Intelligence testing supplements other data gathered in the admissions process.  The tests administered (WPPSI-III and WISC-IV) are the most widely used standardized intelligence tests for children. These tests sample a variety of intellectual functioning, including mathematical ability, reasoning skills, and perceptual-motor abilities.

TESTING PROCEDURES
Most children who are being considered for admission to Emerson find the testing to be an enjoyable experience.  For the testing to be a positive experience and an accurate reflection of a child's abilities and skills, it is important that he/she not feel anxious or pressured.  We recommend that parents downplay the admissions screening aspect of the testing. Children should be well fed, rested, and in good health when brought to the testing appointment. IF A CHILD IS FEELING ILL ON THE DAY OF THE TESTING, THE APPOINTMENT SHOULD BE RESCHEDULED.  On average, testing takes one to two hours; during longer testing it would be typical for a child to take a short break. Standardization procedures do not permit parents to be with the child during the testing; parents will be in a waiting room area shown to the child.  For kindergarten admission, parents should wait until the child is AT LEAST FOUR AND ONE-HALF YEARS OLD.  Testing at this age is more reliable.

THE UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR THE CHILD AND THE FAMILY
The University Center for the Child and the Family (UCCF), on the campus of the University of Michigan, coordinates the intelligence testing required for all Emerson applicants. UCCF was selected because of its excellent professional reputation and its history of consultation with and testing for the Emerson community.

SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT
The school requests that parents attend an Emerson Open House or school tour prior to scheduling a testing appointment for their child.  To schedule testing, parents should call UCCF at (734) 764-9466.  Testing is conducted at UCCF, at a lower fee negotiated by Emerson, by graduate interns in psychology, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.  For a higher fee, parents may request that their child be tested directly by a licensed psychologist approved by Emerson School.  Testings conducted over the last several years have indicated that children obtain similar scores when tested by either set of testers. If there are any special considerations or concerns that should be taken into account with regard to a child, parents should bring them to UCCF's attention when calling to schedule.  Parents should call early to make testing appointments.  Kindergarten candidates should schedule testing in February.  The entire application must be completed by the end of the first week in March for the candidate to be considered in the first round of admissions.

THE TEST REPORT
All tests will be administered by advanced graduate students, post-doctoral fellows in psychology with experience in testing, or by a licensed psychologist arranged through UCCF and approved by Emerson School. The test information is treated in an objective and statistically standardized manner, while reflecting the individual performance of each child.  A licensed psychologist validates the raw data from the testing and the final written report.  The final test report will generally be completed and mailed to Emerson School and the parents within three weeks of the appointment.  The test results are confidential to the Emerson School Admissions Committee. Information regarding the testing will not be shared with any other parties.