List of Tests & Assessments

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Tests & Assessments for Learning Difficulties

Find clear, reliable information about the main assessments for learning difficulties and neurodiversity. This page covers tests for dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia/DCD, ADHD, visual stress, and general cognitive processing. Learn what each test involves, who can diagnose, how assessments work in the UK, and how to choose the right evaluation for yourself, your child, or your students.

Which Test Do I Need?

Understanding whether you, your child, or a student may have a learning difficulty or neurodivergent profile is an essential step in getting the right support.

This page brings together information on all the main tests, screenings and full diagnostic assessments for:

• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Dysgraphia
• Dyspraxia / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
• ADHD
• Visual Stress / Irlen Syndrome
• General neurodiversity assessments
• Cognitive processing profiles

It explains who can diagnose, what each assessment involves, how to choose a qualified specialist, and the difference between screenings and full diagnostic evaluations.

What Are Neurodiversity Tests?

Neurodiversity tests (sometimes called learning difficulty assessments, cognitive assessments, or specific learning difficulty evaluations) are structured, evidence-based evaluations that explore how a person learns, processes information, and manages tasks such as reading, writing, memory, maths, focus, and coordination.

These assessments help identify conditions such as:
Dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, dyspraxia/DCD, autism, and other neurodivergent profiles.

They do not judge intelligence — instead, they highlight strengths and areas where support can make a meaningful difference at school, university, or work.

Who Can Carry Out These Assessments? (UK)

Depending on the condition, different professionals may be involved:

Educational Psychologists (EPs)

Assess:

• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Dysgraphia
• Learning profiles
• Cognitive processing difficulties

EP reports are accepted by schools, universities (DSA), and most workplaces.

Specialist Teachers (Level 7)

Can assess for:

• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia (in some cases)
• Literacy/numeracy difficulties

They cannot diagnose ADHD or dyspraxia/DCD, but their reports often guide further referrals.

Occupational Therapists (OTs)

Assess:

• Dyspraxia / Developmental Coordination Difficulties (DCD)
• Handwriting difficulties
• Fine motor and gross motor skills
• Functional skills

Psychiatrists (Assess: Children, Teens or Adults)

Diagnose:

• ADHD
• Autism
• Co-occurring mental health profiles
• Medical conditions

They can prescribe medication where appropriate.

Paediatricians / CAMHS (Children)

Often diagnose:

• ADHD
• Developmental delays
• Behavioural and neurodevelopmental needs

Optometrists / Visual Stress Specialists

Assess:

• Irlen Syndrome / Visual Stress
• Reading discomfort
• Coloured overlay needs

Types of Tests and What They Involve

1. Dyslexia Tests (Children, Teens & Adults)

A dyslexia test explores:

• Word reading
• Spelling
• Phonological awareness
• Working memory
• Processing speed
• Rapid naming
• Reading fluency and comprehension
• Strengths in reasoning and problem-solving

Typical tools:

• WIAT
• CTOPP
• DASH (for handwriting impact)
• WRIT or WISC

Includes a full diagnostic report that is accepted for exam access arrangements.

👉 Dyslexia page

2. Dyscalculia Tests (Maths / Number Difficulties

Assesses:

• Number sense
• Arithmetic skills
• Pattern recognition
• Mental maths
• Working memory
• Symbol recognition
• Sequencing
• Spatial understanding

Typical tools:

• Dyscalculia screener
• Mathematical reasoning tasks
• Processing speed tests

👉 DyscalculiaPage

3. Dysgraphia Tests (Handwriting & Written Expression Difficulties)

Assesses:

• Handwriting speed
• Pencil grip, posture and motor control
• Spelling and written output
• Visual-motor integration
• Working memory and expressive language
• Fine motor coordination

Typically completed by:

• Educational Psychologist
• Occupational Therapist

👉 Dysgraphia Page

4. Dyspraxia / DCD Assessments

Assesses:

• Motor coordination
• Balance and planning
• Fine motor skills
• Gross motor skills
• Every day, functional activities
• Handwriting and self-care tasks

Typically completed by:

• Occupational Therapist (OT)
• Paediatrician (for children)

👉 Dyspraxia/DCD Page

5. ADHD Assessments (Children & Adults)

A full ADHD assessment includes:

• Clinical interview
• Behavioural questionnaires
• Developmental history
• Executive function screening
• Attention and working memory tasks
• School/workplace evidence
• Differential diagnosis (autism, anxiety, dyslexia etc.)
• Full medical diagnostic report

Only a psychiatrist (or paediatrician for children) can diagnose and prescribe medication.

👉 ADHD Page

6. Visual Stress / Irlen Syndrome Tests

Assesses:

• Reading discomfort
• Light sensitivity
• Visual distortions
• Tracking problems
• Colour preference

Helpful for some people with dyslexia or visual processing difficulties.

👉 Visual Stress Page

7. Online Screenings

Useful for initial indication but not a diagnosis.
Includes:

• Online dyslexia screeners
• Maths difficulty questionnaires
• Attention/focus checklists
• Motor skills checklists

These can help parents and adults decide whether to pursue a complete assessment.

Screening vs Full Diagnostic Assessment

Screening:

• Fast
• Low cost
• Highlights risk factors
• Not a diagnosis
• Not accepted for exam concessions

Full Diagnostic Assessment:

• Provides a formal diagnosis
• Includes standardised testing
• Accepted by schools, universities, and employers
• Gives personalised strategies and recommendations
• Qualifies for support such as DSA

Costs of Tests & Assessments (UK Guide)

Prices vary depending on region and assessor:

• Dyslexia Tests: £450–£900
• Dyscalculia Tests: £450–£900
• Dysgraphia Assessments: £400–£800 (EP) / £300–£600 (OT)
• Dyspraxia/DCD Assessment: £400–£800
• ADHD Assessment:Children: £600–£1,200
  Adults: £500–£1,000
• Visual Stress Screening: £40–£100

NHS assessments are free, but waiting lists can be long.

Choosing the Right Assessment: What to Look For

Make sure your assessor:

• Is fully qualified and registered (GMC, HCPC, SpLD, OTC)
• Uses standardised assessment tools
• Provides a detailed written report
• Is experienced in the specific age group
• Is recognised by schools, universities, and employers

Can advise on next steps (exam concessions, EHCPs, workplace adjustments, DSA)

When Should You Get Tested?

A test may be helpful if you or your child is experiencing:

• Persistent literacy difficulties
• Maths or number problems
• Slow or messy handwriting
• Challenges with organisation or memory
• Coordination issues
• Concentration and attention problems
• Difficulty keeping up at school, university, or work
• Signs of neurodivergence such as ADHD or DCD

Early assessment leads to better support and more positive outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does an assessment take?
   Usually 2–4 hours, depending on the type.
2. Can adults be tested?
   Yes — all assessments are available for adults.
3. Are tests suitable for university support (DSA)?
   Yes, EP and medical reports are accepted.
4. Can I self-refer for private assessments?
   Yes. You do not need a GP referral for dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, or DCD.
5. What if my child already has a diagnosis?
   Assessments can still help update needs and secure better support.

Next Steps: Choose Your Assessment

• Dyslexia Tests
• Dyscalculia Tests
• Dysgraphia Tests
• Dyspraxia / DCD Assessments
• ADHD Assessments
• Visual Stress Testing
• Online Screening Tools