Private School Admissions Testing in Tampa Bay

Which test does my child need for admissions?

For applicants ages 6 to 16, most independent schools request the WISC-V — the individually administered cognitive test I provide. Your school's admissions packet is the final word, so check it — or bring it to your free consultation and we'll confirm together.

Each school sets its own requirements, and some accept more than one instrument. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist licensed in Florida, I administer the WISC-V — the test admissions offices most commonly ask for — and score it to publisher standards. If your school's packet names a different instrument, especially for a younger applicant, tell me during the free 15-minute consultation and I'll let you know honestly whether I'm the right fit or point you in the right direction. We'll also confirm the fee for your specific situation on that call.

What is the testing session like for my child?

The session lasts about 1 to 2 hours and feels more like one-on-one play than an exam — puzzles, pictures, patterns, and questions presented at your child's pace. There is nothing to study or practice; arriving rested and fed is genuinely the best preparation.

These tests measure how a child thinks, not what they've been taught, so coaching doesn't help — and can even work against an accurate picture. I keep the setting calm and comfortable, build rapport before we begin, and take breaks whenever a child needs one. Most kids leave thinking they spent the morning playing games.

How far ahead of the application deadline should we test?

Plan backward from your school's deadline: appointments are typically available within 1 to 2 weeks, and the full process — consultation, testing, and results — usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Building in a month of cushion keeps the application season stress-free.

Admissions cycles cluster in the fall and winter, so testing calendars fill fastest then. If your deadline is close, call or text (727) 344-9202 and I'll do my best to fit your child in. Score reports are turned around promptly after testing, and I'm happy to note your deadline when we schedule.

Can the same test count toward Florida gifted eligibility?

Often, yes. The WISC-V produces a full-scale IQ — the same score Florida districts review for gifted consideration under Rule 6A-6.03019, which generally looks for an IQ around 130. One testing session can serve both your private school application and a gifted referral.

Keep in mind that IQ is only part of the picture — Florida eligibility also considers a majority of gifted characteristics on a standardized checklist and demonstrated need, and the district's staffing committee makes the final decision. A private evaluation documents what the committee needs but doesn't itself confer eligibility. If gifted placement is on your radar, mention it during the consultation so the report is written with district requirements in mind. Learn more about gifted evaluations and how to qualify for gifted in Florida.

What's included in your admissions testing

• A free 15-minute consultation to confirm which test your school requests
• A standardized, one-on-one administration of the WISC-V in a comfortable setting
• Careful scoring, including full-scale IQ and index scores
• A clear, professional score report ready to submit with your application
• A feedback session to walk through what the results mean for your child

Fees for admissions testing are confirmed during your free consultation, and a detailed receipt is provided. This is a private-pay practice accepting cash, check, and Zelle. Curious about other services? See pricing, browse the FAQ, or explore the Tampa Bay communities I serve.