Accommodations vs. modifications: What’s the difference?

When a student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan, you’ll likely hear the word accommodation. You might also hear the word modification. These terms may seem similar. But they mean very different things for a student’s education. 

Accommodations are changes in how a student learns. They remove barriers so students can learn the same material as their peers and meet the academic standards that states set for each grade level.

Modifications are changes in what a student is taught or is expected to learn. They’re typically given to students who are far behind their peers. These changes apply in both general education and special education classrooms. 

Students who are getting modifications aren’t being held to the same standards as other kids in their grade. That can have a big effect on their education and future. 

Accommodations may be included in IEPs as well as in 504 plans. But modifications are generally only included in IEPs.

Here are some examples of how accommodations and modifications differ. You can also download and print a chart of these differences. 

Classroom instruction

There are many accommodations that can help students learn the same material as their classmates and meet academic standards for their grade. 

For example, an accommodation for a student with dyslexia might include an audio version of the book the rest of the class is reading. A student who struggles to pay attention might get seated next to the teacher, but still has to do all the regular class assignments. 

With modifications, students aren’t expected to learn the same material as their classmates. They might get lower-level reading assignments or shorter writing assignments, for example. Or they might continue to learn a basic skill while classmates move on to more advanced work.  

Classroom tests

The goal of test accommodations is to let students show their knowledge. They may be different accommodations from the ones a student has for classroom learning. 

For example, one accommodation might be to have a “designated reader” who reads test questions aloud. Another might be that the student gives answers in a form that’s easiest — written or spoken. But nothing is different about the test itself.

With modifications, a test may cover less material or material that’s less complex. For example, a student might have a different list of spelling words to study. In other words, what the student is tested on is different.

Standardized testing

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires states to measure how well students are doing in math, reading, and science in certain grades. These statewide tests are based on grade-level standards.

Standardized tests allow students to use some accommodations. A student might get more time or be able to take the test in a quiet space, for example. Ideally, the accommodations would be the same ones a student uses to take classroom tests.

Some students who are far behind their classmates may take what’s called an alternate assessment. This test doesn’t measure against grade-level standards. It includes modifications to the standard exam, like fewer questions, for example. It might cover different material than the traditional exam. Also, the results are interpreted differently. 

In certain states, students who take an alternate assessment instead of the traditional exit or graduation exam may not be on the path to a traditional high school diploma. Only seven states still require exit exams for graduation. They include New York, Florida, Louisiana, Ohio, New Jersey, Texas, and Virginia.

PE, music, and art class

Accommodations for classes like PE, music, and art can be helpful for some kids. They’re similar to the ones students get for classroom learning.  Examples include frequent breaks, seating near the teacher, or extra time for projects. 

Sometimes, an assignment in a class like PE, music, or art is unreasonable for a student to do. When this happens, a modification may be made. For example, a student might not be required to learn to read music in music class.

IEPs are reviewed at least once a year. So a student’s modifications and accommodations may change. It’s important to know why the student is receiving these supports, and how they fit into IEP goals.

If your child has accommodations, but is still struggling, you may wonder if modifications are needed. Request a meeting with the IEP team (or 504 team) to talk about your concerns. 

If your child is struggling and hasn’t had an evaluation for special education services, you can request a free evaluation from the school. The results will show what type of supports your child needs.

Video: Accommodations vs. modifications

To learn more, watch as an expert explains the difference between accommodations and modifications.