Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Gifted Program Preparation & Comprehensive Guide – 2025

Parents in Chicago face a unique challenge when seeking advanced programs for their children. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) offers several selective enrollment options – specifically Regional Gifted Centers, Classical Schools, and Academic Centers – that provide accelerated learning for talented students. This guide breaks down what each program is, the grades they serve, how the admissions process works, and how to prepare for the Chicago Gifted Program test (and other CPS selective enrollment exams). We’ll also cover practical tips to help you and your child navigate this process with confidence.

What Are CPS Regional Gifted Centers (Gifted Programs)?

Regional Gifted Centers (RGCs) are selective elementary school programs designed for children identified as gifted. These programs serve students from kindergarten (entry at age 5) through 8th grade. RGCs provide an accelerated curriculum – often up to two years above grade level – in all core subjects. This means a 1st grader in an RGC might be learning material typical for 3rd grade. Classes emphasize critical thinking, logical reasoning, problem-solving, and creativity, and many RGCs introduce enriched subjects like a foreign language, advanced science labs, computer science, and fine arts. The goal is to challenge gifted students and keep them engaged by delving deeper into topics.

There are multiple RGCs across Chicago, each housed in a specific CPS elementary school. Admission is citywide (not limited to neighborhood), and tuition is free since these are public school programs. Once a child earns a seat in a Regional Gifted Center, they can remain in that program through its final grade (8th grade) without needing to reapply annually. In short, RGCs offer a rigorous, enriched curriculum for gifted learners in a dedicated setting.

What Are CPS Classical Schools?

Classical Schools are another type of selective enrollment elementary program in CPS. Like RGCs, Classical Schools start at kindergarten, but they typically serve students through 6th grade (a few, such as Skinner North and Skinner West, go through 8th grade). Classical Schools provide a challenging liberal arts curriculum that is accelerated by about one grade level above the current grade. These programs place a strong emphasis on academic achievement in core subjects: literature and language arts, mathematics, world language, and the humanities. For example, a 2nd grader in a Classical program may be working with 3rd grade reading texts and math problems.

In Classical Schools, the focus is on building solid foundations in reading and math from an early age. The curriculum is highly structured and rigorous, aiming to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills within a traditional academic framework. Admissions are competitive and open citywide, with no tuition (they are public schools). As with RGCs, students admitted to a Classical School typically continue there through the program’s final grade without needing to requalify each year. Classical Schools are a great fit for children who excel in reading and math and thrive in an accelerated, structured environment.

What Are CPS Academic Centers for Middle School?

Academic Centers are selective programs designed for advanced students in 7th and 8th grade (middle school). Unlike RGCs and Classical Schools (which are housed in elementary schools), Academic Centers are located within certain CPS high schools. Students apply to enter in 7th grade, and admission to an Academic Center guarantees a spot in the high school where that program is housed for 9th grade. There are a handful of Academic Centers in Chicago, hosted at top high schools such as Whitney Young, Lane Tech, Lindblom, Kenwood, and others. These programs allow middle schoolers to experience a high school environment and even take honors or high-school-level courses early.

Academic Centers offer an accelerated curriculum similar to RGCs (often up to two years above grade level), with opportunities to earn high school credits in subjects like Algebra or world language while still in middle school. Students benefit from resources available at the high school (science labs, advanced electives, etc.) and mix with a cohort of high-achieving peers. It’s an enticing option for gifted students: not only do they get an extra challenge in 7th and 8th grade, but they also ease the transition to high school and secure a spot in a strong high school program. Keep in mind, Academic Centers are ultra-competitive – thousands of sixth graders apply each year for a limited number of seats.

When and How to Apply for CPS Gifted Programs?

Applying to CPS selective enrollment programs (RGCs, Classical Schools, and Academic Centers) involves a centralized process and a specific timeline each year. Here’s an overview of how it works and when to act:

