Assessment Navigator
Find the right assessment for your learner
Answer 15 questions about your learner and get a personalized recommendation from VB-MAPP, ABLLS-R, EFL, AFLS, or PEAK.
Takes about 2-3 minutes
This tool provides guidance based on general principles. It does not replace clinical judgment or comprehensive assessment. Consult with qualified professionals for individual recommendations.
How the Assessment Navigator Works
Our free tool asks 15 targeted questions about your learner, then uses a weighted scoring algorithm to recommend the best-fit ABA assessment. Here's what we evaluate:
Learner Profile
Age, treatment history, skill acquisition rate, and how well skills generalize to new settings and people.
Communication
Current communication method, effectiveness, vocal and motor imitation skills, and number of independent requests (mands).
Behavior & Safety
Safety risks, challenging behaviors, learning disruption levels, community safety concerns, and primary treatment goals.
Assessments We Compare
The navigator evaluates five leading ABA assessments, each designed for different learner profiles and needs.
VB-MAPP
Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program
Developmental milestone assessment for early verbal behavior skills, ideal for learners from birth through 48 months. Tracks manding, tacting, intraverbals, listener responding, and social skills based on Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior.
Essential for Living (EFL)
Functional life skills assessment and curriculum
Designed for learners with moderate-to-severe disabilities who need functional life skills. Focuses on the Essential Eight skills, tolerating repertoires, safety, communication methods, and daily living — especially for older learners and those with significant behavioral challenges.
ABLLS-R
Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills — Revised
Comprehensive task analysis tool covering 544 skills across 25 domains including language, academic skills, self-help, motor skills, and social interaction. Provides detailed skill breakdowns for learners who need thorough tracking.
AFLS
Assessment of Functional Living Skills
Focused on functional living skills across six life domains for transition-age learners. Ideal for adolescents and young adults preparing for greater independence, vocational settings, and community participation.
PEAK
Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge
Advanced language and cognition assessment based on Relational Frame Theory. Best suited for learners with strong foundational skills who are ready for complex verbal reasoning, abstract thinking, and higher-order problem solving.
Who Should Use This Tool?
BCBAs & Behavior Analysts
Selecting an initial assessment for a new client or considering a change in approach for an existing learner.
RBTs & Therapists
Understanding which assessment tools are used and why, to better support your learner's programming.
Parents & Caregivers
Exploring which assessment might be right for your child and having informed conversations with your BCBA.
Special Education Professionals
Identifying the right ABA assessment tools for IEP development and transition planning.
Want a detailed side-by-side comparison of VB-MAPP and ABLLS-R?
View Full VB-MAPP vs ABLLS-R ComparisonA free tool by Data Makes the Difference