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When Should You Start the Accommodations Process for Standardized Exams?

  • Jun 2, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jun 27




How early should you start a testing accommodations evaluation?


Start at least three weeks before your exam board's submission deadline, and earlier for the MCAT. Work backward from your test date using the board's minimum lead time below, then add three weeks for the evaluation itself.


Minimum Recommended Lead Time for Submission

  • LSAT (LSAC): Submit your request and materials no later than the test registration deadline, though it is highly recommended you do it earlier. Note that you must first register for a test date prior to submitting accommodations materials.

  • MCAT (AAMC): Submit your request 105 day before your test date. AAMC requires up to 60 days for the initial submission and may need an additional 30 days for appeals, reconsiderations or extensions. You also need to factor in that you cannot take an exam less than 15 days from the time you received your accommodations.

  • GRE / GMAT (ETS/GMAC): ETS won't let you schedule the test until your application is reviewed and approved and they estimate 6 weeks review time minimally and up to 12 weeks if additional information is requested.


Why You May Need Even More Time

Many requests require follow-up documentation or clarification. An appeal may add 2–4 more weeks. And a full psychological evaluation can take several weeks to schedule and complete.


Pro Tip for California Students

Even if you’re applying to UC or CSU campuses, you may still need accommodations evaluations for:

  • In-class testing or university disability services

  • Graduate school admissions

  • Future licensing exams


Avoid the last-minute scramble.




Written by Jason Olin, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist.

Dr. Olin provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for high-stakes testing and licensing decisions, including FAA-related evaluations. He sees clients onsite in Newport Beach, California, and by telehealth across 43 PSYPACT states and New York.

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