Testing Accommodations

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

What are testing modifications?

A

Testing modifications are changes in the testing procedures which allow students with documented disabilities an equal opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and/or knowledge and understanding of test material.

Q

Who is eligible for modifications?

A

Any student who demonstrates a professionally diagnosed condition which impacts his/her learning may be eligible for testing modifications. Such students must also have appropriate documentation on file at school.

Temporary physical conditions, such as a broken arm, are not disabilities and do not provide eligibility for accommodations under accommodation process. However, in limited circumstances, some assistance for temporary physical conditions may be available through a temporary accommodation process.

Q

What testing modifications are available?

A

Sometimes the modifications on the test are test-specific. However, in general, the following modifications may be requested:
• Extended time
• Extended break time
• Additional breaks
• Preferential seating
• Using a computer

Q

What tests are eligible for modification?

A

• ACT
• AP Exams
• PSAT/NMSQT
• SAT
• SAT Subject Tests

Q

Is parent permission required?

A

Yes – if the student is under 18 years old.
No – if the student is 18 years or older, the student is eligible to sign for him/herself.

Q

How does my student apply for accommodations?

A

The application process varies depending on the test. All requests for testing modification must be completed in conjunction with the Canterbury Counseling Department.

Q

What documentation is required?

A

For the SAT and all other College Board tests, the parent/guardian must sign a consent form and then the application may be submitted online by the Canterbury Counseling Department.

For submission deadlines, please see:
http://professionals.collegeboard.com/testing/ssd/application/dates

For the ACT, the application and documentation for modification requests must be mailed to the ACT and accompany a hard-copy application or include an online registration ticket.

For submission deadlines, please see
“Test Dates” at http://www.act.org/aap/pdf/chart.pdf.

Q

Who determines if a student is eligible for accommodations?

A

Process for requesting testing accommodations for your student:
1. Teacher or parent referral to Dr. Lombard
2. Initial screening
3. Parent conference to review screening results and intervention options
4. Referral for an independent educational evaluation if appropriate
5. Parent conference to review results from independent educational evaluation
6. Apply for testing modifications for college admissions tests (ACT and SAT are two separate applications)