CogAT vs. NNAT: What Parents Need to Know

When parents hear about gifted testing, two common assessments often come up: the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) and the NNAT (Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test). Both measure a child’s potential — not just what they’ve learned in school — but in very different ways. Understanding these differences helps parents choose the right path for their child’s learning profile. At Mindful Learning Group, we help families make informed choices about gifted readiness, preparation, and support.

What Is the CogAT?

The CogAT assesses three main types of reasoning skills:
• Verbal — vocabulary, analogies, and comprehension.
• Quantitative — number patterns and relationships.
• Nonverbal — visual-spatial reasoning using shapes and figures.

It’s often used by schools to identify gifted students with strong academic and analytical skills.
Best for: Students who are strong readers and comfortable with language and structured learning.

What Is the NNAT?

The NNAT is a nonverbal test — meaning it doesn’t rely on reading or math skills. Instead, it measures how a child recognizes patterns, relationships, and logic through visuals and shapes.

Best for: Students who think visually, learn by observing, or are bilingual and may not yet be fluent in English. Because it’s culture-fair and language-free, the NNAT helps ensure fairness in identifying gifted learners across diverse backgrounds.

Key Differences Between CogAT and NNAT

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help parents see the distinctions:

Feature | CogAT | NNAT
-------- | -------- | --------
Focus | Verbal, Quantitative, and Nonverbal reasoning | Nonverbal reasoning only
Format | Word-based and number problems | Shape and pattern puzzles
Language-Dependent? | Yes | No
Best For | Students strong in reading or structured thinking | Visual-spatial or bilingual learners
Common Grades Tested | K–12 | K–12

How Parents Can Support Preparation Mindfully

Gifted testing shouldn’t create pressure — it should reveal how your child thinks. The goal isn’t to ‘train’ but to nurture curiosity and confidence.

Parents can support readiness by:
• Encouraging puzzles, pattern games, and logic problems.
• Practicing analogy-based questions in fun, engaging ways.
• Helping children slow down and observe before answering.
• Building confidence through calm, consistent practice.

At Mindful Learning Group, we combine cognitive preparation with emotional awareness — ensuring children approach testing with balance and self-assurance.

Every child’s mind works differently — and both the CogAT and NNAT highlight unique strengths. Whether your child is more analytical, visual, or creative, understanding their learning style is the first step toward supporting their growth. Gifted readiness isn’t about comparison; it’s about discovering how your child learns best.

👉 Book a free consultation with Dr. Annie at Mindful Learning Group to learn which assessment fits your child’s strengths and how we can help them prepare with confidence and mindfulness.