Cultural variables are increasingly being taken into account in new models of ability and creativity. This is due to changes in the definition of terms, socio-cultural changes, and international cooperation. The role of international comparative research is growing. Usually, the divergence is used: individualismcollectivism. With few exceptions, most of the research is conducted in Western institutions. Western countries and highly developed Asian countries are most often compared with each other. The results of the research indicate cultural differences in recognizing and educating gifted and creative students. The article comprises an outline of the main areas of cross-cultural research on abilities and creativity. The conclusions indicate a discrepancy between the development of theoretical knowledge and school practice, where there are cultural barriers to the education of the gifted. The main problem here is the underrepresentation of students from minority groups in educational programs for the gifted. Teacher’s work with gifted students in multicultural conditions is a special challenge. It requires socially equitable and differentiated strategies for diagnosing giftedness. Gifted students from culturally diverse groups have specific educational problems and needs. They are doubly exceptional students.