ACCESS, Alternate ACCESS and WIDA Screener for English Learners
English learners (ELs) Kindergarten - Grade 12 are required annually to take either the ACCESS or Alternate ACCESS for ELs. Initial EL eligibility is determined through administration of the WIDA Screener, an English language proficiency assessment.
ACCESS for ELLs
ACCESS is taken annually by English learners in Kindergarten – Grade 12. The test measures annual progress towards development of English language proficiency.
ACCESS Testing Window: January 27 - March 21, 2025
Program Coordinator/Educator Resources
- Preparing for ACCESS Testing - Key information for educators, students and families
- Assessment Requirements, Resources, Test Preparation and Professional Learning
- ACCESS Test Practice & Sample Items - ACCESS online & ACCESS paper.
- ACCESS for ELs Scores & Reports - Sample score reports, interpretive guides and other resources.
Scoring Appeals
The scoring appeal process enables the NHED to review any concerns raised by school districts regarding perceived inaccuracies in one or more areas of a student's individual score report, or a miscalculation of a student's overall composite score.
-
Please use the guidance available in the Technical Assistance: Documenting Testing Exceptions for the Statewide Assessments to submit a scoring appeal via the i4see system. Also refer to the Scoring Appeal Request information.
Alternate ACCESS for ELLs
For English learners with the most significant cognitive disabilities, the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs is the state adopted alternate assessment.
- Accessibility and Accommodations Manual - Appendix D contains the WIDA accommodation checklists for all WIDA assessments.
Family Resources
- What is ACCESS for ELs? Family handout available in multiple languages.
Exit and Reclassification of English learners
- EL Reclassification & Exit Criteria - An overview of the criteria for EL student to exit EL status.
WIDA Screener
The WIDA Screener is the state approved English language proficiency assessment given to new students in grades K-12. The screener is used to measure a student's English language proficiency and to determine eligibility as an English language learner.
Additional resources for NH EL Educators and ACCESS Test Coordinators are available in the WIDA Secure Portal.