CATS Test FAQs

CATS Test: Frequently Asked Questions

Is your child getting ready to take the CATS Test for admission to a top private school in Dallas or Houston?
Don’t leave their success to chance! TestingMom.com offers expert-designed practice questions based on the WPPSI and WISC tests—the very assessments used by CATS. Our members get instant access to over 1,500 WPPSI-IV and 4,500 WISC-V practice questions. Start preparing today with our 100 free questions to give your child a confident edge!

What is the CATS Test?

The Collaborative Academic Testing Service (CATS) is a cognitive assessment given by licensed psychologists for admission into competitive private schools in the Dallas and Houston areas. It includes either the WPPSI (for children ages 2:6 to 7:7) or the WISC (for ages 6:0 to 16:11). These tests measure thinking skills, not academic knowledge, and help schools determine if your child is a good fit for their advanced programs.

How is the test administered?

The CATS Test is given one-on-one in a private psychologist’s office. The psychologist will build rapport with your child to ensure they feel safe and comfortable before starting the session.

What is the cost of the test?

The testing fee is $3 and is paid when you register your child.  CATS also offers financial assistance with a sliding scale fee based on income levels; you can contact them at admin@catstexas.com to inquire about financial aid, according to the CATS FAQ page. 

How long does the test take?

• 3-year-olds: About 30 minutes

• 4–7-year-olds: About 40–50 minutes
  Exact timing depends on your child’s pace and attention span.

What skills does the test measure?

The CATS Test focuses on your child’s cognitive abilities, including:

• Verbal reasoning

• Non-verbal and spatial reasoning

• Working memory

• Processing speed

• Quantitative reasoning

Who needs to take the CATS Test?

Children applying to participating private schools in Dallas and Houston typically need to take the CATS Test as part of the admissions process.

When is the test given?

Testing typically occurs in the fall or winter, before school application deadlines. Appointments fill up quickly—don’t wait to schedule your child’s session!

What score does my child need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all “passing” score. Schools consider CATS results alongside other factors like your child’s school records, teacher recommendations, and interviews.

Can my child prepare for the CATS Test?

Yes! And they should.
Just like prepping for a big game or recital, your child will do their best when they feel confident and familiar with what to expect. TestingMom.com offers thousands of practice questions modeled after the WPPSI and WISC to help your child build problem-solving, verbal, and reasoning skills.

How is the test scored?

The number of correct answers is converted into percentile rankings, which compare your child’s performance to that of other children in their age group.

Will I get to see my child’s results?

Yes. Schools usually share your child’s results after the admissions review. Check with the specific school for more details on when and how results are communicated.

Do schools base their decisions only on the test?

No—CATS results are just one piece of the puzzle. Private schools also consider:

• Academic history

• Behavior and maturity

• Extracurriculars

• Teacher and parent input

• Interviews and essays

What schools require the CATS Test (2025–2026)?

ISAAD schools (Independent Schools Admission Association of Dallas) require CATS testing and will not consider other cognitive ability testing scores.

• The Compass School (PK-3)
• The Covenant School (K-4)
• The Episcopal School of Dallas (PK-4)
• Good Shepherd Episcopal School (K-1)
• Greenhill School (PK-1)
• The Hockaday School (PK-1)
• Lamplighter (PK-4)
• Parish Episcopal School (K-1)
• Providence Christian School (K-4)
• St. John’s Episcopal School (PK-1)
• St. Mark’s School of Texas (1-4)
• Trinity Christian Academy (PK-4)
• Wesley Prep (K-4)

Houston-Area Schools:

• Annunciation Orthodox School (PK-6)
• Awty International School (PK-5)
• Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart (PK-4)
• First Baptist Academy (BK-4)
• The John Cooper School (PK-4)
• The Kinkaid School (PK-4)
• Regis School (K-4)
• River Oaks Baptist School (PK-4)
• The Shlenker School (K-1)
• St. John’s School (K-4)
• St. Mark’s Episcopal School (K-4)
• St. Thomas’ Episcopal School (PK-4)

What kinds of questions are on the test?

Depending on the test (WPPSI or WISC), your child may see:

• Picture analogies and matrix reasoning

• Vocabulary and comprehension questions

• Block design and visual-spatial puzzles

• Arithmetic and number series

• Memory and sequencing tasks

These are not academic tests, but rather assessments of how your child thinks and learns.

Can students with special needs get accommodations?

Yes. CATS testing allows accommodations such as:

• Extended time

• Extra breaks

• Large-print materials

• A quiet testing environment

Be sure to request these well in advance and provide supporting documentation.

What if my child misses the test date?

Contact your school or the CATS administrator immediately to discuss makeup testing options. Time slots are limited, especially near application deadlines.

How do schools use the results?

Schools may use CATS scores to:

• Evaluate admissions qualifications

• Place students in appropriate classes

• Identify areas of strength or areas needing support

Some schools may also require additional tests or assessments; therefore, it is essential to check each school’s specific admissions requirements.

How can I help my child prepare?

Get started with TestingMom.com! Here’s how you can set your child up for success:

• Use our 100 free practice questions to get started.

• Become a member for full access to 6,000+ CogAT, WPPSI, and WISC questions.

• Build confidence with fun, interactive prep tools.

• Get tips on test-day routines, stress-reduction, and more.

A little practice can make a big difference!

Want even more support? Try online tutoring with a TestingMom expert!

In addition to our practice questions and prep materials, TestingMom.com also offers personalized online tutoring with experts who specialize in the WPPSI, WISC, and CATS admissions tests. Our tutors know exactly how to build the cognitive skills these tests measure—and they know how to make learning fun and engaging for young children. Whether your child needs help focusing, building confidence, or mastering tricky reasoning questions, our one-on-one sessions provide the targeted support they need to shine. Flexible scheduling, real-time feedback, and customized lesson plans make it easy to fit tutoring into your family’s routine. Parents love the results, and kids love the experience! Click for —> TestingMom’s Online Tutoring

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