📋 Unlocking Your Child’s Potential: Why a Psychoeducational Evaluation Is Key for SAT Accommodations

As college admissions grow increasingly competitive, high-stakes standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams can cause significant stress—especially for students with learning differences or psychological challenges. But did you know that your child may qualify for testing accommodations that level the playing field? A psychoeducational evaluation is often the first—and most important—step in obtaining these supports.

If you need assistance, contact Leonard Educational Evaluations at 267-702-6328, www.LeonardEvaluation.com or Info@LeonardEvaluations.com. Our expert psychologists and educational specialists have been conducting psychoeducational evaluations for pre-law and college students for nearly 20 years!

📘 What Is a Psychoeducational Evaluation?

A psychoeducational evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of a student’s cognitive abilities, academic skills, and emotional functioning. It’s conducted by a licensed psychologist or a certified school psychologist and includes:

Cognitive testing (IQ, processing speed, working memory)
Academic achievement testing (reading, writing, math)
Social-emotional/behavioral assessments
Clinical interviews and observations
Review of school records and developmental history

The goal is to determine whether a student has a condition such as ADHD, a Specific Learning Disability (e.g., dyslexia or dyscalculia), anxiety, or other challenges that affect academic performance and test-taking.

🎯 Why Does Your Child Need This for the SAT or ACT?

Testing agencies like the College Board (SAT, AP, PSAT) and ACT have strict documentation requirements. To be approved for accommodations, they typically require:

A recent evaluation, ideally within the last 3–5 years
A diagnosis that clearly explains how the disability impacts test performance
Objective evidence, such as standardized scores, showing a functional limitation
A recommendation for accommodations that directly relate to the documented need

Even students with IEPs or 504 Plans may be denied supports on national exams without this documentation.

🛠️ What Accommodations Can Be Requested?

Depending on your child’s needs, accommodations may include:

Extended time (e.g., time and a half or double time)
Testing over multiple days
Breaks as needed
Use of a computer for essays
Reading or auditory supports (e.g., screen reader, human reader)
Small-group or individual testing setting

The key is to match the accommodation to the specific limitation. A qualified evaluator will help justify these requests effectively.

⏰ When Should You Start the Process?

Plan ahead! It can take 6–12 weeks from evaluation to testing agency approval, especially if follow-up documentation is needed. Ideal timing:

Begin in 10th grade or early 11th grade
Allows time to complete the evaluation, gather supporting documents, and file requests
Leaves room for appeals if the initial application is denied

🔍 How Do You Get a Psychoeducational Evaluation?

Two options are available:

1. Private Evaluation

Faster scheduling and comprehensive testing
Tailored reports aligned with testing agency standards
Call Leonard Educational Evaluations at 267-702-6328 or at www.LeonardEvaluation.com or Info@LeonardEvaluations.com

📣 Final Thoughts: Advocacy Matters

A psychoeducational evaluation isn’t just red tape—it’s an advocacy tool that empowers your child to succeed. With the right documentation and accommodations, students with learning or emotional challenges can thrive on high-stakes tests. Act now. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes and less stress for everyone involved.

Need help starting the process?

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