ESL Testing Arrangements for ASWB Exam Now Available in All States and Provinces

For Social Workers, the ASWB exam represents the final hurdle to achieving licensure, a milestone built on years of education, training, and dedication. However, for test-takers whose first language isn’t English, the challenge has historically been accompanied by added pressure and inequity. Complex phrasing, time constraints, and language barriers have made an already demanding exam even tougher. Until recently, access to language-based accommodations varied widely depending on where you lived.

That’s no longer the case. As of June 2025, ESL testing arrangements for the ASWB exam are now available in all states and provinces. This change, led by updates from the New York State Education Department and adopted across all ASWB jurisdictions, is a monumental step toward fairness in Social Work licensing. Candidates who qualify as English as a second language (ESL) test-takers can now receive extended time and use bilingual or English dictionaries to support their testing experience.

However, policy changes are only one part of the journey; preparation remains key. Whether you’re just starting to study or looking for that final push, tools like Agents of Change offer exactly what you need to stay focused, confident, and ready. From structured study plans to practice tests and live support, it’s a resource designed to meet you where you are, no matter your background or language.

Learn more about the ASWB exam and create a personalized ASWB study plan with Agents of Change. We’ve helped tens of thousands of Social Workers pass their ASWB exams and want to help you be next!

1) What is Changing with ESL Testing Arrangements for the ASWB Exam?

The ASWB has made a long-overdue shift to support fairness and accessibility across the board. With ESL testing arrangements for the ASWB exam now available in all states and provinces, candidates who use English as a second language are finally receiving consistent and meaningful support, regardless of where they take the test. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing—and why it matters.

Nationwide Availability: No More Geographic Barriers

Until mid-2025, access to ESL testing accommodations depended heavily on where you lived. Some states offered support, others didn’t—and that patchwork approach left many qualified candidates at a disadvantage.

Now, every U.S. state, Canadian province, and territory that administers the ASWB exam provides access to ESL accommodations. The final domino to fall was New York, which recently updated its licensing regulations to allow and recognize these arrangements. That means no more guesswork. If you qualify, you’re entitled to the same ESL support no matter your location.

New York Joins the Movement—and Goes Further

New York’s policy change doesn’t just allow ESL accommodations going forward; it also honors past exam results. If you took the ASWB exam in another state using ESL accommodations and passed, New York will now accept those results for licensure purposes.

This update acknowledges the legitimacy and rigor of ESL-supported exams across jurisdictions, creating a more mobile and unified licensing process, especially helpful for professionals relocating for work or family.

More Time, More Tools: What ESL Candidates Can Now Expect

With approval, ESL candidates now receive tangible support that can make a real difference on test day:

Up to two extra hours added to the standard testing time.
Permission to use up to two dictionaries:
A bilingual word-to-word translation dictionary.
A general English dictionary (no definitions, just word translation).

These tools don’t change the content of the exam; it’s still rigorous and still in English, but they give candidates the space to read carefully, think critically, and respond with confidence.

Consistency in Policy and Practice

Felicia Dennison, MBA, ASWB Director of Exam Administration, summed it up best: “Social work regulatory boards understand the value of consistency in procedures.” This updated ESL policy reflects that belief. Now, whether you’re testing in Texas, Ontario, or New York, your access to ESL accommodations is the same.

This level of standardization also makes it easier to prepare. Resources like Agents of Change can now confidently offer support to ESL candidates, knowing the testing experience is uniform across all regions—no more preparing for exceptions.

Clearer Guidance and Application Process

The ASWB has refreshed its Nonstandard Testing Arrangements Handbook to reflect these new policies. The application process is now more transparent, with clearer instructions on documentation requirements and approval timelines.

Candidates interested in ESL arrangements should review the updated handbook and submit their request before registering for the exam. The earlier you apply, the smoother the testing process will be.

📘 Check the updated handbook here

Agents of Change packages include 30+ ASWB topics, 2 free study groups per month, and hundreds of practice questions so you’ll be ready for test day!

2) ESL Testing Arrangements for ASWB Exam Now Available in All States and Provinces: What You Need to Know

Big changes are here, and they’re designed to make things easier and fairer for test-takers whose first language isn’t English.

Here’s a quick look at what’s changed—and what you need to know if this applies to you.

✅ What’s Changed

ESL (English as a Second Language) testing arrangements are now available everywhere the ASWB exam is offered.
New York now allows ESL accommodations and accepts past ESL-supported exam results from other states.
All jurisdictions now follow a consistent policy for ESL testing.
The ASWB has updated its Nonstandard Testing Arrangements Handbook to explain how to apply.

📌 What ESL Candidates Get

If approved, you can:

Get up to two extra hours to finish the exam.
Use up to two dictionaries during the test:
- One bilingual word-to-word dictionary (no definitions).
- One general English dictionary (basic word help, no explanations).

📋 What You Need to Do

To use ESL accommodations:

Apply before registering for the exam.
Use the official Request Form from the ASWB.
Provide proof that English is not your first language.
Follow any specific steps required by your state or province.

📎 Request ESL Arrangements Here

These changes are a big step forward in making the ASWB exam more accessible and fair for all future Social Workers.

3) How to Study Smart When English Isn’t Your First Language

Studying for the ASWB exam is intense for anyone, but when English isn’t your first language, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? With the right approach and resources, you can absolutely succeed. You don’t need to be perfect at English—you just need a plan, some support, and smart strategies.

