What are testing accommodations?

Testing accommodations provide equal access for quizzes, tests, and exams. Depending on the accommodation, testing adjustments may be provided by your instructor or through Disability Resources. This page explains available testing accommodations and how to use them. Testing accommodations apply to quizzes, tests, and exams. Approved accommodations are outlined in the student's Academic Adjustment Plan.

How to Use Testing Accommodations

  1. Share and review your Academic Adjustment Plan with your instructor.
  2. Contact your instructor at least 5 business days in advance.
  3. Decide whether accommodations will be provided by the instructor or Testing Services.
  4. Schedule proctoring if needed.

Important Information for Instructors

  • Instructors are responsible for administering testing adjustments for any assessment (such as a quiz) with a duration of less than 30 minutes.
  • Testing Accommodations do not apply to assessments that allow multiple days to complete.
  • Contact Disability Resources with any questions as early as possible.

Accommodation Approvals

  • Extended Time
  • Distraction Reduced Environment
  • Medically Necessitated Breaks

What is Extended Time?

Extended time provides students with additional time to complete exams, quizzes, or other timed assessments when a disability impacts processing speed, reading, writing, attention, or related functions. The accommodation is intended to provide equitable access by reducing disability-related barriers, not to give an advantage over other students.

Information for Students
  • Have a conversation with your instructor about your plans to use extended time before its intended use.
Information for Instructors
  • In-person exams: Prior to the exam, discuss where the student will take the extended time exam.
  • Online exams: Enable extended time for students before the exam start time.

What is a Distraction-Reduced Environment?

A distraction-reduced environment (DRE) allows students to complete exams or other assessments in a setting with fewer external distractions than a typical classroom. This accommodation is intended to provide access for students whose disabilities may affect concentration, attention, or focus during testing situations. A distraction-reduced environment may include a smaller testing space or other adjustments designed to minimize interruptions and environmental distractions. A distraction-reduced environment does not guarantee a distraction-free environment.

Information for Students
  • If instructors are unable to provide DRE, students can schedule a proctored exam through Testing Services.
Information for Instructors
  • Provide a testing setting with as few visual and auditory distractions as reasonably possible.
  • Appropriate testing locations may include a quiet office, conference room, classroom, or other reduced-distraction setting.
  • If unable to provide an appropriate testing environment, the student may utilize Testing Services. If unable to secure test proctoring through Testing Services, instructors and students should work together to identify an appropriate alternative location.

What are Medically Necessitated Breaks?

Medically Necessitated Breaks (MNB) allows e students to take brief breaks during class, exams, quizzes, or other academic activities when required due to a disability or medical condition. Examples may include managing fluctuations in blood sugar, taking medication, or addressing other disability-related health needs. MNB is intended to provide equitable access by allowing students to temporarily leave or pause participation to address medical needs and then return without penalty. MNB is determined through the disability accommodation process and does not waive course requirements, attendance expectations, or academic standards.

Information for Students
  • Have a conversation with your instructor about your plans to use MNB before its intended use.
Information for Instructors
  • Students approved for Medically Necessitated Breaks (MNB) may need to briefly leave or pause during class or testing situations to address disability- or health-related needs.
  • Breaks are typically short in duration and generally should not exceed 5–10% of the class period or testing session.
  • MNB is not intended for extended absences, does not excuse late arrivals, and does not alter essential course requirements or evaluation standards.