DURHAM, N.C.—More than 63,000 academically-talented seventh graders took the ACT or SAT through the Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) in late 2010 and early 2011, an increase of 2,000 from last year.

These young students sat for the exams in their hometowns alongside the usual group of college-bound eleventh and twelfth graders, and many earned scores that rival or surpass those achieved by the older students.

Duke TIP identifies seventh graders across the United States who have scored at the 95th percentile or above on a grade-level achievement test. These students are invited to participate in the Duke TIP 7th Grade Talent Search and take either the ACT or the SAT.

"Our students are extraordinary young people, and each has the potential for greatness. But each student needs adequate opportunities and guidance to reach that potential,” said Duke TIP Executive Director Martha Putallaz. “Through the 7th Grade Talent Search, Duke TIP continues to provide vital resources to the families of gifted children so they can thrive in our educational system and beyond."

Duke TIP provides all Talent Search participants with a comparative results summary to help interpret their scores, as well as educational materials and publications to help them use their ability more effectively. These publications, including an online directory of educational opportunities and resources for the college admissions process, help students learn more about available academic opportunities and about the needs and interests of people like themselves.

Some high-scoring students are invited to participate in Duke TIP’s prestigious summer programs that take place at Duke University and other colleges and universities.

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About Duke TIP: The Duke University Talent Identification Program is an international leader in identifying and serving the educational needs of academically gifted youth. Through identification, recognition, challenging educational programs, information, advocacy and research, Duke TIP provides resources to gifted students, their parents, educators, and schools for the development of the students’ optimal potential. 

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