Here’s how to make the most of your prep time and boost your confidence.

🎯 Actionable Study Tips for ESL Test-Takers

Use plain-language study materials. Look for content that’s clear, focused, and not overly academic. Agents of Change is excellent for this; its study guides are made for real-world understanding.
Practice with English-language questions. Even if you’re fluent, exam-style language can be tricky. The more practice you have, the more familiar it becomes.
Study key Social Work vocabulary. Some terms don’t translate well. Learn how they’re used in context.
Join live or recorded study groups. Hearing questions read aloud and discussed can help you catch meanings you might miss when reading silently.
Simulate test conditions. Use a timer, limit distractions, and practice with only the tools you’ll have on test day.
Study regularly, in small chunks. Don’t cram! 30- to 60-minute sessions several times a week work better than marathon days.
Use your dictionaries while studying. Get comfortable with the exact ones you plan to use on test day.

✅ Your Smart Study Checklist

Before you even register:

Confirm your eligibility for ESL accommodations.
Apply using the ASWB request form.
Get your approval in writing.

While preparing for the exam:

Use a study plan to stay organized.
Focus on key Social Work concepts and terms.
Take at least 2–3 full practice tests.
Practice using your dictionaries during mock exams.
Join at least one live or recorded study group.

Closer to test day:

Review the exam rules for what you can bring.
Rest well the night before.
Pack your approved materials (ID, dictionaries, etc.).
Remind yourself: You’re ready!

Studying smarter—not harder—is the key. That’s exactly what Agents of Change is built for. Their programs come with custom study plans, full practice exams, flashcards, and two live study groups every month. Plus, once you sign up, you have access until you pass—so there’s no rush, and no pressure to “time it right.”

Need a head start? Explore Agents of Change study tools here.

4) FAQs – ESL Testing Arrangements for ASWB Exam

Q: How do I know if I qualify for ESL testing arrangements on the ASWB exam?

A: To qualify, your primary (first) language must not be English. You’ll need to submit a request through the ASWB’s official process, which includes providing documentation that proves your first language is something other than English.

This could include educational records, immigration documents, or a personal statement. Once your request is approved, you’ll be eligible to receive up to two extra hours of test time and permission to use up to two dictionaries during the exam. Be sure to apply before registering for the test, as accommodations must be approved in advance.

Q: What exactly can I bring into the test if I’m approved for ESL accommodations?

A: If your ESL request is approved, you’re allowed to bring the following into the exam room:

One bilingual word-to-word translation dictionary (no definitions—just direct translations).
One general English dictionary (again, no definitions or explanations—just word meanings).

These tools must be paper-based—electronic devices are not permitted. You’ll also receive up to two additional hours beyond the standard testing time. Check with your testing center in advance to ensure the dictionaries you plan to bring meet their requirements. Practicing with these exact dictionaries while studying can help reduce test-day anxiety.

Q: What’s the best way to prepare for the ASWB exam if English isn’t my first language?

A: Great question. The key is to build both content knowledge and language familiarity. That means reviewing core Social Work concepts while also practicing how questions are worded in English. A resource like Agents of Change is especially helpful—they offer:

Easy-to-understand study materials.
Practice exams that mimic the real test.
Flashcards for learning vocabulary.
Live study groups twice a month, where you can ask questions in real time.
A study plan to keep you on track.
And best of all, access until you pass, so you can start preparing now—even if your exam date is months away.

Using tools designed for real learners (not just fluent test-takers) can make a major difference in both confidence and results.

5) Conclusion

The decision to make ESL testing arrangements for the ASWB exam available in all states and provinces is more than just a policy update. It’s a powerful affirmation of equity in the Social Work profession.

For too long, language barriers added unnecessary stress to an already demanding licensing process. With consistent access to extended time and language tools, qualified ESL candidates now have the support they need to demonstrate their true knowledge and skills without the pressure of navigating English fluency under strict time limits.

If English isn’t your first language, your journey to becoming a licensed Social Worker just became more accessible and far more manageable. The tools are now in place, the barriers are lower, and with the right preparation, your goal is absolutely within reach. The profession needs diverse voices and perspectives. Now, more than ever, there is space for yours.

► Learn more about the Agents of Change course here: https://agentsofchangeprep.com

About the Instructor, Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing individualized and group test prep for the ASWB for over 10 years. From all of this experience helping others pass their exams, she created the Agents of Change course to help you prepare for and pass the ASWB exam!

Find more from Agents of Change here:

► Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aswbtestprep

► Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agents-of-change-sw

#socialwork #testprep #aswb #socialworker #socialwork #socialworktest #socialworkexam #exam #socialworktestprep #socialworklicense #socialworklicensing #licsw #lmsw #lcsw #aswbexam #aswb #lcswexam #lmswexam #aswbtestprep #aswbtest #lcswtestprep #lcswtest #lmswtestprep #lmswtest #aswbcourse #learningstyles #learningstyle

Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

ESL Testing Arrangements for ASWB Exam Now Available in All States and Provinces

ESL Testing Arrangements for ASWB Exam Now Available in All States and Provinces

1) What is Changing with ESL Testing Arrangements for the ASWB Exam?

Nationwide Availability: No More Geographic Barriers

New York Joins the Movement—and Goes Further