Special provision for VCE exams

With VCE exams coming up, don’t forget there’s support available to help if you have a disability or are sick, injured or experiencing a personal trauma around this time.

With VCE exams coming up, don’t forget there’s support available to help if you have a disability or are sick, injured or experiencing a personal trauma around this time. 

It’s called Special Provision and there are two main types: Special Examination Arrangements and Derived Examination Score (DES). 

Special Examination Arrangements are available to students with disability or who have an ongoing or long-term illness or condition. The arrangements vary depending on what support you need but the aim is to help you during the exam to access the questions and communicate your answers. The support comes in many different forms, like taking rest breaks during an exam or getting extra time to complete your responses. 

Most students who are eligible for Special Examination Arrangements have already been identified. But, if you have a recently diagnosed condition and think you might be eligible, first talk to your VCE coordinator. Your school may then make a late application, which must include the relevant supporting evidence. The important thing is to let your VCE coordinator know about your situation as soon as possible.  

The second type of special provision is a Derived Examination Score or DES. This is available if you get sick or injured or experience a personal trauma just before or during your exam. Again, it’s important to contact your VCE coordinator and Principal as soon as possible before or after the exam. If you start to feel ill during an exam, also tell the supervisor. 

You will have to complete a DES application, including providing independent professional evidence. Your Principal will consider the application then make a recommendation to the VCAA.  

For more about everything you need to know, check out the Exams Navigator on the VCAA’s website. 

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Department of Education and Training