Does College Board SSD Apply for Free Tests? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not as Simple as You Think)
Let’s talk about something everyone loves: standardized tests! 😜 No, really, let’s talk about College Board’s SSD (Services for Students with Disabilities) and how it relates to getting accommodations for those dreaded tests.
You’re probably thinking, “Wait, free tests? Like, I don’t have to pay for the SAT if I have a disability?” Well, hold your horses, my friend. It’s not quite that straightforward. While College Board does offer accommodations for students with disabilities, it doesn’t necessarily translate to free tests.
So, what’s the deal with SSD?
The College Board’s SSD program is designed to ensure students with disabilities can take their exams in a way that best suits their needs. They offer a variety of accommodations, like extended time, large print, Braille devices, and even a computer for those who need it.
But here’s the catch: SSD approval is typically required for most College Board exams, including the PSAT, SAT, AP Exams, and CLEP with remote proctoring. This means you need to get your disability documentation reviewed and approved by the College Board before you can even think about using those accommodations.
Now, let’s talk about the “free test” part.
The SSD program is about fairness and equality in testing. It’s not a free pass to skip out on paying for the test. You’ll still have to pay the regular fees for the exam. Think of it as a level playing field. If you need extra time to complete the test because of a learning disability, you should get that time, but you’re still expected to pay for the exam like everyone else.
Alright, so who needs SSD approval?
You’ll need SSD approval for most College Board exams, including the PSAT, SAT, AP Exams, and CLEP with remote proctoring.
But there are some exceptions. For example, you might not need SSD approval for some school-day versions of the SAT or certain other exams.
What if you need accommodations for anxiety or ESL support?
Good news! The College Board is pretty understanding about these situations. They offer accommodations for students with ADHD, anxiety disorders, and even for English learners.
For students with anxiety disorders, you might be able to get extended time, a separate testing room, or even a break during the exam.
For ESL students, the College Board offers translated test directions, the use of approved bilingual dictionaries, and other support.
So, how do you get SSD approval?
- Get your documentation ready: You’ll need a current evaluation from a qualified professional, like a doctor or psychologist. Make sure the evaluation is specific about your disability and the types of accommodations you’ll need.
- Submit your application: You can apply online through the College Board’s SSD website.
- Wait for approval: The College Board will review your application, and it can take a few weeks to get a decision.
Important things to remember:
- Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for SSD! The earlier you apply, the better.
- Be specific about the accommodations you need. The more detail you provide, the better the College Board can understand your needs.
- Keep your documentation updated. If your disability or accommodations change, let the College Board know.
The Bottom Line:
SSD is a great resource for students with disabilities who need accommodations to take College Board exams.It’s not a free pass to skip out on paying for the test, but it does level the playing field.
If you have any questions about SSD or need help with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the College Board. You can also connect with us at the JobLoving community for more information and support.
Remember, you’re not alone. Millions of students have used SSD to get the accommodations they need to succeed on their exams. So don’t be afraid to ask for help!