The Cost of Popular EQ Assessments (And What You’re Actually Paying For)

If you're considering using an EQ assessment — either for yourself or your organization — you're probably wondering what the differences are and how much you can expect to spend. Some tools are free and informal. Others are comprehensive, research-backed, and part of broader coaching engagements. Each one serves a purpose, depending on your goals.

Here at The Metiss Group, we use the EQ 360 as part of The Emotional Intelligence Journey™ program. We’ll break down what you can expect to pay for that assessment and others.

In this article, we break down several well-known EQ assessments, outline their typical costs, and offer guidance on who each tool is best suited for. Whether you're a leader looking for deeper insight or an HR professional selecting tools for your team, this will give you a clear, side-by-side view.

EQ-i 2.0: A Widely Used Assessment for Professional Development

The EQ-i 2.0 (Emotional Quotient Inventory) is a self-assessment designed to measure emotional intelligence across five composite areas: self-perception, self-expression, interpersonal skills, decision-making, and stress management. Each area includes several subscales, offering a detailed picture of emotional functioning.

Originally developed by Dr. Reuven Bar-On and now managed by Multi-Health Systems (MHS), this tool is widely used in corporate leadership development, talent selection, and coaching.

Typical Cost: $150–$600 depending on report type and whether coaching or feedback sessions are included.

Best Suited For: Professionals seeking an in-depth self-assessment, organizations evaluating leadership potential, and teams looking to build emotional intelligence awareness.

EQ 360: Comprehensive Multi-Rater Feedback

The EQ 360 assessment builds upon the EQ-i 2.0 by incorporating feedback from managers, peers, direct reports, and others. This multi-rater format provides a comprehensive view of how an individual’s emotional intelligence is perceived by others compared to their own self-assessment.

At The Metiss Group, we use the EQ 360 as a key component of The Emotional Intelligence Journey™, a three-to-six-month coaching program tailored for leaders. This experience includes the EQ 360 assessment, individual coaching, and practical development strategies to improve emotional intelligence in the workplace. The three-month program is $3,000 to $5,000.

Typical Cost for EQ 360 (Assessment Only): $450–$1,500

Best Suited For: Leaders looking for multi-perspective feedback and coaching to improve performance, interpersonal effectiveness, and leadership impact.

ESCI: Emotional and Social Competence Inventory by Goleman and Boyatzis

Developed by emotional intelligence researchers Daniel Goleman and Richard Boyatzis, the ESCI is another 360-degree assessment that focuses on observable behaviors tied to emotional and social effectiveness. Rather than rating traits, it evaluates leadership competencies like empathy, adaptability, teamwork, and conflict management.

The ESCI is primarily administered within organizations, often as part of a broader leadership development initiative or executive coaching engagement. Pricing details typically depend on the provider and whether the tool is bundled with feedback or facilitation services.

Typical Cost: $300–$1,000, often included in larger leadership programs.

Best Suited For: Executive-level professionals and organizations focused on long-term leadership development through behavior-based feedback.

Emotional Intelligence Appraisal: Included with Emotional Intelligence 2.0

This assessment is tied to the best-selling book Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves. The appraisal is based on Daniel Goleman’s four key components of EQ: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.

Though simpler than some of the other tools listed here, it provides a good starting point for individuals new to the concept of emotional intelligence. The book includes a one-time access code to take the online test.

Typical Cost: ~$25 (included with the book)

Best Suited For: Individuals seeking a basic introduction to EQ with actionable suggestions for improvement.

Truity Emotional Intelligence Test: Accessible Online Assessment

Truity’s EQ test is an online self-assessment designed for ease of access and quick insights. It evaluates five areas of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.

A basic summary report is available for free, with the option to purchase a more comprehensive breakdown. While not as robust as clinical-grade tools, it can be a useful entry point for personal development.

Typical Cost: Free (summary report); $30–$50 (full report)

Best Suited For: Individuals exploring EQ for the first time or looking for an informal assessment to support personal growth.

Global Leadership Foundation EQ Test: Free and Simple Self-Assessment

This is a free, self-guided emotional intelligence test developed by the Global Leadership Foundation. Based on Daniel Goleman’s four-quadrant model, the 40-question tool offers a general overview of key emotional competencies.

It’s not intended for formal development programs but can serve as an initial check-in or educational resource.

Typical Cost: Free

Best Suited For: Individuals or educators looking for a quick, no-cost assessment.

EQ Assessment Comparison Summary

Closing Thoughts: An Investment in Insight and Growth

EQ assessments can be a turning point in someone’s personal or professional journey. Whether you're a leader navigating high-stakes conversations or an HR manager building more emotionally intelligent teams, the right assessment provides both a starting point and a path forward.

At The Metiss Group, we believe the real value of emotional intelligence is in what you do with it. That’s why we don’t just hand over a report — we partner with leaders through programs like The Emotional Intelligence Journey™, combining the insights of the EQ 360 with coaching to build lasting growth.

Now that you understand the cost of popular EQ assessments, the next step is to see if you’d be a good — or bad — fit for emotional intelligence development.