ACT® & SAT® Accommodations for Educators (TAA & SSD)
Written by Rheanne Renzenbrink. Rheanne is a former secondary English teacher with over a decade of experience in the classroom and with standardized testing. She’s helped coordinate and proctor ACT® and SAT® exams, including supporting her own students through the accommodations process. Rheanne is passionate about making the testing experience less stressful and more accessible for everyone—students, families, and educators alike!
Why Accommodations Matter
Standardized tests like the ACT® and SAT® are major milestones for students, influencing college admissions and scholarships. However, for students with disabilities, these exams can be a source of significant stress—especially if they’re not able to demonstrate their full potential under standard conditions.
Accommodations provide equitable access by adjusting the test-taking process (without altering the content) so that students can showcase their true abilities. As a secondary teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how accommodations can make or break a student’s confidence and performance. Ensuring students have the right support is not just about compliance—it’s about giving them a fair shot at success.
Key Considerations for Educators:
- Accommodations don’t make the test easier; they level the playing field. Students should feel empowered, not stigmatized, for using them.
- The approval process can take time. Starting early is key—waiting too long can leave students unprepared or without needed support on test day.
- Know the differences between the ACT® and SAT® processes. The ACT® uses the Test Accessibility and Accommodations (TAA) system, while the SAT® uses the Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) portal.
This guide outlines practical steps, real-world insights, and best practices to help educators navigate the accommodations process effectively.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Who Qualifies for Testing Accommodations?
To qualify, students must have a documented disability that significantly impacts their ability to take standardized tests under normal conditions. Typically, students with an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or a 504 Plan are eligible, but additional documentation may be required.
Pro Tip: Many students (and even parents) assume that an IEP or 504 Plan automatically guarantees accommodations—it doesn’t. I always advise families to check College Board (SAT®) and ACT® requirements well in advance. Some accommodations that students receive in school may not translate directly to standardized testing.
Common Qualifying Disabilities:
- ADHD (one of the most frequently requested accommodations)
- Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)
- Visual or hearing impairments
- Physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy, mobility impairments)
- Psychiatric conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
- Medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy)
Step 2: Gather and Submit Documentation
SAT® Process:
- Ensure the student’s disability documentation is up to date (typically within 1–5 years, depending on the condition).
- Contact the school’s SSD Coordinator. As soon as a student knows that they will need accommodations for a College Board exam, they should contact the school’s SSD coordinator.
- Obtain parental consent using the SSD Consent Form.
- Submit requests via the SSD Online portal (highly recommended).
Pro Tip: The SSD portal is the fastest route, but I always double-check with my school’s SSD coordinator to ensure all documentation is complete before submission. Missing information can delay approval by weeks. If submitting independently, complete the Student Eligibility Form and submit it directly.
ACT® Process:
- Register the student for a test date before submitting an accommodations request.
- Confirm that a signed Consent to Release Information is on file at your school.
- Obtain parental consent using the TAA Consent Form.
- Submit documentation via the TAA system.
Pro Tip: Unlike the SAT®, ACT® accommodations are linked to a specific test date. I’ve seen students miss out on accommodations simply because they registered before completing the request process—timing is everything!
Step 3: Track Deadlines & Approval Timelines
SAT® Accommodations Deadlines:
- May 2, 2026 SAT → Deadline: March 13, 2026
- June 6, 2026 SAT → Deadline: April 17, 2026
Full SAT® accommodations deadlines: College Board Accommodations Calendar
ACT® Accommodations Deadlines:
- April 11, 2026 ACT → Deadline: March 24, 2026
- June 13, 2026 ACT → Deadline: May 29, 2026
- July 11, 2026 ACT → Deadline: June 24, 2026
Full ACT® accommodations deadlines: ACT Registration & Accommodations
Pro Tip: I create a shared calendar with my school’s SSD/TAA coordinators to keep track of deadlines. Sending out reminders to parents and students well in advance helps avoid last-minute scrambling.
Step 4: Review the Decision & Make Adjustments
Once the accommodation request is processed, the decision is sent via:
- SAT®: SSD Online & mailed SSD Eligibility Letter (includes SSD number)
- ACT®: Decision notification sent to the school’s TAA Coordinator
If denied:
- Appeal quickly by providing additional documentation.
- Contact SAT® SSD: (212) 713-8333 | Email: [email protected]
- Contact ACT® TAA: (319) 337-1851 | Email: [email protected]
Pro Tip: I encourage families to gather as much documentation as possible upfront. If an appeal is needed, letters from teachers, psychologists, and medical providers explaining how the disability impacts test-taking can make a difference.
Step 5: Test Day & Accommodations Logistics
Types of Testing Accommodations
| Accommodation Type | SAT® | ACT® |
|---|---|---|
| Extended Time | 50% or 100% more time | 50% or Special Testing |
| Multiple-Day Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Small Group Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Assistive Technology | Screen readers, speech-to-text | Screen readers, speech-to-text |
| Breaks and Medical Devices | Extra breaks, snacks, medical device access | Extra breaks, snacks, medical device access |
For digital SAT® testers: Features like zoom, text-to-speech, and screen readers have replaced some traditional accommodations.
Integrating Accommodations into Instruction and Practice
The best way to help all students access their full potential on test day is to have a year long plan in place where students can practice the content and the format of the exams, including the accommodations they will have on test day. Some best practices for educators include:
- Simulating testing conditions by giving students practice tests using their accommodations.
- Training students on assistive technology before test day.
- Providing extended-time assignments to align with real testing conditions.
- Teaching self-advocacy skills so students can confidently request accommodations.
- Ensuring accommodations are used consistently in both classroom assessments and standardized testing.
Progress Learning offers full-length ACT® and SAT® benchmark assessments that mimic the real assessment experience for students, including flexible administration options and student accommodation settings.
Final Tips for Educators
- Start early – the approval process can take 4-7 weeks.
- Work with your SSD/TAA coordinator – they handle requests faster.
- Encourage students to practice with accommodations – familiarity improves performance.
- Confirm accommodations before test day – double-check the student’s registration details.
Need help preparing your students for the ACT® or SAT®? Get in touch below to see how Progress Learning can help your school.
