Receiving ACT accommodations is an important step toward educational equity. When your score reflects your knowledge and skills instead of a physical, processing, or language barrier, colleges gain a clearer understanding of your readiness for the next level.
How do I request ACT accommodations?
What is TAA?The Test Accessibility and Accommodations (TAA) system is ACT's online system where your school submits accommodation requests. TAA is for coordinators, not a student self-serve portal for new requests.
Who submits the request?Your school's Test Accommodations Coordinator (TAC) submits on your behalf after you register and complete any consent or paperwork ACT requires. For an official checklist, see ACT's Quick Start guide for requesting accommodations (PDF).
- Register: Sign in to MyACT, pick a test date, and indicate you need accommodations when prompted.
- Coordinate with your TAC: Share documentation and timelines so your school can submit through TAA before the deadline for your test date.
- Confirm approval:Check your admission ticket and follow ACT's instructions for national testing vs. special testing if applicable.
Key accommodations for the Enhanced ACT
Whether you choose to take the Enhanced Paper ACT or the Digital ACT test, you can apply for testing accommodations. There are many different types of accommodations available for students, and students can work with a testing coordinator to figure out which accommodations are right for them.
With the Digital ACT, many accessibility features are now integrated directly into the computer-based testing interface. For how digital testing works, see our digital ACT guide.
To understand more about the testing experience outside of accommodations, see our complete ACT prep guide. Planning a retake with accommodations in mind? Read our ACT retake guide. For official policies, visit ACT accessibility and accommodations.
1. Extended time: pacing and stamina
Extended time is the most commonly requested support. While it is primarily for students with documented processing speed challenges, ADHD, dyslexia, or other disabilities, English Learners may also qualify for time and a half.
- Time and a half (+50%): This adds 50% more time to each individual section. In the 2026 Enhanced format, this gives you significantly more breathing room per question.
- Double time (+100%): This is reserved for students with more significant functional impairments and typically requires Special Testing, which allows the test to be spread over multiple days.
- Timing policy: For the 2026 cycle, students must sit for the entire duration of their approved extended time for each section; self-pacing or moving to the next section early is not permitted.
- Science section: If you decide to take the optional Science section, accommodations also apply to this section.
2. Modified break patterns
Adjusted pacing is available for students whose documented disabilities require mental or physical regulation during the exam.
- Extra breaks: This provides additional 5-minute breaks between the core test sections.
- Extended breaks: This doubles the duration of the standard 15-minute break.
- Breaks as needed: Allows a student to pause the clock for medical needs (e.g., monitoring blood sugar) or emotional regulation. This usually requires testing in a non-standard environment.
3. Visual and reading supports
The ACT provides high-level support for students with visual impairments or decoding challenges, tailored to your testing format.
For digital testers
- Text-to-speech: The testing software reads questions and answer choices aloud through headphones.
- Magnifier and color contrast: Use native zoom features for large-print text and adjust background colors to reduce glare.
- Answer masking and highlighter: Hide distractor choices and tag key evidence to manage cognitive load.
- Line reader: Functions as a digital straight edge, highlighting specific lines while masking others to improve focus.
For paper testers
- Large print: Official 18-point font test booklets.
- Colored overlays: Available for students with visual processing or light sensitivity needs.
- Human reader or scribe: A 1:1 assistant to read the test or record dictated answers (requires Special Testing approval).
4. English Learner supports
Students currently enrolled in an English Learner (EL) program or who can document limited language proficiency can apply for extended time through the ACT TAA system. Approvals for EL extended time are valid for two years. Schools may also directly authorize the use of ACT-approved supports, such as a word-to-word bilingual dictionary and translated test directions.
The secret to effective practice
The most common mistake is practicing under standard timing when you will test with approved accommodations. To achieve your best score, your practice must mirror your test day experience.
Take action with Incublia: Incublia's full-length practice tests allow you to select +50% or +100%. This helps you build the necessary endurance tailored to your specific accommodations request. Pair strategy with a schedule using our 3-month ACT study plan or 1-month ACT study plan.
Eligibility and documentation
ACT's Test Accessibility and Accommodations (TAA) system requires objective evidence to grant support. You must work with your school's Test Accommodations Coordinator (TAC) to provide documentation showing a functional limitation.
| Document type | Role in application |
|---|---|
| IEP or 504 plan | Acts as evidence of a history of support; if the requested ACT accommodations match your current school plan, approval is often fast-tracked. |
| Neuropsychological eval | Provides data on processing speed and cognitive functioning, typically required for learning disabilities. |
| Medical records | Required for physical conditions, chronic health needs, or visual impairments. |
2026 ACT accommodations deadlines
The request process can take several weeks, especially if an appeal is needed. You must be registered for a test date before your school can submit your request through the TAA system.
| 2026 ACT test date | Accommodations submission deadline |
|---|---|
| June 13, 2026 | May 8, 2026 |
| July 11, 2026 | June 5, 2026 |
