IGCSE Access Arrangements and Special Consideration 2026
Access arrangements and special consideration help IGCSE candidates who need support due to disability, illness, or other circumstances. Here’s what they cover and how to apply for May/June 2026.
Access Arrangements
These are agreed before exams to give fair access. They are for students with long-term needs (e.g. dyslexia, visual impairment).
Examples
- Extra time – Typically 25% more (e.g. 2 hours → 2.5 hours)
- Scribe – Someone writes for the candidate
- Reader – Someone reads the paper aloud
- Separate room – Reduced distraction
- Enlarged papers – For visual impairment
- Word processor – For writing difficulties
How to Apply
- School candidates – The school applies to Cambridge via the exams officer
- Evidence – Professional reports (e.g. educational psychologist) may be required
- Deadlines – Apply early; Cambridge needs time to approve
- Private candidates – Apply through your exam centre; they will advise
When to Apply
Apply as early as possible, ideally by the start of the exam year. Late applications may not be approved in time.
Special Consideration
This is for short-term problems on or around exam day (e.g. illness, bereavement, accident).
Examples
- Illness during the exam
- Bereavement
- Serious disruption (e.g. fire alarm)
- Medical emergency
How to Apply
- Tell an invigilator – If it happens during the exam
- School/centre – They submit the application to Cambridge
- Evidence – Medical certificate or other supporting documents
- Outcome – Cambridge may adjust marks or offer a re-sit
When to Apply
As soon as possible after the incident. Centres have deadlines for submitting special consideration applications.
Important Notes
- Access arrangements – Must be approved in advance
- Special consideration – Does not guarantee a grade change; Cambridge decides
- Private candidates – Must apply through their exam centre
Who to Contact
- School candidates – Exams officer or SENCO
- Private candidates – Your exam centre (e.g. British Council)
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