What to Expect After Enrolling

Important Information

Test scores are reported to the school and district and may be reported to the state coordinator for gifted and talented. If the scores are among the highest in the state, the name of the student may be released for media reports.

TIP may also release your child’s name and address to selected organizations which provide educational opportunities for academically talented students––test scores and other information will not be released. If you object to the release of your child’s name and address to organizations providing educational opportunities, please review the information in Section 13 on the application and shade the bubble that applies (online registration also provides this option).

You'll receive an Information Packet

After Duke TIP processes your paper or online application, an information packet will be mailed to you. It serves as verification that your application has been received and processed by Duke TIP. If you have not received the packet within 5 weeks of submitting your application, please contact Duke TIP at (919) 668-9100.

The information packet includes:

  • Educational Resource Handbook,
  • practice test for SAT or ACT,
  • test administration information, and
  • Talent Search Identification form.

Then you'll take the SAT or ACT

TIP will forward test registration data (and payment) directly to SAT or ACT, per your selection. An admission ticket will be sent from the testing agency at least a week prior to the day of the test.

Use the practice test included in the information packet to prepare for the test. Duke TIP does not recommend taking review courses for two reasons. First, 7th Grade Talent Search students take the college entrance exams because their higher ceiling provides an accurate assessment of their academic abilities. Review courses teach students how to raise their scores through test-taking strategies. Raising test scores with a prep course defeats the purpose of above-level testing. Second, the intensive nature of these courses may cause seventh-graders anxiety about the exam instead of allowing them to approach it as an enjoyable challenge.

TipIf you have not received your admission ticket by the deadlines listed on the calendar, contact SAT or ACT directly.

SAT: toll free (866) 756-7346

ACT: (319) 337-1270

What is it like to take the SAT or ACT in 7th grade?

Visit this page for more information.