Washington WIDA ACCESS Exit Criteria (2026)
To exit Multilingual Learner (ML) status in Washington, a student in grades 2-12 needs an overall composite of 4.7 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten and grade 1: an overall composite of 4.0 or higher, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Verified: September 2026. Exit criteria change annually; confirm with the Washington education agency before making a decision.
WIDA ACCESS (formerly ACCESS for ELLs) exit criteria
- An overall composite of 4.7 or higher
Washington also has a pathway for students with an overall composite from 4.3 up to just below 4.7: they may exit only after an additional state-defined review or evidence step, never on the score alone.
Other state requirements: In grades 3 to 8 and 10 to 12, students with an overall score from 4.3 to 4.6 may also exit with Level 3 or 4 on the state English Language Arts test.
Grade-specific rules
- Kindergarten and grade 1: an overall composite of 4.0 or higher.
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 10 calendar days of enrollment, at the start of the school year or mid-year.
State terminology
Washington uses the term Multilingual Learner (ML). Program name used in state guidance: TBIP.
Sources
- Washington exit criteria guidance (state source)
- Washington identification and placement guidance (state document hosted by WIDA)
- Washington English learner program page
Verified September 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 Washington?
To exit Multilingual Learner (ML) status in Washington, a student in grades 2-12 needs an overall composite of 4.7 or higher on WIDA ACCESS; kindergarten and grade 1: an overall composite of 4.0 or higher, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Does Washington use a different exit rule for some grades?
Yes. Kindergarten and grade 1: an overall composite of 4.0 or higher.
Can students who take WIDA Alternate ACCESS exit in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington schools identify MLs?
Within 10 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.