Questions and Answers
When was the flag denoting nonstandard time removed from score reports?
How is this change apparent on printed score reports or electronic score records?
Have ACT's eligibility requirements for test accommodations changed?
When was the flag denoting nonstandard time removed from score reports?
Flags have been removed from all ACT score reports since September 1, 2003.
Why did ACT drop the flag?
Our decision to stop flagging scores followed an exhaustive analysis of the pros and cons of the flagging policy. While a rationale exists in favor of flagging scores, heightened interest in the practice of flagging and concern by some that it could have undesired consequences led to the decision to discontinue the practice. (See July 26, 2002, press release.)
How is this change apparent on printed score reports or electronic score records?
Effective September 1, 2003, all scores are reported with the same Type of Testing for students who test with standard time and for students who test with extended time:
- Scores achieved through National Testing—both those with standard time and those with ACT-approved extended time—are reported as NATIONAL (blank on electronic records).
- Scores achieved through State Testing—both those with standard time and those with ACT-approved extended time—are reported as STATE (S on electronic records).
- Scores achieved through testing NOT on a national test date at a national center or NOT through state testing—both those with standard time and those with ACT-approved extended time—are reported as ARRANGED (Z on electronic records).
If a student tested at a time when ACT reported the flag and then requests an Additional Score Report (ASR) after September 1, 2003, will the scores on the ASR be flagged?
No. Scores on all reports issued after September 1, 2003—regardless of test date—are not flagged.
Have ACT's eligibility requirements for test accommodations changed?
No. Our eligibility requirements and documentation of disabilities remain unchanged.
Has removing the flag increased the requests for accommodations and/or the number of students receiving accommodations?
The number of requests for accommodations has increased in proportion to the increased numbers of students taking the ACT. We continue to maintain our longstanding policy of closely monitoring requests to ensure that only students with legitimate needs are granted additional time during the test session.