WAIS IQ Test 2026: Complete Guide to the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale
The WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale), officially known as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, is the most widely used cognitive assessment tool for evaluating intellectual functioning in adolescents and adults. Whether you're seeking an adult intelligence test for educational planning, clinical diagnosis, or occupational assessment, understanding how the WAIS assessment works is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything about WAIS testing, including WAIS scoring interpretation, the differences between WAIS-IV vs WAIS-V, and why professional psychological testing with the WAIS remains the gold standard for measuring cognitive abilities. Learn how this intelligence scale provides detailed insights into verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed to create a complete picture of intellectual strengths and weaknesses.
🧠 Free WAIS Practice Test Online
Test your knowledge with our comprehensive WAIS practice tests. Each quiz covers different aspects of the intelligence scale assessment.
🎯 Key Takeaways
- The WAIS is the most widely used adult intelligence test, designed for ages 16-90
- It measures four cognitive indices: Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, and Processing Speed
- Average IQ score is 100 with a standard deviation of 15 (scores range from 40-160)
- Used for clinical diagnosis, educational planning, occupational assessment, and research purposes
- Only licensed psychologists can administer and interpret the WAIS test
| What is WAIS test? | WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) is the most widely used standardized IQ test for adults aged 16-90, measuring cognitive abilities and intellectual functioning. |
| What are WAIS test components? | WAIS comprises four index scores (Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, Processing Speed) and 10 core subtests measuring different cognitive abilities comprehensively. |
| Who should take WAIS test? | Adults seeking intellectual disability diagnosis, gifted identification, neurological assessment, educational accommodations, disability benefits determination, or comprehensive cognitive evaluation should take WAIS. |
| What does WAIS measure? | WAIS measures verbal reasoning, visual-spatial processing, working memory capacity, processing speed, abstract thinking, and problem-solving abilities to determine overall intellectual functioning. |
| What is on WAIS test? | The WAIS test includes 10 core and 5 supplemental subtests covering similarities, vocabulary, block design, matrix reasoning, digit span, and symbol coding tasks. |
| How long is WAIS test? | The WAIS test typically takes 60-90 minutes to complete, administered individually by a licensed psychologist in a controlled, distraction-free testing environment. |
| What are WAIS subtests? | WAIS subtests include verbal (similarities, vocabulary, information), perceptual (block design, matrix reasoning), memory (digit span, arithmetic), and processing speed (symbol search, coding) tasks. |
| What is WAIS scoring? | WAIS scoring yields scaled scores (1-19) for each subtest, index scores (45-155) for four domains, and Full-Scale IQ (40-160) with standard deviation 15. |
| What is WAIS-IV? | WAIS-IV is the fourth edition released in 2008, featuring updated norms, improved scoring methods, and 15 subtests measuring four cognitive index areas. |
| What is WAIS 4 test? | WAIS 4 (WAIS-IV) is the current standard edition assessing verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed in adults aged 16-90. |
| What is WAIS-III? | WAIS-III is the third edition from 1997, now superseded by WAIS-IV, featuring 14 subtests and slightly different scoring methodology than current versions. |
| What is WAIS block design test? | WAIS block design requires arranging red-and-white blocks to match geometric patterns within time limits, measuring visual-spatial processing and problem-solving under pressure. |
| Where to take WAIS test? | Take the WAIS test at licensed psychologists' offices, university psychology clinics, hospitals, or neuropsychological testing centers offering comprehensive cognitive assessments professionally. |
| What is WAIS test online? | WAIS test online versions are unofficial practice tests; legitimate WAIS testing requires in-person administration by qualified psychologists to ensure standardized, valid results. |
| What are free WAIS tests? | Free WAIS tests are unofficial practice versions or sample questions; official WAIS testing requires professional administration and cannot be legitimately taken for free online. |
| What is WAIS IQ test online? | WAIS IQ test online versions provide estimates only; official testing requires face-to-face administration by licensed professionals to ensure accurate, standardized IQ measurement and interpretation. |
| Who can administer WAIS? | Only licensed psychologists, neuropsychologists, or qualified professionals with specialized training in standardized intelligence testing can legally and ethically administer the WAIS assessment. |
| How much does WAIS cost? | WAIS testing costs $200-$800 depending on location, professional credentials, whether comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation is included, and insurance coverage availability for diagnostic purposes. |
| What is WAIS testing? | WAIS testing is the standardized administration, scoring, and interpretation process conducted by psychologists to assess adult cognitive abilities and identify intellectual strengths and weaknesses. |
| What are WAIS test examples? | WAIS test examples include defining vocabulary words, solving arithmetic problems mentally, arranging picture sequences logically, copying symbol patterns quickly, and identifying pattern relationships. |
What is the WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale)?
