MCAS Alternate Assessment (MCAS-Alt)

MCAS-Alt Update January 2026

This update is published by DESE to provide Massachusetts educators with information, guidance, and support to complete the MCAS-Alt for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.

1. Ordering MCAS-Alt Materials: January 5–21, 2026

Beginning on January 5, principals should order MCAS-Alt submission materials for their school by following these steps:

• Log in to the MCAS Service Center and select MCAS Alternate Assessment.
• Click on Enrollment Verification.
• Log in with your 2026 MCAS password, which will be posted in the DESE Security Portal by January 2026.
• Confirm your contact and school information by following the onscreen prompts.
• Order materials for students in each grade who are taking the MCAS-Alt.
• Click the Submit button.

After submission, a confirmation page will be available to print for your records. Materials will be shipped the week after February vacation.

2. MCAS-Alt Review Sessions: January 2026

Review sessions for the MCAS-Alt will be offered in person and virtually in January; see the Training Opportunities webpage for dates, times, locations, and registration.