3.1.5 Reading Level

When text requires reading ability more advanced than the lower secondary education level after removal of proper names and titles, supplemental content or a version that does not require reading ability above that level is available.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 3.1.5

Complex sentence structure and advanced vocabulary can exclude readers with cognitive or learning disabilities, people with limited literacy, and non-native speakers, even when the underlying information is important: legal notices, medical instructions, or technical documentation. This criterion doesn't forbid complex writing, but it requires that a simpler alternative or supplement exist so the information itself remains accessible.

How to Meet It

Where possible, write in plain language suited to a lower-secondary reading level. Where advanced language is unavoidable (e.g., legal or regulatory text), provide a plain-language summary, illustrations or diagrams that convey the same information, or an alternate version of the content written at a lower reading level. Readability formulas (e.g., Flesch-Kincaid grade level) can help estimate whether content exceeds this bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this mean all content on a site has to be written simply?

No. It requires that where the necessary reading level is high, a supplemental or alternate lower-reading-level version of that specific content also be available, not that every page must be simplified.

Related Success Criteria

3.1.1 Language of Page 3.1.2 Language of Parts 3.1.3 Unusual Words 3.1.4 Abbreviations

Quick Facts

Criterion3.1.5
LevelAAA
IntroducedWCAG 2.0

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