English language proficiency assessments

States annually assess the English language proficiency of ELLs in four domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

To determine whether ELLs are making progress in learning English, states’ have developed English language proficiency standards aligned to the states’ content and achievement standards.

Due to disability-related needs, some ELLs with disabilities may have difficulty accessing some tests on an English language proficiency assessment (e.g., students with hearing impairments may have difficulty accessing the listening test). Accommodations should be provided to students whose disability-related needs interfere with access on the English language proficiency assessment.

In some cases, ELLs with significant cognitive disabilities may need an alternate assessment for an English language proficiency test. Contact your state to determine whether an alternate assessment is available.