Gifted screening is the formal assessment process using standardized IQ and achievement tests to identify children with exceptional cognitive abilities, typically defined as the 98th percentile or higher.
What is Gifted Screening?
Gifted screening is the formal evaluation process that determines whether a child qualifies as intellectually gifted. While parents often suspect giftedness based on observable characteristics—rapid learning, intense curiosity, advanced language—official identification requires standardized testing administered by trained professionals. These assessments measure cognitive abilities (IQ tests) and sometimes academic achievement, producing scores that determine eligibility for gifted programs, specialized curricula, or educational accommodations. For homeschoolers, gifted screening provides documentation that may be needed for dual enrollment, advanced programs, or understanding how best to serve an exceptional learner.
Key Takeaways
- Giftedness is typically defined as 98th percentile or higher (IQ 130+) on standardized tests
- Common tests include WISC-V (ages 6-16) and Stanford-Binet 5th Edition (ages 2+)
- Private testing costs $300-$600; some school districts offer free testing for homeschoolers
- Virtual and home-based testing options have expanded since 2020
- Test selection matters—Stanford-Binet has higher ceiling for profoundly gifted children
Common Gifted Assessment Tests
How Homeschoolers Access Testing
Homeschoolers have several pathways to gifted screening. Private psychologists offer the most flexibility—they can test at home, accommodate schedules, and provide comprehensive reports. Costs typically range from $300-$600 depending on location and assessment scope. Some school districts offer free courtesy testing for homeschooled students, though availability varies and waiting lists can be lengthy. Online options have expanded significantly: the NWEA MAP Growth Test can be administered at home, and some psychologists now offer virtual testing. Organizations like the Davidson Institute maintain resources for finding qualified testers.
Why Test Selection Matters
For moderately gifted children (IQ 130-145), any standard assessment works. For highly or profoundly gifted children, test selection becomes critical. The Stanford-Binet has a higher ceiling than the WISC-V, meaning it can accurately measure abilities that the WISC would simply score as "145+" without distinguishing among the truly exceptional. The WISC-V tends to produce scores about 13.5 points higher on average, which affects eligibility thresholds. If your child may be profoundly gifted, discuss test selection with your evaluator before assessment.
The Bottom Line
Gifted screening provides more than a number—it creates a cognitive profile that informs educational decisions. For homeschoolers, testing can validate curriculum choices, support applications to advanced programs, and reveal twice-exceptional needs that might otherwise go unaddressed. The investment isn't trivial ($300-$600 for private testing), but for families suspecting significant giftedness, professional assessment often clarifies the educational path forward.
