How Much Does a Private Dyslexia Assessment Cost for Children in the UK?

If you’re looking into a private dyslexia assessment for your child, understanding the cost is one of the first questions most parents have. The short answer is that private dyslexia assessments in the UK typically cost between £350 and £900, though the exact fee depends on several factors.

What Affects the Cost of a Dyslexia Assessment?

The price of a private dyslexia assessment can vary significantly depending on:

• The assessor’s qualifications — specialists with a Level 7 SpLD Assessment Practising Certificate (SpLD APC) or additional accreditation such as AMBDA often charge more than those at Level 5
• Your location — assessments in London and the South East tend to be at the higher end of the range
• The scope of the assessment — some assessors screen for additional SpLDs (such as dyspraxia or ADHD) alongside dyslexia, which can affect the fee
• Report complexity — a full JCQ-compliant report suitable for exam access arrangements takes significant time to prepare and is reflected in the cost

Is a Private Assessment Worth the Cost?

Many families find that a formal assessment is one of the most valuable investments they make for their child’s education. A comprehensive report opens the door to targeted school support, exam access arrangements (such as extra time at GCSEs and A-Levels), and evidence for an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. Without a formal assessment, many schools are limited in the specialist support they can put in place.

Do Any Organisations Help With the Cost?

Some local authorities and schools fund assessments in certain circumstances, though this is not guaranteed. A small number of charities offer grants to families who cannot afford the fee. It is always worth asking your child’s SENCO what support may be available before booking privately.

Finding a Qualified Assessor Near You

When choosing an assessor, make sure they hold a current SpLD APC at Level 5 or Level 7, and that they can produce a JCQ-compliant report if your child is approaching public examinations. The SEND List directory of dyslexia assessors lists verified specialists across the UK, with no GP referral needed — you can book directly.