• Fall (Application Period): The application opens in the fall (usually mid-September or October) for entry in the following school year. You will use the GoCPS online portal to apply. Families create an account, add their child, and select the programs they’re interested in. You can apply to up to 6 Regional Gifted and/or Classical schools (total of six across both types) and rank them in order of preference. If your child is in 6th grade and aiming for an Academic Center, you can likewise choose up to 6 Academic Centers to apply to (ranked). The application deadline is typically in early December (for example, around December 15 at 5 PM), so be sure to submit all your choices by then.
• Scheduling the Test: After you submit the selective enrollment application, you’ll schedule your child’s admissions test date through the GoCPS portal. CPS’s Office of Access and Enrollment (OAE) oversees testing. Each program type has its own test, so a child applying to both a Gifted and a Classical program will sit for two different exams. (For kindergarten applicants, both tests are usually administered in one combined session, on the same day. For 1st grade and up, Gifted and Classical tests are given on separate dates.) Academic Center applicants (5th graders) will be scheduled for the Academic Center admissions exam, typically in January of 6th grade. Testing for selective enrollment programs generally takes place from November through January or February, with all applicants tested by mid-February.
• Eligibility for Testing (Older Grades): For entry at 5th grade and above, CPS requires students to meet certain academic criteria to be eligible to test. This means current 4th graders (applying to 5th) and 5th graders (applying to Academic Centers for 7th) must have sufficient scores on standardized tests (such as the NWEA MAP) in reading and math to qualify. For instance, Academic Center applicants need at least the 45th percentile in both reading and math on their 5th grade MAP to even sit for the entrance exam. (CPS will notify you if your child doesn’t meet the cut-offs for a given program.) There is no academic pre-qualification for K–4 applicants – all children can sign up for the Gifted/Classical testing regardless of preschool report cards or test scores.
• Spring (Results & Offers): After testing is completed, families wait for results. CPS usually releases admission results in the spring (often late March or early April). You’ll receive notification through the GoCPS online portal of whether your child is offered a seat, and at which school. Each student can receive at most one selective enrollment offer. The offer will be for the highest-ranked program on your application for which your child’s scores qualified. (For example, if you ranked a Classical school first and an RGC second, and your child scores high enough for both, you’d only get the first choice offer.) If your child is not offered any seat initially, they may remain on waitlists for programs you ranked, and a rolling waitlist process will continue into late spring and summer to fill any open spots.
• Decision & Enrollment: Once results are out, you typically have a couple of weeks to accept or decline the offer. If you get an offer, you should also attend any school open house or orientation (some are scheduled after offers are released) before making a final decision. By mid-April, you’ll need to accept an offer for your child to secure their spot for the fall. After accepting, the final step is the school’s enrollment paperwork before the new school year begins.

Important: All applicants must be Chicago residents to enroll in these programs. For kindergarten, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of the entry year (no younger, except through special early entry processes). The CPS Office of Access and Enrollment manages the entire process, so always refer to the official CPS/GoCPS communications for exact dates and requirements each year. Apply on time, and double-check everything – missing a deadline can mean missing out for that year.

Which Tests Are Used for CPS Gifted Program?

One of the most common questions parents ask is what exam their child will take for these programs. CPS does not publicly name the tests they use for selective enrollment admissions. However, they have revealed the skills and subject areas that each exam assesses. Here’s what to expect:

• Gifted Programs (RGC) Test: The gifted admissions test is essentially an ability test – think of it like a kid-friendly IQ test. It is designed to measure a child’s problem-solving ability, thinking skills, and aptitude for learning new things. According to CPS and school officials, the gifted exam focuses on things like spatial reasoning, logic, patterns, and reasoning skills, rather than academic knowledge. For young children, many questions are oral or pictorial. For example, a proctor might read a question and the child points to the picture that best answers it. There may be puzzles involving shapes, sequences to complete, analogies, or categorizing objects by rules. This test does not directly quiz kids on reading or math facts; instead it evaluates how they think. (In CPS, the Gifted test format has been compared to sections of common standardized ability tests like the OLSAT or CogAT, but with CPS’s own twist. The OAE intentionally keeps the exact format under wraps.)
• Classical Schools Test: The Classical admissions test is more of an achievement test for early learners. It assesses a child’s current knowledge and skills in language and math. Expect questions that look at early reading ability (like listening to a passage or demonstrating understanding of words and letters) and math concepts (such as basic number sense, counting, or pattern recognition). For slightly older applicants (like 1st–4th grade entry), the Classical exam will include grade-appropriate reading comprehension, vocabulary, and math problems. Essentially, this test is evaluating what the child has learned so far in reading and math and whether they are performing above grade level. It’s more like a traditional school exam (adapted for age) compared to the Gifted test. CPS has indicated the Classical test content aligns with standardized academic tests (think along the lines of Iowa Basic Skills or MAP skills in reading and math).
• Academic Center Admissions Test: The Academic Center exam is taken by 6th graders (usually in December or January of 6th grade) as part of the 7th grade entry process. This test is unique – it’s not a straightforward math or reading test like the state exams, but rather it emphasizes logical reasoning and problem-solving at a higher level. Students face questions in areas such as figural reasoning (e.g. finding patterns in shapes or matrices), verbal logic (analogies, syllogisms, figuring out word relationships), and mathematical reasoning (word problems, number puzzles). The Academic Center test is meant to identify students who can tackle advanced concepts, so it’s challenging. It is administered in a group setting (often at a high school or central test site) and can feel more like a high school entrance exam. In addition to this exam, remember that Academic Center admissions also weigh 5th grade report card grades and standardized test scores as part of the selection formula. All these factors combine into a point system (900 points scale) to determine offers.

