Some students have special learning needs that mean they qualify for testing accommodations on the SAT or ACT. The College Board (makers of SAT) and ACT have very similar requirements for students applying for testing accommodations. To qualify for accommodations, a family must document:
- The student has a disability, diagnosis, or need for support. The general categories that qualify for support include learning disabilities, ADHD, psychiatric disorders, visual or hearing impairment, autism spectrum or other developmental disorders, speech and language disorders, medical conditions, and traumatic brain injuries.
- If this is an educational need, it must be documented with an IEP or a 504 and the professional assessment upon which that document was based, like an educational psychologist’s evaluation. If it is a physical or medical need, it must be documented with a 504 and clinical or medical documentation.
- This disability or diagnosis would negatively influence the student while taking the test.
- The accommodation requested will mitigate the problem caused by the disability or diagnosis.
Both the College Board and ACT offer a wide range of accommodations. To learn about the accommodations available to those who qualify, please visit their websites:
College Board (SAT) Accommodations
Historically, it could be challenging for students to get accommodations. Recently, both College Board and ACT have become far more accommodating about granting accommodations to students with a documented need. If your student has recently been granted Extended Time accommodations through a 504 or an IEP, you should apply for Extended Time on whichever test your student wants to take. You do this through your school’s guidance office; guidance counselors are usually very well versed and helpful in the process.
If your student has a demonstrated need, they deserve the accommodation. Please be sure to tell us when you contact us that your student has a 504 or IEP with Extended Time; we know how to help.