(We need a nationally normed test. EXPLORE has national norms, right?)
Yes, you get back percentile scores measured both against the younger gifted children (3-6 grade) who took the test, and the 8th graders for whom the test is designed.
ETA: Any concerns about taking this at an earlier age than what the test is designed for?
My DS9, 4th grade, called it "mindbending"-- even though he likes tests, he probably wouldn't have been emotionally ready for this one a year ago. But he also maxed out the math and (more surprising) some other sections as well, making the test of limited use in gauging his mastery level (which is what I had wanted it for). Academically, giving it a year ago, when he was in 3rd grade, would have been more useful in that regard. Even if he hadn't scored well I would have considered it a valuable experience in making him really have to think hard; it's rare that he gets work that hard otherwise.
I think you can find out a lot about your child's readiness by downloading the sample tests and trying them at home. Knowing whether they like or dread testing is certainly a major factor, too-- I don't know that I'd put a kid who hates being tested through this relatively long test without a specific reason to do so.
DeeDee
