Cognitive testing, often called IQ testing, measures reasoning skills in verbal and nonverbal areas. It is commonly requested for admission to private and independent schools, for entry into Gifted and Talented (GT) programs in local public schools, and for placement. Adults who need a cognitive evaluation for academic or professional reasons can be tested as well.
Testing is available from age 2 through adulthood in Chappaqua and Hartsdale. This is one of the types of evaluation described on our testing and evaluations page.
What Cognitive Testing Measures
Cognitive tests describe a person's current reasoning abilities, such as verbal understanding, visual-spatial reasoning, fluid reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. The results are often used alongside grades and other information in admissions and placement decisions.
Schools set their own testing requirements, so it helps to check with each school before scheduling an appointment.
Tests We Use by Age
These are the tests most commonly used at each age, with approximate administration times.
| Age Range | Test Typically Used | Time to Administer |
| 2 to 5 years | Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Fourth Edition (WPPSI-IV) | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| 6 to 15 years | Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC-V) | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| 16 years to adult | Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) | 1.5 to 2 hours |
What to Expect on Testing Day
One-on-One Testing
A psychologist works with the child individually, which helps create a comfortable setting.
Varied Activities
Depending on age, children complete puzzles, blocks, verbal questions, and storytelling tasks. The aim is for the experience to be engaging.
No Studying Needed
These tests are not designed to be prepared for. A rested child who has eaten can usually show what they can do.
Who Cognitive Testing Is For
- Parents preparing a child for private school or gifted program applications
- Adults who need a cognitive evaluation for academic or professional reasons
When It Helps
- Before applying to a specialized educational program
- When eligibility for gifted and talented programs is a question
- When cognitive strengths need to be formally documented
The results describe strengths and areas for growth, and they can help educators tailor learning to individual needs.
Care That Connects Across Specialties
Testing is often one part of a broader plan. Our clinicians work across specialties, and with your consent your evaluator can coordinate with colleagues across the practice.
- Psychoeducational and Neuropsychological Testing: Evaluation of learning, attention, and memory.
- Autism Spectrum Testing: Evaluation for autism in children, teens, and adults.
- Child & Adolescent Therapy: Individual therapy for children and teens.
- ADHD & Neuro-Affirming Care: Support for attention and sensory differences.
- Adult Therapy: Individual therapy for adults.
