High-stakes exams like the MCAT, Bar exam, SAT, and ACT can be stressful for anyone. But if you have a learning disability, ADHD, or another condition that affects how you process information, these tests can feel particularly overwhelming. The good news is that standardized testing accommodations exist to level the playing field, giving you the same opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge as everyone else.
If you’re wondering how to get testing accommodations or what documentation you need, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about securing accommodations for major standardized exams.
Understanding Your Right to Testing Accommodations
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), testing organizations must provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with documented disabilities. The objective is to level the playing field, allowing people with disabilities the same opportunity as those without disabilities to pass the exam. Accommodations aren’t about making the test easier—they’re about removing barriers that prevent you from showing what you actually know.
Common conditions that may qualify for test accommodations include:
- Learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)
- ADHD
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Anxiety disorders and other psychiatric conditions
- Physical or mobility impairments
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Chronic health conditions
- Temporary medical conditions (injuries, pregnancy, nursing)
It’s important to remember that accommodations are based on your current functional limitations in relation to the demands of standardized test-taking, not diagnosis alone. You’ll need to demonstrate how your condition specifically impacts your ability to take the test under standard conditions.
Types of Testing Accommodations Available
Testing organizations offer a range of accommodations designed to address different functional limitations. While testing organizations don’t provide exhaustive lists, common accommodations include extended time, additional breaks or stop-the-clock breaks, and various assistive technologies.
Extended Time
Extended time is the most frequently granted accommodation, typically provided as:
- Time and a half (50% additional time)
- Double time (100% additional time)
- Breaks as needed during testing
Other Common Accommodations
Other accommodations may include:
- Small group or separate testing room
- Computer with screen reader or magnification
- Adjustable-height workstation
- Use of specific assistive technology
- Extended or more frequent breaks
- Access to food, drinks, or medication during breaks
The specific accommodations you receive will depend on your functional limitations and how they affect your test-taking abilities.
When to Start the Accommodations Process
Timing is critical when applying for testing accommodations. The application and review process can be lengthy, and missing deadlines means you may have to postpone your exam or take it under standard conditions. For the MCAT, you should submit your request well in advance, preferably several months before your planned test date, as reviews can take 60 days or more. Bar exam accommodations often have even earlier deadlines—sometimes six months to a year before your test date.
General Timeline for Major Exams
Here’s a general timeline for major exams:
- MCAT: Apply at least 60-90 days before your desired test date
- Bar Exam: Apply 6-12 months before your exam (varies by state)
- SAT: Approval can take up to seven weeks, so start the process as early as possible.
- ACT: Processing usually takes 10 to 14 business days.
Starting early gives you time to gather documentation, address any issues with your application, and file an appeal if needed.
Required Documentation for Testing Accommodations
Here’s the reality: you can’t get testing accommodations without proper documentation. All accommodation requests require comprehensive evaluations from qualified professionals, and this is often the biggest hurdle people face when seeking accommodations.
The specific requirements vary by exam, but testing organizations generally look for similar types of information to support your request.
For Learning Disabilities and ADHD
An ADHD diagnosis must be made by a medical or psychological professional based on the DSM-5, and the report should be no more than five years old. Your documentation should include:
- A clear diagnosis from a qualified professional
- Description of how the condition affects test-taking specifically
- Results from comprehensive neuropsychological testing
- History of accommodations received in educational settings
- Rationale for each requested accommodation
For Psychiatric Conditions
If the basis for seeking accommodations is a psychiatric condition, a current psychiatric update no more than one year old is required.
What Makes Documentation “Comprehensive”?
Testing organizations look for evaluations that include:
- Current assessment of functional limitations
- Standardized test results showing cognitive impact
- Professional credentials of the evaluator
- Specific recommendations tied to test demands
- Historical documentation (when applicable)
This is exactly what neuropsychological testing provides. If you don’t have recent, comprehensive testing that meets these requirements, you’ll need to get evaluated before you can even apply for accommodations.
At KMN Psych, we’re experienced in providing the thorough neuropsychological evaluations needed for MCAT and Bar exam accommodations, as well as SAT and ACT testing. Our assessments are specifically designed to include all the documentation requirements testing organizations require.
The Application Process: Step by Step
While each exam has its own process, most accommodations applications follow a similar framework. Understanding these common steps will help you prepare regardless of which test you’re taking.
1. Research Your Specific Test Requirements
Visit the official website for your exam to understand:
- Application deadlines
- Required forms
- Specific documentation guidelines
- Appeal process if denied
2. Gather Your Documentation
Collect all necessary paperwork, including:
- Diagnostic reports from qualified professionals
- History of previous accommodations (IEPs, 504 plans, college accommodations)
- Recent comprehensive evaluations
- Personal statement describing your challenges
A personal statement is a narrative written from your perspective that describes your current functional limitations, history of accommodations, and what you feel is necessary to “level the playing field” on the exam.
3. Work With Your School or Apply Independently
For college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT, most high schools have at least one staff member to help students apply, though you can always apply on your own if needed.
For professional exams like the MCAT and Bar exam, you typically apply directly through the testing organization’s accommodation portal.
4. Submit Your Application
Make sure to:
- Complete all required forms
- Include all supporting documentation
- Submit by the stated deadline
- Keep copies of everything you submit
5. Follow Up and Prepare for Possible Denial
Most of the time, an accommodation rejection is due to insufficient documentation or the report did not cover all of the benchmarks. If your request is denied, review the reason carefully and consider:
- Obtaining updated or more comprehensive documentation
- Filing an appeal with additional supporting information
- Consulting with testing accommodation specialists
Getting the Right Documentation for Accommodations
Here’s the single most important thing to know: inadequate documentation is the number one reason accommodations requests are denied. It’s not about your diagnosis or your need—it’s about having the right paperwork that proves both to the testing organization.
