Who Should Apply to Aurora Quest K-8?

Aurora Quest K-8 is a specialized magnet school designed to support the unique intellectual, social, emotional, and creative needs of gifted and high-potential learners in an atmosphere of mutual respect.

While Aurora Quest offers a dedicated magnet environment, Aurora Public Schools is proud to offer exceptional learning opportunities across the entire district. Every APS neighborhood school has dedicated Gifted & Talented (GT) Facilitators and staff trained to nurture, challenge, and support advanced learners right in their home communities.

Our admissions process is designed to be equitable, drawing qualified candidates from across Aurora Public Schools to reflect the rich diversity of our district.

Admission Criteria: The Body of Evidence

Admission to Aurora Quest is based on a holistic review of a student’s need for specialized gifted programming. Eligibility is evaluated using a comprehensive Body of Evidence, which includes:

  • Cognitive Ability: A full-scale score at or above the 84th percentile ("Far Above Average" to "Superior") on an approved cognitive assessment (e.g., NGAT, CogAT, NNAT3, DAS, WISC, WPPSI).

  • Academic & State Assessments: Standardized test scores and report card data.

  • Qualitative Feedback: Recommendations from parents and teachers.

  • Student Artifacts: Performance-based measures, work samples, reflections, and questionnaires.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Applications for the 2027–2028 school year open on Monday, November 2, 2026. Eligibility requirements include:

  • Current K–7th Grade Students: Must be formally identified as Gifted and Talented or High Potential.

    • APS Students: Must complete the GT identification process within APS prior to applying. If your child is not yet formally identified, please notify your home school’s GT Facilitator or classroom teacher immediately so testing can be completed before the deadline.

    • Out-of-District Applicants: Must complete formal gifted identification through their home school/district prior to applying.

  • Early Entrance (Kindergarten & 1st Grade): Highly advanced young learners may apply for early grade acceleration if they meet Colorado Exceptional Children's Educational Act (ECEA) criteria:

    • Age Cutoffs: Must turn 4 by October 1 for Kindergarten, or 5 by October 1 for 1st Grade.

    • Formal Identification & BOE: Must be formally identified as gifted and meet state requirements for accelerated placement through an auditable Body of Evidence (evaluating cognitive ability, achievement, social-emotional readiness, and school/family support).