How to Request and Use Testing Accommodations for the SAT and ACT

If your student has a documented learning difference, ADHD, anxiety, medical condition, or a 504/IEP plan, they may be eligible for accommodations on the SAT or ACT. These supports can level the playing field and make a huge difference in their testing experience and scores.

🎙️Listen to these conversations on Common Mistakes in Applying for ACT Accommodations and Receiving Testing Accommodations on the Tests and the Rest podcast.

🧠 What Are Testing Accommodations?

Testing accommodations are adjustments or supports provided during standardized tests like the SAT and ACT to help students with documented disabilities access the exam fairly. These can include:

• Extended time (e.g., time-and-a-half or double time)

• Breaks (standard, extended, or breaks as needed)

• Use of a reader, scribe, or calculator

• Testing in a private or small-group setting

• Computer-based testing for essay or written responses

📝 Who Qualifies for Accommodations?

Students with documented learning, physical, psychiatric, or cognitive disabilities may qualify. This includes (but is not limited to):

• ADHD

• Dyslexia or other learning disabilities

• Anxiety disorders

• Physical impairments

• Chronic health conditions

The key requirement is documentation and a history of school-based accommodations (such as an IEP or 504 Plan).

✅ How to Request SAT Accommodations

1. Start Early!
   Requesting accommodations can take up to 7 weeks, so begin the process months in advance.

2. Use the College Board’s SSD (Services for Students with Disabilities) Portal

   • Most requests are submitted by your student’s school counselor or SSD coordinator.

   • Parents can also submit requests directly if needed.

3. Provide Documentation

   • Include an IEP, 504 Plan, or evaluation from a licensed professional.

   • Documentation must show that the student’s disability impacts test-taking.

4. Wait for Approval

   • Once approved, accommodations apply to all College Board exams, including SAT, PSAT, and AP tests.

✅ How to Request ACT Accommodations

1. Register First

   • Begin by registering for a test date at myact.org.

   • Choose “Yes” when asked if accommodations are needed.

2. Submit Accommodations Request

   • The school Test Coordinator will complete the TAA (Test Accessibility and Accommodations) system request.

   • Parents may need to provide documentation, including:

     • An IEP/504 Plan or

     • A recent psychoeducational evaluation

3. Two Types of Accommodations

   • National Testing with Accommodations: Student tests at a national test center with supports like extra time or large print.

   • Special Testing: Student tests at their school over multiple days (e.g., for extended time over multiple sessions).

📆 Timing and Deadlines Matter

💡 Tips for Parents

• Communicate with your school counselor early to start the request process.

• Gather updated documentation—testing must usually be within the last 3–5 years.

• Don’t delay—deadlines for accommodations are earlier than standard registration deadlines.

• Ask questions—both College Board and ACT have hotlines and resources for support.

🧭 Why Accommodations Matter

Students who receive the accommodations they are entitled to often experience:

✅ Lower anxiety
✅ A more level playing field
✅ Test scores that better reflect their abilities

It’s not about giving an advantage—it's about giving fair access.

📌 Additional Resources

• SAT Accommodations Info 

• ACT Accommodations Info

📣 Need Help or Have Questions?

Interested in taking a practice ACT with accommodations or want to discuss individualized tutoring? Reach out to us here. We can help your student navigate accommodations and test prep with confidence.