This paper provides information about Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), a comprehensive standards-based test. The purpose of the test is to: (1) Inform and improve classroom instruction; (2) Evaluate student, school, and district performance according to Massachusetts Curriculum Framework content standards and MCAS performance levels; and (3) Determine eligibility for a competency determination (CD), which is a requirement for receiving a high school diploma. [For the main report, "State High School Tests: Exit Exams and Other Assessments" see ED514155.]