NNAT Scores Explained

The process of calculating NNAT scores involves several steps: 

• Raw score: The total number of correct answers out of 48 questions 

• Conversion to NAI: The raw score is converted to the Naglieri Ability Index based on the student's age 

• Percentile rank: The NAI is then used to determine the percentile rank 

When interpreting NNAT scores, consider the following: 

• An NAI of 100 represents average performance for a student's age group 

• About 68% of students score between 84 and 116 on the NAI scale 

• Percentile ranks are often easier for parents and teachers to interpret 

• For very high or low performances, the NAI provides more precise differentiation than percentile ranks 

Score Distribution 

• Average range: NAI scores between 84 and 116 (approximately 68% of students) 

• Below average: NAI scores below 84 (approximately 16% of students) 

• Above average: NAI scores above 116 (approximately 16% of students) 

In terms of percentiles: 

• Average range: 25th to 75th percentile 

• Below average: Below 25th percentile 

• Above average: Above 75th percentile 

Parents should keep in mind: 

• The NNAT measures nonverbal reasoning and problem-solving skills, not academic knowledge 

• Scores are age-based, not grade-based, ensuring fair comparison among children of the same age 

• The test is just one measure of a child's abilities and should be considered alongside other factors 

The score report is detailed and will give you a general idea of whether or not your child qualifies for a gifted program.

• Score reports are typically mailed to parents about two months after the test administration 

• The report will include detailed information on how to interpret the scores 

The score considered "gifted" on the NNAT can vary depending on the school district or program, but generally: 

• Many districts consider scores at or above the 92nd percentile as qualifying for gifted programs 

• Some programs use the 95th percentile as a cutoff 

• More selective programs may require scores at or above the 97th percentile 

In terms of the Naglieri Ability Index (NAI): 

• A score of 130 or above (98th percentile) is often considered gifted 

• Highly gifted is typically considered 145 or above (99.7th percentile) 

What is a good NNAT raw score? 

• The raw score alone doesn't provide much information about a child's ability or giftedness 
• The maximum raw score possible is 48, as there are 48 questions on the NNAT 
• However, raw scores are converted to scaled scores and then to the NAI for meaningful interpretation. 

What is the 99th percentile NNAT score? 

• The 99th percentile on the NNAT corresponds to a Naglieri Ability Index (NAI) of 135 or higher 
• It's worth noting that the NAI can differentiate scores at this high level better than percentile ranks, as percentile ranks cannot distinguish among students with NAIs of 135 or higher 

What is a 134 NNAT score? 

An NAI score of 134 is considered very high, falling just below the 99th percentile. To provide context: 

• The average NAI is 100 
• About 68% of students score between 84 and 116 
• Scores above 116 are considered above average 
• A score of 134 would likely qualify a student for most gifted programs, as it's well above the typical cutoffs mentioned earlier. 

Remember that while these scores are important indicators, many schools and programs consider multiple factors when evaluating students for gifted programs. 

Each school district sets its own requirements for gifted program admission using NNAT test scores. Here's what you need to know:

Typical Score Requirements:

• Many districts accept students who score at the 92nd percentile or higher
• Some schools require scores at the 95th percentile or above
• Students scoring between the 85th-92nd percentile may qualify for additional review

Houston Schools:

• Uses a point system for their Vanguard gifted program
• NNAT score counts for about half of the total application

New York City:

• Uses both NNAT and OLSAT tests combined
• Both tests are weighted equally
• 97th percentile or higher: Eligible for citywide AND district gifted programs
• 90th percentile or higher: Eligible for district programs only

Smart Parents Choose Our OLSAT and NNAT Bundle - Here's Why:

Two Tests, One Smart Solution The OLSAT and NNAT both measure your child's reasoning skills in similar ways. By practicing both, your child gets double exposure to crucial concepts - it's like solving fun puzzles that strengthen the same mental muscles!

Familiarizing your child with the different types of questions they will see on the NNAT is very important.

To help your child prepare for the NNAT:

• Familiarize them with the test format and question types
• Practice nonverbal reasoning skills through puzzles and pattern recognition activities.
• Ensure your child is well-rested and comfortable on the test day.
• Consider using official NNAT practice materials or tutoring services

Remember, while preparation can be helpful, the NNAT is designed to measure innate abilities rather than learned knowledge.