The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) is a comprehensive clinical instrument designed to assess the cognitive ability and intellectual functioning of adults and older adolescents. Developed by psychologist David Wechsler in 1955, the WAIS test has undergone multiple revisions, with the most recent version being the WAIS-IV (fourth edition), published in 2008. As of 2026, the WAIS-IV remains the standard, though development of WAIS-V has been ongoing.
Unlike simpler online IQ tests, the WAIS is an individually administered clinical assessment that takes 60-90 minutes to complete. It consists of 10 core subtests and 5 supplemental subtests that evaluate different aspects of cognitive functioning. The WAIS intelligence scale provides not just a single Full Scale IQ score, but also composite scores across four major cognitive domains:
- Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) - Measures verbal reasoning and comprehension
- Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI) - Assesses nonverbal and fluid reasoning
- Working Memory Index (WMI) - Evaluates attention, concentration, and working memory
- Processing Speed Index (PSI) - Tests the ability to quickly and correctly scan and process information
💡 Professional Administration Required
The WAIS test must be administered and interpreted by a licensed psychologist or qualified mental health professional. This ensures proper standardization, accurate scoring, and appropriate interpretation of results within the individual's clinical and personal context.
WAIS Subtests: What Each Test Measures
The WAIS-IV consists of 15 subtests total: 10 core subtests and 5 supplemental subtests. Each subtest is designed to measure specific cognitive abilities that contribute to overall intellectual functioning. Understanding these WAIS subtests is essential for interpreting your results and identifying cognitive strengths and weaknesses.
Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI)
25% of FSIQMeasures verbal reasoning, vocabulary knowledge, and ability to express ideas. Tests crystallized intelligence and language comprehension skills.
- Skills Tested: Abstract verbal reasoning, word knowledge, general knowledge
- Question Types: Word definitions, concept relationships, factual recall
- Time: Untimed (self-paced)
Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI)
25% of FSIQAssesses visual-spatial processing, nonverbal reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Measures fluid intelligence and pattern recognition.
- Skills Tested: Spatial visualization, pattern analysis, logical reasoning
- Question Types: Block arrangements, matrix patterns, visual puzzles
- Time: Timed subtests with bonus points for speed
Working Memory Index (WMI)
25% of FSIQEvaluates short-term memory, attention span, and mental manipulation of information. Critical for learning and cognitive processing.
- Skills Tested: Auditory memory, mental arithmetic, sequential processing
- Question Types: Number recall (forward/backward), math problems, sequencing
- Time: Timed arithmetic; untimed memory tasks
Processing Speed Index (PSI)
25% of FSIQMeasures cognitive processing speed, visual scanning ability, and psychomotor speed. Reflects efficiency of cognitive operations.
- Skills Tested: Visual scanning, motor coordination, processing efficiency
- Question Types: Symbol matching, number-symbol coding, visual search
- Time: Strictly timed (120 seconds per subtest)
*Supplemental subtests may be administered to provide additional clinical information or substitute for core subtests when needed. The 10 core WAIS subtests are used to calculate your Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) score.
⚠️ Important Note About Test Administration
The WAIS test is a copyrighted assessment tool that requires specific training and certification to administer. Online "WAIS tests" are typically practice versions or informal assessments and cannot provide official diagnostic results or IQ scores.
How WAIS Scores Work: Understanding Your IQ Score
The WAIS scoring system is designed to provide a comprehensive picture of cognitive abilities. Scores are standardized with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, meaning that approximately 68% of the population scores between 85 and 115 (within one standard deviation of the mean).
