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Houston Independent School District: gifted testing

Dates and requirements change. Always confirm with Houston Independent School District directly. Last checked: 2026-10-23 · district website

Gifted and Talented (G/T) and Vanguard

Grades PK-12

Houston ISD tests all second graders, and fifth and eighth graders above the 80th percentile on MAP in math or reading. Any student can also be referred by a teacher, parent or themselves. Eligibility uses the district G/T Identification Matrix and needs three or more criteria; Vanguard magnet eligibility needs both math and reading.

TestGradesWhoWhen
Naglieri2All students testedOctober 5 - October 30, 2026; results the week of December 7, 2026source
Naglieri5, 8Students above the 80th percentile on MAP in math or readingOctober 5 - October 30, 2026source
NaglieriPK, K, 1, 3, 4, 6, 7By referralOctober 5 - October 30, 2026 (the 2026 request form is closed)source
CogAT9, 10, 11, 12By referralOctober 5 - October 30, 2026source

Published criteria

  • No single cutoff: the G/T Identification Matrix combines qualitative and quantitative data and requires three or more criteria. A student who does not qualify can be reassessed after one calendar school year. source

Appeals / retesting: Level I: submit the G/T Eligibility Appeal Request Form to the campus G/T Coordinator within 15 district days of the notification letter. Level II: appeal to the district G/T Department within 15 district days of the Level I decision; Level II decisions are final. source

Get ready for Houston Independent School District's test

Start with a free readiness check. Pick Houston Independent School District during setup and the report shows how your child's estimate compares with the published cutoff.

Free readiness check

District information is compiled from public sources and may be incomplete, out of date or wrong. GiftedCub is not affiliated with Houston Independent School District. Confirm testing windows, deadlines, eligibility criteria and cutoffs directly with the district or school before relying on them. GiftedCub is not responsible for missed deadlines or decisions based on this information.

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