Gaining SAT & ACT Accommodations
Obtaining accommodations for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is a crucial process for students with disabilities or special needs to ensure they have a fair opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. The College Board administers the SAT, while ACT, Inc. administers the ACT, and both organizations have specific guidelines in place to provide accommodations for eligible students. Here is an overview of how students can get accommodations when taking the SAT or ACT:
1. Documentation of Disability:
To request accommodations, students must provide documentation of their disability or special need from a qualified professional, such as a physician, Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP), or educational specialist. The documentation should clearly outline the student's diagnosis, functional limitations, and recommended accommodations.
2. Requesting Accommodations:
Students must submit a request for accommodations to the respective testing organization (College Board or ACT, Inc.) well in advance of the test date. The request process typically involves completing a form, providing documentation of the disability, and submitting any additional required information.
3. Review Process:
Once the request for accommodations is submitted, the testing organization will review the documentation provided and determine whether the student is eligible for accommodations based on their guidelines and policies. This review process may take several weeks, so students need to submit their requests early.
4. Approved Accommodations:
If the accommodations request is approved, the testing organization will work with the student and their school to implement the approved accommodations for the test. Accommodations may include extended time, breaks, large-print or Braille test materials, use of a computer, or other accommodations based on the student's needs.
5. Notification:
The student will receive a notification from the testing organization confirming the approved accommodations for the test. This notification will outline the specific accommodations that will be provided and any instructions for test day.
6. Test Day:
On the day of the test, students receiving accommodations will follow the specific instructions provided by the testing organization. They may be required to check in separately, receive their accommodation materials, and test in a designated location to ensure a fair testing environment.
7. Retesting:
In some cases, students may need to retest to improve their scores or for other reasons. If accommodations were approved for the initial test, students can request the same accommodations for the retest by following a similar process to the initial accommodations request.
8. Appeals Process:
If a student's request for accommodations is denied, they may have the option to appeal the decision. The appeals process typically involves providing additional documentation or information to support the accommodations request.
In conclusion, obtaining accommodations for the SAT or ACT is a structured process that requires careful planning, documentation, and communication with the testing organization. By following the guidelines and procedures set forth by the College Board or ACT, Inc., students with disabilities or special needs can ensure they have the necessary accommodations to demonstrate their abilities on these important standardized tests.
