How to request a specific assessment for additional support needs in Scotland
Parents and young people can request particular types of assessment or examination for additional support needs. The education authority must consider the request and may refuse if it considers the request unreasonable.
Scotland uses the Additional Support for Learning framework. A Co-ordinated Support Plan (CSP) is not the Scottish equivalent of an EHCP for every learner; it has specific statutory criteria.
Make the request specific
Explain the difficulty you want assessed, why existing information is insufficient and what type of assessment you are requesting.
Include existing evidence
Attach relevant school, health or other reports so the authority can see the question the assessment needs to answer.
If refused
Ask for the refusal and reasons in writing and for information about the disagreement route that applies.
Official and authoritative sources
Scottish Government — Supporting Children’s Learning Code of Practice (2026)
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