Can students with disabilities take the SAT?

Yes, students with disabilities can take the SAT. The College Board, the organization that administers the SAT, is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities. They offer accommodations and support to ensure that students with disabilities can take the test on an equal footing with their peers.

What accommodations are available?

The College Board provides a range of accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure that they have access to the same opportunities as other test-takers. These accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis and are tailored to meet the specific needs of each student. Some of the common accommodations available for students with disabilities include:

1. Extended Time: Students with disabilities may be eligible for additional time to complete the test, typically 50% or 100% extra time.

2. Testing in a Separate Room: Some students may require a quiet and distraction-free environment to take the test. The College Board provides a separate room for such students.

3. Reader or Scribe: Students who have difficulty reading or writing may be provided with a reader or scribe to assist them during the test.

4. Braille or Large Print Test Booklet: Students with visual impairments can request a Braille or large print test booklet.

5. Assistive Technology: Students who use assistive technology, such as screen readers or speech-to-text software, can use their approved devices during the test.

6. Sign Language Interpreter: Students who are deaf or hard of hearing can request a sign language interpreter.

7. Extra Breaks: Students with certain medical conditions may be allowed additional breaks during the test.

How to request accommodations?

To request accommodations for the SAT, students need to submit a formal request to the College Board. The process involves providing documentation of the disability and its impact on the student's ability to take the test. The documentation should come from a qualified professional, such as a medical doctor or a licensed psychologist. The College Board reviews each request individually and makes a determination based on the provided documentation.

It is important for students to request accommodations well in advance of their intended test date to allow sufficient time for the review process.