All grade 10 students in the state of Massachusetts are required to take and pass The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). This Competency Determination (CD) is a requirement for earning a high school diploma under Massachusetts state law. A student must also meet local requirements for graduation. Beginning with the Class of 2010, as student must achieve:
- A minimum score of 240 (Proficient level) on the Grade 10 English Language Arts (ELA) and Grade 10 Mathematics MCAS tests or retests.
or
- A minimum score of 220 (Needs Improvement level) on the Grade 10 ELA and Grade 10 Mathematics MCAS tests or retests and successfully complete an Educational Proficiency Plan (EPP).
and
- A minimum score of a 220 (Needs Improvement) on one of the following high school MCAS Science and Technology/Engineering (STE) tests: Biology, Chemistry, Introductory Physics or Technology/Engineering.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: MCAS Resource Center
Student Tutorial, Practice Tests and Other Resources