MatchyMatch

Free Self-Esteem Test (Rosenberg RSES)

Measure your self-esteem with the most widely used self-esteem scale in the world. Free, anonymous, instant results.

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale — developed in 1965, used in NHS clinical practice and global research

Start the test now

Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES)

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) is a 10-item self-report measure of global self-esteem developed by sociologist Morris Rosenberg in 1965. It is the gold-standard self-esteem instrument in psychology research and clinical practice, with thousands of validation studies across cultures. Scores from 0-30 fall into three bands: low (clinical concern), normal, and high.

  • 10 clinically validated items measuring global self-esteem
  • Takes about 3 minutes to complete
  • 100% free and anonymous — no email or account required
  • Instant results with personalised guidance and NHS signposting
  • Most widely cited self-esteem measure in research worldwide
  • Used in NHS clinical practice and across psychology research
Rosenberg, M. (1965). Society and the Adolescent Self-Image. Princeton University Press.

About the online RSES

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale is the standard against which other self-esteem measures are validated. It captures global self-esteem — your overall sense of self-worth — across 10 carefully crafted statements about how you see yourself.

This free version uses the original 10-item RSES. You answer how strongly you agree or disagree with each statement, and you get a total score from 0 to 30 plus a severity band. Self-esteem is malleable, so retaking the test over time is a useful way to track change during therapy or major life events.

Time

3 minutes

Items

10 statements

Score

0-30 (3 bands)

Validation

Rosenberg, 1965

Important: This test does not provide a diagnosis. Low self-esteem frequently coexists with depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties — all worth assessing with a professional. In a crisis, call Samaritans on 116 123 or NHS 111.

Why take the RSES?

Brief and well-validated

Decades of research, dozens of cultures

Instant, anonymous result

No email, no waiting, no account

NHS-aligned guidance

Concrete next steps based on your score, including NHS Talking Therapies signposting

Track changes over time

Especially useful during therapy or major life transitions

Sample items from the RSES

A small preview of what you'll be asked. Each item is rated Strongly disagree / Disagree / Agree / Strongly agree.

Self-acceptance

On the whole, I am satisfied with myself.

Self-criticism (reverse)

At times I think I am no good at all.

Self-worth

I feel that I have a number of good qualities.

Self-regard

I take a positive attitude toward myself.

Self-criticism (reverse)

All in all, I am inclined to feel that I am a failure.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale?+
The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) is a 10-item questionnaire developed by sociologist Morris Rosenberg in 1965. It is the most widely used measure of global self-esteem in psychology research and clinical practice, including in NHS settings.
How long does the self-esteem test take?+
About 3 minutes. The 10 statements ask how strongly you agree or disagree with each, on a 4-point scale (Strongly disagree → Strongly agree). Results are shown instantly.
Is the self-esteem test free and anonymous?+
Yes — it is 100% free and anonymous. We do not ask for your name, email, or any personal details to show you your results.
How is the RSES score interpreted?+
Scores range from 0 to 30. Standard cut-offs: 0-14 = low self-esteem (clinical concern), 15-25 = normal, 26-30 = high. Higher scores reflect more positive self-regard.
What should I do if my score is low?+
A low score is associated with higher risk of depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties — worth taking seriously. Speak with your GP or a therapist. CBT and ACT are evidence-based treatments for low self-esteem. NHS Talking Therapies offer free CBT — search "find an NHS talking therapies service" near you. On MatchyMatch you can also find verified UK therapists who specialise in self-esteem and book a free 15-minute discovery call.
Can self-esteem change?+
Yes — self-esteem is malleable. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), compassion-focused approaches and self-compassion practices have all been shown to improve self-esteem over time.
Is the RSES a diagnostic instrument?+
No — it is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high or low score is information about your self-perception, not a diagnosis. A psychologist or psychotherapist registered with HCPC, BACP, BPS or UKCP can do a full assessment.

Ready to take the RSES?

3 minutes. Anonymous. Free. Instant results with NHS-aligned guidance.

Start the self-esteem test