NNAT facts
November 8, 2017

Facts About the NNAT

The Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT) is used to evaluate problem-solving and visual spatial reasoning skills in children. This test may be given to students aged pre-K to 12th grade. It is commonly used to identify children that might qualify for gifted and talented programs. The NNAT involves a series of questions composed of shapes and symbols.

Is the NNAT important?

The NNAT measures intellectual ability. It can be extremely useful in identifying gifted students that do not perform well in school due to language barriers or learning disabilities.

There are a number of benefits to nonverbal tests. These tests provide an equal evaluation of all children. The NNAT makes it possible for educators to identify gifted students regardless of their ability to speak English or their academic ability.

Can my child prepare for the NNAT?

It’s important to make your child familiar with the test content and format of the NNAT. This will give your child the best possible chance at success.

It can be difficult to encourage children to study at home. Test prep and individual tutoring can help. Our courses are specially designed to keep kids engaged.

What can my child expect on the NNAT?

The NNAT is divided into seven levels, each designed for a specific age group. Four different types of questions are used on the tests, but only three of the levels contain all four types.

Question types include pattern completion, reasoning by analogy, serial reasoning and spatial visualization. Very little reading, writing or speaking is required for this test. Students are given thirty minutes to answer 38 or 48 questions.

How is the NNAT scored?

Scores for the NNAT are determined in steps. First, a raw score is determined based on the number of questions answered correctly. The raw score is then converted into a Nonverbal Ability Index (NAI). A percentile rank is then given based on how your child performed compared to other children in their age group. For example, a score in the 80th percentile would mean that your child scored higher than 80% of children in the same age group.

Young Scholars Circle offers test prep, individual tutoring as well as creative and critical thinking courses for students taking the NNAT. Please contact us for more information.