Did you know you can get accommodations when taking the EPPP?
As an EPPP coach, I’ve worked with many test takers who needed accommodations and some who didn’t know they could be eligible. Accommodations can be a game changer if you have a documented condition that might impact your ability to take the EPPP in standard test conditions. The most common accommodations I have heard from test takers are extended time and a private room.
If you have a documented disability or impairment and would like to take the test under non-standard conditions make sure you do the following BEFORE scheduling your exam. The information below is excerpted from the EPPP Candidate Handbook Updated May 2023 linked here. It is also included in the screenshot below.
- During the EPPP registration process, mark the “Special Accommodations” box. When this box is checked, you will see acknowledgement of the request indicating your application is under review.
- Submit documentation to your state or provincial licensing board supporting the need for the requested accommodations. Your state or provincial licensing authority will review the request for accommodations and will submit approvals/denials in Certemy.
- If approved, the ASPPB will complete a final review. This process, along with completion of an implantation plan by Pearson can take up to 10-15 business days.
- You will receive an automated email to view your accommodation status.
While I can’t speak specifically to the range of needs that may require accommodations, some common ones I hear from test takers include: learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety disorders, English as a second language or English language learners, and various health conditions, including pregnancy and side effects of various treatments. The most important thing is the condition typically must impact your ability to take the exam under standard conditions. It’s important to check your state or provincial licensing board to determine documentation needs as they can vary by state.
General Tips for Requesting Accommodations:
Gather your documentation. The types of documentation and application process will be determined by your state board, so start there to determine what your documentation needs will be.
Apply early. This is a process, from gathering documentation and going through different levels of approval, so you don’t want to be ready to test but have to wait for everyone to process the paperwork.
Wait to schedule your exam. You must schedule the exam AFTER accommodations are approved. These accommodations cannot be tacked on to a pre-existing appointment.