Abstract
The chapter addresses current accommodation practices for foreign language learners with specific learning or other disabilities in use with the Test of German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF). After a brief introduction to the test construct and assessment procedures, possible modifications for the test takers with special needs are outlined. They are discussed in relation to issues of validity and fairness. The focus is on special moderations offered to blind test takers. Specifically these participants can choose between two test versions: one in Braille, the tactile wiring system used by blind people, and one electronic version that is processed via PC, using a screen reader. Both versions are described and closely examined according to the following questions: In what ways are test design and test administration accommodated? What impact does the use of technology have? What challenges do the changes made pose for appropriate, standardized test development and administration? The discussion centers on the main goal of high stakes-testing. The objective is to provide fair and valid assessment instruments for all test takers, taking into consideration the heterogeneous population of candidates with special needs.