Hey there, future grad student! We know that having ADHD can make standardized tests like the GRE feel like an uphill battle. But guess what? The folks at Educational Testing Service (ETS) are on your side. They offer accommodations for test-takers with ADHD to ensure everyone gets a fair testing experience. Let’s dive into the resources and strategies available to help you tackle the GRE head-on if you have ADHD.
GRE Accommodations for ADHD
ETS understands that ADHD can impact your test-taking game, and so offers accommodations to level the playing field. If you’re grappling with ADHD, you might be eligible for extra testing time, additional breaks, or even a distraction-reduced environment. These accommodations aim to give you the space you need to let your abilities shine.
Kickstarting the Accommodation Request Process
To get these accommodations, you’ll need to apply through ETS, and it’s best to start this process early. Begin by checking out ETS’s documentation requirements for ADHD accommodations. You’ll generally need paperwork from qualified professionals like psychologists or physicians detailing your diagnosis, history, and current impact of ADHD. Remember, the more comprehensive and up-to-date your documentation, the better.
Communicating with ETS
Once you have collected the required documentation, submit an application to ETS requesting accommodations for ADHD. ETS will review your application and supporting documentation, and you may be asked to provide additional information or clarification. It’s important to respond promptly and provide any requested documentation to keep things moving smoothly.
Creating Your Personal Game Plan
While accommodations can be instrumental in leveling the playing field, it is also essential to develop personal strategies that complement the accommodations provided for ADHD. Consider the following strategies to boost your performance on the GRE:
- Time Management: ADHD can affect time management skills. Combat this by crafting a study schedule, breaking tasks into bite-sized chunks, and setting specific goals for each study session.
- Organization: A tidy study space can do wonders for your focus. Keep your materials, notes, and resources in specific places to stay organized and avoid losing crucial study materials.
- Study Techniques: Mix and match study techniques to find what works best for you. Try using visual aids like diagrams or mind maps, then get interactive by discussing concepts with peers or trying explaining them to someone else.
- Practice Time Constraints: Since managing time can be tricky, practice timed exercises and simulate test-like conditions to get comfortable with the test’s pace. This will help you develop a sense of how much time to allocate to each question and improve your time management skills.
Tapping Into Handy Resources
There’s no shortage of resources to help you gear up for the GRE. Here are a few you might find useful:
- ETS Materials: ETS’s official GRE study materials can help you get a feel for the test’s structure, question types, and content.
- Online Forums and Communities: Join online GRE prep communities to connect with other test-takers with ADHD and glean advice from seasoned pros.
- Study Apps and Tools: Explore various study apps and tools designed to assist with organization, time management, and study techniques. These tools can help you stay on track, manage your study schedule, and optimize your learning experience.
- Support Services: Remember to look to academic or career counseling services offered by your school. They can guide you through the accommodation request process, offer study tips, and point you towards additional resources.
Navigating the GRE with ADHD can be challenging, but with proper accommodations, personal strategies, and resources, you can optimize your performance and showcase your abilities to the best of your potential. Remember to start the accommodation request process well in advance, gather comprehensive documentation, and be proactive in developing personalized strategies. With a bit of support and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to crushing the GRE and achieving your academic dreams.
Leave a Reply