CBEST Test Prep
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is required for teaching and other education-related positions in California. It consists of three separately administered sections — Reading, Mathematics, and Writing — and you must pass all three to earn your credential.
3
Sections
123
Passing Score (combined)
5 hrs
Total Testing Time
CBT
Computer-Based
Choose Your Section
The Reading section tests your ability to analyze arguments, evaluate evidence, draw conclusions, and research information from written passages.
The Mathematics section covers arithmetic, estimation, measurement, basic statistics, algebra, and interpreting data from tables and graphs.
The Writing section requires two essays: one about a remembered personal experience, and one demonstrating your analytical and expository writing skills.
Exam Format
| Section | Questions | Time | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading (095) | 50 | 1 hr 30 min | 100% multiple-choice |
| Mathematics (096) | 50 | 2 hours | 100% multiple-choice |
| Writing (097) | 2 essays | 1 hr 30 min | 100% constructed response |
Each section is registered and administered separately. An additional 15 minutes is provided at the start of each session to complete a nondisclosure agreement and tutorial.
Key Facts
Passing Score
A combined total score of 123 across all three sections. Each section is scored separately; you must pass all three to pass the CBEST.
Test Delivery
Available as a computer-based test (CBT) at a test center, or as an online-proctored test taken remotely from home or workplace.
Registration
Register for each section separately at ctcexams.nesinc.com. Sections can be taken in any order and on different days.
Who Needs the CBEST
Required for teachers, administrators, and other certificated staff in California public schools. Administered by Pearson on behalf of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.