Special Assessment Conditions or SAC

NZQA recognises that some students have learning or medical needs which require Special Assessment Conditions (SAC) during NZQA assessments.

This can provide students with a reader or writer, use of a computer, a separate room, additional time, rest breaks, braille paper or large print. SACs apply to internal assessments sat during the year, Common Assessment Activities and External Exams at the end of the year.  

For example, a student with dyslexia could be provided with asssistance to read the exam questions, write down answers, or a computer to type answers. A student with anxiety, ADHD, epilepsy or diabetes could sit their exam in a separate room and have rest breaks. 

NZQA requires Te Aroha College to complete an application or notification process on behalf of students.  This can be made at any time of the year, as need arises. Once granted, the Special Assessment Condition(s) apply for that academic year.  The Special Assessment Conditions may roll over to the following year, if the circumstances for the student have not changed.

If you would like to know more about obtaining SAC for your child, please contact Rachel Scott ([email protected]), Principal’s Nominee for NZQA, in the first instance. From there you may be referred to other staff members for assistance. 

SACs do not cover students who have a sudden illness or injury, for example a broken arm just before exams. This is covered by the Derived Grade and Practice Exam process.

This link takes you to NZQA’s SAC information https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-partners/assessment-and-moderation-of-standards/managing-national-assessment-in-schools/special-assessment-conditions/