What your state tests
Maryland uses the MCAP (Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program) — ELA and math in grades 3–8, the MISA science test, and high-school assessments. It evolved from the older PARCC/HSA tests and is run by the Maryland State Department of Education.
Which tests, which grades
- MCAP ELA & MathEnglish language arts and mathematics in grades 3–8
- MISA (Science)Maryland Integrated Science Assessment in grades 5, 8, and once in high school
- High-school MCAPAlgebra I, English 10, and a Government assessment
- Alt-MCAPAlternate assessment for eligible students
Format & subjects
MCAP is online with multiple-choice and constructed-response items. High-school MCAPs are subject/course assessments.
Is passing required to graduate?
Maryland requires students to take the high-school MCAP assessments (Algebra I, English 10, Government), and results are used within the graduation framework; students who don't meet the standard have additional options. Districts also set credit requirements — confirm the current policy with your school.
How it's scored
MCAP reports performance levels; the high-school assessments report whether students meet the college-and-career-ready standard.
Testing windows
MCAP is given in a spring window (with additional high-school windows tied to courses).
How to prepare
- Practice tests & released itemsMSDE provides practice tests matching the online format
- Course-aligned reviewThe Algebra I, English 10, and Government tests follow those courses
Participation & opting out
Students in tested grades and courses participate. Ask your district about make-up windows.
Accommodations & multilingual learners
Accommodations follow a student's IEP or 504 plan; eligible students take the state's alternate assessment. Multilingual learners take an English proficiency test (WIDA ACCESS or the state equivalent) and may receive designated supports.
Accountability & promotion
Results feed the Maryland School Report Card and accountability, guide instruction, and connect to high-school graduation through the required HS assessments.
Key facts
- SystemMCAP
- Grades 3–8ELA & Math
- ScienceMISA (gr 5, 8, HS)
- High schoolAlgebra I, English 10, Government
- AgencyMaryland State Dept. of Education
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your district: