About the Gifted Academy
Hofstra University's Gifted Academy provides advanced, fast-paced academic and enrichment programs for high-ability learners in grades K through 8. Designed to nurture intellectual curiosity and accelerate academic growth, our programs support gifted students with rigorous instruction, small class sizes, and opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and hands-on learning.
Our gifted programs run year-round-including fall, spring, and summer-and offer both school-year enrichment classes and an immersive gifted summer camp on Long Island.
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Program Highlights
The Gifted Academy offers enriched, advanced learning experiences designed to challenge and support high-ability students through:
Advanced academics in reading, writing, math, study skills, and STEM
Creative and expressive learning including digital media, cartooning, art, performance, and world languages
Communication development through speech, debate, and presentation skills
Small class sizes and individualized attention
Experienced New York State–certified teachers and subject-matter experts
Who Should Apply
The Gifted Academy is ideal for students who:
Consistently perform above grade level
Demonstrate strong motivation and intellectual curiosity
Thrive in a faster-paced, enriched academic environment
Seek advanced coursework, creative challenges, or deeper academic engagement
Eligibility Guidelines
Applicants should meet one or more of the following criteria:
IQ score of 125 or above 95th percentile or higher on a nationally normed standardized testCurrent or past participation in a school-based gifted program
Recognition by a regional or national talent search program
Note: State test scores are not accepted.
Application Process
A $50 nonrefundable application fee applies.
Applicants must submit:
Gifted Academy Application - Online Form Test scores or IQ scores (optional if teacher recommendations are submitted)Two Teacher Recommendations - Online Form
Once reviewed, eligible students will be notified of acceptance and may enroll in either school-year gifted classes or our summer gifted camp.
School-Year Gifted Programming
Youth Academy Gifted Track: accelerated weekend enrichment for high-ability learners who want deeper academic challenge during the school year.
Grades K-8
8-week fall & spring sessions
Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Students take three one-hour classes each Saturday
Students choose courses each time block
Course offerings vary by semester
School-Year Programming
Accelerated weekend enrichment for high-ability learners who want deeper academic challenge during the school year.
Grades K-8
8-week fall & spring sessions
Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Students take three one-hour classes each Saturday
Students choose courses each time block
Course offerings vary by semester
Application required
Summer Programming
An immersive two-week summer experience combining accelerated academics, hands-on projects, and enrichment activities.
Grades 2-8
Two-week sessions
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Campers choose two academic areas
45 minutes per day in each academic area
Lunch, recreation, swim, and special activities included
Application required
