Magnet program requirements may include performance assessments, portfolios and test scores.

Magnet programs that require testing will have applicants make an appointment during the application. Test score requirements for specific magnet programs can be viewed on the magnet description page.

• Elementary Magnet Programs
• Middle School Magnet Programs
• High School Magnet Programs

Performance assessments and portfolios 

The Academy of Fine Arts at Garland High School requires a performance assessment or portfolio.

Testing requirements

Current Garland ISD students are tested on their home campus. Ability tests are given in kindergarten, first grade and fifth grade. Achievement tests include i-Ready, IXL and PSAT..

If a student is missing assessment scores required for the desired program, testing information will be included in the Choice of School form. Students applying for grades 1-12 are assigned a time frame. Students applying for Pre-K/Kinder sign up for a testing date and time.

Magnet programs that require reading and math achievement test scores:

• Montessori
• Math, Science and Technology (MST)
• Classical
• Student Leadership
• Classical & Career
• Collegiate Academy
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Academy for Excellence*

*The Academy for Excellence requires both an ability test score and reading and math achievement test scores.

Magnet testing for students new to the district

If a student is not currently attending a Garland ISD school, they will either need to provide test scores from their previous district or attend magnet testing on the scheduled date.. Read below for details. See the timeline on the Magnet application process and timelines page for specific dates.

Prekindergarten students will be tested on designated testing dates.

K-11 students must submit reading and math achievement scores as well as ability test scores. Official test score reports must be submitted to GISDmagnetprograms@garlandisd.net prior to the first testing date for the application period.

Students who do not have scores from the previous district will need to attend magnet testing on the scheduled date.

Out-of-district assessments accepted

The following are examples of tests that we accept.

Achievement tests

• Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
• Iowa Tests (ITBS)
• PSAT
• TerraNova
• Logramos
• i-Ready
• IXL

Ability tests

• Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)
• Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT)

Appealing a score

A parent may submit a written request for a retest if:

• Test results indicate a testing irregularity (significant drop in score in the subject area compared to prior year results).
• Student experienced a medical event on or near the date of testing (illness, diagnosis, change in medication).
• The student experienced a death in the family within 10 days of testing.

Written requests should be emailed to GISDMagnetPrograms@garlandisd.net along with supporting documentation before the end of the magnet application window. See the timeline on the Magnet application process and timelines page for dates.

If a retest is granted, parents will be notified for scheduling.