Like most other standardized tests, the ACT offers an array of options for students who qualify for testing accommodations. In this post, Iโll take you through some of the most common accommodations on the ACT, such as extra time, and then weโll finish by going over how to get accommodations on the ACT. Let’s dive in.
ACT Accommodation Options
The ACT emphasizes that it approves accommodations โbased on the examineeโs diagnosis and needs,โ so the specific accommodations available to you will vary depending on whether youโre applying because of a learning disability, an attention disorder, a physical handicap, or another condition. Some of the most common accommodation options include:
- 50% time extension (โtime and a halfโ)
- 100% time extension (โdouble timeโ)
- Multiple-day testing
- Alternate test formats (such as Braille or audio)
- Wheelchair-accessible room
- Use of a computer for the Writing Test
This is by no means an exhaustive list, however, and I always encourage students & parents to contact the ACT directly in order to get the most comprehensive picture of the various testing accommodations that may be available to them.
Related Reading: What’s a Good ACT Score For 2023 & 2024?
How to Apply for Extra Time (and Other Accommodations)
- The first step is to register for a test date. During the registration process, youโll be prompted to provide some initial information about any accessibility needs that you have. Once the ACT has processed your test registration and accessibility requestโฆ
- Youโll receive information to pass along to the official at your school who is in charge of assisting with the application process for testing accommodations; this may be a guidance counselor, a learning specialist, or some other staff member. Youโll work with that school official toโฆ
- Complete the rest of the process, which primarily entails providing documentation to the ACT. This documentation must demonstrate A) that your condition or disability is professionally diagnosed and limits โone or more major life activitiesโ and B) that accommodations are โappropriate and reasonable for the documented disability.โ
Step 3 is typically the biggest obstacle for students looking to get testing accommodations on the ACT, particularly because the ACT can be a bit hard-nosed in some cases regarding proof of a diagnosed condition. Acceptable documentation can include an IEP (Individual Education Plan) or a Section 504 plan, so students who already get accommodations in school (and therefore typically already have that documentation) tend to have an easier time getting ACT approval.
If youโre planning to apply for accommodations on the ACT, make sure you allow plenty of time to complete the process. This is especially true if you donโt currently get accommodations in school: youโll need to get a formal diagnosis, submit the required paperwork to the ACT, and give them time to make a decision before your test date. Certain disabilities require accommodations that can’t be provided at a standard test center, so you may need to set up a separate test date at a special testing site that is equipped to meet those needs. Finally, you also want to make sure that you leave enough of a time cushion for an appeal. If the ACT denies your application for accommodations, you may be able to reapply with additional documentation, so donโt limit your options by cutting it too close to the test date!
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That wraps up our overview of ACT testing accommodations. The best way to get more information about how to get extra time or other accommodations on the ACT is by contacting the ACT directly, or by consulting with the official at your school in charge of the application process. If youโre looking for support with any other aspect of the test, head over to Inspirica Pros’ ACT headquarters, where our team of experienced ACT tutors are ready to help youย crush the ACT.
