FAQ for Individual Testing

The fee for most individual assessments (such as the WISC-V) is $425. This includes the intake call, the testing session, the clinical review, the feedback session, and the final report.

Yes. Students with documented eligibility for the Free/Reduced Price Lunch program or Medicaid may be eligible for a fee reduction or waiver. Please mention this when calling to schedule.

We accept credit card payments through a secure GMU online portal. You will receive specific payment instructions in your confirmation email. We can also accept checks (payable to George Mason University) or money orders if preferred.

Because our examiners are independent contractors who reserve specific blocks of time for your child, we request as much notice as possible for cancellations. A $50 cancellation fee may apply if you cancel after your virtual intake appointment or within 24 hours of the scheduled testing session. However, if your child is unexpectedly ill, we will work with you to reschedule.

Evaluations are primarily conducted by advanced Graduate Students in GMU’s School Psychology program. All examiners have received formal training in psychological assessment and every case is supervised by a Licensed Psychologist.

A child may not take the same specific test (e.g., the WISC-V) more than once per year. However, if additional testing is needed for a different purpose, a different instrument may potentially be used within that same year.

This is a virtual meeting where your examiner explains your child’s scores and what they mean in a real-world context. This session is the best time to ask specific questions about your child's performance.

You will receive a secure electronic copy of the report shortly after your feedback session, typically within 30 days of the testing date. We strive to meet school application deadlines when they are communicated to us in advance.

No. A single cognitive test like the WISC-V is one piece of the puzzle, but it is not sufficient on its own for a diagnosis. While we do not conduct comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, we can provide referrals to our sister office, the GMU Comprehensive Assessment Services, if you suspect a learning or developmental disorder.

Variability is actually very common, especially in children with advanced cognitive abilities. Research shows that roughly 75% of gifted students have "nontypical" profiles with significant gaps between different skill areas. If your child’s scores are within or above normal expectations and there are no classroom concerns, these discrepancies are usually not a cause for worry.

Standardized tests are a "snapshot" of one day. Factors like fatigue, anxiety, or a lack of interest in specific test items can impact performance. Furthermore, tests don't measure vital traits like motivation, grit, or creativity. We support a holistic approach—no single score can provide a complete picture of a child’s full potential.

No. We have no influence over eligibility or placement decisions. Our role is to provide the assessment data; the FCPS selection committee makes all final decisions based on a holistic review of the student.

No. Parents are responsible for delivering the test scores to FCPS (or any other school district) as part of their completed application file.

No. While FCPS recommends our program as a high-quality provider if you are seeking additional testing, you are free to choose other qualified private providers or choose not to seek outside testing at all.