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Health & Fitness

Road to College - Testing Accommodations

Learn about testing accommodations for SAT, AP, Subject Tests and ACT.

As parents begin to consider standardized testing options between SAT and ACT, there are many who also have to consider testing accommodations. I have seen cases where the decision to take/focus on one test over the other was solely based upon which testing entity granted what accommodation, if any.

There are different types of testing accommodations:

  • Extended test time – very typically it is time and a half (but can even go up to double time). Important thing to note is that unlike SAT, ACT does not specify how the student uses the extended time between various sections
  • Large type (18 point) test booklet
  • Alternate test formats like audio DVDs or a reader or computer for essays for people who cannot hold pencils

Process of applying for accommodation(s) involves lot of forms, supporting documentation from school/ doctors and testing information etc.

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  • Collegeboard (administers SAT) requires processing time of 5 to 7 weeks
  • ACT requires processing time of 4 to 6 weeks and also requires that you pre-register for a test date when applying for accommodation

Reasonably speaking plan on 12 -16 weeks, which will allow for your preparation time, follow-up questions/clarifications that Collegeboard or ACT might have and waiting for results. Timeline for when you should apply for accommodation(s) will also depend on if you want that accommodation for PSAT, AP, SAT Subject Test, etc. Since many students take these tests as early as sophomore year, planning for application can begin in the freshman year itself.

Collegeboard and ACT have their specific requirements and forms. More information is available on www.collegeboard.com or www.act.org, but generally speaking they will need to see:

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  • A documented disability
  • If the student has a current IEP or Section 504 plan currently in place
  • Kind of testing accommodations the student currently gets at the school
  • Follow-up doctor evaluation

Temporary Disability – Collegeboard explicitly states that it does not encourage students to seek accommodations for temporary medical or physical condition…so broken arm or sports concussion will not be good enough reasons.

Even though the process of applying for accommodations is arduous, it is worth the effort. I have seen positive results for students who qualify for, let’s say, extended time. Also, you don’t have to worry about how prospective colleges may look at your "special condition" because this information is never exchanged or shared with colleges.

There is a lot more information that pertains to this topic. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information.

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