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Utah School Entrance Exam Prep Guides

We publish 2 in-depth prep guides covering 2 selective enrollment and competitive admission schools in Utah, including Magnet Gifted & Talented Program – Clayton Middle School and Magnet Gifted & Talented Program – Hillside Middle School — covering essays, exam strategy, and application timelines.

Clayton Middle School Magnet Test Prep: The Complete SLCSD Gifted Admissions Guide for 2027 Entry
Magnet Gifted & Talented Program – Clayton Middle School
October 13, 2026 10 min read

Clayton Middle School Magnet Test Prep: The Complete SLCSD Gifted Admissions Guide for 2027 Entry

Getting into Clayton Middle School's Magnet Gifted & Talented program means passing the CogAT, meeting a tight September–December application deadline, and completing an essay component most families never see coming. This guide walks through every step of the SLCSD Magnet admissions process — from first application to test day — with specific prep strategies for 6th and 7th graders aiming for 2027 entry.

Hillside Middle School Magnet Test Prep: CogAT Guide for Salt Lake City Families (2027 Testing)
Magnet Gifted & Talented Program – Hillside Middle School
October 13, 2026 9 min read

Hillside Middle School Magnet Test Prep: CogAT Guide for Salt Lake City Families (2027 Testing)

Your Salt Lake City 6th or 7th grader gets one shot at the January CogAT to earn a seat in Hillside Middle School's Magnet Gifted & Talented Program. This guide covers the SLCSD opt-in application timeline, CogAT stanine scoring, and exactly how STEM critical thinking practice builds the reasoning skills that win Magnet eligibility.