Massachusetts students take the MCAS in the spring. Grades 3–8 test in ELA and math, with science in grades 5 and 8 and Civics in grade 8. Tests are computer-based and untimed within the school day.
When (2026–27)Grade 10 ELA March 23–April 1 and Math May 18–26, 2027; November retests (ELA November 4–17, Math November 10–17, 2026); high school science also has February and June windows.
FormatComputer-based
Good to know
Students take one high school science test, Biology or Introductory Physics, in grade 9 or 10.
K–2: There is no statewide K–2 test; a DESE regulation requires early literacy screening in K–3 at least twice a year with a district-chosen screener.
Testing calendar
2026–27 testing windows
—DAYS
until MCAS ELA and Mathematics (ELA) opens on March 22, 2027.
AugSepOctNovDecJanFebMarAprMayJun
MCAS ELA and Mathematics3–8 (and 10)
ELAMath
MCAS Science and Technology/Engineering (STE)5, 8
Spring test (grades 5 and 8)
MCAS Civics8
Spring test (grade 8)
MCAS high school tests9–10
November retest (ELA Nov 4–17; Math Nov 10–17)February HS science (Biology, Intro Physics)Grade 10 ELAGrade 10 MathJune HS science (Biology, Intro Physics)
Today
MCAS ELA and Mathematics: DESE calls this an initial schedule and may update it.
Dates from the state’s published 2026–27 schedule. Districts set their own days inside each window.
What’s new for 2026–27
What changed this year
New
MCAS is no longer a graduation requirement; the Class of 2027 and later meet the Competency Determination through coursework, and high school MCAS is still given.
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Every test prep workbook — Printable PDF + Interactive
No. Our workbooks are independent practice resources with original questions. They're aligned to each state's published test design, but they are not official test materials and aren't affiliated with any state or test publisher.
How do I know a workbook matches this year's test?
Each state page shows the date we last checked the state's official sources. We re-check every state each summer and update the workbooks whose test changed.
Can I use a workbook with my whole class?
Yes. A purchase covers one teacher and their own students. To share with every teacher in a school, choose the School License.
What’s the difference between the editions?
The Printable PDF prints for your class. The Interactive Workbook is the same workbook online — self-checking, with read-aloud, on interactive whiteboards, touch panels, Chromebooks and tablets. The Bundle gives you both. The School License covers both for one school. Paperbacks are sold on Amazon once each one is available. Members get the Printable PDF and the Interactive Workbook of every workbook.
Have Fun Teaching test prep workbooks are independent, supplemental practice resources. MCAS is named only to identify the test these workbooks prepare students for; test names belong to their owners. Have Fun Teaching, LLC is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or any test publisher. Not an official test. No score or result is guaranteed.
Testing information was checked against official Massachusetts sources on the date above. States can change tests and dates at any time — see the official links for the latest.
