How to apply for
reasonable adjustments

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Reasonable adjustments

A reasonable adjustment is a change in the assessment process to help remove or reduce disadvantages that might prevent certain people from effectively applying for a job.

The Civil Service Fast Stream is committed to supporting you through the process by offering a range of reasonable adjustments. 

These are available if you face challenges completing assessments due to a diagnosed or undiagnosed disability, long term condition, or a temporary illness or injury.

What you need to know

We provide adjustments at both stages of the recruitment process. Below are some examples of the adjustments that are built-in to our assessments, or available on request. 

Online Tests

The online tests are designed to be accessible for all candidates who identify as neurodiverse, and therefore candidates do not need to request the adjustments below, prior to attempting the tests.

  • Each of the online tests are untimed and therefore requests for extra time are not required
  • Candidates can take self-directed breaks between and during the tests
  • The tests are compatible with screen readers

Candidates are not able to bypass the online tests as they are an integral part of assessing the suitability of candidates as part of the Fast Stream. However there may be other ways to support candidates who require adjustments beyond those listed above.

If you find the online test questions challenging to read, you can seek help from a family member, friend, or colleague.  However, please ensure that your answers are honest and accurately represent your thoughts and ideas.

Fast Stream Assessment Centre (FSAC)

Candidates will need to request adjustments for the FSAC when submitting their applications. This is so that tailored support can be put in place for each individual. Examples of adjustments that are commonly requested are:

  • Extra time to read or write
  • Request larger text for briefing materials
  • Longer breaks between exercises
  • Assessors to be made aware of a candidates disability/condition

No matter your circumstances, we’ll do our best to meet your needs. 

You may already have adjustments in place, like assistive technology on your computer. 

If you pass your assessment, you can request necessary workplace adjustments both before beginning your position and throughout your career.

Do I need reasonable adjustment support?

Applying for support is easy

In the application form, you’ll be asked if you need a reasonable adjustment for the Fast Stream Assessment Centre. If you do, please tick ‘yes’.

Ensure adjustments are agreed in advance, as they can’t be granted on the day. Provide detailed information about your required adjustments so we can support you throughout your application journey.

Final Selection Board stage

Assessments at this stage may vary by scheme. If you need a reasonable adjustment at this stage, please visit our Contact Us page and submit a request for help once your application reaches this stage.

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