Alternative Examination Arrangements

The University is required to provide reasonable adjustments to students with disabilities under the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and Disability Standards for Education (2005). The most common form of reasonable adjustment at the University is an alteration to the standard conditions or format of an exam, with over 500 AEAs implemented each examination period.

In 2006 the University's Academic Board approved updates to the ‘Guidelines for Alternative Examination Arrangements for Students with a Disability’ which outlines the process of applying for, approving and implementing Alternative Examination Arrangements.

Alternative Examination Arrangements aim to lessen the impact of a disability when performing under timed conditions. Students who demonstrate that their disability will adversely affect their performance and/or ability to undertake the standard form of examination may be eligible for an AEA. Examples of AEAs include:

• Exam paper in alternative format ( eg large print, Braille, audio, electronic)
• Additional reading and/or writing time
• Rest breaks
• Use of adaptive technology (e.g. screen reader)
• Separate venue
• Ergonomic furniture
• Academic Support Workers (e.g. scribe, Auslan interpreters)

An AEA can apply to any timed assessment which may include end of semester exams, winter and summer semester exams, special and supplementary exams, in-class and mid semester test and practical exams.

For further information visit:

Guidelines for Alternative Examination Arrangements for Students with a Disability : PDF.

AEA Information for Academic Staff.

AEA Information for Students.

top of page