MCA Examination and Study Guide

The MCA examination is based on information found in the MCA Study Guide as well as practical field experience. It tests on a variety of subjects, including:

Tree Biology
Soil Ecology & Management
Plant Health Care / Insect Pests
Tree Diseases
Tree & Shrub Identification (botanical & common names)
Arboricultural Safety & The Laws
Tree & Shrub Pruning
Cabling & Bracing
Hazard & Risk Trees
Planting & Transplanting Techniques
People Pressure, Diseases & Construction Damage

The examination consists of two (2) parts:

Part I: Tree & Shrub Identification, Insects & Diseases
Part II: General Arboriculture

A passing score of seventy percent (70%) must be obtained in both Part I and Part II to achieve the MCA designation. There are approximately 200 questions on the examination and they may take the form of:

multiple choice
true/false
fill in the blank
essay or oral

Visual prompts are used during the identification section and will require both the common and botanical names. In the problem solving sections of the exam, candidates are given the option of responding in essay form, or meeting with examiners to respond verbally. It typically takes about four (4) hours to complete the MCA examination.

Any individual who does not successfully complete the MCA examination has the right to take a re-examination within twelve months of their original examination date.

MCA candidates must provide an original Study Guide CD Identification Number in order to take the MCA examination. Applications to take the exam are found on the MCA Study Guide CD and should be submitted with exam application fees no later than two weeks prior to the exam date.

To order your MCA study guide click here.

The next exam will be held:
Thursday, October 7, 2010 – 8:30 AM - Elm Bank Reservation, Wellesley, MA

If you are interested in helping to proctor an exam you must fill out a proctor application and submit it to the MAA office for review. (FAX: 508-653-4112)

MCA Study Guide Disclaimer