AQ-10 Autism Screening
A quick, validated screening tool that asks about your typical experiences and behaviours. Scores of 6+ suggest autistic traits worth exploring further.
Created by Simon Baron-Cohen at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. Published 2012.
Part of the UK adult autism assessment pathway. Recommended as a first-step screening tool for GPs.
Used by clinicians worldwide as an initial screening tool. Around 88% sensitivity for detecting autistic traits.
What is the AQ-10?
The AQ-10 (Autism Spectrum Quotient-10) is a shortened version of the 50-question AQ screening tool developed by Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. It was designed to provide a quick initial screening for autistic traits in adults.
Published in 2012, the AQ-10 is widely used by GPs and clinicians as a first-step screening tool. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK recommends it as part of the autism assessment pathway for adults.
The test asks about everyday experiences related to social situations, attention patterns, and communication preferences. It takes approximately 2 minutes to complete.
How is the AQ-10 scored?
Each question is scored 0 or 1, giving a total score between 0 and 10. A score of 6 or above is considered the clinical threshold that suggests autistic traits worth exploring further with a specialist.
It's important to understand that the AQ-10 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high score doesn't mean you're autistic, and a low score doesn't rule it out. Many autistic people—particularly women, non-binary individuals, and those who mask—score below the threshold.