Registering for SAT with Accommodations

For students with documented disabilities, obtaining accommodations for the SAT is a critical step to ensuring a fair and supportive testing environment. The College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) is responsible for reviewing accommodation requests and guiding eligible students through the process. This article outlines each step to help you navigate the registration process and secure the necessary accommodations.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before beginning the process, verify that you qualify for accommodations. Key points include:

• Documented Disability:
  Ensure you have a current diagnosis and supporting evidence of a disability that affects your test performance. Common accommodations include extended time, additional breaks, and the use of assistive technology.

• Assess Your Needs:
  Consider which accommodations would most effectively support your testing experience and improve your ability to perform on the exam.

Step 2: Begin the Accommodation Request Process Early

The process to apply for SAT accommodations can be time-consuming, sometimes taking up to seven weeks. It is essential to start early to meet all deadlines and ensure a timely decision.

• Plan Ahead:
  Initiate your request well in advance of your intended test date so that all documentation can be reviewed and processed on time.

Step 3: Submit a Request for Accommodations

There are two primary ways to submit your request:

• Through Your School:
  If you attend a traditional school, work with your SSD Coordinator. Many schools have a designated staff member who can submit your accommodation request via the SSD Online portal.

• Direct Submission:
  If you are homeschooled or prefer handling the process independently, complete the Student Eligibility FormStudent Eligibility Form. Submit this form along with all required supporting documentation directly to the College Board.

Step 4: Provide Necessary Documentation

To support your accommodation request, you must submit thorough documentation. This may include:

• Educational Plans:
  Any current Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan that details your educational accommodations.

• Evaluation Reports:
  Recent evaluations by qualified professionals that explain your disability and justify the need for specific accommodations.

• School Records:
  Evidence of past accommodations or academic adjustments that highlight your longstanding needs.

Ensure that all documentation is current and clearly demonstrates the necessity for accommodations during the SAT.

Step 5: Await Approval

After submitting your request:

• Processing:
  The College Board will review your submission. Both you and your school's SSD Coordinator (if applicable) will be notified of the decision.

• Eligibility Letter:
  If approved, you will receive an eligibility letter that outlines the specific accommodations granted. This letter will be vital for ensuring that the accommodations appear on your admission ticket.

Step 6: Register for the SAT

Once your accommodations have been approved:

• Proceed with Registration:
  Log in to your College Board account and start the SAT registration process. When prompted, confirm that you plan to use your approved accommodations.

• Verification on Admission Ticket:
  After registration, check that your admission ticket accurately reflects the accommodations you have been granted. If any discrepancies occur, contact SSD immediately at 212-713-8333 to have them corrected.

Step 7: Prepare for Test Day

Successful preparation includes understanding how your accommodations will be implemented:

• Familiarize Yourself with the Process:
  Review how the accommodations will be administered on test day, especially if you are taking the digital SAT, as some adjustments may differ from the traditional paper-based test.

• Practice with Accommodations:
  Utilize resources and practice tests that replicate the conditions under which you will take the exam. This practice can help you get comfortable with the extra time, breaks, or specific tools you’ll be using.

Additional Considerations

• Missed Deadlines:
  If you miss the accommodation request deadline, submit your request as soon as possible. Note that if approval is not granted in time, you may need to register for a later test date.

• Reapplying for Accommodations:
  If you have been previously approved for accommodations on other College Board exams (such as the PSAT/NMSQT or AP Exams), verify with SSD whether your current accommodations remain valid. You typically do not need to reapply if your previous accommodations are still in effect.

By starting early and following these steps, you can ensure that your SAT registration reflects the accommodations you need. This preparation helps create a fair testing environment, allowing you to focus on performing your best on test day.