There are a wide range of reasons a student may require a laptop, computer, or tablet during an exam. Most commonly, this is approved for students who may have challenges related to literacy related activities. For example, the student may need to type their answers or they may need to utilize a text-to-speech reader.

Key Things to Know

Students may only use their device for pre-approved exam specific activities.
The student's device should be approved prior to the exam day. Please note that late requests may be unreasonable. If the device needs to have special software to complete the exam, the request should be made as early as possible to ensure the device has all the necessary software installed.
Unless given specific permission by the instructor, the device should be disconnected from the internet for the entirety of the exam.
The device should have Bluetooth capabilities turned off for the entirety of the exam. If Bluetooth is required for successful use of the device, this should be discussed with the professor prior to the exam.

Student Responsibilities

Students are responsible for…

Meeting all general accommodation responsibilities as outlined as outlined on the SAS Website.
Communicating their need for their device before their first exam. Please note that some technology may require changes to the exam or use of a different testing space. When this is the case, students should notify professors as soon as possible. It may be unreasonable to meet late requests.
Developing a plan with instructors that details
- Device that will be used.
- How the device will be used.
- Behavioral and academic expectations around laptop use on the exam.
- How the exam and/or student work will be returned to the instructor after completing the exam.
Abiding by all behavioral and academic expectations related to technology use during an exam.
Turning off both internet access and Bluetooth during the exam unless given specific permission.
Communicating any technical difficulties to instructors when they occur.
If using the Testing Center, following all Testing Center policies and procedures as outlined in the UNH Testing Center Handbook.

Implementation Recommendations

As an instructor implementing this accommodation, we recommend that you...

Talk with the student about their need for a laptop, computer, or tablet during and exam. Questions can include, but are not limited to:
- What device do you plan on using on exams?
- What software do you use on your device during the exam?
- Will you require the device on all exams or all sections of specific exams?
Develop a plan with the student that details:
- Which device the student is approved to use.
- Parameters for using the device in the context of the exam.
- Behavioral and academic expectations around laptop use on the exam.
- How the exam will be submitted at the end of the exam.
As needed, monitor device use during the exam.
Communicating with the Testing Center as needed.
If utilizing the Testing Center, follow all policies as outlined in the UNH Testing Center Handbook.

Common Questions

If the exam is only multiple-choice, does the student still need an exam laptop?

It depends on why the student requires the device. For example, there could be a student who uses the device for text-to-speech so would require it for all exams, but another student who only uses it for typing so might not require it on a multiple-choice exam. It is important to discuss the specific context of the exam with the student before the exam day.

If an instructor has a no technology policy, does the professor have to allow the student to have an exam laptop?

If approved for the accommodation, it is assumed the student should be able to use a device even if there is a no technology policy. The only exception is when the use of a device would change an essential requirement. Otherwise, the student should have access to their technology for written work.

If an exam requires diagrams and drawing, does the student still need to use an exam laptop?

Potentially. Specific use depends on the nature of the exam and the student needs. It is important to discuss this with students before an exam.