Free Eating Disorders Test (EAT-26)
The most widely used eating-disorder screen — free, anonymous, instant. Takes about 10 minutes.
EAT-26 — Eating Attitudes Test (Garner, Olmsted, Bohr & Garfinkel, 1982)
If you’re in crisis or someone is at immediate risk: call 999. For urgent NHS help, 111. The Beat helpline is open every day for adults (0808 801 0677) and under-18s (0808 801 0711). Samaritans 116 123. SHOUT: text 85258.
EAT-26 — Eating Attitudes Test
The EAT-26 is a validated 26-item self-report screening tool for eating-disorder risk, developed by Garner et al. (1982). It is the most widely used eating-disorder screen in research and clinical practice. Free and anonymous on MatchyMatch.
- 26 items, 6-point frequency scale — most widely used eating-disorder screen
- Time: about 10 minutes
- 100% free and anonymous — no email or account required
- Clinical cut-off ≥20 suggests professional assessment
- Screening tool — does not diagnose eating disorders
About the eating disorders test
Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and OSFED. They affect people of every gender, age and body shape, and they are serious — but they are also highly treatable, especially with early intervention.
The EAT-26 doesn’t diagnose. It’s a starting point — a clear score and severity band that helps you decide whether it’s worth speaking to a UK clinician (your GP, NHS Talking Therapies, or a Beat-listed specialist) for a full assessment.
Time
About 10 minutes
Format
26 items, 6-point scale
Score
0–78 points (cut-off ≥20)
Validation
Garner et al. 1982 — most widely used screen
Note: The EAT-26 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose an eating disorder. If you have concerns, please speak with your GP or Beat.
Why take the EAT-26?
Get a clear, validated read
Same screen used in research and clinical practice for 40+ years
Instant, anonymous result
No email, no waiting, no account
UK-specific next steps
Direct links to your GP, NHS Talking Therapies, and Beat
Track over time
Optionally save results to monitor changes during treatment or recovery
What does the EAT-26 measure?
Dieting
Concerns with body weight, shape, dieting and avoidance of fattening foods
Bulimia & food preoccupation
Binge eating, compensatory behaviours, and intrusive thoughts about food
Oral control
Self-control around food and perceived pressure from others to eat
Sample statements from the test
Body image
I am terrified about being overweight.
Binge eating
I have gone on eating binges where I feel that I may not be able to stop.
Compensatory behaviours
I vomit after I have eaten.
Food preoccupation
I feel that food controls my life.
Score bands (0–78)
Frequently asked questions
What is the EAT-26 eating disorders test?
The EAT-26 (Eating Attitudes Test – 26 items) is a validated self-report screening tool developed by Garner, Olmsted, Bohr and Garfinkel (1982). It is the most widely used eating-disorder screening instrument worldwide and has been used in research and clinical practice for over 40 years.
What does the EAT-26 measure?
The EAT-26 measures attitudes and behaviours commonly associated with eating disorders across three areas: dieting (concern with body weight and dieting), bulimia and food preoccupation (binge eating and intrusive thoughts about food), and oral control (self-control around food).
How long does the EAT-26 take?
About 10 minutes. The 26 items use a 6-point frequency scale (always to never). Results are shown instantly with severity band and personalised recommendations.
Is the test free and anonymous?
Yes — 100% free and anonymous. No name, email, or account is required. Optional email saving is offered after the test if you want to track your results over time.
How are scores interpreted?
Scores range from 0 to 78. Garner's clinical cut-off is 20: scores at or above suggest professional assessment is warranted. Scores 10–19 indicate some attitudes worth monitoring; 0–9 indicates a low-risk profile. The EAT-26 is a screen — not a diagnosis.
Where can I get help in the UK?
Three main routes: (1) Your GP — the first NHS contact, who can refer you to specialist eating-disorder services or NHS Talking Therapies. (2) Beat (beateatingdisorders.org.uk) — the UK eating-disorder charity, with a free helpline for adults (0808 801 0677) and for under-18s (0808 801 0711). (3) Private specialist therapists registered with BACP, UKCP, HCPC, or BPS who treat eating disorders.
Are eating disorders treatable?
Yes. Eating disorders are serious, but they respond well to evidence-based treatment — particularly CBT-ED (CBT for eating disorders), MANTRA, family-based therapy for adolescents, and specialist multidisciplinary inpatient or outpatient programmes. Recovery is genuinely possible, and earlier intervention improves outcomes.
I’m worried about someone else — what do I do?
Beat runs a UK helpline specifically for friends and family (0808 801 0677), and beateatingdisorders.org.uk has practical guides on starting the conversation, supporting recovery, and looking after yourself as a carer. If the person is at immediate risk, call 999. The EAT-26 is a self-report tool — you can't take it on someone else's behalf, but their answers can be a starting point for a difficult conversation.
Ready to take the EAT-26?
Start now and get an instant score with UK-specific next steps for NHS, Beat, or private support.
Start the eating disorders testRelated psychology tests
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Find a UK therapist
Speak to BACP/UKCP/HCPC/BPS-registered therapists experienced in eating disorders.