Provision for Special Needs Candidates

Many Cambridge ESOL candidates around the world have special needs which make it difficult for them to demonstrate their ability in English. Examples include candidates with a permanent or long-term disability, such as hearing/sight impairment, dyslexia or a speech impediment; or short-term difficulties such as a broken arm.

In such cases the appropriate action is to make Special Arrangements for these candidates so that, as far as possible, they are then able to take the examination on an equal footing with other candidates.

Applications for modified question papers, including hearing impaired versions of listening components, should reach the Cambridge Open Centre six months in advance of the examination date. It may not be possible to supply the required modified papers if the application is received after this date. Please note that it may not always be possible to modify some papers.

Applications for all other Special Arrangements must reach the Cambridge Open Centre no later than the date of entry, except in cases of temporary disability which are only known about nearer the time of the examination.

Applications for Special Arrangements for candidates with special learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia) must be supported by a report (in English) prepared in a period of two years prior to the date of the examination which includes details of the degree of disability and an assurance that the evidence of specific difficulties was obtained through the results of appropriate and recognised tests. This report must be provided by a fully qualified educational, clinical or chartered psychologist. Other acceptable medical evidence may be considered.

For more specific information regarding Special Arrangements please contact the Cambridge Open Centre.

Further information may also be viewed at

 

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Special Arrangements for candidates