📈 Types of WAIS Scores
- Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) - Overall measure of general cognitive ability combining all four indices
- Index Scores - Composite scores for each of the four cognitive domains (VCI, PRI, WMI, PSI)
- Subtest Scaled Scores - Individual scores for each of the 15 subtests (mean = 10, SD = 3)
- Process Scores - Additional scores that provide insight into how the examinee approaches tasks
🎯 IQ Score Interpretation
WAIS IQ scores are classified into the following descriptive categories:
- 130 and above: Very Superior (top 2.2% of population)
- 120-129: Superior (top 6.7%)
- 110-119: High Average (top 16.1%)
- 90-109: Average (50% of population)
- 80-89: Low Average (16.1%)
- 70-79: Borderline (6.7%)
- 69 and below: Extremely Low (2.2%)
🧠 WAIS IQ Score Calculator
WAIS IQ Classification Scale
WAIS vs WISC: Choosing the Right Intelligence Test
The WAIS and WISC (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) are both developed by the Wechsler family of intelligence tests, but they're designed for different age groups. Understanding the differences between WAIS and WISC is crucial for selecting the appropriate assessment tool.
🔍 Key Differences
| Feature | WAIS | WISC |
|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 16-90 years | 6-16 years |
| Current Version | WAIS-IV (2008) | WISC-V (2014) |
| Number of Subtests | 15 (10 core, 5 supplemental) | 16 (10 core, 6 supplemental) |
| Testing Time | 60-90 minutes | 45-65 minutes |
| Primary Use | Adult cognitive assessment | Child cognitive assessment |
✅ When to Use Each Test
Use WAIS for: Adults and older adolescents (16+) in clinical, educational, or occupational settings
Use WISC for: Children and younger adolescents (6-16) for educational planning, learning disability identification, or giftedness assessment
Who Takes the WAIS? Age Range and Testing Requirements
The WAIS test is designed for individuals aged 16 to 90 years. This broad WAIS age range makes it the primary intelligence assessment tool for adults across the lifespan. Several groups commonly undergo WAIS testing:
👥 Common Testing Populations
- Clinical Patients: Individuals seeking diagnosis for cognitive impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury, or developmental disorders
- Educational Settings: College students and adult learners being evaluated for learning disabilities or academic accommodations
- Occupational Screening: Job candidates for positions requiring high cognitive ability or specialized training
- Forensic Evaluations: Legal cases involving competency, disability claims, or criminal responsibility
- Research Participants: Studies investigating intelligence, cognitive aging, or the effectiveness of interventions
- Military and Law Enforcement: Selection and placement decisions for specialized roles
- Gifted Programs: Older adolescents being assessed for advanced educational opportunities
📋 Requirements for WAIS Testing
- Must be between 16-90 years of age
- Referral from a qualified professional (physician, educator, or psychologist)
- Administered by a licensed psychologist or trained clinician
- Takes 60-90 minutes in a quiet, distraction-free environment
- No special preparation required, but should be well-rested and alert
💰 WAIS Scores and Salary: Understanding the Correlation
While the WAIS intelligence test doesn't directly determine your salary, research shows a significant correlation between cognitive ability scores and earning potential. Understanding this relationship can help you leverage your WAIS test results for career planning and professional development. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale provides valuable insights into cognitive strengths that align with various career paths.
How WAIS Scores Correlate with Income
Studies consistently demonstrate that higher WAIS IQ scores correlate with increased earning potential across various professions. The WAIS-IV assessment measures four key cognitive domains that employers value: verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. However, it's important to note that IQ testing results are just one factor among many that influence career success and salary levels.
💡 Key Salary Correlation Insights
Research indicates that each 15-point increase in IQ (one standard deviation on the WAIS scale) correlates with approximately 15-25% higher lifetime earnings. Whether you take the WAIS 4 or newer versions, the Full Scale IQ score provides a general indicator of cognitive potential. However, factors like education, work ethic, emotional intelligence, and networking also play crucial roles in career success.
