Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development (CTD) has partnered with schools and families for nearly 30 years to provide innovative distance learning programs for gifted and advanced students.

  • Northwestern University’s Midwest Academic Talent Search (NUMATS)
    Started in 1982, NUMATS is a program of the Center for Talent Development (CTD) that offers above-grade-level testing for high-performing students in grades 3 through 9. This Talent Search approach is an extremely well-researched and respected program model in gifted education.

    NUMATS uses tests intended for older students to provide a more accurate measurement of aptitude, because studies show that students who score in the top 10% on school achievement tests differ widely from average students in their abilities and educational needs. In-grade achievement tests just don’t accurately represent these gifted students’ potential.

    NUMATS uses the EXPLORE test—developed by ACT and normally given to students in grade 8—to determine the abilities of students in grades 3 through 6. The ACT and the SAT tests, typically used for college admissions, provide a more accurate picture of the mathematical and verbal reasoning abilities of students in grades 6 through 9.

    After students test, parents receive comprehensive information about how their student measures up to other gifted students. This valuable feedback helps families plan for the future.

If you are interested in getting more information, please click the following link: http://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/gll/