Preparing for the ASWB exam can feel like a mountain all its own—one packed with complex theories, ethical scenarios, and time-crunched multiple-choice questions. But if you’re someone who needs a different testing environment due to a disability, chronic condition, or other documented need, the standard setup might not be set up for your success. That’s where exam accommodations come in—and knowing how to get ASWB exam accommodations could make all the difference in how you perform on test day.
The process of applying, though? It’s not always straightforward. Between paperwork, documentation requirements, and strict timelines, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to even begin. But don’t stress—this guide is designed to walk you through every step of securing accommodations in a way that’s clear, realistic, and actually doable.
We’ll cover exactly what ASWB accommodations are, who qualifies, how to apply, and how to prepare for test day with those accommodations in place. Plus, we’ll point you to one of the best resources out there—Agents of Change—so you can walk into your exam not just accommodated, but fully prepared and confident. Ready to take control of your exam experience? Let’s get into it!
Learn more about the ASWB exam and create a personalized ASWB study plan with Agents of Change. We’ve helped tens of thousands of Social Workers pass their ASWB exams and want to help you be next!
1) Understanding ASWB Exam Accommodations
Before you start filling out forms or gathering paperwork, it’s important to get a clear picture of what ASWB exam accommodations actually are—and aren’t. This section breaks it all down so you know what to expect and why these adjustments can be so crucial for many test-takers.
What Are ASWB Exam Accommodations?
ASWB accommodations are adjustments made to the testing environment, format, or schedule to support candidates who have a documented disability, chronic medical condition, or other qualifying need. The goal? To create equitable testing conditions—not to give an unfair advantage, but to remove unnecessary barriers.
Here’s the key: the exam content stays the same. Accommodations just help you access that content in a way that works better for your needs.
Who Can Request Accommodations?
You don’t need to have a visible disability or be receiving current school accommodations to qualify. If you have documentation from a licensed professional showing that your condition impacts how you test, you may be eligible.
Common qualifying conditions include:
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Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, processing disorders)
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ADHD or ADD
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Mental health conditions such as anxiety or PTSD
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Physical impairments affecting mobility or endurance
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Visual or auditory impairments
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Chronic illnesses (e.g., migraines, diabetes, autoimmune conditions)
If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, it’s still worth exploring. ASWB reviews each request individually and considers the unique challenges you face.
Types of Accommodations Available
ASWB offers a range of accommodations depending on your needs. Some are pretty common, while others are more specialized. Here are some examples:
Testing Environment:
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Separate or private room
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Reduced-distraction setting
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Permission to bring food, drink, or medical supplies
Time-Based Adjustments:
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Extended time (typically 1.5x or 2x standard)
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Extra breaks between sections
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Breaks for medical needs (insulin, medication, etc.)
Assistive Tools:
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Screen magnifiers
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Color contrast or larger font size
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A reader to read questions aloud
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A scribe to enter your answers
You can request multiple types of accommodation, as long as each is supported by clear documentation. That leads us to an important question…
What Does ASWB Look For in a Request?
The ASWB isn’t trying to make things hard—but they do need solid, specific information to make their decision. When reviewing your request, they’ll be looking for:
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A current diagnosis from a licensed professional (within the last five years)
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A detailed explanation of how your condition affects your ability to test
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A clear link between your diagnosis and the specific accommodations you’re requesting
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If possible, a history of previous accommodations (from school or work)
Keep in mind: vague or generalized statements (like “has trouble concentrating”) often result in delays or denials. The more specific your documentation, the smoother the process will be.
Accommodations Are a Right—Not a Favor
If you’re second-guessing whether you should ask for accommodations, remember this: these are your legal rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). You’re not asking for special treatment. You’re asking for fair access. The ASWB process is designed to honor that right—if you follow the steps and provide what’s needed, they’re there to support you.
Up next: we’ll walk you through the exact steps on how to get ASWB exam accommodations, so you can go into the process confident and informed.
Agents of Change packages include 30+ ASWB topics, 2 free study groups per month, and hundreds of practice questions so you’ll be ready for test day!
2) How to Get ASWB Exam Accommodations: Step-by-Step
Applying for ASWB exam accommodations doesn’t have to be a confusing maze. If you know what’s expected and stay organized, the process is pretty manageable. This section outlines exactly what you need to do—step by step—so you can focus on preparing for your exam, not stressing over red tape.
Step 1: Hold Off on Registering for the Exam
This might feel backward, but it’s crucial. Do not register for the ASWB exam before applying for accommodations. If you register too soon, you’ll likely have to cancel and start the whole process over—sometimes losing money in the process.
Instead, begin with the accommodations request. Once approved, you’ll get special instructions on how to register under the right conditions.
Step 2: Gather the Right Documentation
Strong documentation is the foundation of your request. You’ll need official paperwork that clearly shows why the accommodations are necessary. Here’s what to gather:
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A recent diagnostic report or letter from a licensed professional (doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.)
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Must be dated within the last 5 years
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Should include your diagnosis, how it affects your testing ability, and the specific accommodations you’re requesting
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A completed ASWB Testing Accommodations Request Form
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You can download this directly from the ASWB website
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Supporting evidence of past accommodations, if available (e.g., IEPs, workplace adjustments, college accommodations letters)
Tips for success:
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Be specific—avoid vague or generic language.
