TX · Gifted & Talented
HOUSTON ISD Gifted & Talented Testing 2026
Dates, tests, and score cutoffs for HOUSTON ISD's gifted and talented (G&T) program, gathered from public district sources.
Last checked: high confidence. Always confirm with your district before relying on any date below.
Which test does HOUSTON ISD use?
Per district publications. Verify with your district.
About HOUSTON ISD
Houston Independent School District is one of the largest school systems in the United States, serving diverse student populations across the greater Houston area. The district identifies gifted and talented students using the NGAT and CogAT assessments, with eligibility determined through a comprehensive identification matrix that considers multiple criteria beyond test scores alone.
Source: houstonisd.org
Entry grades
PK-4 through 12
Per district publications. Verify with your district.
Application window
August 2026 registration, closing September 25, 2026
Per district publications. Verify with your district.
Testing dates
October 5-30, 2026, with makeup testing October 26-30
Per district publications. Verify with your district.
Score cutoff
Multi-criteria identification matrix (3+ criteria); 80th percentile threshold for district-generated referrals; both Math and Reading required for Vanguard programs
Per district publications. Verify with your district.
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Is there a free HOUSTON ISD gifted and talented practice test?
Quiz Karts is a free gifted and talented practice game for K-5 kids, covering the reading, math, and reasoning skills that tests like CogAT screen for. It's in private preview right now — join the list below to be first in when it opens.
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Racing game your kid will beg to play: reading, math, and reasoning practice disguised as a kart race, so test-day nerves feel like just another lap. Free to join the launch list now.
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