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NYSESLAT

🌍 NYSESLAT Overview

What Is the NYSESLAT?


The New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) is an annual state assessment that measures the English language proficiency of students identified as English Language Learners (ELLs) or Multilingual Learners (MLLs).

The exam ensures that students receive the right level of support in listening, speaking, reading, and writing as they develop full academic proficiency in English.

🗓️ When Is the NYSESLAT Administered?

 

The NYSESLAT is given each spring in all New York State public schools. Testing typically occurs in two parts:

  • Speaking section: administered individually in April

  • Listening, Reading, and Writing sections: administered in May

Exact dates vary each year and are published on the NYSED State Assessment Schedule.

🧭 Purpose of the Assessment

 

The NYSESLAT is designed to:

  • Determine each student’s current English proficiency level.

  • Help educators tailor instruction and support to meet individual language needs.

  • Identify when a student has achieved Commanding (proficient) status and no longer requires formal ELL services.

  • Provide valuable data for teachers and administrators to improve language programs and instruction.

🗣️ Test Components

 

The assessment includes four key domains of language:

  • Speaking – Students express ideas and respond to questions orally.

  • Listening – Students demonstrate understanding of spoken English.

  • Reading – Students read and interpret texts at grade-appropriate levels.

  • Writing – Students produce written responses in English.

Students are assessed according to their grade band (K–1, 2–4, 5–6, 7–8, or 9–12), ensuring that materials are developmentally appropriate.

🎯 Proficiency Levels

 

Students receive an overall proficiency score and are placed into one of four performance levels:

  1. Entering – Beginning to learn English.

  2. Emerging – Demonstrating growing command of basic English.

  3. Transitioning – Using English more independently in academic settings.

  4. Commanding – Fully proficient in English and ready to exit ELL services.

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