CogAT Shortened Directions

Shortened directions for CogAT Forms 7 & 8 and the CogAT Screening Forms 7 & 8 were released in March 2025. The shortened directions are in place for primary Levels 5/6, 7, and 8 for audio-led administrations. For these untimed levels, testing time may be reduced by as much as 10 minutes per student.

What changed?

The directions were streamlined using fewer words, fewer screens to click through, and less repetition in prompts to provide a faster and more engaging experience for young students during testing. Students are now able to answer items and move forward when ready. Previously, students taking Levels 5/6, 7, and 8 were required to listen to the audio fully before they could answer an item and advance to the next screen. Please note that the optional Sentence Completion subtest at these levels still requires students to listen to the full item prompt for each item before answering and moving to the next item.

Do the changes impact test performance?

Prior to implementing the changes, a research study was undertaken to ensure that these changes to the student testing experience would not affect students’ scores. The research confirmed that students’ scores are not affected.  

Are there new scripts for test proctors?

The flow of the proctor-led online administration at these levels was similarly adjusted. No changes were made to the online scripts or the paper and pencil testing directions, because the proctor in the room is able to pace students appropriately and gauge whether students need a quicker pace to stay engaged or whether they need to go more slowly.

Will directions be streamlined for upper Levels (Levels 9-17/18)?

The student testing experience at Levels 9 – 17/18 remains unchanged. These test levels are already designed to be self-paced and allow students to move through the assessment at their own rate within the time limit.