Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we're changing how we arrange for exam accommodations. We're asking students to schedule all exams in the semester in advance on one form (and cancel if no longer needed). For face-to-face and hybrid course exams that need to be proctored in-person please follow these steps:
- Discuss the upcoming test dates with your professor.
- Download the exam accommodation form.
- Fill in your information.
- Send the form to drc_exam@niu.edu with your professor copied on the email as soon as possible, so we can ensure physical distancing requirements. Include all the test dates in this email.
- The DRC will then confirm test session details with your professor.
If you're unable to determine all your exams in advance, you'll need to submit an individual form at least three business days before a scheduled exam.
If you're enrolled in a strictly online course, you should plan to take exams with accommodations on the course platform. Discuss this with your professor prior to any exams with your professor.
Please note: We may change this process based on the status of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Exam accommodations can minimize the impact of disability by giving you an equal opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and ability.
- Large print
- Braille version
- Low distraction room
- Extended time
- Use of a computer
As soon as you know your exam date and time, have your instructor complete and sign the Exam Accommodation Form (EAF), which specifies your accommodations. A separate EAF must be completed for each exam.
If you are a student in the College of Law, use the Exam Accommodation Form for the College of Law.
Bring your completed exam accommodation form in person to the DRC office at least three full business days before you want to start the exam.
- Exam on Monday - EAF due Wednesday
- Exam on Tuesday - EAF due Thursday
- Exam on Wednesday - EAF due Friday
- Exam on Thursday - EAF due Monday
- Exam on Friday - EAF due Tuesday
Accommodated exams are scheduled at the same time as the rest of the class. Exceptions will be made only with instructor approval. If the class schedule will not allow exams to be taken at the same time as the class (e.g., back-to-back classes do not allow for extended time), the student and the instructor must indicate the agreed-upon alternative on the exam accommodation form.
Exams are scheduled between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (fall and spring) and 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (summer).
Equipment Needs
When scheduling and/or turning in each exam accommodation form, please make both written and verbal requests for any equipment needs (e.g., software, computers, CCTVs, VCRs). You must know how to use the software or equipment before taking exams. No instruction will be provided during the exam.
During the Exam
If you have questions or concerns while at the DRC taking an exam, we will make every effort to contact your instructor. Since instructors are not always be readily available, you may request that your instructor contact the DRC office at some time during administration of your exam to see if you have questions or problems.
Be on Time!
If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, you will not be allowed to take the exam with the DRC. If a change in exam arrangements is necessary, notify the DRC as soon as possible. If you cancel an exam and/or need to reschedule, the DRC office must have written or verbal approval from the instructor.