Common Access Arrangements for Exams

Exam access arrangements ensure that students with additional needs can take exams fairly and demonstrate their true abilities. These arrangements do not give any candidate an advantage—they simply remove barriers that may otherwise affect performance.

Access arrangements must usually be requested in advance and supported by appropriate evidence, such as medical documentation or specialist assessments.
Your exam centre will guide you through this process.

What Access Arrangements Are Available?

Extra Time

Many students qualify for additional time, typically 25%. In some cases, a higher amount may be approved.
This arrangement supports learners with conditions that affect processing speed, concentration, or writing fluency.

Reader

A trained adult can read the exam questions and instructions aloud to the candidate.
(Note: Readers cannot be used in exams where reading skills are directly assessed.)

Scribe / Amanuensis

A scribe writes or types the candidate’s dictated answers.
This arrangement supports students with difficulties affecting handwriting, coordination, or physical ability.

Use of a Computer / Word Processor

Students who struggle with handwriting or benefit from typing may use a computer.
Spell-check functions are usually disabled unless permitted by the exam board.

Separate or Quiet Room

Candidates who need reduced distractions, experience high anxiety, or require one-to-one supervision may sit their exams in a different room.

Rest Breaks

Supervised breaks during the exam that do not count towards the time allowed.
Useful for candidates with medical conditions, fatigue, or anxiety.

Modified Exam Papers

These include:

• Large-print papers
• High-contrast papers
• Braille papers
• Papers with simplified or modified language (where applicable)

Prompter

A prompter helps keep the candidate focused by giving gentle reminders without providing any academic assistance.

Assistive Technology

Some candidates may use technology such as:

• Screen readers
• Magnification software
• Speech-to-text tools (where permitted)

Practical Assistance

In practical or science-based assessments, support may be provided for tasks such as handling equipment—without offering help that influences the outcome.

How to Apply

To request access arrangements:

1. Speak with your school or exam centre early in the year.
2. Provide any required evidence (e.g., medical letters, specialist reports).
3. Allow time for the centre to submit your application to the exam board.