ADA testing accommodations

Deadline

All requests and supporting documentation must be received by September 5, 2013.

Available accommodations

Under the ADA, entities that administer standardized exams must offer the exams in a place and manner that are accessible to persons with disabilities. This may require reasonable modifications to the manner in which the test is administered. Available accommodations include but are not limited to the following:

• Extended testing time
• Auxiliary aids and services, such as large-print type
• Extra breaks
• Reduced-distraction testing rooms

The goal of such accommodations is to ensure that the test results of an individual with documented disabilities accurately reflect the individual’s aptitude or achievement level (or whatever other factor the exam purports to measure) rather than the individual’s impaired sensory, manual or speaking skills (except where those skills are the factors that the test purports to measure).

The goal of NCEES is to provide all qualified candidates access to the testing program. This includes disabled candidates who demonstrate functional limitations that affect their ability to take the exam.

Making a request

If you wish to request special testing accommodations due to a documented disability, you will be asked to provide information about your disability and the specific accommodations you are requesting after online exam registration with NCEES. To be granted special accommodations, you must make this request each time you take an exam. Applicants are encouraged to register for the exam as early as possible.

Supporting documentation

After online exam registration, you will be able to select a link to request special accommodations. You will then be required to submit medical or psychological documentation in support of your request for special accommodations. NCEES recommends submitting supporting documentation promptly after registering online, as additional information may be required. Supporting documentation can be submitted via fax, email, or regular mail to the attention of the NCEES Special Accommodations Coordinator. Click here for contact information.

Guidelines for supporting documentation

First time requests: In addition to providing supporting medical or psychological documentation, you must also submit the Certification of Prior Test Accommodations form.

Repeat requests: If you were granted accommodations within the last five years, you need only submit supporting documentation if you are requesting different accommodations. If you were granted accommodations more than five years prior to your exam date, you may need to provide an update to your medical or psychological documentation.

Notification

You should periodically log in to your My NCEES account to check the status of your request. The licensing board (or its agent) where your exam will be administered will notify you of any specific accommodations granted.