Date of the last update: 25.05.2026
Cambridge English exams are among the most widely recognised and respected tests confirming English language proficiency worldwide. In addition to their high reliability and international prestige, they are also known for their commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates. Individuals who, due to health conditions or educational difficulties, require adjustments to the exam conditions may apply for so-called special arrangements. These arrangements allow candidates to take the exam in conditions that are better suited to their individual needs.
Table of contents:
- Who can apply for special arrangements in Cambridge exams?
- What types of support are available in Cambridge exams?
- How to request special arrangements
- Summary
- FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Cambridge English Special Arrangements
Who can apply for special arrangements in Cambridge exams?
To ensure that all candidates have equal opportunities to demonstrate their language skills, Cambridge English exams provide the possibility of requesting special arrangements. This option is intended for people who need adapted exam conditions for health or educational reasons.
Support may be available to candidates with, for example:
- Dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, or other learning difficulties
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Visual impairments (e.g. partial sight or blindness)
- Hearing impairments (partial or complete hearing loss)
- Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy that may require access to medication, medical devices, or food during the exam
Thanks to this approach, candidates can take the exam in conditions that allow their language skills to be assessed fairly and accurately.
What types of support are available in Cambridge exams?
Candidates may apply for different types of arrangements depending on their individual needs.
Extra time to complete tasks
Candidates with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dysgraphia may be granted additional time to complete the Reading and Writing sections. This option is available only for paper-based exams.
Adapted exam materials
For candidates with visual impairments, exam materials may be prepared in alternative formats such as:
- Braille papers
- Enlarged print papers
- Materials with enhanced colour contrast
Use of assistive technology
In certain cases, Cambridge English may allow the use of specialised tools, such as:
- Screen readers
- Electronic magnifiers or magnifying devices
- Software supporting writing or reading, for example speech-to-text programs
Assistance from another person
In some situations, candidates may receive support from a third person, for example:
- Amanuensis – a person who writes down answers dictated by the candidate
- Reader – a person who reads exam texts aloud
- Dummy partner – a speaking partner in the Speaking test who participates in the conversation but is not assessed
Medical arrangements
Candidates with chronic medical conditions who inform the exam centre in advance may be allowed to have certain items with them during the exam, including:
- Insulin and a glucose meter (including mobile app versions)
- Drinks or snacks
- Other necessary medical devices approved by the exam organiser
Arrangements for candidates with hearing impairments
Depending on the degree of hearing loss, available options may include:
- Headphones that amplify sound
- The possibility to watch the Listening component with the option to lip-read the speakers
- A transcript of the Listening recordings – used only in exceptional cases where other solutions are not sufficient
How to request special arrangements
The decision to grant special arrangements is made by Cambridge English Assessment.
To apply for such support, candidates must:
- Indicate the need for adjusted exam conditions during registration
- Provide up-to-date medical documentation or a report from a qualified specialist confirming the type of difficulty and the required arrangements
- Submit the request well in advance – usually several months before the exam date – so that the organisers can prepare the necessary materials and exam conditions
The need for special arrangements can be indicated directly in the registration system when signing up for the exam.
Summary
Special arrangements available in Cambridge English exams are designed to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates. Whether a candidate has dyslexia, visual impairment, hearing loss, or a chronic health condition, there are solutions that make it possible to take the exam in comfortable and fair conditions. However, it is essential to report the need for arrangements early and provide the required documentation.
If you are planning to take the exam and would like to learn more about the available arrangements, please contact us:
email: egzaminy@lang.com.pl
phone: +48 22 825 16 48.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Cambridge English Special Arrangements
Who can apply for special arrangements in Cambridge English exams?
Special arrangements are available for candidates with learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, visual or hearing impairments, and chronic medical conditions requiring additional support during the exam.
What support is available for candidates with dyslexia or ADHD?
Candidates may receive extra time for the Reading and Writing sections in paper-based exams and may also use selected assistive tools that support reading or writing.
Are adapted exam materials available for visually impaired candidates?
Yes. Cambridge English can provide Braille papers, enlarged print materials, and papers with enhanced colour contrast.
What arrangements are available for candidates with hearing impairments?
Depending on individual needs, candidates may use sound-amplifying headphones, lip-reading options during the Listening component, or, in exceptional cases, transcripts of recordings.
Can candidates use medical devices during the exam?
Yes. Candidates with chronic medical conditions may be allowed to bring items such as insulin, glucose meters, drinks, snacks, or other approved medical equipment.
What is an amanuensis or dummy partner in Cambridge exams?
An amanuensis writes down answers dictated by the candidate, while a dummy partner takes part in the Speaking test conversation without being assessed.
When should candidates request special arrangements?
Requests should be submitted during registration, ideally several months before the exam date, to allow enough time to prepare the necessary materials and exam conditions.
What documents are required to apply for special arrangements?
Candidates must provide current medical documentation or a report from a qualified specialist confirming the condition and the required exam adjustments.
