Healthy Hearing Free Community Screening
A free hearing screening is a quick way to check your hearing health and determine whether a full evaluation may be recommended. Plan to attend if you:
- Experience ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Have trouble understanding speech in groups or noisy places
- Often turn up the TV or radio louder than your family prefers
- Feel tired after long conversations
During the screening, you’ll meet with an audiologist, receive a brief hearing check, and have the opportunity to demo hearing devices.
Why Get a Hearing Screening?
A hearing screening is a quick, convenient way to check your hearing health. Screenings are shorter and easier to access than full hearing evaluations—they take just a few minutes, are often free, and don’t require a doctor’s referral.
Regular screenings can help identify potential changes in your hearing before they become more noticeable. For most adults, a screening every year or two is a good step toward protecting long-term hearing health. If a screening shows any concerns, a full hearing assessment with an audiologist is recommended.
These screenings are open to everyone in the community, including NU staff and students!
When:
November 14, 2025
8:30-12:00 pm
1:00-5:00 pm
Where:
Center for Audiology, Speech, Language, and Learning
2315 Campus Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
Cost:
Free
Contact / Register:
Call 847-491-3165 or email NUCASLL@northwestern.edu to register for this program! Appointments are required and limited spaces are available.
FAQ
What is a hearing screening?
A hearing screening is a quick check to see how well you hear certain sounds. It can identify potential concerns but does not replace a full hearing evaluation.
How long does it take?
Most screenings take about 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Who performs the screening?
Screenings are conducted by licensed audiologists and audiology graduate students under direct supervision.
Who should attend?
Anyone who notices ringing in their ears, trouble following conversations, or the need to turn up the TV may benefit from a hearing screening.
Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, although a full pediatric hearing evaluation may be recommended if there are concerns.
Do I need to be a Northwestern student or employee?
No. This event is open to the public as well as the campus community.
What will happen at the appointment?
You’ll complete a brief hearing check and have the chance to speak with an audiologist about your results.
Will I try any devices?
Yes, participants can demo hearing devices and ask questions about hearing technology.
Is the screening uncomfortable?
Not at all—the process is simple, painless, and quick.
Will I get my results right away?
Yes, results are shared immediately, and the audiologist will explain what they mean.
What happens if the screening shows a possible problem?
You’ll be referred for a full hearing evaluation to get a detailed understanding of your hearing health.
Do I have to get follow-up care at NUCASLL?
No. You can choose to follow up with NUCASLL or another licensed audiology clinic.
How much does it cost?
The screening is completely free.
Where is the clinic located?
Parking and campus maps are available upon request. NUCASLL does validate parking.
Is this the same as a full hearing test?
No. A hearing screening is a first step to identify potential issues and does not replace a comprehensive hearing evaluation.