Enable Accommodation Requests for Candidates

Before you begin

This feature is available to users with the Owner or Admin role. Granted 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 in an assessment — for example, due to non-native language fluency or a disability affecting memory or cognition. Testlify lets candidates submit an accommodation request before starting their assessment. You, as the employer, review each request and decide whether to grant it and what changes to make in the assessment settings.

Offering accommodations ensures every candidate has a fair opportunity to demonstrate their skills, and helps your organization meet legal compliance standards under equal employment laws.

Why offer accommodations?

Testlify adheres to guidelines set by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits:

• Using employment tests that exclude individuals with disabilities
• Failing to administer tests in a way that accurately measures a candidate's actual skills and aptitudes
• Refusing to make reasonable accommodations during test administration

Providing accommodation options keeps your hiring process legally compliant and inclusive.

Step 1: Enable accommodation requests in your assessment

The accommodation request feature is disabled by default. To turn it on for an assessment:

1. Open your assessment and navigate to Settings → Configuration.
2. Enable the Accommodation Request toggle.
3. Save your settings.

Step 2: Candidate submits an accommodation request

Once enabled, the candidate invite email includes a note about the accommodation option. The candidate flow works as follows:

1. The candidate receives the invite email and sees the mention of the accommodation option.
2. They click the link and complete the accommodation request form with details about their needs.

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

3. After submitting, the candidate sees a confirmation message that their request has been received.

Step 3: Review the request and update the assessment

1. You receive an email notifying you of the candidate's accommodation request, including the specific details they submitted.

2. Review the request and decide whether to approve it. Approval is entirely at your discretion.
3. If approved, click the hyperlinked guide in the email to see the steps required to implement the requested changes in your assessment.
4. Make the required changes in your assessment settings.
5. Send a fresh assessment invite to the candidate. The candidate clicks Start Assessment in the updated invite to access and complete the assessment.

Tip: Only the employer is responsible for implementing accommodation changes — the Testlify team does not coordinate or make these changes on your behalf. However, our support team is happy to answer any process questions.

Types of accommodations you can provide

Common accommodations that help create an inclusive, fair assessment experience include:

• Alternative test formats — Provide the assessment in written, verbal, or interactive format based on the candidate's needs.
• Verbal response options — Allow candidates to answer questions verbally instead of in writing.
• Extended time limits — Grant additional time for candidates with processing challenges or disabilities.
• Scheduled breaks — Offer flexible 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 sizes and contrast — Allow candidates to modify text size and color contrast for better readability.
• Quiet testing environment — Provide a distraction-free setting for candidates who need a controlled test environment.
• Live assistance and clarifications — Allow candidates to request clarifications or have a proctor read instructions aloud.

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 specific 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 is not legal advice. Consult a lawyer regarding disability accommodation requirements in your region.

Need help? Contact support.