Enable Accommodation Requests for Candidates

Before you begin

This feature requires the Owner or Admin role. Accommodations apply to all Testlify library tests, company-created custom tests, and custom questions — except video questions.

What are candidate accommodation requests?

Candidates may need adjustments to perform their best — for example, due to a non-native language or a disability affecting memory or cognition. Testlify lets candidates submit an accommodation request before starting their assessment. As the employer, you review each request and decide whether to grant it and what changes to apply in the assessment settings.

Offering accommodations gives every candidate a fair opportunity to demonstrate their skills and helps your organization comply with equal employment laws.

Why offer accommodations?

Testlify follows guidelines from the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits:

• Using employment tests that screen out individuals with disabilities
• Failing to administer tests in a way that accurately reflects a candidate's skills and aptitudes
• Refusing to provide reasonable accommodations during testing

Enabling accommodations keeps your hiring process inclusive and legally compliant.

Step 1: Enable accommodation requests in your assessment

The Accommodation Request feature is off by default. To enable it:

1. Open your assessment and go to Settings → Configuration.
2. Turn on the Accommodation Request toggle.
3. Save your settings.

Step 2: Candidate submits an accommodation request

After enabling the feature, the candidate's invite email includes a note about the accommodation option. Here is how the candidate flow works:

1. The candidate receives the invite email and sees the accommodation option.
2. They click the link and fill out the accommodation request form, describing their needs.

Note: The comment box appears only when the candidate selects Yes for the second question on the form.

3. After submitting, the candidate sees a confirmation that their request was received.

Step 3: Review the request and update the assessment

1. You receive an email with the full details of the candidate's accommodation request.

2. Review the request and decide whether to approve it — approval is at your discretion.
3. If approved, follow the hyperlinked guide in the email to implement the requested changes in your assessment settings.
4. Make the required changes in your assessment.
5. Send a fresh assessment invite to the candidate. The candidate clicks Start Assessment in the updated invite to begin the assessment.

Tip: You are responsible for implementing all accommodation changes. The Testlify team does not make changes on your behalf, but our support team is happy to answer any process questions.

Types of accommodations you can provide

Common adjustments that support a fair and inclusive assessment experience include:

• Alternative test formats — Deliver the assessment in written, verbal, or interactive format based on the candidate's needs.
• Verbal response options — Let candidates answer questions verbally instead of in writing.
• Extended time limits — Add extra time for candidates with processing challenges or disabilities.
• Scheduled breaks — Allow breaks between test sections for medical or cognitive needs.
• Assistive technology support — Enable compatibility with screen readers, speech-to-text tools, or other assistive devices.
• Adjustable font size and contrast — Let candidates increase text size or adjust color contrast for better readability.
• Quiet testing environment — Provide a distraction-free setting for candidates who need a controlled environment.
• Live assistance and clarifications — Allow a proctor to read instructions aloud or clarify questions.

FAQs for employers

1. Is it mandatory to enable this feature?
   No, but disabling it may violate local fair employment laws. Seek legal advice if you are unsure.
2. Is offering accommodations legal?
   Most countries with equal employment laws require providing accommodation options. Consult legal counsel for your region's specific requirements.
3. Can I see the details of a candidate's request?
   Yes. You receive an email with the full details of each accommodation request.
4. Can I deny a candidate's request?
   Yes. Approval or denial is entirely at your discretion.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified lawyer regarding disability accommodation requirements in your region.

Need help? Contact support.