Understanding SAT & ACT Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations on the SAT and ACT. These accommodations help level the playing field, ensuring that all students have a fair chance to demonstrate their academic abilities.
eDiagnostic Learning provides comprehensive evaluations that meet the official ACT/SAT documentation requirements. Our assessments not only support accommodation requests, but also offer valuable recommendations for academic success.
Tip: Having an IEP or 504 Plan does not automatically guarantee accommodations. Each request must be supported by proper documentation, including academic records and diagnostic reports.
SAT Accommodations: What You Need to Know
Students with documented disabilities may qualify for the following SAT accommodations:
- Extended Time: 50% or 100% extra time on all sections.
- Extra or Extended Breaks: Additional time to rest between test sections.
- Reader or Scribe: Assistance for students with reading or writing disabilities.
- Small Group or Private Room Testing: Reduced-distraction testing environment.
How to Apply
Requests are submitted through the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Portal, usually by a school coordinator. Families can also submit requests directly using a Student Eligibility Form.
Key Requirements
- A current evaluation (within the last 5 years): Must document a disability that impacts test performance.
- Evidence of need: Documentation must show difficulty completing timed tests.
- Use of accommodations in school-based testing: Must have been used for at least 6 months.
Stat: Over 90% of students approved for SAT accommodations have a history of receiving similar support in school.
For official details, visit: SAT Accommodations.
ACT Accommodations: How They Differ
Students with documented disabilities can also receive accommodations on the ACT, though the process differs slightly from the SAT.
Accommodations Available at National Test Centers:
- Large-print test booklets
- Printed spoken instructions
- Preferential seating
- 50% extended time
Accommodations Requiring Special Testing Centers:
- More than 50% extended time
- Reader or Braille format
- Use of a computer or scribe
- Alternate response modes (e.g., oral responses)
How to Apply
Requests are submitted through the Test Accessibility and Accommodations (TAA) system by a school official. Homeschooled students must submit an Exceptions Statement Form explaining the need for accommodations.
Key Requirements
- A current evaluation (within the last 3 years): Must document a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
- Consistent use of accommodations in school: Must have a history of using accommodations in an academic setting.
Stat: More than 80% of students approved for ACT accommodations qualify due to ADHD or learning disabilities.
For official details, visit: ACT Accommodations.
Should You Take the SAT or ACT?
While both the SAT and ACT serve the same purpose, some students perform better on one test than the other. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- SAT: Better suited for students who excel in language arts and prefer more time per question.
- ACT: Better suited for students who excel in STEM and can handle a faster-paced test.
Tip: If unsure, take practice tests for both to see which format aligns with your strengths.