What Are SAT Accommodations?
SAT accommodations are adjustments that allow eligible students to take the SAT test under conditions that match their learning needs. These supports are designed for students with documented disabilities that affect reading, writing, attention, processing, vision, or other essential skills needed to complete the exam. The goal is to create an equitable testing environment so each student can demonstrate what they know without being limited by their disability.
Accommodations do not change what is tested on the SAT. Instead, they remove barriers by providing appropriate tools or additional time when necessary. Understanding how accommodations for SAT testing work can help you decide whether you need them and how to plan your request well before the deadline.
Understanding SAT Testing Accommodations
SAT testing accommodations are specific adjustments approved by the College Board® to ensure that students with disabilities can take the digital SAT in a fair and accessible setting. These adjustments may include extra time, additional breaks, assistive technology, alternate test formats, or changes to the testing environment. Each accommodation is meant to reduce the impact of a disability on test performance while keeping the exam’s content and standards the same for every student.
The type of accommodation a student receives depends on their documented needs and how their disability affects test-taking. For example, a student with a reading-related disability may need assistive technology, while a student with a medical condition may require stop-the-clock breaks. Understanding these options will help you identify which accommodations align with your needs before you begin the SAT accommodations request process.
Who Qualifies for SAT Accommodations?
Students may qualify for SAT accommodations if they have a documented disability that affects how they read, write, process information, concentrate, move, or access digital content during testing. These disabilities can include learning disorders, ADHD, visual or hearing impairments, physical or medical conditions, and certain mental health needs. Approval is based on how the disability affects test-taking, not the diagnosis alone.
Students who already receive support through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan often qualify for similar SAT testing accommodations, although approval is not automatic. Each request is reviewed to confirm that the accommodation is necessary and consistent with the student's history of school-based support. For a detailed breakdown of qualifying disabilities and documentation needs, read our guide on SAT accommodations for students with disabilities.
SAT Accommodations List
Students approved for SAT testing accommodations may receive different types of support depending on their needs. Each accommodation addresses a specific barrier, such as extended time, assistive tools, or a quieter testing space. Reviewing the full SAT accommodations list helps you understand what options are available and which ones may apply to your situation. Use the tabs below to explore the accommodations approved by the College Board for eligible digital SAT test takers.
Extended time is provided to students who need additional time to read, process, or respond to test questions. It supports disabilities that affect pacing or working speed during timed sections. The digital SAT applies the approved timing automatically for all required sections once extended-time accommodations are confirmed through the SSD process.
Extra break accommodations support students who need additional rest or medically necessary pauses during the digital SAT. These adjustments help manage fatigue, attention challenges, or health conditions. BluebookTM schedules the correct break pattern, including extra, extended, or stop-the-clock breaks, based on each student’s SSD approval and documented testing needs.
Assistive technology accommodations help students with visual impairments or severe reading disabilities access digital SAT content. Approved tools may include screen readers, magnification features, refreshed Braille displays, or color adjustments. The SAT integrates these tools automatically and provides the required extended time and compatible testing settings for approved students.
A human reader or scribe supports students with visual disabilities, mobility limitations, or dysgraphia. A reader may read the test aloud, while a scribe records responses accurately. Some students may use speech-to-text tools as approved. These accommodations ensure the digital SAT can be completed smoothly in alignment with documented testing needs.
Computer-based accommodations adjust how students navigate or enter responses on the digital SAT. These may include word processing for written tasks, large-print answer formats, or permission to use a four-function calculator for disability-related needs. Each tool is activated according to SSD approval and supports equal access to digital testing features.
A reduced-distraction or private testing room is available for students who need a quieter or less stimulating environment. This accommodation supports attention, sensory, medical, or anxiety-related needs. Students may receive seating in a quieter area, testing with fewer peers, or full private testing based on SSD approval and documented needs for a calmer space.
Large-text or braille formats support students who need alternative ways to view digital SAT content. Options may include zoom adjustments, large-text displays, braille formats, or raised-line drawings. Some students use personal braille devices, while others receive paper braille when digital access is not feasible, depending on SSD approval.
Digital SAT accessibility enhancements offer built-in features that support various learning needs. These may include adjustable font sizes, zoom tools, color contrast settings, and marking questions for review. Some features are available to all students, while enhanced versions require SSD approval to ensure appropriate access during the digital SAT.
Extended Time
Extended time is provided to students who need additional time to read, process, or respond to test questions. It supports disabilities that affect pacing or working speed during timed sections. The digital SAT applies the approved timing automatically for all required sections once extended-time accommodations are confirmed through the SSD process.
