MCA Testing Schedule
MCA student reports are disseminated to parents at Fall conferences in October.
April 8-9, 2026
8:15-10:15 A.M.
Science
5th, 8th, HS and WIN
April 14-15, 2026
8:15-10:15 A.M.
April 14-15
3rd-8th, 10th Grade and WIN
April 21-April 22, 2025
8:15-11:15 A.M.
April 21 & 22
3rd-8th, 11th Grade and WIN
Other Testing Schedules
NWEA Testing
2nd - 10th Grade Math and Reading
Fall
September 8, 2025 - October 3, 2025
Winter
January 6, 2025 - February 12, 2026
Spring
May 4, 2026 - May 21, 2026
ASVAB (Juniors)
Fall 2025
(Hours 1-4)
NAEP Math & Reading
January 26 to March 20
(Official date to be announced in November)
ACT Testing
Early April 2026
(Local During School)
6MN Access Testing
February 4, 2025 - February 28, 2026
Additional Information from the Minnesota Department of Education
Why Statewide Test Results Matter
Minnesota’s statewide tests are objective, standardized measures of student achievement on academic or proficiency standards. Students, families, teachers and administrators use statewide test results as part of a comprehensive system for evaluating learning. Answers to frequently asked questions explain the purpose for statewide testing and why it is important to ensure the integrity of test scores.
Parent Fact Sheets
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA), Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS), and ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 and Alternate ACCESS for ELLs, are available in a downloadable and printable Parent Fact Sheets. A test preparation fact sheet is also available. See our document list below.
Student Participation in Statewide Assessments
Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.31, subdivision 4a, student participation requires the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) to publish a form for parents/guardians to complete if they refuse to have their student participate in state-required standardized assessments. The Parent/Guardian Guide to Statewide Testing document provides some basic information to help parents/guardians make informed decisions that benefit their child and their school and community. The form to meet this legislative requirement is available at the link below; it must be returned to your student's district.