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Student Assessment
In preparation for administering the new tests in 2027, DESE plans to field test new questions in spring 2026. The questions will be embedded into the operational tests and administered statewide. The purpose of field testing is to evaluate questions based on how students perform on them. These questions will not count towards a student's score.
The 2026 MCAS Grades 3–8 ELA operational tests will continue to have the same test designs as in previous years, and the amount of time that students need to take the test is not expected to change. See the current grades 3–8 ELA design for more information about the 2026 operational tests and the embedded field test.
Last Updated: December 17, 2025