The British Council aims to ensure that every candidate is treated fairly and objectively.
Our Aptis ESOL team can help if you require of special arrangements and/or modified Aptis ESOL test versions for your exam.
How and when can I apply for special arrangements?
Applications for special arrangements or modified versions must be submitted six to eight weeks in advance of your test date.
To apply for special arrangements, you should complete and submit the Special arrangements online form at the end of the page.
Once we receive your request, we will contact you to gather information about:
- The type of special arrangements you require.
- Any previous test arrangements.
Your application must be supported by medical evidence, no more than 2 years old, which should meet the following criteria:
- Be legible and either in English or Spanish.
- Be an original document on headed paper and bearing the name and signature of a registered practitioner.
- Give a clear statement of your condition and how this justifies the need for special arrangements.
The British Council will review your application and will respond as soon as possible with the arrangements available for your test.
The British Council will accommodate every test taker to the best of our abilities, but please note that some requested special arrangements may not necessarily be granted.
What type of special arrangements and support can we offer you?
Although arrangements can be provided from the available options below, each application is treated individually, and will be considered accordingly.
Types of special arrangements:
- Modified test materials.
- Administrative arrangements (e.g., extra time).
Modified test materials
Modified test materials for hearing or visual impairment include:
- Braille papers (Grade 1/un-contracted or Grade 2/contracted).
- Amanuensis (a person who will write down your answers).
- A screen reader.
- A scribe/copier (verbatim transcript).
- Large print: either A4 size (18pt bold font) or A3 size (15.5pt font).
- Speaking materials: Braille or large print written prompt or large print visual prompt.
Modified test materials involve a pen and paper format or another modified version of the test.
Administrative arrangements
Administrative arrangements for dyslexia or cognitive or physical difficulty, can be requested for a computer-based test, including:
- Extra time: 25-50 per cent extra time depending on a test taker’s need.
- Supervised breaks during the test.
- A separate room.
- Separate invigilation.
- Longer, scheduled breaks.
- Use of own computer equipment.
| Special arrangements online form |