C-Pen Support and Resources
Reading pen guidance for Australian classrooms, exams and therapy
Practical, locally accurate guides for teachers, learning support staff and therapists. Choose the right C-Pen, set it up, get it approved for exams and find funding.
Authorised C-Pen resellerRegistered NDIS provider
Start with your role
A curated reading path for the job you do.
Classroom teachers
Build reading pens into everyday lessons, support EAL/D learners and keep reading instruction on track.
- Reading pens in the classroom
- Five ways to use a pen with EAL/D learners
- Reading pens across the curriculum
Learning support staff
Exam provisions by state, NCCD evidence, choosing a model and running a class set.
- Reading pens in Australian exams
- Recording a reading pen for NCCD
- Running a class set of reading pens
OTs and speech pathologists
When a pen fits a client goal, how to trial it and what to write for NDIS and schools.
All therapist guidesBrowse by topic
Choosing a pen
Compare models, who they suit and what a pen can't do.
5 guidesClassroom use
Routines, EAL/D, subjects and class sets.
4 guidesExams
State rules, deadlines, Exam Mode and supervisors.
5 guidesFunding and NDIS
NDIS low-cost AT, NCCD, school budgets and therapist evidence.
5 guidesSetup and support
Setup, Wi-Fi, resets, firmware and care.
10 guidesQuick help with your pen
The most common setup and support questions, answered step by step.
Which C-Pen is right?
Three models, three jobs. All read printed text aloud in Australian English.
C-Pen Reader 2
- No Wi-Fi, app or account needed
- Built-in dictionaries and word practice
- Saves scans and sends text to a computer
C-Pen Reader 3
- 5 languages offline, 40+ online with translation
- Colour touchscreen and Bluetooth audio
- Streams to compatible hearing aids
C-Pen Exam Reader 2
- Reads aloud only: no dictionary or storage
- HSC, VCE, QCE and NAPLAN when the school applies for and is granted the provision
- Earphones included, full-day battery
Common questions
Short answers, each linked to the full guide.
Can a student use a C-Pen in the HSC or VCE?
Yes, when the school applies for and is granted the provision. NESA names the C-Pen as an electronic reader, and VCAA approves electronic readers as a Special Examination Arrangement. Read the exams guide
Can NDIS funding be used for a C-Pen?
The NDIA decides eligibility. A C-Pen is low-cost assistive technology, so align the purchase to the participant's plan goals, and check with the NDIS before ordering if you're not sure. Read the funding guide
What is the difference between the Reader 2 and Reader 3?
The Reader 2 works fully offline with built-in dictionaries and word practice. The Reader 3 adds a colour touchscreen, Bluetooth audio and, on Wi-Fi, translation and 40+ languages. Compare the models
Can a C-Pen read handwriting or a computer screen?
No. A C-Pen reads printed text from 7 to 22 point. It can't read handwriting reliably and it can't read screens. What a reading pen can't do
Does text-to-speech help students with dyslexia?
Research on text-to-speech shows a small to moderate average benefit for reading comprehension. There is no controlled study of the C-Pen itself, so run a structured trial for each student. What the research says
How do I reset a frozen C-Pen?
Charge the pen first, then follow the reset steps for your model. A factory restore also clears the lock file and settings. Resetting a frozen or unresponsive C-Pen
Printable resources
Need help choosing or buying for a school?
Talk to our team about models, school quotes and class sets. Our trial program is launching soon: contact us for details.
Assistive Tech is a registered NDIS provider. Eligible participants may be able to use NDIS funding for this product. Speak with your plan manager or support coordinator for guidance.