The ACCESS for ELLs assessment is New York & New Jersey States' annual English language proficiency test for all identified English Language Learners / Multilingual Learners (ELLs/MLLs) in grades K-12. It is administered once each year and measures growth in the four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. Results are used to monitor progress, inform instruction, and determine whether a student is eligible to exit ELL status.
The ACCESS testing window in New Jersey typically runs from late February through the end of March. Exact start and end dates are set by NJDOE each year, so confirm the current year's official window with the building test coordinator before scheduling. Plan to begin early in the window to allow makeup sessions for absent students before the window closes.
Who is tested: Every student currently identified as an ELL/MLL must be tested in all four domains, including newcomers and students in their first year. Former ELLs who have exited are not tested.
Test format: ACCESS is administered online for most grades. Kindergarten and the Speaking domain in certain grades are administered individually. Students with an IEP or 504 plan may take Alternate ACCESS or receive approved accommodations.
Before testing: Confirm rosters are accurate, verify each student's accommodations, ensure devices and headsets are working, and complete required test administrator training and certification.
During testing: Follow the standardized script, maintain a quiet and secure environment, and do not coach or assist students with content. Monitor students and document any irregularities.
Accommodations: Provide only the accommodations documented in a student's IEP or 504 plan. Common supports include extended time, small-group setting, and breaks.
Test security: All test materials and login tickets are secure. Do not photograph, copy, or share test content. Store materials in a locked location and return or destroy them per NYSED instructions.
After testing: Confirm all students have completed every domain, submit or schedule makeups for absentees, and account for all secure materials before the window closes.
ACCESS produces scores for each domain plus an Overall composite score reported on a 1.0-6.0 proficiency scale. Individual Student Reports are typically released in late spring or early summer. Scores are used to measure annual progress, guide ENL/Bilingual service levels, and determine exit eligibility based on the current NYSED exit criteria.
Questions about scheduling, accommodations, or test administration should be directed to the building test coordinator or the ESL/ENL & Bilingual Department.