CTY Prep Program
The Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (JHU CTY) is an educational program for gifted children. CTY identifies talented and gifted students and provides an environment in which they are able to flourish. JHU CTY offers several programs to the most advanced grade school and high school students all over the world.
Boost your Child's SCAT Scores!
If you are looking to have your 2nd-8th grader participate in a CTY program at Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, your child will likely need to take the SCAT. In order to succeed on the SCAT, it is important to set aside time to practice. With Excel Academy's level-specific and child-friendly Elementary, Intermediate, or Advanced
Format
The SCAT is administered at one of three levels depending on grade:
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Students in grades 2–3 take the Elementary SCAT
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Students in grades 4–5 take the Intermediate SCAT
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And students in grades 6 and above take the Advanced SCAT
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The test is split into two sections, verbal and quantitative, separated by an optional, student-directed 10-minute break. Test appointments are 90 minutes long, but the test itself usually takes less than an hour.
The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) provides a series of exclusive competitive programs. Without a high score on one of the standardized tests used for consideration, admission cannot be granted.
- Tests used for admission
- SCAT preparation tactics
To participate in the CTY's Family program, your child needs to apply through the program's Talent Search. You can apply online on the CTY program website, or by submitting a paper application. After you apply, you will receive information regarding testing options available for your relevant grade level.
Students in grades 2-8 are usually invited to take the CTY-administered SCAT. After SCAT testing is completed, the CTY will send you information regarding your child's scores and eligibility for various Johns Hopkins gifted programs.
When applying to Johns Hopkins's CTY Programs, you can choose among a variety of testing methods. Out of all the tests available, the SCAT is the only examination available as an option for all grade levels.
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For Grades 2-8
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Evaluates verbal and quantitative abilities
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Two sections- verbal and quantitative
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22 minutes per section, plus a 10-minute break in the middle
SAT
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For Grades 7-9
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Evaluates reading, writing, and math
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Three tests + non-compulsory essay
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Three hours for the tests, 50 minutes for the essay
ACT
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For Grades 7-9
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Evaluates English, math, reading, and science
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Four tests + non-compulsory essay
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Three hours for the tests, 40 minutes for the essay
STBT
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For Grades 5-9
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Evaluates visual perspectives (only for grades 7+), surface development, block rotation, visual memory
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Three to four tests
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83 minutes for grades 5-6, 109 minutes for grades 7-8
PSAT 8/9
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For Grades 5-6
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Evaluates reading, writing and language, and math
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Three tests
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Two hours and 25 minutes
*The OLSAT, NNAT, CogAT, New York City Gifted and Talented Test, SCAT, and other trademarks are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of the trademark holders are affiliated with Excel Academy or this website.
Johns Hopkins CTY Programs
SCAT TESTS/Grade Levels
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For Grades 2-8
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Evaluates verbal and quantitative abilities
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Two sections- verbal and quantitative
-
22 minutes per section, plus a 10-minute break in the middle
SAT
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For Grades 7-9
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Evaluates reading, writing, and math
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Three tests + non-compulsory essay
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Three hours for the tests, 50 minutes for the essay
ACT
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For Grades 7-9
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Evaluates English, math, reading, and science
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Four tests + non-compulsory essay
-
Three hours for the tests, 40 minutes for the essay
STBT
-
For Grades 5-9
-
Evaluates visual perspectives (only for grades 7+), surface development, block rotation, visual memory
-
Three to four tests
-
83 minutes for grades 5-6, 109 minutes for grades 7-8
PSAT 8/9
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For Grades 5-6
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Evaluates reading, writing and language, and math
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Three tests
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Two hours and 25 minutes
SCAT scores are scaled at different ranges depending on the test level:
VerbalQuantitative
Elementary401-471412-475
Intermediate405-482419-506
Advanced410-494424-514