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What to do if you need help accessing or completing Civil Service online tests.
Reasonable adjustments for Civil Service online tests: what they are, when to ask and how to request them
Reasonable adjustments are changes or support that help disabled candidates access the recruitment process fairly.
Civil Service online tests are used as part of recruitment. If you have a disability and need help accessing or completing a test, you can ask for an adjustment. GOV.UK says adjustments are considered based on your needs and on a case-by-case basis. GOV.UK also says the Civil Service has a legal duty to provide reasonable adjustments, so candidates should ask for help if they think they need it.
When you apply through Civil Service Jobs, you will be asked whether you need an adjustment to online tests. This is the main way the recruitment team identifies candidates who may need support.
If you request an adjustment, you should explain:
what help you need
why you need it
what adjustment might help
any previous adjustments you have had
After you apply, a recruiter should contact you to confirm the type of adjustment needed. If the request is more complicated, GOV.UK says the recruiter may need to seek hiring manager approval.
The best time to ask is when you apply. Do not wait until the test deadline is close if you already know you may need support.
Examples of reasonable adjustments for Civil Service online tests
The right adjustment depends on the person and the test.
Examples can include:
extra time for timed test sections
a supported test session
advice about assistive technology
help checking whether your assistive technology works with the test
alternative access support where needed
The Civil Service Careers site gives examples of adjustments that may be offered during recruitment, including supported test sessions, extra time in timed tests, and advice about assistive technology. It also says this is not a full list and that other adjustments can be considered.
GOV.UK also advises candidates to try the appropriate Civil Service practice test before the real test, because practice tests can help identify access difficulties before the actual test.
Do you need evidence for reasonable adjustments?
You may be asked for supporting documentation if the adjustment is not clear from the discussion with you.
GOV.UK gives examples such as diagnostic reports, medical certificates or similar documents. These can help the recruitment team identify the most suitable adjustment. GOV.UK also says not everyone can provide this documentation, and that this should not stop candidates from requesting help.
You do not need to write a long medical history. Focus on the barrier created by the test and the support that would help you access it fairly.
What to write in your reasonable adjustment request
Need help writing the request? Members can unlock wording examples for reasonable adjustment requests, including extra time, assistive technology support, supported test sessions, and what to send if your adjustment has not been confirmed before the deadline.
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