AQ-10
Autism Screener
Updated: 1/7/2026
1. What the AQ-10 is (and what it isn’t)
The AQ-10 (Autism Spectrum Quotient – 10 items) is a brief, evidence-informed screening questionnaire designed to flag whether someone may have a meaningful number of autistic traits and could benefit from a full autism assessment. It was developed as a short, high impact, version of the longer Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ).
It’s not a diagnosis. The AQ-10 can’t confirm autism on its own, and it won’t capture the full context of your life, strengths, stressors, coping strategies, or support needs. It’s a starting point - useful for direction, not a final answer.
2. Who is the AQ-10 for?
The AQ-10 is used for adults with possible autism and without a moderate or severe learning disability. It is typically used in primary care settings as part of the decision process for whether or not a comprehensive autism assessment should be recommended.
It can be helpful if you’re:
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exploring whether you might be autistic (especially if you’re late-identified or have been “pushing through” for years)
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noticing longstanding differences in social communication, sensory experience, routines, flexibility, or special interests
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trying to make sense of patterns like burnout, shutdown, overwhelm, or chronic “social exhaustion”
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A note for high-masking folks: Some people score lower than expected because they’ve learned to camouflage or compensate. If your lived experience says “this still fits", that is more important than the screener results.
3. What to expect when taking the AQ-10
Most people finish the AQ-10 in 3–5 minutes. It’s meant to be a quick check-in, not a deep dive.
You’ll respond to 10 statements using:
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Definitely agree
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Slightly agree
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Slightly disagree
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Definitely disagree
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Try to answer based on what’s typical for you over time, not just a great week (or a rough one).
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Focus on your usual pattern, not isolated moments.
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Don’t grade yourself on performance. If you can do something socially but it costs a lot of energy, that still matters.
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If you’re torn, pick the option that fits more often.
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A note for high-masking folks: If you’ve learned to script, mirror, or “figure people out,” some items may feel hard to answer. Brief screeners can undercount traits when masking is strong - so consider both what you do and what it takes.​
4. Understanding your score
The AQ-10 is scored 0–10. Each item can earn 1 point if your response matches the “autistic-trait” direction for that item.
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A score of 6 or above indicates that a comprehensive assessment may be necessary, but the score is just a number. An assessment could also be helpful if your score was less than 6 - particularly if the items you selected have a high impact in your daily life.
5. Next steps
If your score is 0–5 (or your score is low but your gut says “this still fits”)
Consider:
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writing down the patterns you notice (social energy, sensory needs, rigidity vs flexibility, shutdown/meltdown patterns, burnout cycles)
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reflecting on childhood history (even small clues: friendships, routines, play style, sensory sensitivities)
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exploring supports that reduce the load - because you don’t have to “prove autism” to deserve accommodations
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If your score is 6–10
This score range is often used as a “strong enough signal” to pursue a comprehensive autism assessment, especially if these traits have been present across time and settings.
Next steps might include:
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seeking an autism evaluation with a clinician experienced in adult and high-masking presentations
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bringing notes (examples of traits, sensory profile, burnout history, co-occurring anxiety/OCD/ADHD patterns)
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thinking about what you want from assessment: clarity, self-understanding, accommodations, documentation, treatment planning, or all of the above
6. Additional Resources
If you are interested in further support, learn more about the expertise available here at ScienceWorks!
Our unique care model spans three essential domains to function as a “one-stop-shop” for mental health.
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Assessments: Understand yourself and your treatment better with assessments for ADHD, autism, and general diagnostics. Our custom packages are efficient and affordable.
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Therapy: Dynamic, evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions – get an individualized treatment plan with targeted therapies adapted for your brain and your objectives to support the whole person.
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Coaching: Understand your neurotype and enhance treatment outcomes by turning therapeutic concepts into everyday skills to maximize their benefits.
Note: Screeners cannot be used to diagnose or treat any mental health condition - nor can they be used to replace dedicated care from a qualified professional. They can be a helpful tool when searching for, or working with, a professional. If you have questions about applicability, please contact us!