Background

Currently, the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) is the mandated state test for determining English language proficiency (ELP). It must be given to students whose primary language is one other than English. California and federal law require that local educational agencies administer a state test of ELP to eligible students in kindergarten—or year one of a two-year kindergarten program, also referred to as transitional kindergarten—through grade twelve. The ELPAC is aligned with the 2012 California English Language Development Standards and is comprised of two separate ELP assessments: The Initial ELPAC, and the Summative ELPAC.

LEAs must use a locally determined alternate English language proficiency assessment or the Initial ELPAC to assess potential English learners.

* The Statewide Operational Field Test: Postponed to the 2021–22 school year. Administered one-on-one with a certified test examiner similar to the California Alternate Assessments.

Types of ELPAC Assessments and Administration

Initial ELPAC—primary identification of students as English learners (ELs).

• The administration window is July 1 to June 30.
• See the How to Complete the Initial ELPAC Process (PDF)  quick reference guide for instructions on the process that begins upon a student's first enrollment in a California public school.

Summative ELPAC—an annual assessment to measure an English Learners progress and to identify the student's ELP level.

• The administration window is February 1 to May 31.

Alternate ELPAC—The Alternate ELPAC is an annual assessment to measure and to identify the student's ELP level for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.

• The Statewide Operational Field Test: Postponed to the 2021–22 school year. Administered one-on-one with a certified test examiner similar to the California Alternate Assessments.
• More information about the Alternate ELPAC is available on the Test Administration webpage.