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Make sure everything is typed, signed, and professionally formatted.
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Don’t leave sections blank—more detail leads to fewer delays.
Step 3: Submit Your Request to ASWB
Once everything is filled out and ready, it’s time to submit. You have three options:
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Email: The fastest and most recommended method
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Fax: A backup if you can’t email
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Mail: Slower, but available if needed
Send your materials to: [email protected]
(Or refer to the latest contact info on the official ASWB website to be safe.)
You don’t need to include payment at this stage. You’ll only register and pay after your accommodations are approved.
Step 4: Wait for ASWB’s Decision
ASWB usually takes 7 to 10 business days to review requests. Sometimes it can be faster, but don’t wait until the last minute—especially if your test date is approaching.
You’ll receive one of the following responses:
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Approved: You’ll get instructions for registering for the exam with accommodations in place.
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Needs More Info: You’ll be asked to provide additional documentation or clarify your request.
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Denied: You’ll receive a reason and the opportunity to appeal or reapply with stronger evidence.
Step 5: Register and Schedule Your Exam with Accommodations
If your request is approved, congrats! You’ll now register for the exam—but with a unique process tailored to your accommodations.
You won’t register online through the standard portal. Instead, ASWB or Pearson VUE will provide special instructions for how to book your exam at a testing center that can meet your needs.
Heads-up:
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Some accommodations might limit which test centers are available to you.
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Make sure to double-check that your approved accommodations are reflected in your registration confirmation.
Step 6: Prepare for Exam Day
Once your accommodations are in place and your exam is scheduled, the last step is simply preparation. This is where Agents of Change becomes a game-changer. Their platform offers tailored resources like:
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Practice exams to help simulate the real test environment—especially useful if you’ve been granted extra time
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Live and recorded study groups so you’re never studying in a vacuum
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Digital flashcards and content modules that let you learn at your pace and in a way that matches your learning style
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Time-management tips to help you make the most of your testing time, whether it’s extended or standard
Getting accommodations isn’t about getting ahead—it’s about getting fair access. And once that’s in place, your next focus should be on showing up prepared and confident. Keep reading, and we’ll show you how to make the most of those accommodations and tackle the ASWB exam like the future Social Worker you are.
3) What Happens After You’re Approved?
You’ve gathered the documentation, submitted your request, and finally received that approval email—now what? Once your ASWB exam accommodations are officially approved, things start moving pretty quickly. This next phase is all about getting registered properly, understanding how your accommodations will be implemented, and preparing for exam day logistics so there are no surprises.
Let’s walk through what to expect after you get the green light.
Confirming Your Accommodations
Once your accommodations are approved, the ASWB will send you:
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A formal approval letter outlining which accommodations have been granted
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Instructions on how to register for the exam through the appropriate channels (usually not through the standard registration portal)
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Contact information for scheduling through Pearson VUE, the official testing vendor
Double-check your approval letter to make sure every accommodation you requested (and need) is listed. If something seems missing or unclear, don’t wait—reach out to ASWB right away to get clarification.
Registering With Your Accommodations in Place
Your registration process will be slightly different than someone registering without accommodations. Instead of signing up directly through the ASWB website, you’ll be asked to register via a special process that connects your accommodations to your exam booking.
Here’s what you can expect:
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ASWB will either forward your info to Pearson VUE or instruct you to contact them directly
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You’ll receive available test dates and locations that can support your accommodations
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Once confirmed, you’ll get an official email with your test date, time, location, and accommodation details
Depending on your needs, you may be limited to specific test centers—but ASWB and Pearson VUE do their best to find one that works for you.
What to Expect at the Test Center
On exam day, your approved accommodations should be ready and waiting for you—but it’s still a good idea to prepare yourself ahead of time.
Here’s what to plan for:
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Arrive early to allow extra time for check-in and accommodation setup
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Bring proper ID and any paperwork ASWB or Pearson VUE requested
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Check your confirmation email for any special instructions
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If you’re allowed breaks or medical equipment, inform the proctor upon arrival
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The proctor will already be aware of your accommodations, but don’t hesitate to politely confirm them before you start
Accommodations are designed to blend into your test experience as seamlessly as possible—so once things are set up, it’s just you and the exam.
When Something Doesn’t Go as Planned
In rare cases, you might arrive and find that something’s off—maybe a break isn’t scheduled properly or your extra time wasn’t applied. While that can be frustrating, stay calm and advocate for yourself.
Here’s what to do:
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Speak with the test center staff immediately
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Do not begin the exam until your accommodations are properly in place
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Document everything in case you need to file a report with ASWB
ASWB takes these reports seriously and will work to make it right, but addressing it in the moment is key.
After the Exam: What’s Next?
Once you’ve finished your exam, you’ll receive your unofficial results at the test center (except in some jurisdictions). If you passed—congratulations! If not, and you plan to retake it, remember:
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Accommodations don’t carry over. You’ll need to reapply for them each time you schedule a new test.
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Save your documentation—it’ll make future requests easier and faster.
Getting approved for accommodations is a big step, and once you’ve made it through that process, everything else gets just a bit smoother. The key now is to show up prepared—and that means studying smart, practicing under realistic conditions, and using trusted resources like Agents of Change to guide your way.