What is the AQ-10?
The AQ-10 is a short screening questionnaire for autism in adults. It comes from the 50-item Autism Spectrum Quotient.
It was developed at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. NICE CG142 recommends it for adults with possible autism who do not have a moderate or severe learning disability.
How the AQ-10 is scored
- There are 10 statements with four answers each.
- Each item scores 1 point or 0. “Slightly” and “definitely” count the same.
- Items 1, 7, 8 and 10 score 1 for agreeing.
- Items 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9 score 1 for disagreeing.
- This tool scores it for you and hides the points to avoid bias.
AQ-10 score interpretation
| Score | Meaning |
|---|
| 6 or more | Meets the NICE threshold. Consider referral for a specialist autism assessment. |
| 0–5 | Below threshold. This does not rule out autism if concern remains. |
Important limits
- The AQ-10 is a screen, not a diagnosis.
- It can miss autism, especially in women and in people who mask.
- Anxiety, depression and ADHD can raise or lower scores.
- There are separate versions for children and adolescents.
- If you are completing it for yourself, take the result to your GP.
Frequently asked questions
What AQ-10 score needs referral?
A score of 6 or more out of 10 meets the NICE CG142 threshold for a specialist autism assessment.
Can the AQ-10 diagnose autism?
No. It is a screening tool. Diagnosis needs a full specialist assessment.
Who is the adult AQ-10 for?
People aged 16 and over without a moderate or severe learning disability.
Does a low AQ-10 score rule out autism?
No. If clinical concern remains, consider referral anyway. Masking can lower scores.
How long does the AQ-10 take?
Most people finish it in two to three minutes.
References
- Allison C, Auyeung B, Baron-Cohen S. Toward brief “red flags” for autism screening: the Short Autism Spectrum Quotient and the Short Quantitative Checklist in 1,000 cases and 3,000 controls. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2012;51(2):202–12.
- NICE. Autism spectrum disorder in adults: diagnosis and management. Clinical guideline CG142, 2012 (updated 2021). nice.org.uk/guidance/cg142
- Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. AQ-10 tests. autismresearchcentre.com
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