State Testing (STAAR)

Texas’ student assessment program (STAAR) is designed to measure the extent to which a student has learned and is able to apply the defined knowledge and skills at each tested grade or course level.

Accommodations for students with disabilities provide students with effective and equitable access to grade-level or course curriculum. For the purpose of statewide assessments, students needing accommodations include:

• Students with an identified disability who receive special education services and meet established eligibility criteria for certain accommodations

• Students with an identified disability who receive Section 504 services and meet established eligibility criteria for certain accommodations.

• Students with a disabling condition who do not receive special education or Section 504 services but meet established eligibility criteria for certain accommodations.

For students who receive Section 504 services, the decision for a student to use accommodations during the statewide assessments is made by the Section 504 Committee and must meet the specific eligibility criteria for the specific accommodations chosen as indicated by the Texas Education Agency.  

Although a student may meet the eligibility criteria, accommodations must be practiced and utilized regularly in the classroom. The accommodation must also be proven as effective for the student.

*Students with an identified disability who receive Section 504 services MUST meet all state requirements for grade promotion (Student Success Initiative) and graduation requirements (End of Course STAAR)

Understanding the basic principles of accommodations helps ensure their appropriate use in all educational settings.

For additional information about accommodations on state testing, please visit the TEA website: Information About 504 Accommodations for Standardized Testing

Accommodations for College Entrance Exams

College Board (SAT, PSAT, AP)

Some students with documented disabilities are eligible for accommodations on College Board exams. Before students with disabilities can take the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT10, or Advanced Placement exams with accommodations-such as extended time or the use of a computer-their request for accommodations must be approved by Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD). It can take about seven weeks for an accommodations request to be processed.  Get an overview of the approval process.