Average Salaries by WAIS Score Range
Here's an overview of typical salary ranges associated with different WAIS intelligence scale classifications based on WAIS score ranges:
| WAIS Score Range | Classification | Average Salary Range (USD) | Common Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 130+ | Very Superior | $80,000 - $200,000+ | Physicians, Engineers, Professors, Research Scientists, Senior Executives |
| 120-129 | Superior | $65,000 - $120,000 | Attorneys, Managers, Accountants, Software Developers, Healthcare Professionals |
| 110-119 | High Average | $50,000 - $85,000 | Teachers, Nurses, Sales Managers, IT Specialists, Mid-level Management |
| 90-109 | Average | $35,000 - $60,000 | Administrative Assistants, Retail Managers, Technicians, Service Workers |
| 80-89 | Low Average | $28,000 - $45,000 | Clerical Workers, Manufacturing, Food Service, Entry-level Positions |
⚠️ Important Context
These salary ranges are averages and should not be interpreted as guarantees or limitations. Many factors beyond cognitive ability influence earning potential, including education level, geographic location, industry sector, work experience, specialized skills, and career choices. High WAIS scores simply correlate with careers that typically require advanced cognitive abilities and often command higher salaries.
High-Paying Careers That Value Cognitive Abilities
Certain professions particularly value the cognitive skills measured by the WAIS intelligence test:
- Medical Professionals: Physicians and surgeons (Average: $200,000-$400,000) require exceptional problem-solving and working memory—key components measured by the WAIS test
- Legal Professionals: Attorneys and judges (Average: $90,000-$180,000) rely heavily on verbal comprehension and reasoning abilities assessed in WAIS subtests
- Engineering: Engineers across specialties (Average: $80,000-$150,000) utilize perceptual reasoning and processing speed measured by the WAIS
- Academia & Research: Professors and research scientists (Average: $70,000-$130,000) leverage all cognitive domains assessed by WAIS testing
- Technology: Software architects and data scientists (Average: $100,000-$200,000) apply working memory and processing speed capabilities
- Finance: Investment bankers and financial analysts (Average: $85,000-$200,000) utilize quantitative reasoning and analytical skills
- Executive Leadership: C-suite executives (Average: $150,000-$500,000+) require comprehensive cognitive abilities across all WAIS domains
Education as a Mediating Factor
The relationship between WAIS scores and salary is strongly mediated by educational attainment. Higher cognitive abilities as measured by the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale WAIS often lead to:
- Advanced Degrees: Individuals with higher WAIS scores are more likely to pursue and complete graduate education (Master's, PhD, JD, MD)
- Selective Universities: Access to top-tier educational institutions that open doors to higher-paying career paths
- Specialized Certifications: Ability to obtain complex professional credentials (CPA, PE, Board Certifications)
- Continuous Learning: Capacity to adapt to rapidly changing fields and acquire new skills throughout career
✅ Maximizing Your Earning Potential
Regardless of your WAIS test score, you can maximize earning potential through: strategic career planning, continuous skill development, networking and relationship building, pursuing advanced education aligned with your cognitive strengths, developing emotional intelligence and soft skills, and gaining specialized expertise in high-demand fields. Your WAIS IV or WAIS assessment results can guide career choices that align with your cognitive strengths.
Beyond IQ: Other Factors That Determine Salary
While WAIS intelligence testing measures important cognitive abilities, career success and salary depend on multiple factors. The WAIS psychological test provides valuable data, but it's not the only predictor of professional success:
- Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Often more predictive of leadership success than IQ alone
- Work Ethic & Persistence: Consistent effort and determination frequently outweigh raw cognitive ability
- Interpersonal Skills: Communication, collaboration, and relationship-building capabilities
- Creativity & Innovation: Ability to generate novel solutions beyond what standardized tests measure
- Practical Intelligence: Real-world problem-solving and common sense application
- Industry & Geographic Factors: Sector growth, cost of living, and regional demand significantly impact compensation
- Timing & Opportunities: Being in the right place at the right time with the right skills
- Negotiation Skills: Ability to effectively advocate for compensation and advancement
🎯 Career Guidance Insight
If you've taken the WAIS test as part of career counseling, focus on the index scores (Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, Processing Speed) to identify your cognitive strengths. This detailed profile provides more actionable career guidance than the Full-Scale IQ alone, helping you target professions that align with your specific abilities.
