Getting Extended Time for ADHD: What the Evaluation Involves
For adults navigating academic, professional, or licensing environments, securing accommodations like extended time on exams can make a significant difference. When ADHD is part of the picture, formal documentation is typically required to access those supports. But what does that process actually involve?
An ADHD evaluation for accommodations must go beyond a checklist of symptoms. It includes a thorough, evidence-based assessment by a licensed psychologist who understands the nuance of adult functioning and differential diagnosis.
The Evaluation Process Typically Includes:
Clinical Interview: A structured conversation to understand history, symptoms, and areas of impairment across domains (school, work, home).
Rating Scales: Self-report and collateral questionnaires that assess attention, executive functioning, mood, and related concerns.
Neurocognitive Testing: Measures of working memory, processing speed, attention regulation, and sustained focus.
Developmental & Educational History: To confirm whether symptoms were present in childhood (a requirement for ADHD diagnosis).
Importantly, the evaluation also rules out other conditions that can mimic ADHD, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or learning disorders.
When appropriate, the psychologist prepares a detailed report summarizing the findings and providing specific recommendations for accommodations. This report is then submitted to institutions (schools, standardized testing services, licensing boards) who review it based on their internal guidelines.
Accommodations may include:
Extended time on exams
Breaks during testing
Distraction-reduced testing environments
Note-taking or organizational supports
Seeking evaluation is not about "proving" anything—it’s about understanding your needs and advocating for a level playing field. With accurate diagnosis and thoughtful documentation, adults with ADHD can access the tools that support their success without shame or stigma.
