missed by traditional testing.

Grades 5-12
1.5-2 hours
Take at a Prometric center
Receive results 
48 hours after test
Computer-based
Spatial reasoning skills