The deadline to apply for upper grade Gifted and Talented programshas been extended from August 27 to September 17, according to an update on the Department of Education's website.

Acceptance into 4th and 5th grade programs is based on standardized test scores -- to be eligible, students must score at a Level 4 (highest level) on both the reading and math tests. The  2010 test results only became availableonline on August 15, leaving a very short window of time in the midst of summer vacation for parents to access the scores and submit an application by August 27.

Now they will have a few more weeks to apply, but they may not find out until September 30, well after classes start, whether their children have gained a slot.

"Seats are very limited," according to the DOE's notice.  We've asked how many openings there are, and where they are located,  and will post the information if we get it.

Check the DOE's website for links to the applications and the particulars on how to apply.