Under certain circumstances special arrangements can be made to facilitate a student with migraine when taking State examinations
The student should provide a letter from his/her GP/neurologist to the school stating that he/she suffers from migraine. The school may then authorise the following: granting breaks or rest periods in each examination session that are warranted by the physical or medical condition of the candidate. Under this type of arrangement the time taken for rest or as a break may be compensated for at the close of each examination period to a maximum of 20 minutes. Taking of medicine, food, or drinks into the examination centre where this is required for medical reasons. Allowing the candidate to move within the centre. Use of a special desk or chair used in the classroom. Use of low vision aids used normally in the classroom. Ensuring that a candidate with a hearing impairment is positioned close to the superintendent.
In addition the school can apply on behalf of the candidate to request a special centre within the school for the candidate to sit the examination on his/her own. The school must have a letter from the student’s GP/consultant before approaching the State Examinations Commission. The school must apply in advance (applications are taken up until the end of May ) and decisions are made on a case by case basis.
A delayed start time may be permitted if the student cannot sit the examination at the scheduled time, and a candidate may apply to have a tape recorder to record answers if he/she is unable to write. These require prior approval from the State Examinations Commission and students cannot take an examination on a later date under any circumstances.
For more information visit www.migraine.ie or contact the reasonable accommodations office on 090 644 2781; email [email protected]
