ACT and SAT Accommodations

If you plan to go to college, you may need to take the ACT® or SAT® college admissions tests. Many colleges and universities require them for admission and scholarships. 

If you have cancer, sickle cell disease, or another serious health condition, you may be able to get testing accommodations. Accommodations are changes or supports that help you take the test in a way that meets your health needs. They do not change what is on the test or what you need to know.  

You must apply and meet certain rules to be approved. Many students get the accommodations they need to take the ACT and SAT. But having a health condition does not mean you will receive accommodations.  

Some colleges do not require ACT or SAT scores. Talk with your school counselor about your options. Your family, school, and care team can help you learn about accommodations and what may be right for you.

Health conditions that may qualify you for ACT and SAT accommodations 

You may qualify for accommodations if your health condition makes it hard to take the test in the same way as other students. Examples include: 

• Feeling very tired (fatigue) 
• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
• Trouble focusing or remembering information 
• Vision or hearing problems 
• Problems writing by hand or on a keyboard 
• Trouble walking or moving around 
• Needing to go to the restroom often 
• Immune problems that require infection precautions 

Types of ACT and SAT accommodations

The accommodations you receive depend on how your health condition affects testing.  

Timing 

• Longer time to take the test  
• Extra or longer breaks 
• Testing over several days 

Accessibility

• Taking the test in the format that works best for your needs, such as paper or computer 
• Use of special technology, such as screen readers or text-to-speech software 
• Large-print or Braille materials 

Medical  

• Keeping medicine with you 
• Snacks or drinks when medically necessary 
• Using medical devices or supplies during the test 

Testing environment 

• Small group or private room 
• Reduced distractions 
• Alternate testing location 

For current accommodation options and requirements, visit the ACT and SAT websites. 

How to request accommodations

Applying for test accommodations takes time and planning. There are a lot of details to keep track of. Your school counselor, testing coordinator, or school program at your treatment center can help you and your family through the process.  

Requests are reviewed based on the student's documented needs and federal disability laws  

Start early

Start several months before the test date. It can take time to gather records, apply, and send forms. It can also take a while for your request to be reviewed. 

Gather documents

Ask your parent or guardian, school counselor, health care team, and academic coordinator at your treatment center to help you collect the information you need.  

These documents may include:

• Individualized Educational Program (IEP) or 504 plan
• Medical records
• Letters or reports from health care providers
• School records
• Educational evaluations or learning assessments, if you have them

Your records should explain:  

• Your diagnosis 
• How your condition affects testing 
• Any accommodations you use for school 

Having an IEP or 504 plan does not automatically qualify you for ACT or SAT accommodations. But the accommodations you use at school may help support your request.   

For homeschoolers or students not enrolled in a school: Students who are homeschooled or not enrolled in a school must send supporting information directly to ACT or SAT when requesting accommodations. Visit ACT or SAT to learn more about accommodations without going through your school. 

Follow instructions carefully 

Make sure you fill out every form and include all required documents. Ask a parent, caregiver, counselor, or another trusted adult to review your application before you submit it. 

Follow up  

After you submit your request, check that everything was received and that no new information is needed. It is helpful to: 

• Confirm that the testing agency got your application and all forms needed. 
• Watch for emails or requests for more information. 
• Talk with your health care team if your needs change. 

Prepare for test day 

If your accommodations are approved: 

• Confirm which accommodations were approved. 
• Know where and when you will test. 
• Practice using approved accommodations if you can. 
• Plan for what to bring, such as medicines, snacks, or medical supplies, if they are approved. 

Testing accommodations are meant to give you the support you need to do your best. Planning ahead with your family, school, and health care team can help everything go more smoothly. 

Questions to ask your school or care team

• Does my health condition qualify me for ACT or SAT testing accommodations? 
• Which accommodations might help me based on my symptoms or treatment? 
• What records or letters do I need for my application? 
• Can someone help me complete the required forms? 
• How long might it take to get the documents I need? 
• What should I do if my health needs change before test day? 
• Is there someone at my treatment center who can help me work with my school? 

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