New CASPer Accessibility Features: Complete Guide to Accommodations
Everything you need to know about CASPer accommodations: Extended Time (1.25x-2x), Assistive Software (Speech-to-Text, Text-to-Speech), Scribes, and Readers. Learn what extends and what doesn't.
If you have a documented disability or condition that affects your test performance, CASPer offers comprehensive accommodations. But here's what most students don't realize: not all CASPer sections extend equally.
This guide breaks down exactly what's covered, what isn't, and how to navigate the accommodation process successfully.
Does "Extended Time" Apply to Everything?
This is the #1 question we get. Here's the definitive answer:
| Test Section | Extended Time? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Instruction Pages | YES | More time to read rules |
| Word Scenarios | YES | More time to read text-based scenarios |
| Reflection Periods | YES | 30s becomes 60s (with 2x accommodation) |
| Typed Responses | YES | 5 mins becomes 10 mins (with 2x accommodation) |
| Video Recording | YES | 1 min becomes 2 mins (with 2x accommodation) |
| Video Playback | NO | Videos play at normal speed |
Types of Accommodations Available
Acuity Insights offers three main categories of support:
Extended Time
1.25x, 1.5x, or 2x time multiplier for reading and typing.
Best For: Processing speed deficits, reading disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD.
Cost: Free
- Most common accommodation
- Automatically applied to test interface
- Extends ALL response times including video recording
Assistive Software
Speech-to-Text (Dictation) or Text-to-Speech (Reader) software.
Best For: Motor coordination issues, visual impairments, dysgraphia.
Cost: You provide (Free-$300)
- Speech-to-Text: You speak, it types (Allowed for typed section only)
- Text-to-Speech: Reads screen text aloud
- Must use your own software (e.g., Dragon, Otter, Built-in)
Assistive Personnel
Human Scribe (types for you) or Reader (reads to you).
Best For: Severe motor or visual disabilities where software isn't enough.
Cost: You pay ($30-75/hr)
- Scribe: Types exactly what you say
- Reader: Reads text aloud verbatim
- CANNOT be a friend/family member (Must be neutral professional)
How to Apply
Get medical records & Part 2 form signed by professional
Email to Acuity Insights 4 weeks before test
Receive approval letter & validity period (~2 weeks)
Book your test (accommodations apply automatically)
Critical Deadline
Using Assistive Software?
Acuity Insights allows you to use your own assistive software, but the setup is strictly "Bring Your Own".
Speech-to-Text
Examples: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Otter.ai, Google Voice Typing.
Text-to-Speech
Examples: NVDA, JAWS, Mac VoiceOver.
Reads the scenario text aloud to you.
Pro Tips for Software
- Test it with the official CASPer System Requirements Check.
- Practice dictating punctuation ("Period", "Comma").
- Have a backup plan (e.g. typing) if software crashes.
- You CANNOT use software that generates content (like ChatGPT). Only transcription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! With 2x accommodation, your video recording time extends from 1 minute to 2 minutes per question. This applies to all response times.
Yes! With 2x accommodation, the 30-second reflection period becomes 60 seconds. This is incredibly helpful for organizing your thoughts before responding.
No. Grammarly and similar AI-assisted writing tools are prohibited. Basic spell-check built into your browser may be allowed, but generative AI or grammar correction tools are not permitted.
Submit your accommodation request through Acuity Insights at least 4 weeks before your test date. You'll need medical documentation and a completed Part 2 form signed by a qualified professional.
No. Speech-to-Text accommodations only apply to the typed response sections. For video sections, you must speak directly to the camera.
Ready to Practice with Accommodations?
AusMedPrac supports your prep. Our untimed practice mode is perfect for students needing accommodations to build confidence at their own pace.
Practice with realistic scenarios today.