Extra Breaks / Stop-the-Clock Breaks
Extra break accommodations support students who need additional rest or medically necessary pauses during the digital SAT. These adjustments help manage fatigue, attention challenges, or health conditions. BluebookTM schedules the correct break pattern, including extra, extended, or stop-the-clock breaks, based on each student’s SSD approval and documented testing needs.
Assistive Technology and Screen Readers
Assistive technology accommodations help students with visual impairments or severe reading disabilities access digital SAT content. Approved tools may include screen readers, magnification features, refreshed Braille displays, or color adjustments. The SAT integrates these tools automatically and provides the required extended time and compatible testing settings for approved students.
Human Reader / Scribe
A human reader or scribe supports students with visual disabilities, mobility limitations, or dysgraphia. A reader may read the test aloud, while a scribe records responses accurately. Some students may use speech-to-text tools as approved. These accommodations ensure the digital SAT can be completed smoothly in alignment with documented testing needs.
Computer-Based Accommodations
Computer-based accommodations adjust how students navigate or enter responses on the digital SAT. These may include word processing for written tasks, large-print answer formats, or permission to use a four-function calculator for disability-related needs. Each tool is activated according to SSD approval and supports equal access to digital testing features.
Reduced-Distraction or Private Testing Room
A reduced-distraction or private testing room is available for students who need a quieter or less stimulating environment. This accommodation supports attention, sensory, medical, or anxiety-related needs. Students may receive seating in a quieter area, testing with fewer peers, or full private testing based on SSD approval and documented needs for a calmer space.
Large-Text or Braille Format
Large-text or braille formats support students who need alternative ways to view digital SAT content. Options may include zoom adjustments, large-text displays, braille formats, or raised-line drawings. Some students use personal braille devices, while others receive paper braille when digital access is not feasible, depending on SSD approval.
Digital SAT Accommodations Enhancements
Digital SAT accessibility enhancements offer built-in features that support various learning needs. These may include adjustable font sizes, zoom tools, color contrast settings, and marking questions for review. Some features are available to all students, while enhanced versions require SSD approval to ensure appropriate access during the digital SAT.
How to Get Accommodations for SAT (Step-by-Step)
Submitting an SAT accommodations request involves gathering the right documentation, understanding eligibility, and meeting important deadlines. The College Board reviews each request carefully, so starting early helps avoid delays. Use the steps below to understand what you need and how to complete the process on time.
Required Documentation and Eligibility Verification
To receive SAT testing accommodations, you must show that your disability affects how you take the digital SAT under standard conditions. Documentation may include medical evaluations, psychoeducational reports, school-based plans such as an IEP, or a 504 Plan. These documents should clearly explain your diagnosis, describe how it impacts test-taking, and justify the accommodations you are requesting. Knowing how to get accommodations for SAT starts with preparing clear documentation that explains your disability and how it affects your test-taking experience.
The College Board also considers whether the accommodation has been used at school. Students who receive regular classroom support are more likely to be approved for accommodations that match their school-based needs. Make sure your documentation is current, complete, and consistent with the support you receive during instruction.
SAT Accommodations Deadlines
An SAT accommodations request must be submitted well before your intended test date. The approval process can take several weeks, especially during busy testing periods. Missing the deadline means your accommodations may not apply to the upcoming exam, and you may need to wait for the next available test window.
Schools often recommend submitting requests at least 7 weeks before the digital SAT. If you are testing on SAT School Day, your school will publish specific deadlines. Starting early gives you enough time to gather documents, respond to any follow-up requests, and ensure your approval is finalized before test day.
Approval Timelines: How Long It Takes
Most SAT accommodation requests are processed within a few weeks, although complex cases may take longer. You will receive an official decision through your College Board account. If more information is required, the review may be delayed, so it is important to submit clear and complete documentation from the start.
Once approved, your accommodations remain valid for future SAT administrations unless your school situation or disability status changes. You can focus on preparing for the exam using tools like the SAT Prep Course, SAT QBank, or a full-length SAT Practice Test to get familiar with digital testing tools.
Can students get extra time on the SAT, and how much additional time do they receive?
Students who qualify for extended time receive extra testing minutes based on their documented needs. Common levels include time and a half or double time, while higher levels may be approved for specific disabilities. Extended time applies only to the sections where it is needed, and the digital SAT automatically assigns the correct timing once accommodations are activated.
