Test Duration & Format
What to expect:
Question count: MAP Diagnostic tests typically contain 20 questions per subject
Time requirement: Most students complete the test in around 20-40 minutes (less than 15 minutes is usually a sign of rushing)
No time pressure: The test is not timed, so your child can work at their own pace
Adaptive format: Questions adjust in difficulty based on your child's responses
When it's best to take the test:
If you're trying to test before then, but less than 60 days, you will see a message that says "Tests available but not recommended yet". This is just because we recommend waiting until you're within 30 days of your desired start date for the best accuracy.
Calculator Requirements
For Math assessments:
No separate calculators needed: Do not provide external calculators during testing
Built-in calculators: Some questions for higher-level tests may include a calculator feature within the test itself
Let the test decide: The system will automatically provide calculation tools when appropriate for specific questions
Testing Environment & Supplies
Recommended setup:
Scratch paper encouraged: Blank paper for working out problems is recommended, especially for Math assessments
Quiet space: Ensure your child has a distraction-free environment
Comfortable seating: Make sure your child is seated comfortably at a computer or device
Good lighting: Adequate lighting to reduce eye strain during testing
Technical Best Practices
Before starting:
Stable internet connection: Ensure reliable internet connectivity
Updated browser: Use a current, supported web browser
Test the setup: Do a quick check that audio and visual elements are working properly
You can also do a very quick system check using the NWEA's tool with this link: https://check.nwea.org
Supporting Your Child During Testing
What Parents Can Do
Helpful support:
Read general directions aloud if needed
Help with test navigation (clicking buttons, scrolling)
Encourage breaks when your child seems tired
Provide emotional support and reassurance
Keep the environment calm and distraction-free
What Parents Should NOT Do
Avoid these actions:
Don't use external calculators - the test provides them when needed
Don't stress about "wrong" answers - the test is designed for 50% accuracy
No help from mom, dad, older siblings, etc: Students should work independently without assistance on questions. Let the test figure out what they have mastered and what we need to focus on when lessons start.
Reading questions: Do not read test questions aloud to your child
Providing hints: Avoid giving guidance on specific answers
No reference materials: No notes, books, or other materials should be available during testing
No phones allowed: Googling answers, ChatGPT, looking up words, etc
For Struggling Readers
Special considerations: If your child has difficulty reading test questions independently, let them work through it anyway. Here's why:
This struggle provides valuable information:
Shows us their current reading level accurately
Helps us place them in programs with audio support
Identifies need for specialized reading apps
Ensures they receive appropriate accommodations after enrollment
What will happen:
Students needing reading support will get audio-assisted lessons
Some subjects like Science may be delayed until reading improves. This is okay.
Math and other subjects will use age-appropriate audio support
Normal Test Behaviors
Don't be concerned if your child:
Finds questions challenging - this means the test is working
Gets frustrated with difficulty - take a break and resume
Questions seem to jump in difficulty - this is the adaptive algorithm at work
Answers they're unsure about - educated guessing is perfectly fine
After Completing Each Test
What happens next:
Test automatically submits when complete
Results are immediately available to our team for review
Progress updates in your enrollment dashboard
You'll receive confirmation that the test was completed successfully
Multiple Children Testing
For families with multiple students:
Test one child at a time when possible for best focus
Use separate devices if testing simultaneously
Plan extra time for setup between children
Each child gets their own login and assessment
What NOT to Worry About
Common parent concerns (that are actually normal):
"The questions seem too hard/easy" - Adaptive testing adjusts throughout
"My child is guessing a lot" - Some guessing is expected and fine
"We had to take breaks" - Breaks are encouraged and don't affect results
"The birth year is wrong" - This won't impact the assessment content
"My child seemed frustrated" - Challenge indicates the test is finding their level
Understanding Test Behavior
Normal testing patterns:
Increasing difficulty: Questions may become more challenging as your child progresses—this is expected
Varying question types: Your child will encounter different types of problems and formats
Adaptive pacing: The test adjusts based on performance, so each child's experience will be unique
When to be concerned:
Technical issues: If the system freezes, won't load, or shows error messages
Significant frustration: If your child becomes distressed, you can take a break. Just step away and get some air. The test will restart where you left off, but on a new question.
After Completion
What happens next:
Results processing: Test results are typically processed automatically
Academic team review: Our team reviews results to create personalized learning plans
Follow-up communication: You'll receive information about next steps and your child's placement
Remember: The MAP assessment is designed to identify your child's true academic level and learning needs. Creating a calm, supportive testing environment while allowing your child to work independently will help ensure the most accurate results for their personalized learning journey.
Note: If you experience any technical difficulties during testing, please contact our support team for immediate assistance.