Autism self-screener
The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-10). 10 questions, around 3 minutes. Runs entirely in your browser, nothing you enter is stored or sent anywhere.
Reviewed by ADHD Scot,
This is not a diagnostic tool. A positive result means it may be worth speaking to your GP or a private clinician. It does not mean you are autistic. A negative result does not rule autism out. This screener is for adults aged 16 and over.
About the AQ-10
The Autism Spectrum Quotient 10-item scale (AQ-10) was developed by Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the University of Cambridge Autism Research Centre. It is a brief, validated screening tool widely used in NHS settings, including in Scotland, to help identify adults who may benefit from a full autism assessment.
The AQ-10 asks 10 questions about everyday experiences. Some questions score when you agree; others score when you disagree. A total score of 6 or more is considered a positive screen.
What to do next
If reading this has left you feeling distressed, you don't have to sit with it alone. You can talk to someone free, any time, through Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87) or Samaritans (116 123).
After completing the screener
If your responses suggest autism traits may be present, the next step is to speak to your GP or a private clinician. You can share your AQ-10 score as a starting point, it is not a clinical document, but it can help you make the case for a referral for full assessment.
See our NHS autism pathway page for information on what to expect in Scotland, including what happens at a full assessment and how long you might wait.
Source and copyright
The AQ-10 is copyright © 2012 Allison C, Auyeung B, Baron-Cohen S, University of Cambridge. It is reproduced here for non-commercial public information use in accordance with the Autism Research Centre's published permissions. The full questionnaire and scoring guidance are available from the Autism Research Centre.
Citation: Allison C, Auyeung B, Baron-Cohen S. Toward brief "red flags" for autism spectrum disorders: The Short Autism Spectrum Quotient and the Short Quantitative Checklist in 1,000 cases and 3,000 controls. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 2012;51(2):202–212.