Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Calculator

Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) — 30-point cognitive screening score.

For educational and clinical reference. Not a substitute for medical judgment. See the medical disclaimer.

Orientation to time (year, season, date, day, month)

Orientation to place (state, county, town, building, floor)

Registration (repeat 3 named objects)

Attention & calculation (serial 7s or spell “world” backward)

Recall (the 3 objects after a delay)

Language (naming, repetition, 3-stage command, reading, writing)

Visuospatial (copy intersecting pentagons)

Score

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Interpretation

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References

Folstein MF, Folstein SE, McHugh PR. “Mini-mental state”. A practical method for grading the cognitive state of patients for the clinician. J Psychiatr Res. 1975;12(3):189-198.

What is Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?

The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is a 30-point cognitive screening instrument used to detect dementia, gauge severity, and follow cognitive change over time. Developed by Folstein, Folstein, and McHugh in 1975, it assesses five domains: orientation to time and place (10 points), registration of three words (3), attention and calculation (5), recall (3), and language and visuospatial construction (9). A score of 24 or above is generally considered normal, 19–23 mild impairment, 10–18 moderate, and ≤9 severe dementia. Results require adjustment for age, education, and primary language, and the MMSE is now copyrighted by PAR.

How to use

Enter the points scored in each MMSE domain.
The total MMSE (0–30) and impairment band update instantly.
Interpret in the context of age, education, and language.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MMSE?

The Mini-Mental State Examination is a 30-point bedside cognitive screen covering orientation, registration, attention, recall, language, and visuospatial ability.

What MMSE score is abnormal?

Commonly ≤ 23 suggests impairment, but cut-offs vary with age and education; 24–30 normal, 19–23 mild, 10–18 moderate, ≤ 9 severe.

Does the MMSE diagnose dementia?

No — it is a screening and tracking tool. Diagnosis requires history, functional assessment, and often further cognitive testing.

What affects MMSE interpretation?

Low education, sensory impairment, language, and delirium can lower scores independently of dementia; adjust thresholds accordingly.

Last updated June 28, 2026