Access Arrangements
If you have a learning difficulty, disability or medical condition that could disadvantage you in an exam, you may be entitled to access arrangements. These are agreed in advance with the exam board and provided free of charge.
Types of Access Arrangements
Extra Time
Additional time in the exam room for candidates with evidenced processing, reading or writing difficulties.
Reader & Scribe
Support reading questions aloud or recording answers for candidates unable to do so unaided.
Rest Breaks
Supervised breaks during an exam for candidates with medical needs, without reducing overall working time.
Use of a Computer
Word-processed answers for candidates whose handwriting is illegible or who have a relevant physical condition.
Evidence We'll Need
Access arrangements have to reflect your normal way of working, so exam boards require supporting evidence before they can be approved. Any of the following can help build your case:
- Specialist assessment report
- Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
- Letter from a medical professional
- Evidence of prior support in school (e.g. a Form 8)
- Supervised mock exam using the arrangement
- Teacher observations of normal working practice
Once we have your evidence, we submit the access arrangements application to the relevant exam board on your behalf. In some cases, the board will ask for a supervised mock exam using the requested arrangement to confirm it genuinely reflects how you work day-to-day.
There's no charge for this. Access arrangements are provided free of charge to any candidate who qualifies — the only cost involved is your standard exam entry fee.
Medical Conditions & Exam Day
If you have a chronic medical condition, let us know in advance so we can make the right adjustments to your exam setting. As a general rule, food and drink aren't permitted in the exam room, with the exception of water in a clear, unlabelled bottle. Candidates with a medical exception — for example, diabetes — are permitted to bring glucose tablets or a glucose drink in a clear, unlabelled container. For students whose circumstances require it, such as those using a scribe or with an exceptional medical condition, we can arrange a private room.
