GATE Testing
IDENTIFICATION AND COGNITIVE ABILITIES TEST (CogAT) INFORMATION:
IDENTIFICATION AND COGNITIVE ABILITIES TEST (CogAT) INFORMATION:![]()
IDENTIFICATION AND COGNITIVE ABILITIES TEST (CogAT) INFORMATION:
San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) uses the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) to measure the reasoning skills of students in the elementary grade level. Currently it is also used to identify students eligible for Gifted and Talented Education (GATE).
This test consists of three areas which measure verbal, quantitative and nonverbal reasoning. Students with a National Age Percentile Rank (APR) of 98 or above will be identified as GATE. Additionally, students with National Age Percentile Rank (APR) of 97 and have scored a 99 in one of the three areas (Verbal, Quantitative or Nonverbal) will be identified as GATE.
The results of CogAT are also used for eligibility for the Academic Talent Program (ATP) selection process. To learn how CogAT is used for ATP eligibility, please go to the ATP webpage.
Because the CogAT is not related to grade level standards, teachers do not use the results to assess students' progress at school. CogAT results have no impact on students’ access to accelerated, honors, or advanced courses in future years. Because the CogAT content is challenging and is used for the purpose of GATE identification, the testing may not be necessary for all students. In particular, it may cause anxiety in some students and not be in their best interest to participate.
Our district does not recommend any materials for CogAT preparation. Students are encouraged to take the CogAT with minimal test preparation so that we get an accurate measure of the students' reasoning skills.
Fall CogAT Testing Information
CogAT Retesting Information (Grades 3 thru 7)
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Student Group
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Eligibility
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Current Grade 3 students
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Newly enrolled in SRVUSD
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Previously tested in Grade 2
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Grades 4 - 7 students
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Newly enrolled in SRVUSD
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Registration opens: First Day of School in August
Testing Window: Fall
Check Back: August for Registration Link
Spring CogAT Testing Information for Grade 2
All 2nd grade students are provided an opportunity to take the CogAT at their school in the spring. There is no registration required for this purpose. Parents of 2nd grade students will receive an email from the school with more information in the spring. Parents may exempt their child from taking the CogAT by contacting their child's teacher.
For the 2025-2026 school year, 2nd grade CogAT results will be posted in the parent portal after spring break.
