School candidates receive their access arrangements outcome through their school. Private candidates can check the Candidates Portal. SEAB says applications submitted by the deadline usually have outcomes by April of the examination year for school candidates and by June for private candidates.
These are usual timings. SEAB says processing depends on the request and supporting documents. Once you receive a decision, check exactly what is approved and which components it covers before you practise with the arrangement.
- Check the outcome through the channel for your candidate type.
- Read the approved support and the papers it covers.
- Ask about any practical setup before exam day.
What to do if the outcome has not arrived
School candidates can contact the teacher or coordinator handling the application. Private candidates can check the portal and ask SEAB if the status is unclear. Have the examination year and application details available.
SEAB says requests involving arrangements such as a reader, practical assistant, scribe or word processor may take longer to process. Ask whether any further information is needed and where to look for the decision.
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Read the decision one component at a time
Record the approved arrangement and the subject or paper it applies to. If it involves time, equipment, a room or a staff member, check the instructions for implementing it. Ask where to report and whether the official decision or another document must be brought.
For example, a student who expects extra time can check the amount stated for the relevant paper and try a practice session under that timing. If the same student is unsure about an oral component, check its coverage separately.
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Rehearse the approved arrangement
SEAB says schools may work with candidates to trial approved arrangements. Private candidates can consider arranging a rehearsal where feasible. A practice run helps the student learn how the arrangement works during a task and identify questions to raise before the exam.
If the decision differs from what you expected or your circumstances change, ask the school or SEAB what procedure applies. Use the access arrangements application guide for supporting documents and application routes.
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Frequently asked questions
Is April or June a guaranteed date?
SEAB describes these as usual outcome times for applications submitted by the deadline. Check with the responsible contact if you need the status.
Does submitting the application confirm the support?
Check the decision and the components it covers before planning around the arrangement.
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Official information
Consult SEAB’s official FAQ on access arrangement outcomes and its Access Arrangements guidance. Guidance checked on 8 November 2026.