The share of SAT test-takers receiving disability accommodations such as extended time has roughly tripled over the past decade, raising fairness concerns among educators and parents who allege some families secure diagnoses through costly evaluations.
College Board data cited in recent reporting show 6.7 percent of SAT students received extra time in 2025, up from about 2 percent in 2016. ACT accommodations rose from 4.1 percent in 2013 to 7 percent in recent years.
Extended time requires approval through the College Board Services for Students with Disabilities process based on documented learning disabilities or medical conditions, not a doctor’s note alone. Critics say affluent parents pay neuropsychologists thousands of dollars to obtain qualifying diagnoses.
Testing officials said a history of school-based accommodations is typically required. Debates continue over whether extra time provides meaningful score advantages in college admissions. Some school administrators report accommodation rates far exceeding diagnosed disability prevalence in their student bodies.
College Board Services for Students with Disabilities requires documentation of learning disabilities or medical conditions and typically a history of school accommodations before approving extended time on the SAT. Wall Street Journal reporting cited parents paying neuropsychologists up to $10,000 for evaluations sought specifically to qualify for testing accommodations. ACT data show accommodation rates rising on both major college entrance exams over the past decade.
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Sources:
https://dailycuratednews.substack.com/p/news-headlines-may-22-2026