NBPTS Exceptional Needs Specialist Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

The term that describes significantly subnormal cognitive functioning is "intellectual disability." This classification encompasses a group of disorders characterized by limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical skills. Individuals with an intellectual disability have an IQ score below 70, which indicates cognitive abilities that are significantly below average alongside difficulties in functioning in daily life activities.

Intellectual disability is distinct from the other options listed. For instance, "multiple disabilities" involves two or more concurrent physical or intellectual disabilities, which may or may not include cognitive impairment. "Specific learning disability" refers to challenges in acquiring academic skills, such as reading or mathematics, but does not indicate overall cognitive functioning. Lastly, "speech or language impairment" pertains specifically to difficulties in communication and does not encompass cognitive functioning overall. Thus, when referring to significantly subnormal cognitive functioning specifically, intellectual disability is the most accurate and relevant term.