[nabs-l] accommodations for the GREs

[Arielle Silverman]

Hi Serena,

I took the GRE's in the spring of 2007. I understand that some of the
accommodations for the computer test have changed, and it may now be
fully accessible. However, if you like to use Braille, the Braille
paper test is still an option. I got all the test questions in Braille
and dictated my answers to a scribe. For the essays, I wrote my essay
on a Perkins Brailler and then read it word-for-word to the scribe.
They also provide tactile diagrams for the math section and I think
they still do that even if you take the accessible version of the
computer test.

One thing about the computer test is that it adjusts the difficulty
level of the questions based on how you are responding. Most of your
peers will be taking the computer test, so your score is more likely
to be competitive with theirs. However, if you like to have Braille
test questions in front of you, by all means go with the paper test.

When I took the GRE I didn't need an eye exam. I only needed a
signature from a DSS staff member at my university certifying that I
was blind and did in fact need the accommodations I was requesting. Is
the eye exam a new requirement?

Arielle

On 10/29/09, Jedi <loneblindjedi at samobile.net> wrote:
> Hi.
>
> I've been in contact with Ms. Kelly at LCB. If you want to know more
> about GRE accommodations, I suggest you get ahold of her. She suggested
> to me that I have a reader with Braille diagrams and such. As for
> essays, she suggested that I type the essays. Presumably, the GRE
> testing site would provide the computer. I don't know how screen reader
> access would go, but you may be able to use http://www.satogo.com. You
> can contact the LCB at 1-800-234-4166. They are on Central time.
>
> You should also be aware that the accommodations application will
> require an EXTENSIVE eye exam even if you require non-visual
> accommodations. They'll want you to go through a functional impact
> assessment among other things. Why, I have no clue.
>
> Respectfully,
> Jedi
> Original message:
>> Hey guys,
>
>> Have any Braille users taken the GREs recently?  Did you get the Math
>> and/or verbal sections in Braille?  How did you write the essays?  Were
>> you able to use your Braillenote/other note taker or did ETS make you
>> dictate them  I looked on the GRE site about people with disabilities
>> and they claim you're only allowed to use a slate and stylus or
>> Braillewriter only to take notes.  I think this is absolutely insane!?
>
>> Thanks,
>> Serena
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-- 
Arielle Silverman
President, National Association of Blind Students
Phone:  602-502-2255
Email:
nabs.president at gmail.com
Website:
www.nabslink.org