Key point: Because CPS does not disclose the exact test names, many experts recommend preparing using practice materials from multiple sources. In other words, expose your child to a variety of question types that cover the range of skills these exams target. The next sections will discuss preparation in detail.

How to Prepare for the Chicago Public Schools Gifted Program?

Preparing a young child for a selective enrollment test can seem daunting, but with the right approach it can be a positive experience. Here are some strategies and tips to help your child get ready for the Gifted and Classical exams (for kindergarten through 4th grade admissions):

1. Build foundational skills through play and reading: The best preparation for the Classical test’s reading and math components is to engage your child in daily literacy and numeracy activities. Read to your child every day and discuss stories to boost comprehension and vocabulary. Play counting games, puzzles, or use fun apps that involve numbers and patterns. Make it fun – young children learn best through play. This naturally strengthens the skills the Classical exam looks for (like understanding stories, recognizing letters and sounds, basic math concepts, etc.) without it feeling like “test prep.”
2. Introduce logic and problem-solving games: For the Gifted test, encourage activities that develop critical thinking. Puzzles like tangrams, pattern blocks, jigsaw puzzles, and sequencing games are excellent. Ask your child questions that start with “why” or “what if” to stimulate reasoning. Simple board games that require thinking ahead or matching symbols can also build the kind of logical reasoning and pattern recognition the Gifted exam will assess.
3. Use practice questions lightly: It can be helpful to show your child some practice questions similar to those on these tests, so they get used to the format. For example, you might present a few sample questions where the child has to find a shape that completes a pattern, or listen to a short passage and answer a question. Keep these practice sessions short and low-stress – five to ten minutes is plenty for a 4-year-old. The goal is just to familiarize them with following instructions and thinking about questions independently. Be very positive and make it feel like a game or a brain teaser. (Avoid drilling for long periods; that can backfire by causing anxiety or boredom.)
4. Teach test-taking basics: Even very smart young kids might be shy or easily distracted in a test setting. Practice some basics: for instance, have a “pretend school” game where you are the teacher asking questions and your child must listen carefully and answer. Teach them to speak up if they don’t understand a question, to try their best on each item, and that it’s okay to not know everything. Emphasize listening skills, since for early elementary tests many questions are read aloud. You can play “Simon Says” or “listening games” to sharpen their ability to focus on what an adult is saying.
5. Ensure your child is comfortable with the format: If your child will be taking both Gifted and Classical tests, explain in simple terms that during the test some questions will be about words and numbers (Classical) and some will be puzzles or patterns (Gifted). They might do these on the same day (if kindergarten) or different days. Let them know that some questions might seem “hard,” but that’s okay – they should just try their best. Sometimes doing a few practice problems from varied sources can help. In fact, some test prep experts suggest using materials from tests like the OLSAT (for reasoning puzzles), NNAT (for nonverbal patterns), and CogAT (for a mix of skills) to cover all bases. The idea isn’t to overwhelm your child with three different test preps, but to expose them to all types of questions that could appear, since CPS’s exam could draw from any of those skill areas.
6. Keep it positive and low-pressure: At this young age, the most important thing is to keep your child’s confidence high and anxiety low. Encourage their efforts and praise them for “thinking hard” or “being a great problem-solver” rather than emphasizing getting answers right. Make sure they get a good night’s sleep before the test and a healthy breakfast. On test day, assure them that you’re proud no matter what, and this is just a chance to try something fun. A calm, happy child will perform closer to their true ability than a stressed one. Remember, these exams seek potential and reasoning ability, which can’t be “crammed” in the traditional sense – so focus on nurturing your child’s love of learning and thinking, which is the best prep of all.

How should we prepare for the CPS Academic Center admissions test (5th–6th grade)?

