ACT/SAT Accommodation Testing

Diagnostic Learning provides comprehensive evaluations that meet the official ACT/SAT documentation requirements.

Silhouette of an adult and a child holding hands, facing forward.
Empty graduation cap icon
Outline of a medal or award ribbon with a circular top and two ribbons hanging down.
Icon of a globe with black grid lines on a teal background.

Trusted by K-12 Public and Private Schools Nationwide

Accepted by 550+ Universities & Colleges

21+ years of Expertise

Serving all 50 states

Understanding SAT and 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.

Diagnostic 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.

Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with rays of light on a teal background.

Important to Know

Having an IEP or 504 Plan does not automatically guarantee accommodations. Each request may require updated evaluation documentation that shows a functional need for accommodations.

SAT Accommodations: What You Need to Know

Students with documented disabilities may qualify for accommodations on the SAT. Commonly approved supports include:

Extended Time

50% or 100% extra time on all sections.

Extra or Extended Breaks

 Additional time to rest between test sections.

Reader or Scribe

Support for significant reading or writing disabilities

Small Group or Private Room Testing

 Reduced-distraction testing environment.

Requests are typically submitted through the SSD Portal by a school coordinator. Families may also apply directly using a Student Eligibility Form.

How to Apply

• 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: (accommodations used consistently for ~6 months)

SAT Key Requirements

For official details, visit: SAT Accommodations.

ACT Accommodations: How They Differ

 The ACT offers a similar range of accommodations, but the process and categories differ slightly.

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)

Requests are submitted through the TAA system by a school official.

Homeschooled students submit an Exceptions Statement explaining the need for accommodations.

How to Apply (ACT)

• A current evaluation (within the last 3 years) showing substantial limitation

• Consistent use of accommodations in school documented in records

ACT Key Requirements

For official details, visit: ACT Accommodations.

A hand holding a pencil, marking answers on a multiple-choice answer sheet, with medical-themed options and a black background surface.

Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

Both exams serve the same purpose, but some students naturally align with one format over the other.

• SAT: Often suits students who excel in language arts and prefer slightly more time per question.

• ACT: Often suits students who are strong in STEM and comfortable with a faster-paced test.


After the Evaluation: Creating a “Road Map” for Success

Let us help you become the expert in your child’s learning

Within 10 to 14 working days, families meet with a Diagnostic Learning Services Director to review findings. During this meeting, we explain the results in clear, practical terms and walk through recommendations and accommodations that can be shared with schools and support professionals.

Your report becomes a powerful tool that helps families advocate confidently and helps schools implement appropriate supports.

What Families Receive:

  • A clear explanation of evaluation results

  • Recommendations for test accommodations and support

  • Documentation that can support advocacy

  • Guidance on possible interventions and resources