SAT Policies Every Test-Taker Must Know (2026)
The SAT has specific test day policies designed to protect fairness, security, and consistency for all students. Understanding these SAT policies before the exam helps you avoid accidental violations that may lead to score cancellation. Review the rules below carefully so you know what to expect and what behavior is permitted inside the testing environment.
SAT General Policy and Digital Test Rules
All students must follow the official digital SAT policies throughout the entire test session. You must bring an approved testing device, arrive with a valid photo ID, and stay within the allowed time for each section. Switching between sections, sharing test content, or accessing outside materials is strictly prohibited. To better prepare for exam-day expectations, review what to bring on SAT test day and understand the standard test flow before arriving at the center.
SAT Phone and Watch Policy
The sat phone policy and SAT watch policy are strict for all digital SAT administrations. You cannot access a mobile phone, smartwatch, fitness tracker, or any wearable with communication or recording features during the test or breaks. These devices must remain powered off and stored away from your desk. Even accidental sounds or vibrations can lead to dismissal from the testing room.
Violations of Device Policy
If a prohibited device is used, visible, or makes noise during the digital SAT, the test center staff may confiscate it. Violating the device policy may result in immediate dismissal, score cancellation, and a required incident report. To avoid penalties, completely power off all devices and keep them out of reach for the entire test session.
SAT Calculator Policy
The digital SAT allows students to use both the built-in Desmos graphing calculator within Bluebook and approved handheld calculators. The SAT test calculator policy outlines clear guidelines on which devices are acceptable. Calculators with CAS functionality, wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, or stylus input are not permitted. You may use the built-in Desmos calculator throughout the Math section, even if you do not bring your own device. For guidance on when and how to use the Desmos tool effectively, review our digital SAT built-in calculator guide.
SAT Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
If you need to change your SAT registration, the sat cancellation policy explains the applicable fees and deadlines. You must cancel or reschedule before the posted cutoffs to avoid additional charges. Missing the deadline may require registering again for a future test date.
SAT Test-Day Execution and Security
The SAT incorporates strong security procedures to protect the integrity of test content. These include identity verification, restricted access to personal items, strict timing controls, and a monitored testing room. Sharing test questions, using unauthorized aids, or attempting to capture digital content violates SAT policy and may lead to serious consequences. To understand how the full process unfolds, including check-in, breaks, timing, and section order, review what to expect on SAT test day so you feel prepared and confident.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During SAT Accommodation Request
Submitting an SAT accommodations request can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unsure of what documents to provide or when to submit them. Understanding the most common mistakes helps you avoid delays and ensures your request is processed smoothly. Review the points below so you can stay on track and receive your approved SAT testing accommodations in time for your SAT.
Missing Deadlines
One of the most common issues students face is submitting their request too close to the test date. The review process can take several weeks, and missing the deadline may prevent your accommodations from being applied to your upcoming exam. Always check deadlines early, especially if your school follows SAT School Day schedules.
Not Providing Valid Documentation
Incomplete, outdated, or unclear documentation can delay your request. Your records must explain your disability, describe how it affects test-taking, and justify the specific accommodation you are requesting. Submitting thorough, consistent documents reduces back-and-forth communication and speeds up approval.
Confusing IEP or 504 Plans With Guaranteed Approval
Although students with an Individualized Education Program or a 504 Plan often qualify, these plans do not guarantee SAT accommodations. The College Board reviews each case separately to confirm that the requested support aligns with classroom accommodations and documented needs. Make sure your request is supported by clear evidence.
Waiting Until the Last Minute to Request
Procrastinating often leads to rushed paperwork, missing forms, and avoidable errors. Starting your request early gives you time to gather documentation, consult your school’s SSD coordinator, and respond to any updates from the College Board. Early preparation helps ensure your accommodations are ready for test day.
SAT Test Accommodations and Policies: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get SAT accommodations if I have ADHD?
Students with ADHD can receive SAT testing accommodations if the condition affects attention, pacing, or the ability to work effectively under timed conditions. The College Board reviews how ADHD impacts school performance and whether classroom support is already in place. A strong SAT accommodations request for ADHD includes updated evaluations, school records, and evidence showing how ADHD influences standardized test-taking. Depending on your needs, accommodations may involve extended time, extra breaks, or a reduced-distraction environment. When approved, these supports help you manage timing pressure and maintain focus throughout the digital SAT.
Are there SAT accommodations for test anxiety?