Preparing for an Academic Center exam (for entry to 7th grade) is a bit different, since students are older (10–11 years old) and the competition is stiff. Here are some tips for 5th and 6th graders aiming for Academic Centers:

1. Strengthen core academic skills in 5th grade: Remember that Academic Center admissions look at 5th grade report card grades and standardized test scores in addition to the entrance exam. So, one of the best ways to prepare is to do well in 5th grade! Encourage your child to work hard in their classes, especially in reading, math, science, and social studies, since those final grades count. If your child is struggling in any subject, consider extra help early in the year. For the standardized test (MAP) that CPS uses in 5th grade, make sure your child is familiar with the test format and content – schools often provide practice, but you can find sample MAP questions online as well. Strong fundamentals in reading comprehension and math will not only boost their MAP scores but also help on the entrance exam’s logic and math reasoning parts.
2. Practice logic and reasoning questions: The Academic Center test includes sections that are not common in regular school tests – like figural analogies, logic puzzles, classification, and verbal reasoning. To prepare, have your child practice with selective enrollment test prep materials or workbooks geared toward middle school entrance exams. Look for practice questions involving patterns (e.g., which picture comes next in a sequence), analogies (word relationships like “bird is to wing as fish is to ___”), and logic problems. There are many resources and sample questions available through test prep books and online programs (including those from former test developers, like our team at Practice4You). Regular practice with these types of questions will help your child recognize patterns and think through problems quickly.
3. Build test-taking stamina and strategy: The Academic Center exam is longer and more intensive than the elementary tests your child has taken before. It may last around 2 hours with several sections. Help your child build stamina by occasionally doing longer study sessions or full-length practice tests at home (perhaps on a Saturday morning to mimic test day). Afterward, discuss strategies: Did they feel rushed? If so, practice pacing (spending the right amount of time per question). Did they get stuck on a hard question? Teach them it’s okay to skip and come back if possible. Also, cover basics like filling in answer sheets correctly, and carefully reading instructions – all important for a successful test performance.
4. Focus on weaknesses, but keep a balance: Use practice test results or school feedback to identify areas to focus. For example, if your child finds the figural reasoning questions baffling at first, spend more time on those until they become comfortable. However, continue to nurture strengths too – if they’re excellent at math, keep them sharp with enrichment problems. Academic Center exams reward all-around ability, so a balanced skill set is key. Don’t neglect reading – even though it’s a “gifted test,” strong vocabulary and comprehension will help in understanding complex questions or verbal analogies.
5. Time management and mindset: As test day approaches, ensure your child is managing their time well on practice exams. Teach them to allocate their time and not dwell too long on any single tough question. Importantly, work on maintaining a positive mindset. 6th graders can feel pressure, so remind your child that this test is just one opportunity and that you believe in them no matter what. Encourage them to stay calm and focused during the exam. Deep breathing techniques or positive self-talk (“I can do this!”) can help alleviate anxiety.

By starting preparation early (many families begin in the summer before or early in 6th grade) and practicing consistently, your child will gain confidence. They’ll walk into the test knowing what to expect and how to tackle the various question types. That confidence and familiarity can make a big difference in such a high-stakes exam.

How Can Parents Support Their Child During the CPS Admissions Process?

Guiding your child through applications and tests for selective programs can be stressful – but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some practical tips for parents to support their child (and themselves) through the journey:

• Stay informed, but avoid information overload: CPS admissions can change slightly year to year. Make sure to read official CPS communications, attend any informational webinars, and keep track of key dates. However, try not to obsess over every forum rumor or anecdote. Being well-informed will help you feel in control, but too much chatter can create unnecessary anxiety. When in doubt, refer to the CPS Office of Access and Enrollment or school websites for accurate info.
• Organize and mark your calendar: A common pitfall is missing a deadline or forgetting a test appointment. Use a calendar (and set reminders) for application deadlines, test dates, and result release dates. Keep your application confirmation emails and test scheduling confirmations in a dedicated folder. This way, you won’t accidentally let a date slip – the timeline is non-negotiable!
• Visit schools (and bring your child if possible): It’s important to find the right fit, not just the “highest-ranked” school. Open houses or school tours are a great way to get a feel for each program’s environment. Bringing your child can also motivate them – they’ll see the exciting classrooms or science labs and understand what they’re working toward. Also, seeing a school may set your mind at ease or raise new questions. Don’t hesitate to ask current parents or staff about the school’s culture, homework load, etc. Remember, a program should fit your child’s needs and personality.
• Support, don’t pressure: Throughout test prep and waiting for results, try to keep conversations positive. Encourage your child to do their best, but reassure them that one test won’t define their future. Avoid comparing scores or putting too much emphasis on “getting into XYZ school.” Children can pick up on parent stress easily. Celebrate the effort they’re putting in. If you find your child is feeling anxious, scale back and remind them that any outcome is okay. One of the most supportive things you can do is maintain normal routines – ensure they have free play time, family time, and plenty of rest, especially as test day approaches.
• Learn from others but remember every child is unique: You might hear of another child who practiced 300 hours or a neighbor who got into a program with no prep at all. Every student is different. Focus on what your child needs. It’s great to exchange tips with other parents, but don’t let it turn into unproductive stress or competition. If your child has a bad day at the test or doesn’t get in, remind yourself (and them) that there are many paths to success. There are excellent neighborhood, magnet, and charter programs in Chicago too.
• Plan for logistics on test day: On the day of the exam, make sure to arrive at the testing site early. Plan the route beforehand (parking or transit, etc.) and have a backup plan for travel in case of bad weather or traffic – Chicago winters can be unpredictable! Bring any required documents (like the test confirmation letter or ID if instructed), and know the check-in procedure. A little extra planning will help the day go smoothly, so your child isn’t rushed or frazzled walking into the test.