Using WAIS Results for Career Planning
When leveraging your WAIS intelligence scale results for career decisions:
- Identify Your Cognitive Strengths: Review individual subtest scores to understand where you excel
- Match Strengths to Careers: Research professions that emphasize your highest-scoring domains
- Consider Educational Pathways: Determine what education is needed to access high-paying careers aligned with your abilities
- Set Realistic Goals: Balance aspiration with practical considerations of your complete profile
- Develop Complementary Skills: Work on soft skills, emotional intelligence, and practical abilities
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with career counselors who can interpret WAIS results in context
Remember that the WAIS IQ test is a tool for understanding your cognitive profile, not a definitive predictor of career success or earning potential. Your dedication, choices, and opportunities play equally important roles in determining your professional trajectory and financial outcomes.
The Evolution of the WAIS: From WAIS-I to WAIS-V
The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale has undergone several major revisions since its introduction. Each new version has incorporated advances in cognitive psychology, psychometric theory, and clinical practice.
1955 - WAIS (Original)
Developed by David Wechsler as the first comprehensive adult intelligence test. Introduced 11 subtests measuring verbal and performance IQ.
1981 - WAIS-R (Revised)
Updated normative data and improved standardization. Extended age range and refined subtest content for better clinical utility.
1997 - WAIS-III (Third Edition)
Major restructuring with new subtests. Introduced four-factor structure (Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, Working Memory, Processing Speed).
2008 - WAIS-IV (Fourth Edition - Current)
Removed Verbal IQ/Performance IQ distinction in favor of four index scores. Added new subtests like Visual Puzzles and Figure Weights. Current standard as of 2026.
Future - WAIS-V (In Development)
Expected to include enhanced digital administration options, updated norms, and refined measurement of executive functions. Release date not yet confirmed as of 2026.
Preparing for WAIS Testing
While you cannot "study" for the WAIS test in the traditional sense, there are several steps you can take to ensure you perform at your best during the assessment:
✓ WAIS Test Preparation Checklist
ℹ️ What to Expect During Testing
The WAIS assessment typically takes place in a quiet, private room. The psychologist will administer subtests in a standardized order, providing instructions for each task. You'll complete both verbal and nonverbal tasks, some timed and some untimed. The examiner will record your responses and may take notes throughout the session.
Is the WAIS an Accurate and Reliable Measure?
The WAIS is widely regarded as one of the most psychometrically sound intelligence tests available. Extensive research supports its reliability and validity:
📊 Psychometric Properties
- High Reliability: Test-retest reliability coefficients typically range from .90 to .95, indicating consistent scores across multiple administrations
- Strong Validity: Correlates highly with other established intelligence tests and academic achievement measures
- Comprehensive Norms: Based on a representative sample of the U.S. population across diverse demographics
- Clinical Utility: Proven effective in identifying cognitive strengths and weaknesses for treatment planning
- Predictive Power: WAIS scores correlate with educational attainment, occupational success, and various life outcomes
⚠️ Limitations and Considerations
- Cultural and linguistic factors can influence performance on certain subtests
- Scores represent performance at a specific point in time and can be affected by anxiety, fatigue, or motivation
- The test measures certain cognitive abilities but doesn't capture creativity, emotional intelligence, or practical skills
- Results should be interpreted within the context of the individual's background, medical history, and testing conditions
Ready to Test Your WAIS Knowledge?
Take our comprehensive free WAIS practice test and see how well you understand the assessment!
Start Free WAIS Practice Test →📞 WAIS Test Contact Information & Resources
Need to schedule a WAIS IQ test or find a qualified psychologist for adult intelligence testing? Below are official resources and contact information for WAIS assessment services.
