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Student Readiness Tools

The Student Readiness Tools (SRTs) are resources that help students and educators become familiar with the MCAs and Alternate MCAs (Alt MCAs), in both online and paper formats. In each SRT, students will learn how to navigate within the tests, use tools and test supports, and indicate answers to different types of questions. Access various guides and SRTs below.

Overview of the SRTs

Minnesota Student Readiness Tools (SRTs)


Read more information about the purpose of the SRTs, the available SRT types, and other resources available for educators.

The online SRTs provide students in each grade level with video lessons and practice activities. Before you start, check that your computer, laptop, or tablet will work with the SRTs. Like the online MCAs, the SRTs are compatible with many devices and browsers, but not all. Learn more about the technology guidelines here.

The paper SRTs provide practice materials for students in each grade-level grouping who are taking the MCA using 12-point, 18-point, and 24-point paper test materials. Braille test materials will be available to order starting fall/winter 2026-27.

Paper SRTs Guide for Educators

Braille versions of the paper SRTs are available to order. Districts can request applicable materials by submitting an order form to Pearson.

Reading and Science Alt MCA SRTs are available for students taking online, paper, or hybrid administrations of the Reading or Science Alt MCAs. Educators can use the SRTs to become familiar with the Alt MCA test environment and then simulate the test for students using the online and/or paper practice questions. For the online Reading and Science Alt MCA SRTs, check that your computer, laptop, or tablet will work with the SRTs. Like the online MCAs, the SRTs are compatible with many devices and browsers, but not all. Learn more about the technology guidelines here.

MTAS released questions for each applicable grade and subject are available to help students and educators become familiar with the format of the tests. Alt MCA sample tasks are also provided.