Many people face this challenge: they know they have ADHD, a learning disability, or another condition, but they either don’t have recent testing or their previous evaluation doesn’t include the specific components testing organizations require.
Why Testing Organizations Reject Documentation
Common reasons include:
- Evaluations are too old (beyond 3-5 year window)
- Reports lack standardized test scores
- Missing clear functional limitations related to test-taking
- No specific accommodation recommendations
- Evaluator credentials don’t meet requirements
- Incomplete assessment batteries
If you’re missing any of these components, you’ll need to get tested before you can successfully apply for accommodations.
What Neuropsychological Testing Provides
A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation is specifically designed to give testing organizations exactly what they need. These assessments measure cognitive functions like attention, processing speed, memory, and executive functioning—the very skills required for successful test-taking.
The resulting 15-20 page report includes:
- Standardized test scores from validated assessment tools
- Clinical observations and diagnostic impressions
- Clear documentation of functional limitations
- Specific accommodation recommendations based on your cognitive profile
- Professional credentials and signature from a qualified clinical psychologist
This is the documentation that gets accommodation requests approved.
If you need testing to support your accommodations request, KMN Psych can help. Our San Diego-based practice specializes in neuropsychological evaluations specifically for individuals ages 7 and up who need documentation for testing accommodations. Our clinical psychologist, Dr. Doshay, understands exactly what testing organizations look for and ensures your evaluation includes all necessary components for MCAT, Bar exam, SAT, ACT, and other standardized tests.
Our testing process includes:
- Comprehensive assessment of cognitive and behavioral functioning
- Standardized measures like the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-V) and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF)
- Detailed 15-20 page report with specific accommodation recommendations
- Optional consultation to discuss results and next steps
Learn more about our MCAT and Bar exam accommodation testing services or explore our comprehensive ADHD testing options.
Exam-Specific Considerations
While the general accommodations process shares common elements across exams, each major test has its own unique requirements and procedures. Understanding these specific considerations will help you navigate the application process more effectively.
MCAT Accommodations
The AAMC has centralized the MCAT accommodations application process into one system that allows you to apply for accommodations for both the MCAT and PREview exams. MCAT accommodations are considered among the most challenging to obtain, requiring extremely thorough documentation.
The review considers three types of documentation with different weights:
- Required: Missing these will result in an incomplete application
- Strongly Recommended: Usually necessary for full review
- If Applicable: May not be necessary depending on your situation
Bar Exam Accommodations
Bar exam accommodations vary significantly by state. Requests for test accommodations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must submit documentation from qualified professionals providing information on functional limitations, current level of impairment, and rationale for requested accommodations.
Most states require applications months in advance, with deadlines often falling 4-8 months before the exam date.
SAT and ACT Accommodations
Kids who get testing accommodations through an IEP or a 504 plan can often get the same accommodations for the SAT or ACT. However, accommodations aren’t automatic—you still need to apply through the proper channels.
For the SAT, work with your school’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) coordinator. For the ACT, register online first, then indicate your accommodation request through the ACT’s Test Accessibility and Accommodations System.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others’ mistakes can save you time and frustration. These are the most common errors people make when applying for testing accommodations.
When applying for testing accommodations:
Don’t wait until the last minute. The process of documenting your disabilities and then applying for accommodations can be very time-consuming and stressful, so start well in advance.
Don’t assume old documentation is sufficient. Many testing organizations require recent evaluations, typically within the last 3-5 years for learning disabilities and ADHD, or within one year for psychiatric conditions. If your testing is outdated, you’ll need to get re-evaluated before applying for accommodations.
Don’t submit incomplete applications. Missing documentation is one of the top reasons for delays or denials.
Don’t give up after a denial. If your initial request is denied, don’t hesitate to appeal the decision and provide additional documentation if necessary.
Taking the Next Step
The path to testing accommodations starts with proper documentation. Whether you’ve never been formally evaluated, your previous testing is too old, or your existing documentation doesn’t meet the specific requirements for accommodations, getting comprehensive neuropsychological testing is often the necessary first step.
What to Expect from KMN Psych
Here’s what that process looks like at KMN Psych:
- Initial consultation to understand your needs and accommodation goals
- Comprehensive assessment using standardized measures like the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – 5th Edition (WAIS-V), Wechsler Child Intelligence Scale – 5th Edition (WISC-V), and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF)
- Detailed 15-20 page report with specific accommodation recommendations tailored to your exam requirements
- Optional consultation with Dr. Doshay to discuss results and review your accommodation application strategy
Our evaluations are designed to meet the documentation requirements for:
- MCAT and other medical school entrance exams
- Bar exams (varies by state)
- SAT and ACT college entrance exams
- GRE, LSAT, GMAT, and other graduate admission tests
- Professional licensing exams
We also work with individuals seeking IEP accommodations for academic settings and those needing diagnostic clarity for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other conditions.
Contact us today at (858) 224-2906 to schedule your evaluation. You can also verify your insurance coverage to understand your financial options—we accept PPO insurance as well as self-pay and non-insured clients.
Learn more about whether neuropsych testing is covered by insurance.
Don’t let inadequate documentation stand between you and the accommodations you need. With comprehensive neuropsychological testing from KMN Psych, you’ll have the objective, detailed evidence required to support your accommodations request. Accommodations aren’t an advantage—they’re about ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to demonstrate their true capabilities.
References
- Association of American Medical Colleges. (2025). MCAT Exam with Accommodations. Retrieved from https://students-residents.aamc.org/mcat-exam-accommodations/take-mcat-exam-accommodations
- Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 12102 (1990).
- College Board. (2025). SAT Accommodations. Retrieved from https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/accommodations