TL;DR
Students with ADHD or autism can apply for JCQ access arrangements including extra time (usually 25%), supervised rest breaks, separate rooms, and computer use for GCSEs and A-Levels. For 2025-26, JCQ now recommends trying supervised rest breaks before extra time for ADHD. Applications require Form 8 or Form 9, evidence of diagnosis, and proof it's the student's normal way of working. Deadline: 21 March 2026.
Key Takeaways
- ✓JCQ access arrangements are a legal requirement under the Equality Act 2010
- ✓2025-26 change: Try supervised rest breaks BEFORE applying for extra time for ADHD/autism
- ✓For ADHD/autism: Formal diagnosis is key evidence—performance tests are NOT required
- ✓Required forms: Form 8 (assessor report) or Form 9 (medical conditions including ADHD/autism)
- ✓Must demonstrate the arrangement is the student's "normal way of working" in class
- ✓Application deadline: 21 March 2026 for Summer 2026 exams (31 January for modified papers)
- ✓Late applications accepted for new diagnoses or worsening conditions
- ✓No indication on certificates that access arrangements were used
If your child has ADHD or autism, they're entitled to access arrangements for their GCSEs and A-Levels under the Equality Act 2010. These arrangements ensure they can demonstrate their true abilities in exams.
This guide covers everything UK parents need to know about JCQ access arrangements for 2025-2026.
What Are Access Arrangements?
Access arrangements are legally required adjustments under the Equality Act 2010 for students with disabilities, learning difficulties, or long-term medical conditions.
The JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications) oversees arrangements for GCSEs, AS-Levels, and A-Levels across exam boards including AQA, OCR, Pearson (Edexcel), and WJEC.
2025-2026 Key Change: Rest Breaks First
Important update: The 2025/26 JCQ guidance now recommends trying supervised rest breaks BEFORE applying for extra time for students with:
- ADHD
- Autism/ASD
- Anxiety
- Attention difficulties
This recognises that rest breaks often better support these conditions than straight extra time.
Available Access Arrangements
| Arrangement | Description |
|---|---|
| Extra time | Usually 25% (15 mins per hour) |
| Supervised rest breaks | Short breaks, time added to exam |
| Separate room | Individual or small group setting |
| Reader | Questions read aloud (not for reading comprehension) |
| Scribe | Someone writes dictated responses |
| Word processor | Computer use (typically without spell check) |
| Prompter | Reminder to refocus attention (for ADHD) |
| Modified papers | Large print, different colours, braille |
Note: Multiple arrangements can be combined if needed.
Evidence Requirements for ADHD and Autism
For ADHD and autism specifically, the process is different from learning difficulties:
What You Need
- Formal diagnosis - This is the most important evidence
- History of need - Evidence the condition has been present
- Current impact - How it affects learning now
- Normal way of working - Proof the arrangement is already used in class
What You DON'T Need
For ADHD and autism, performance tests (like those for dyslexia) are NOT required. The formal medical diagnosis is the key evidence.
Required Forms
- Form 9: For medical conditions including ADHD and autism
- Form 8: If also being assessed for learning difficulties
Form 8 Part 1 must include teacher feedback and evidence of the candidate's normal way of working.
Application Process
Step 1: Contact Your School's SENCO
Speak with the Special Educational Needs Coordinator early. They will:
- Review your child's needs
- Gather evidence of normal way of working
- Coordinate with teachers
- Submit the application
Step 2: Provide Diagnostic Evidence
Give the school:
- Formal diagnosis letter/report from specialist
- Any updated assessments
- Evidence of current support at school
Step 3: School Submits Application
The school applies through JCQ Access Arrangements Online. The centre (school) makes the final decision on appropriate arrangements.
Deadlines for Summer 2026 Exams
| Arrangement Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Modified papers (large print, braille) | 31 January 2026 |
| All other arrangements | 21 March 2026 |
Late applications may be accepted if:
- Your child receives a new diagnosis
- A long-term condition worsens
- A new injury occurs
What "Normal Way of Working" Means
JCQ requires that arrangements reflect how the student normally works:
- The arrangement must be used in class regularly
- Teachers must confirm this is standard practice
- Internal assessments should use the same arrangements
- It's not enough to have a diagnosis—the school must show the arrangement is needed and used
Tip: Ensure your child's accommodations are documented and used consistently throughout the school year, not just requested for exams.
Will It Show on Certificates?
No. There is no indication on GCSE, A-Level, or other certificates that a student received access arrangements. Certificates are identical.
If Arrangements Are Refused
If your application is declined:
- Ask for written reasons from the school
- Review whether additional evidence would help
- Request a review with additional documentation
- Contact the exam board if you believe the decision is wrong
Under the Equality Act, schools have a duty to make reasonable adjustments. If you believe this duty isn't being met, seek advice from Disability Rights UK.
Preparing for Exams with Arrangements
Practice Using Arrangements
- Time practice papers with the extra time
- Practice taking effective rest breaks
- Get comfortable with the separate room if applicable
Exam Day
Ensure:
- All arrangements are confirmed in advance
- Your child knows where to go
- Any equipment is tested
- Medication is available if needed
ExamPrepd's adaptive practice adjusts to your child's pace with built-in breaks and encouragement. Start a free trial to support their GCSE and A-Level preparation.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for GCSE access arrangements for ADHD in the UK?
Contact your school's SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) to start the process. For ADHD, you'll need Form 9 with a formal diagnosis from a specialist. The school must show the arrangement is your child's normal way of working in class and submit the application through the JCQ Access Arrangements Online system.
What access arrangements are available for ADHD in GCSEs?
Common arrangements include supervised rest breaks (now recommended first), 25% extra time, separate or smaller exam rooms, a prompter to refocus attention, and use of a word processor. Multiple arrangements can be combined if needed.
Do I need an educational psychologist report for ADHD exam access?
No. For ADHD and autism, the formal medical diagnosis is the key evidence—performance tests and educational psychologist assessments are not required. You need Form 9 completed with the diagnostic report.
What is the deadline for GCSE access arrangements 2026?
For Summer 2026 exams: 31 January 2026 for modified papers (large print, braille); 21 March 2026 for all other access arrangements. Late applications may be accepted for new diagnoses or worsening conditions.
Will access arrangements appear on my child's GCSE certificate?
No. There is no indication on GCSE, A-Level, or other exam certificates that a student received extra time or any other access arrangement. Certificates are identical regardless of arrangements used.
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