The ACCESS test is a big part of how schools measure English language development each year. But preparing students for ACCESS isn’t about studying — it’s about helping them feel ready, confident, and informed.
When students understand why they’re taking the test and what it means for their education, they are more relaxed and motivated to show what they can really do.
Why the ACCESS Test Matters
ACCESS helps teachers and schools understand how
multilingual learners use English in academic settings.
It measures how well students can:
- Listen to and understand spoken English
- Read and understand written texts
- Speak in different classroom situations
- Write to express ideas clearly
The results are used to make important decisions about a student’s language support and progress.
ACCESS is not a test students can study for — it’s an opportunity to show what they already know and can do in English.
How Teachers Can Prepare
Teachers play a key role in helping students feel comfortable and confident before testing. WIDA provides a variety of tools to guide the process, including step-by-step checklists, training modules, and sample test items.
Here are a few simple steps to follow before test day:
Get Familiar With ACCESS Procedures
Check your state or agency’s testing page for:
- Testing dates and policies
- The type of ACCESS test used (Online, Paper, Kindergarten, or Alternate)
- Training and login information for the WIDA Secure Portal and WIDA AMS
If you’re a first-time test administrator, start with the ACCESS Quick Start Guide and review the Test Administrator Checklists.
Explore the Test Format
Spend time reviewing how the ACCESS test looks and feels.
This helps you explain it better to students.
You can explore test features, question types, and practice items on the WIDA
ACCESS page.
Communicate With Families
Families often have questions about ACCESS and what it
means. WIDA provides a simple, multilingual handout titled “What Is WIDA
ACCESS?” that explains the test’s purpose and how results are used.
Sharing this helps families support their children with confidence.
Prepare Students the Right Way
About two weeks before testing, talk to your students about what to expect. Focus on helping them feel ready rather than “study.”
Here are a few things to review:
- How to use test tools (like highlighters or line guides)
- How accommodations work if they have an IEP or 504 plan
- How to follow instructions and complete forms correctly
- How to practice sample test items to get comfortable with the question types
Students can explore Test Practice and Sample Items to build familiarity and reduce anxiety.
Encourage Healthy Habits and a Positive Mindset
Before any big test, mindset matters! Remind students:
- A positive attitude helps them show their best work
- A good night’s sleep makes a big difference
- Eating breakfast or a healthy snack helps them focus
- It’s okay to ask for a break or stretch if they need to relax before testing
When students feel supported physically and emotionally, they perform better and approach testing with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for ACCESS is not about memorizing or drilling —
it’s about helping students understand their progress as English learners.
By having open conversations, involving families, and focusing on readiness
rather than pressure, teachers can make testing a calm, empowering experience
for every learner.
Source:
WIDA. (n.d.). Preparing for ACCESS Testing. Retrieved from https://wida.wisc.edu