Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Identification, Testing & Assessment Davidson Young Scholars

Here are 3 quotes from the website:

Individuals identified as profoundly gifted, or PG, fall into the range of scores that are at least 5 standard deviations above the average IQ score of 100. Individuals with IQ scores of 175 and higher are considered to be profoundly gifted (PG).

Due to the difficulty in correct identification of profoundly gifted children, PG Retreat’s Application Review Team looks at a combination of ability test scores, performance, recommendations by professionals experienced in identifying PG individuals, and other evidence of demonstration of exceptionally advanced ability in more than one area.


Ideally, applicants to PGR have FSIQ, GAI, or Verbal Comprehension scores of at least 160.

While the site does indicate other things are looked at, it sets a standard that can't be met with the current most well respected tests. Based on what I'm reading it looks like they consider 175 to be pg, but they will consider applicants around 160+ with supporting material. It just seems to me that the organization should use scores obtainable with current instruments for application purposes. No one tested in the past few years could score 5 standard deviations above the mean.

This organization seems small so more than likely they just haven’t updated their testing criteria, IMO. Or maybe they haven’t had many new members 🤔 and want to keep it that way to be exclusive.

Thank you for the suggestion on pgretreat and further information. I will check on that.

Membership has grown considerably in the last few years. We've been members for a few years but have yet to attend a retreat. We used IQ scores to qualify so it was a relatively painless process, but I've heard others have been asked to provide lots of narratives and supporting documentation.

ss62, are you aware of Epsilon Camp, for kids who love, LOVE, Love math?

some qualifying criteria

The first round of admissions for 2018 closes Feb 12.

Thanks indigo, I will check this out. But feb 12 is really close.