Georgia WIDA ACCESS Exit Criteria (2026)
To exit English Learner (EL) status in Georgia, a student in grades 1-12 needs an overall composite of 5.0 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten: an overall composite of 5.0 or higher, 5.0 or higher in listening, speaking and reading, and a writing score of 4.5 or higher, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Verified: October 2026. Exit criteria change annually; confirm with the Georgia education agency before making a decision.
WIDA ACCESS (formerly ACCESS for ELLs) exit criteria
- An overall composite of 5.0 or higher
Georgia also has a pathway for students with an overall composite from 4.3 up to just below 5.0: they may exit only after an additional state-defined review or evidence step, never on the score alone.
Other state requirements: In grades 1 to 12, a school team may also approve exit for an overall score from 4.3 to 4.9 using other information about the student's English.
Grade-specific rules
- Kindergarten: an overall composite of 5.0 or higher, 5.0 or higher in listening, speaking and reading, and a writing score of 4.5 or higher.
WIDA Alternate ACCESS
An overall proficiency level of 5 or higher on WIDA Alternate ACCESS.
A student at level 4 in grades 1-12 may also exit with additional evidence or a team decision set by the state.
Alternate ACCESS levels are on that assessment's own scale and are not comparable to WIDA ACCESS levels.
Monitoring after exit
2 years after exit. Federal guidance calls for districts to monitor former English learners' academic progress for at least two years; some states set a longer period.
Identification timeline
Within 30 calendar days of enrollment, at the start of the school year or mid-year.
State terminology
Georgia uses the term English Learner (EL). Program name used in state guidance: ESOL.
Sources
- Georgia exit criteria guidance (state source)
- Georgia identification and placement guidance (state document hosted by WIDA)
- Georgia English learner program page
Verified October 2026. States revise their criteria, and the state's current guidance always takes precedence over this summary.
Frequently asked questions
What ACCESS score is needed to exit EL status in Georgia?
To exit English Learner (EL) status in Georgia, a student in grades 1-12 needs an overall composite of 5.0 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten: an overall composite of 5.0 or higher, 5.0 or higher in listening, speaking and reading, and a writing score of 4.5 or higher, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Does Georgia use a different exit rule for some grades?
Yes. Kindergarten: an overall composite of 5.0 or higher, 5.0 or higher in listening, speaking and reading, and a writing score of 4.5 or higher.
Can students who take WIDA Alternate ACCESS exit in Georgia?
An overall proficiency level of 5 or higher on WIDA Alternate ACCESS. A student at level 4 in grades 1-12 may also exit with additional evidence or a team decision set by the state. Alternate ACCESS levels are on that assessment's own scale and are not comparable to WIDA ACCESS levels.
How long are former ELs monitored in Georgia?
Georgia monitors students for 2 years after exit. Federal guidance calls for districts to monitor former English learners' academic progress for at least two years; some states set a longer period.
How quickly must Georgia schools identify ELs?
Within 30 calendar days of enrollment, at the start of the school year or mid-year. Confirm the timeline with the state's current guidance.
Track exit criteria without the spreadsheet
Melaa is a tool for ML program staff. It checks each student's ACCESS scores against your state's numeric exit criteria and flags students who need a team review. The exit decision always stays with your district.
Melaa is not affiliated with or endorsed by WIDA or the University of Wisconsin. Exit criteria are set by each state education agency, not by WIDA or Melaa. This page summarizes public state policy for information only; it is not legal advice and does not replace your state's current guidance or your district's exit decision.