Dyslexia and exam access arrangements: what your child is entitled to

Exam access arrangements are formal adjustments JCQ (the Joint Council for Qualifications) allows for students with specific learning differences. Used appropriately, they level the playing field — not give an unfair advantage.

Common arrangements for dyslexia

25% extra time is the most common. Other arrangements include: a reader (for non-reading-tested papers), a scribe, the use of a word processor, separate rooms, rest breaks, and coloured overlays.

The evidence required

Arrangements need a formal SpLD assessment by an appropriately qualified assessor, plus evidence that the arrangement is the student's 'normal way of working' in school. Schools usually arrange the assessment, but parents can also commission private assessments.

Timing — apply early

Applications should be made in Year 9 or early Year 10 ideally. Schools have to submit by January of the exam year. Last-minute applications are sometimes refused even with valid evidence.

What if your school is slow

If you sense your school isn't pushing hard enough, request a meeting with the SENDCo. If that doesn't resolve it, you can commission a private SpLD assessment and present it with a written request. JCQ rules apply to the school regardless of who commissioned the assessment.