In preparing to take standardized tests, most people believe it's a matter of studying and scheduling. Accommodations can be another piece of the puzzle for students or professionals preparing to take any of the following: SAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, Bar Exam, or Medical licensing exams. Undergoing a psychological assessment is your first step towards the accommodations process, and at Mind Grove Psychology, we can guide you through the process. 

Understanding Testing Accommodations 

Before you can advocate for testing accommodations, it's important to understand the basics including:

• What are testing accommodations?

• Who is eligible for testing accommodations?

• What is the process for eligibility?

• Who provides the accommodations?

Testing Accommodations

Testing accommodations are reasonable modifications to the testing conditions (not the content of the test itself) that enable people with disabilities to demonstrate their true understanding of the testing material. Think of it as making sure everyone is able to start from the same starting line. Types of accommodations depend on someone's disability and the organization or administration providing the testing. Examples can include things like short breaks during testing, location or time of the test, and use of appropriate aides like ear plugs or extra sheets of blank writing paper. 

Who is Eligible for Testing Accommodations?

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act individuals with disabilities are entitled to test accommodations on any classroom or standardized test. Examples of disabilities can include, but aren't limited to: 

• Neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or learning disorders.

• Psychiatric disorders like depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, etc. 

• Medical conditions such as vision or hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and more.

What is the Process to Become Eligible?

To become eligible you will need to seek out a psychological evaluation from a licensed professional (like a psychiatrist, psychologist, or medical doctor) that results in a report that outlines your diagnosis and recommendations for accommodations. Professionals can provide this type of testing in person or through a telehealth appointment. 

The psychological evaluation structure includes:

1. Clinical Interview

• Gather information about relevant medical and mental health history, developmental and academic background, and family history.

• Review records from school, healthcare professionals, or caregivers.

2. Psychological Evaluation

• The evaluation process can include mood screenings, symptom checklists, intelligence testing, etc. 

3. Report & Evaluation Feedback

• A report will include your test scores and an analysis of the findings, a diagnosis, and recommendations for testing accommodations. 

• Feedback sessions allow for you to review the findings and ask questions. You'll receive a copy of the report and additional resources if necessary. 

• This report will be required to demonstrate your need for accommodations. It's important to maintain copies as you will be asked to submit them when you request accommodations from your school,  licensing board, or testing organization.

Scheduling an Evaluation

At Mind Grove Psychology, we take pride in offering comprehensive evaluation services that are tailored to meet you or your child's needs. Contact Mind Grove Psychology today for a free 15 minute consultation. A quality assessment can provide the clarity and insight that pave the way for success in the future.  

Dr. Choi is an experienced neuropsychologist who is licensed in New York, Connecticut, and is authorized by PSYPACT to provide psychological services remotely through the use of technology to clients residing in the following states and territories: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, & Wyoming.