The test used in Pennsylvania in 2026 was the "Pennsylvania Comprehensive Assessment System" (PCAS). This standardized test was designed to evaluate the academic performance of students in grades 3-8 and 11 across various subjects, including English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The PCAS replaced the previous Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and was implemented to align with the state's educational standards and the Common Core State Standards.

The PCAS was chosen for several reasons. Firstly, it was developed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of student learning, incorporating both multiple-choice and performance-based tasks. This approach allowed for a more accurate and nuanced understanding of student abilities. Secondly, the PCAS was designed to be more aligned with the Common Core State Standards, which were adopted by Pennsylvania in 2010. This alignment was crucial for ensuring that the test accurately reflected the skills and knowledge that students were expected to acquire.

Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Education indicates that the PCAS was administered to approximately 1.2 million students in the 2025-2026 school year. The results of the PCAS were used by schools and districts to identify areas of strength and areas that needed improvement. For example, the results showed that while students performed well in Mathematics, there was a need for additional support in English Language Arts.

The PCAS also included a set of performance tasks that required students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. These tasks were designed to assess higher-order thinking skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. The inclusion of these tasks was a significant shift from the PSSA, which primarily focused on basic skills assessment.

Overall, the PCAS was implemented in Pennsylvania in 2026 to provide a more comprehensive and aligned assessment of student learning. The test's design and administration were intended to support educators in identifying areas of need and in making data-driven decisions to improve student outcomes. The use of the PCAS reflects the state's commitment to ensuring that all students are prepared for success in the 21st century.