Some students need adjustments to show what they know in exams. These are called access arrangements, and they can include extra time, a reader, a scribe, rest breaks or the use of a word processor. This guide explains how they work for GCSE and A-Level in the UK, and what parents can do.
What access arrangements are
Access arrangements are changes to how an exam is taken so that a student with a disability, a learning difficulty or a temporary condition can show their ability. They are different from special consideration, which adjusts marks after an exam when a student has been affected by an illness or event at the time.
Examples of arrangements include:
- Extra time, commonly 25 per cent, with more only in certain circumstances;
- Rest breaks during the exam;
- A reader or computer reader software;
- A scribe or the use of a word processor;
- A separate room or a prompt;
- Modified papers, such as large print or Braille.
The right arrangement depends on the student's needs. The aim is to remove the barrier, not to boost marks.
Who decides?
The exam centre, usually the school or college, applies for arrangements on the student's behalf through the system run by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), which sets the rules for GCSE and A-Level. The centre's special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) usually leads this.
Many arrangements need evidence, and for some, such as extra time linked to a learning difficulty, an assessment by a suitably qualified professional. The centre has to show that the arrangement is the student's normal way of working, for example that they already use extra time or a word processor in tests and mocks.
What parents can do
- Talk to the school early, ideally well before Year 10 and certainly before the start of exam courses. Evidence takes time to collect.
- Share any assessments or reports you have from educational psychologists, specialists or health professionals.
- Ask how the school decides and what evidence it needs.
- Make sure the arrangement is used in practice, in lessons and mock exams, so it becomes normal.
- Be realistic. Not every request is approved, and the rules are strict. Asking early gives the best chance.
Private candidates
Students taking exams as private candidates must also apply through the centre where they will sit them, and the centre needs to be able to provide the arrangement. Ask early when you are choosing a centre. Read more in entering GCSEs as a private candidate.
Beyond the exam room
Access arrangements are one part of support. Good teaching, study skills and confidence-building matter just as much. A tutor who understands your child's needs can help them practise in the way they will sit the exam, such as working to time with extra time or using a keyboard. See private tutoring and our guide on signs your child needs a tutor.
A note on the rules
The JCQ rules are detailed and updated each year, and the centre is responsible for applying them. Always ask your school or exam centre for the current requirements instead of relying on general guidance, including this article.
Related
If your child is facing a resit, see GCSE resits, and for revision approaches, how to revise for GCSE and A-Level.