Picture this: a student has mastered the ACT content, practiced for months, and feels ready — but on test day, the rigid format slows them down, creates discomfort, or prevents them from focusing. For many students with disabilities, medical conditions, or language-based needs, the standard ACT setup can be a hurdle to success.

The ACT offers a variety of accommodations to ensure every student can show their abilities fairly. Knowing what’s available — and how to secure it — can completely change the testing experience.

Interest: What ACT Accommodations Mean for Students

ACT accommodations are official modifications to the way the test is administered. They don’t make the test easier — they make it fairer by removing unnecessary barriers.

These accommodations can be granted to students with:

• Learning disabilities (such as dyslexia)

• ADHD

• Visual, hearing, or motor impairments

• Chronic medical conditions

• English learner needs

Approval comes through the ACT Test Accessibility and Accommodations (TAA) system and must be arranged in advance.

The Complete List of ACT Accommodations

1. Standard Accommodations Without Extra Time

• Large-print test booklets for students with visual needs

• Small group testing to minimize distractions

• Wheelchair-accessible testing spaces

• Stop-the-clock breaks for medical needs.

• Permission for medical devices, food, or drink

• Visual time signals instead of verbal warnings

2. Extended Time

• Time and a half (most common)

• Special timing based on documented needs
  Extended time can be applied to the whole test or specific sections.

3. Special Testing

• Multi-day testing for students who cannot complete the test in one sitting

• Braille versions and tactile graphics

• Reader or scribe assistance

• Alternate test formats for vision or hearing impairments

4. English Learner Supports

• Extended time (up to 50%)

• Use of an approved bilingual dictionary (word-to-word, without definitions)

• Translated written test instructions into the student’s native language

How to Apply for ACT Accommodations

1. Talk to Your School Official or Counselor – They initiate requests through the TAA system.

2. Provide Documentation – This can include evaluations, medical notes, IEPs, or 504 plans.

3. Submit Early – Applications should be sent well before the registration deadline for your chosen test date.

4. Get Approval Confirmation – ACT will notify both the student and the school about the decision.

Start here: ACT Accommodations and Supports

Why This Knowledge Matters for Students and Tutors

For students, accommodations can be the difference between a score that reflects their hard work and one that’s held back by avoidable barriers. For tutors, knowing these options means you can guide families toward the right paperwork, deadlines, and test-day setups — giving students the tools they need to thrive.

When paired with effective prep and confidence-building strategies, ACT accommodations open the door to higher scores, better college options, and a smoother path to success.