By being a calm cheerleader and organized advocate for your child, you’ll create a supportive environment for them to shine. Regardless of the outcome, going through this process can be a growth experience for both students and parents. Your love and encouragement are the best assets your child can have – with those in hand, they’re already off to a great start!

CPS Gifted Program FAQs

How many selective enrollment schools can we apply to?

You can apply to multiple programs. On the elementary selective enrollment application, you may select up to 6 choices total for Classical Schools and Regional Gifted Centers (combined). If you’re also applying to Academic Centers, you can list up to 6 Academic Center programs as well. You’ll rank your choices in each category by preference. Remember, your child will receive at most one offer, for the highest-ranked school they qualify for.

Can my child take both the Gifted and Classical tests (and apply to both types of programs)?

Yes! You are allowed to apply to both Regional Gifted Centers and Classical Schools for your child. If you do, your child will need to take two different exams – one for the gifted program and one for the classical program. For kindergarten applicants, CPS actually administers both tests in the same session back-to-back. For 1st–4th grade applicants, the tests will be on separate dates (one appointment for the gifted test and another day for the classical test). Applying to both types can increase your chances of getting into a program, just be prepared for the dual testing.

What if my child is sick on the test day or we need to reschedule?

If an illness or conflict arises, contact the Office of Access and Enrollment as soon as possible. CPS typically allows rescheduling within the testing window (which runs until mid-February). In fact, they set a cutoff date each year (for example, early February) as the last day to request a makeup test. Reach out via the provided email or phone (given in your test confirmation) to arrange a new date. Do not just skip the appointment without notification – spots are limited, and missing without notice might forfeit your child’s chance to test.

Where do the admissions tests take place?

CPS conducts testing at designated testing centers or school sites. Typically, you will bring your child to a central location such as a CPS office or a school that’s hosting testing on weekends. The GoCPS scheduling will indicate the available sites. For non-CPS preschoolers (applying to K), tests are often on weekends at a CPS facility. Academic Center exams for 6th graders might be held at high schools or central locations on Saturdays. Your confirmation will include the address and instructions. Parents stay in a waiting area while children go with proctors for the test. Plan to arrive early and expect to be there for the duration of the testing session.

How long does the CPS Gifted tests take?

For the youngest children (applying to K or 1st), the testing session is relatively short – often around 45 minutes to an hour for each exam. If a kindergartener is taking both Gifted and Classical tests in one sitting, it might run a bit longer (with a short break), perhaps 1–1.5 hours total. As children get older, test length increases. The Academic Center exam for 6th graders can last about 1.5 to 2 hours, since it includes multiple sections and a greater number of questions. CPS spaces out breaks as needed for younger kids. Proctors are trained to watch if a child needs a brief pause or stretch during one-on-one testing.

Do we have to pay any fees for these programs or tests?

No. Applications to CPS selective enrollment programs are free, and there is no testing fee. The programs themselves are part of the public school system – there is no tuition cost to attend an RGC, Classical School, or Academic Center. (Of course, you may have incidental costs like school uniforms or activity fees later, as with any CPS school, but there’s no charge for the admissions process or for the accelerated curriculum.)

Does my child need to be currently enrolled in CPS to apply?

No. The process is open to any Chicago resident child of the right age/grade. Many applicants are coming from private preschools, other districts, or homeschool for the elementary entry points. When you create your GoCPS account, it will ask if your child has a CPS Student ID; if not, that’s fine – an ID will be assigned for the application. Just make sure you can provide proof of residency in Chicago if an offer is made. Your child will need to enroll in CPS (the specific school) the following fall if they accept a seat.

If my child gets into a program, do they have to re-test or reapply each year?

No, once your child is admitted to a selective enrollment program, they can keep that seat through the terminal grade of that program without retesting. For example, if they start at a Classical School in kindergarten, they will continue there through 6th grade automatically. Similarly, an RGC student stays through 8th, and an Academic Center student does 7th and 8th in the program (then continues to the affiliated high school). The only time you’d apply again is if you want to switch programs or if your child is moving to the next level (e.g., applying for high school in 8th grade, or if you move and want a different selective school).