The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) and alternate assessment Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS) are the state tests that help districts measure student progress toward Minnesota’s academic standards and also meet the requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Students take one test in each subject. Most students take the MCA, but students who receive special education services and meet eligibility requirements may take the alternate assessment MTAS instead.

The list below shows tests by subject along with the grades they are given in parentheses behind each subject.

• Reading: MCA or MTAS (grades 3-8, 10)
• Mathematics: MCA or MTAS (grades 3-8, 11)
• Science: MCA or MTAS (grades 5, 8, and high school)

Test Security Tip Line Available on the MDE Website

Educators, parents, students, and others can report suspected incidents of cheating or other improper or unethical behavior on statewide assessments to MDE by using an online tip line, sending an email, or calling MDE. If the report is submitted anonymously, MDE will not respond in writing. Depending on the nature of each report and the amount of information provided, MDE will follow up with the district to investigate alleged irregularities.

Links to the Test Security Tip Line are available on each of the Statewide Testing sections of the MDE website:

·        View the Test Administration page.

·        View the Testing Resources page.

·        View the Testing Information page.

To submit a report by email, contact mde.testing@state.mn.us. To report a test security incident by phone, call 651-582-8512.

MDE takes test security practices and policies seriously and encourages any individual with firsthand knowledge of a test security concern to contact MDE.

Individuals who have concerns about test security practices are encouraged to raise their concerns with their District Assessment Coordinator or the district’s legal counsel before contacting MDE. 

Kristi Berlin
Director of Curriculum, Technology Integration, and Assessment
Phone: 218-213-2362
Email: kberlin@isd2142.k12.mn.us