At-Home vs. In-Clinic Baseline Testing: A $15 vs. $75 Decision That Matters

One of the first questions parents ask about baseline testing is “How much does it cost?” The answer ranges dramatically — from free to nearly $100 — and the price difference reflects real trade-offs you should understand.

The $15 option: at-home computerized testing

The most affordable option is an at-home computerized test like ImPACT Baseline, available at BaselineTesting.com for approximately $15–$20. Your child takes the test on a home computer (not a tablet or phone) in about 20–25 minutes. It’s convenient, accessible, and better than nothing.

The catch: there’s no professional supervision, no control over the testing environment, and no multi-domain assessment. If your child takes the test while their sibling watches TV in the next room, the results may not reflect their best cognitive performance. A 2013 study in the Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology found that unsupervised testing environments introduce meaningful variability into baseline scores.

The $25–$75 option: in-clinic multi-domain testing

In-clinic baseline testing typically runs $25–$75 and includes administration by a trained healthcare professional in a controlled environment. Many clinics add balance testing (BESS or force plate), vestibular-ocular screening (VOMS), and a symptom inventory on top of the cognitive test — giving you a comprehensive, multi-domain baseline rather than a cognition-only snapshot.

According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) position statement on concussion management, a multimodal baseline that evaluates symptoms, cognition, motor control, and ocular motor function is the recommended standard.

Free and subsidized options

There are also free options. Community baseline testing events run by hospital systems (like UPMC’s HeadsUP Pittsburgh program, partnered with the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation) and concussion clinics offer free or discounted testing, often during pre-season periods. Some school districts provide baseline testing through their athletic training staff at no cost to families.

Insurance generally does not cover baseline testing because it’s considered preventive rather than diagnostic. However, some programs offer group rates for teams ($8–$12 per athlete when testing 20+), making it more affordable at scale.

Our honest take

The $15 at-home cognitive test is a reasonable starting point for families with limited resources. But if your child plays a contact or collision sport, or has any complicating factors (ADHD, prior concussions, migraines), the additional investment in a supervised, multi-domain baseline is well worth it. The difference isn’t just environment — it’s the difference between testing one domain and testing four.

At Headquarters, we offer both individual and group baseline testing at competitive prices. Contact us to learn about team rates and community events in your area, or read our comparison of HQ Baseline vs. ImPACT vs. Sway.

Frequently asked questions