Students with clinically diagnosed anxiety disorders may qualify for SAT accommodations if the condition limits concentration, stamina, or regulation during timed tests. Documentation must show a formal diagnosis and how anxiety affects academic performance. Accommodations might include extra breaks or a reduced-distraction room. The College Board reviews each request carefully to ensure the support is necessary. Starting your SAT accommodations request early helps you gather the required clinical and school-based documentation for approval.
Can I bring medication or medical devices into the test room?
Students are allowed to bring medically necessary items into the SAT testing room if the items are approved as part of their SAT testing accommodations. This may include prescription medication, medical devices, glucose monitors, EpiPens, or other essential health items. You must include these needs in your SAT accommodations request so the test center can prepare appropriately. Items that are not approved in advance may need to be stored outside the testing area. If you rely on medication or medical equipment during school, make sure your documentation clearly explains why it is required during the test.
What if I miss the deadline for an accommodation request?
If you miss the SAT accommodations deadline, your request will not apply to your upcoming test date. You can still submit your documents, but the approval will apply to a future digital SAT administration. Students who discover they missed the deadline should talk to their school’s SSD coordinator about next steps. It is helpful to schedule the next available test date and begin preparing using tools such as the SAT Prep Course, SAT QBank, or a full-length SAT Practice Test so you stay on track.
Should I apply separately for each accommodation if I need more than one?
No. You do not need separate submissions for each accommodation. A single SAT accommodations request can list all the accommodations you are seeking. The College Board reviews the full set together and evaluates whether each item aligns with your documentation and school-based support. Submitting everything at once helps avoid delays. Make sure your documents clearly describe how each requested support relates to your disability and daily academic needs.
What happens if my SAT accommodations request is denied?
If your request is denied, you will receive a detailed explanation through your College Board account. In most cases, the denial occurs because documentation is outdated, incomplete, or does not show how your disability affects test-taking. You can submit additional evidence or appeal the decision. Students often work with their school’s SSD coordinator to understand what is missing. Starting the process early ensures you have time to resubmit your SAT accommodations request before your next digital SAT.
Do accommodations affect my SAT score or college admissions?
SAT testing accommodations do not change how your exam is scored and do not give you an advantage over other students. They simply ensure the test is accessible for your disability. Colleges do not see whether you used accommodations for the SAT, and this information is not included in your score report. Your results are evaluated the same way as all other test takers. Using approved accommodations will not harm your college applications in any way.
Do students with an IEP or 504 Plan still need to apply for SAT accommodations?
Yes. Even if you receive classroom support through an IEP or 504 Plan, you must still submit an SAT test accommodations request through the College Board. School-based plans do not automatically transfer to standardized testing. However, having an Individualized Education Program or a 504 Plan often strengthens your request because it shows a history of support. Your school’s SSD coordinator can help you submit the required documents. Approval is based on how your disability affects test-taking.
Will colleges know that I took the SAT with accommodations?
No. Colleges do not see accommodation information on SAT score reports. The College Board keeps this information private so students can test under conditions that match their needs without worrying about how it will affect admissions. Your scores are reviewed the same way as all other applicants. Using accommodations does not label you or create any disadvantage in the college selection process.
Are there SAT accommodations for ELL students?
Some English Language Learners (ELL) may receive testing support through their school for SAT School Day, but standard SAT administrations do not offer ELL-specific accommodations unless the student also has a documented disability. For students with disabilities who are also ELL, all accommodations must be approved through the SSD process. Schools can explain what supports are available locally. If you believe a disability affects your testing, submit an SAT accommodations request with the required documentation.
Can I change or update approved accommodations?
You can request an update if your disability needs change or if you require additional accommodations for future SAT administrations. You may need to provide new documentation depending on the adjustment. Changes should be submitted well before your next test date to avoid delays. Your SSD coordinator or family can help you update the request. The College Board reviews modifications the same way as a new SAT accommodations request.
How long is the digital SAT with extended time?
The length of the SAT with extended time depends on the level of time approved. Students may receive time and a half, double time, or more in specific cases. Timing applies only to the sections where extended time is needed. The Bluebook app automatically adjusts your schedule based on SSD approval. For the most accurate breakdown, review your SSD decision letter or check your accommodations settings before test day.
Can homeschooled students apply for SAT accommodations?
Yes. Homeschooled students can submit an SAT accommodations request directly to the College Board. Instead of school-based documentation, families may provide medical evaluations, psychoeducational reports, or records showing how the disability affects learning. The process is similar to school-based requests, and approval is based on the quality and relevance of the documentation. Starting early ensures there is enough time to review your materials before your SAT test.
