Brain donation starts with advance arrangements through a brain bank or donation program. Cost depends significantly on the pathway a family chooses. For families whose loved one was enrolled in a research program, autopsies may be available at no cost. Research-affiliated autopsies are typically covered by the program. For those going through private providers outside of a research context, costs can range considerably — a brain-only exam through a private service can run from $1,000 to several thousand dollars depending on the extent of testing needed.