In this blog post, we share a list of websites where you can take assessments and tests related to autism, Asperger’s syndrome, sensory processing disorder, apraxia, and speech.
Official Autism Diagnostic Tests: What You Need to Know
When it comes to diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there is no single “official” test. Instead, professionals use a combination of standardized tools, clinical observations, and interviews to assess behavior, communication, and social skills. These evaluations are conducted by qualified professionals, such as psychologists, developmental pediatricians, or psychiatrists. Here’s an overview of some of the most widely recognized official diagnostic tools for autism:
1. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
- What It Is: A semi-structured assessment that involves direct interaction between the clinician and the individual. It includes play-based activities for children and structured tasks for adults.
- Who It’s For: Individuals of all ages, from toddlers to adults.
- Purpose: To observe and evaluate social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors associated with autism.
- Why It’s Important: The ADOS-2 is considered the “gold standard” for autism diagnosis and is widely used in clinical and research settings.
2. Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
- What It Is: A structured interview conducted with a parent or caregiver. It focuses on the individual’s developmental history and current behavior.
- Who It’s For: Primarily used for children but can be adapted for adults.
- Purpose: To gather detailed information about early development, language, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors.
- Why It’s Important: The ADI-R provides a comprehensive history that complements observational tools like the ADOS-2.
3. Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS-2)
- What It Is: A behavior rating scale used to assess the severity of autism symptoms. It includes direct observation and caregiver input.
- Who It’s For: Children and adolescents.
- Purpose: To evaluate behaviors such as social skills, communication, and sensory sensitivities.
- Why It’s Important: CARS-2 is a reliable tool for distinguishing autism from other developmental disorders.
4. Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS-3)
- What It Is: A norm-referenced tool that assesses autism symptoms based on caregiver and teacher reports.
- Who It’s For: Children and adolescents aged 3–22.
- Purpose: To identify the likelihood of autism and measure symptom severity.
- Why It’s Important: GARS-3 is widely used in schools and clinical settings to support diagnosis and intervention planning.
5. M-CHAT-R (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised)
- What It Is: A brief parent-reported screening tool for toddlers aged 16–30 months.
- Who It’s For: Young children.
- Purpose: To identify early signs of autism and determine if further evaluation is needed.
- Why It’s Important: The M-CHAT-R is a quick and effective way to screen for autism in young children, enabling early intervention.
6. Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ)
- What It Is: A parent-reported questionnaire that assesses communication skills and social functioning.
- Who It’s For: Children aged 4 and older.
- Purpose: To screen for autism and determine if a full diagnostic evaluation is warranted.
- Why It’s Important: The SCQ is a cost-effective and efficient tool for identifying autism traits.
7. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
- What It Is: The DSM-5 provides the official diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder.
- Who It’s For: Clinicians and diagnosticians.
- Purpose: To guide professionals in diagnosing autism based on specific behavioral criteria.
- Why It’s Important: The DSM-5 is the foundation for all autism diagnoses and ensures consistency across evaluations.
Keep in mind:
- No Single Test: Autism diagnosis relies on a combination of tools, observations, and interviews.
- Professional Evaluation: Only qualified professionals can diagnose autism using these standardized tools.
- Early Intervention: Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with autism.
If you suspect autism in yourself or a loved one, seek an evaluation from a licensed professional who can use these tools to provide an accurate diagnosis and tailored support.
57 Tests for Autism & Related Conditions
The assessments and resources listed above are intended for informational purposes only. They are not substitutes for a formal diagnosis or professional evaluation. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have autism, Asperger’s syndrome, sensory processing disorder, apraxia, or speech and language challenges, please consult a qualified healthcare provider, psychologist, or speech-language pathologist for a comprehensive assessment and personalized guidance.
Autism and Asperger’s Assessments
- Autism Speaks – Screening Tools
- Psychology Tools – Autism Spectrum Quotient
- Embrace Autism – AQ Test
- Clinical Partners – Adult Autism Test
- NovoPsych – Autism Spectrum Quotient
- Autism Research Centre – AQ Test
- Asperger’s Test – The Aspie Quiz
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment – CDC
- Autism Self-Assessment – Autism Society
- The M-CHAT – Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers
- Verywell Health – Online Autism Tests
- Autism.org – Screening & Assessment at Autism.org
- National Autism Center – Assessment Resources at National Autism Center
- Autism Parenting Magazine – at Autism Parenting Magazine
- The National Autistic Society – Autism Assessment: National Autistic Society
Sensory Processing Disorder Assessments
- Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation – SPD Checklist
- Sensory Processing Measure
- Sensory Profile – Pearson
- SPM Home – Sensory Processing Measure
- Sensory Processing Disorder Checklist – SPD Network
Apraxia Assessments
- Apraxia Kids – Comprehensive Resources
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech Assessment – ASHA
- CAS-2 – Comprehensive Assessment of Spoken Language
- Speech and Language Kids – Apraxia Resources
Speech Assessments
- Speech Language Therapy – Cheerful Chatter
- Dr. Sensory – Speech Therapy Database
- ASHA – Speech and Language Assessment
- Speech Therapy Assessment Tools – Therapy Aid Coalition
- Online Speech Therapy – Speech Therapy Store
- Speech Pathology Australia – Assessment Resources
- Speech Therapy Assessment Tools by Therapy Aid Coalition
General Autism and Related Disorders Resources
- Verywell Health – Online Autism Tests
- Autism.org – Screening & Assessment
- Kidsource Therapy – Parental Resources
- SPINSC – Special Parents Information Network
- As You Are – Virtual Autism Diagnostic Evaluations
- Autism Navigator
- Autism Research Institute – Online Assessment
- National Autism Center – Assessment Resources
- Child Mind Institute – Autism Assessment
- Autism Parenting Magazine – Resources
- The National Autistic Society – Autism Assessment
- Autism Spectrum Australia – Assessment Tools
- The Developmental Disabilities Administration – Resources
- The Autism Society of America – Resources
- Autism Support Network – Assessment Tools
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment – NIMH
- Child Development Institute – Autism Assessments
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Criteria – DSM-5
- Understanding Autism – American Academy of Pediatrics
Additional Resources
- Mind Diagnostics – Autism Test
- Psychology Today – Autism Test
- Healthline – Autism Spectrum Disorder Test
- Your Therapy Source – Sensory Processing Disorder Checklist
- TherapyAid – Sensory Processing Disorder Assessment
- The Speech Pathology Group – Speech Assessments
- Therapists for Kids – Speech and Language Assessment
- Speech and Language Kids – Apraxia Assessment
- The Communication Trust – Speech Assessment Tools
- Hanen Centre – Speech and Language Resources
- Pediatric Speech Therapy – Online Resources
- The Speech Pathology Association – Resources
- Online Therapy – BetterHelp
These links provide a wide range of assessments and resources related to autism, Asperger’s syndrome, sensory processing disorder, apraxia, and speech.