Pearson Clinical Assessment
Official WAIS Publisher
- Website: www.pearsonassessments.com
- Phone: 1-800-627-7271
- Email: clinicalcustomersupport@pearson.com
- Hours: Mon-Fri, 8AM-7PM EST
Find a Licensed Psychologist
WAIS Test Administration
- APA Locator: locator.apa.org
- Psychology Today: Find Testing Specialists
- Search: "WAIS testing near me"
- Ask: Your primary care physician
Professional Organizations
WAIS Certification & Training
WAIS Testing Locations
Where to Take WAIS Test
- University Clinics: Psychology departments
- Hospitals: Neuropsychology departments
- Private Practice: Licensed psychologists
- Schools: For educational assessments
💡 Pro Tip: When scheduling your WAIS cognitive assessment, ask about insurance coverage, total appointment duration (typically 2-3 hours including feedback), and what documentation you'll receive. Most WAIS IQ testing costs between $200-$800 depending on location and provider.
WAIS Questions and Answers
WAIS scores use mean 100 and standard deviation 15: 90-110 is average, 120-129 is superior, 130+ is very superior, while below 70 indicates intellectual disability. Index scores provide specific cognitive domain strengths and weaknesses beyond Full-Scale IQ alone.
WAIS is used for intellectual disability diagnosis, gifted identification, neurological disorder assessment, educational placement decisions, disability determination, and forensic evaluations. It helps identify cognitive strengths, weaknesses, and potential learning disabilities requiring accommodation or intervention.
WAIS-IV intelligence test is the current gold-standard adult IQ assessment measuring four cognitive domains through 10 core subtests. It provides comprehensive cognitive profiling for adults aged 16-90 with updated 2008 norms and improved clinical utility.
WAIS demonstrates high reliability (0.96-0.98) and validity, making it extremely accurate when properly administered by trained professionals. However, scores can be affected by test anxiety, fatigue, cultural factors, language barriers, and testing conditions.
Yes, but psychologists recommend waiting 12 months between administrations to minimize practice effects that artificially inflate scores. Retesting may be appropriate after significant life changes, brain injury, or when previous results seem inconsistent with functioning.
No jobs specifically require WAIS testing, but psychologists use it for clinical practice, research positions value high scores, and disability services require documented cognitive testing. Gifted programs, specialized education, and some government positions may request comprehensive IQ assessments.
Higher WAIS scores correlate with advanced education and complex careers typically earning $60,000-$120,000+ annually. While IQ testing itself doesn't increase salary, high cognitive ability often leads to professional achievement in fields like medicine, law, technology, and research.
Prepare by getting adequate sleep, eating well beforehand, practicing mental puzzles and pattern recognition, and staying calm during testing. However, true preparation is limited since WAIS measures inherent cognitive abilities rather than learned knowledge or test-taking strategies.
WAIS is the gold standard for adults, while Stanford-Binet covers broader age ranges and Raven's tests culture-fair reasoning only. WAIS provides detailed cognitive profiling across multiple domains, whereas many alternatives offer quicker, less comprehensive assessments with limited clinical utility.
WAIS limitations include cultural bias favoring Western education, inability to measure creativity or emotional intelligence, performance affected by anxiety, and scores not predicting life success. It measures current cognitive functioning only, not potential, effort, motivation, or non-intellectual abilities.
Final Thoughts: Mastering the WAIS Intelligence Assessment
The WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) remains the gold standard for assessing adult intelligence and cognitive functioning in 2026. With its comprehensive evaluation of four cognitive domains through 15 subtests, the WAIS test provides invaluable insights for clinical diagnosis, educational planning, and occupational decision-making.
Whether you're a psychology student learning about assessment tools, a professional seeking certification, or someone preparing for WAIS testing, understanding how the test works, what it measures, and how scores are interpreted is essential. The WAIS intelligence scale has evolved significantly since 1955, incorporating advances in cognitive science while maintaining exceptional psychometric properties that make it trusted worldwide.
Remember that while online practice tests and study resources can help you understand the WAIS format and content, official testing must be conducted by a qualified professional in a standardized environment. The insights gained from proper WAIS assessment can be life-changing, helping individuals identify cognitive strengths, address challenges, and make informed decisions about their education, career, and mental health treatment.