Vermont WIDA ACCESS Exit Criteria (2026)
To exit Multilingual Learner (ML) status in Vermont, a student in grades 1-12 needs an overall composite of 5.0 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten: 5.0 or higher in each of the 4 domains (listening, speaking, reading and writing), and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Verified: October 2026. Exit criteria change annually; confirm with the Vermont education agency before making a decision.
WIDA ACCESS (formerly ACCESS for ELLs) exit criteria
- An overall composite of 5.0 or higher
Vermont also has a pathway for students in grades 3-12 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: Kindergarten students need 5.0 or higher in each of the four skill areas; in grades 3 to 12, students with an overall score from 4.3 to 4.9 may also exit if a state review panel agrees and a parent gives written approval.
Grade-specific rules
- Kindergarten: 5.0 or higher in each of the 4 domains (listening, speaking, reading and writing).
WIDA Alternate ACCESS
An overall proficiency level of 4 or higher on WIDA Alternate ACCESS.
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, and within 14 calendar days for students who enroll during the year.
State terminology
Vermont uses the term Multilingual Learner (ML).
Sources
- Vermont exit criteria guidance (state source)
- Vermont identification and placement guidance (state document hosted by WIDA)
- Vermont 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 ML status in Vermont?
To exit Multilingual Learner (ML) status in Vermont, a student in grades 1-12 needs an overall composite of 5.0 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten: 5.0 or higher in each of the 4 domains (listening, speaking, reading and writing), and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Does Vermont use a different exit rule for some grades?
Yes. Kindergarten: 5.0 or higher in each of the 4 domains (listening, speaking, reading and writing).
Can students who take WIDA Alternate ACCESS exit in Vermont?
An overall proficiency level of 4 or higher on WIDA Alternate ACCESS. Alternate ACCESS levels are on that assessment's own scale and are not comparable to WIDA ACCESS levels.
How long are former MLs monitored in Vermont?
Vermont 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 Vermont schools identify MLs?
Within 30 calendar days of enrollment at the start of the school year, and within 14 calendar days for students who enroll during the 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.