Early Childhood Professionalism Essential

Professional Development
4 Hour(s)
Make ethical decisions based on knowledge of research-based early childhood practices. Protect the confidentiality of information about children, their families, and the child care program. 
This Early Childhood Professionalism Essential content includes:

What Is a CDA Credential?

A CDA is a Child Development Associate credential that provides you with increased job opportunities in the field of early childhood while gaining professional development hours and hands-on experience. Further, it provides your demonstration of dedication and commitment to the field of early childhood education.

What Is a CDA Credential?

A CDA is a Child Development Associate credential that provides you with increased job opportunities in the field of early childhood while gaining professional development hours and hands-on experience. Further, it provides your demonstration of dedication and commitment to the field of early childhood education.

What Is a CDA Credential?

A CDA is a Child Development Associate credential that provides you with increased job opportunities in the field of early childhood while gaining professional development hours and hands-on experience. Further, it provides your demonstration of dedication and commitment to the field of early childhood education.

What Is a CDA Credential?

A CDA is a Child Development Associate credential that provides you with increased job opportunities in the field of early childhood while gaining professional development hours and hands-on experience. Further, it provides your demonstration of dedication and commitment to the field of early childhood education.

RICA Resources

What is the RICA?

The RICA is the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment®. The test was developed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) in order to meet Education Code Section 44283, which requires teachers to take a reading instruction competence assessment. This assessment is meant to measure an individual's knowledge, skill, and ability relative to effective reading instruction. The RICA test is designed for those who are earning their Multiple Subject Teaching Credentials and/or Education Specialist Instruction Credentials (special education).

The RICA consists of two options: a RICA Written Examination and a RICA Video Performance Assessment. The written assessment comes in the form of three subtests which can be taken separately or all at once. The RICA written assessment consists of multiple choice and essay questions. The RICA written is taken in real-time either at a computer-based testing site or through online proctoring. The RICA video is a portfolio in which pre-service teachers must show documentation of their ability to deliver reading instruction. The documentation is in the form of three videos along with the related templates and is uploaded into their account before the end of the program year.

  

A passing score on either the RICA Written Examination or the RICA Video Performance Assessment fulfills the RICA requirement. RICA scores are good for 10 years.

 

Test Design as of July 2021:

  • Subtest I (75 minutes):
  • Word Analysis: 27 multiple choice questions and 1 Focused Task (150- to 300-word response)
  • Fluency: 8 multiple choice questions and 1 Focused Task (75- to 125-word response)
  • Total: 35 multiple choice questions and 2 Focused Tasks
  • Subtest II (75 minutes):
  • Vocabulary, Academic Language, and Background Knowledge: 19 multiple choice questions and 1 Focused Task (75- to 125-word response)
  • Comprehension: 16 multiple choice questions and 1 Focused Task (150- to 300-word response)
  • Total: 35 multiple choice questions and 2 Focused Tasks
  • Subtest III (90 minutes):
  • Planning, Organizing, and Managing Reading Instruction Based on Ongoing Assessment: 25 multiple choice questions and 1 Case Study (300- to 600-word response assessing all domains)

 

RICA Video Performance Assessment:

  • Three 10-minute-long videos, each with the Instructional Context Form and Reflection Form.

 

What is a passing score?

A passing score is 220 per subtest.

Where can I take the RICA?

Online proctored or computer-based testing site options.

How much does the exam cost?

  • RICA Written Examination: $57 per subtest, $171 in all
  • RICA Video Performance Assessment: $171

How do I register for and schedule the RICA?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Go online to schedule your appointment. This is on a first-come basis so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

 

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

 

Do I need to take the RICA test? 

 

If you answer YES to the following questions, you need to take the RICA test:

  • Are you enrolled in the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program?
  • Are you enrolled in the Educational Specialist Instruction Credential program?

If you answer YES to the following questions, you most likely DO NOT need to take the RICA test:

  • Has your teacher education program completion from another state exempted you from the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?
  • Did you receive a preliminary or professional clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential prior to October 1, 1998?
  • Do you hold valid California teaching credentials in which a baccalaureate degree was obtained and a teacher preparation program, including student teaching, was completed?
  • Do you qualify for the Education Specialist Instructional Credential?
  • Are you applying for an Early Childhood Special Education Credential?
  • Have you obtained a certificate of eligibility, a preliminary level I or professional clear level II Education Specialist Instruction Credential with an effective date prior to January 1, 2000?
  • Are you an applicant for a Single Subject Teaching Credential, Designated Subjects Teaching Credential, Eminence Credential, service credential, or child development permit?
  • Are you an applicant for an internship credential and certificate?
  • Are you an applicant for an emergency permit, a provisional internship permit, or a short-term staff permit?
  • Are you an applicant applying to teach an American Indian language only?

 

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

 

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding.

 

You will need to submit a request to receive accommodations. The accommodating testing procedures provided will correspond with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations.  There are some accommodations that do not require a request form. These include General Medical Aids like EpiPens, Inhalers, etc. as well as Devices for Mobility like wheelchairs, canes, etc. The testing site provides some general accommodations like headphones, tissues, etc. which can be used by anyone. You will find a comprehensive list of pre-approved medical resources on Pearson VUE.

 

If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

 

Note: Due to the format of the RICA Video Performance Assessment, many of the typical testing accommodations may not apply.

 

 

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  1. Register for the RICA and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).
  2. Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form.
  3. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).
  4. Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).
  5. Schedule test appointment.

 

When submitting documentation to request for testing accommodations or alternative testing arrangements, ask yourself:

  • Do I have a signed statement by a qualified professional, written on that person's professional letterhead, whose license or credentials are appropriate to describe or diagnose the disability?
  • Does my documentation include a diagnosis of the disability or disabilities?
  • Does my documentation include recommended alternative assessment arrangements that are specifically related to my disability and that are reasonable within the context of the test, or verification that I have received the requested alternative assessment arrangement(s) at the high school or college/university level?
  • Is my documentation current according to the Documentation Currency Policy?

 

What are my testing location options?

You have a choice between two testing options: Computer-based at a test center or testing remotely online. Think about not only what is most convenient but also which setting will best support your attention during the test. 

Online-proctored tests allow you to test remotely. Each month there is a one-week testing window, and you need to make an appointment with an online proctor. Read more about online proctoring, including important policies and requirements.

 

Computer-based tests are administered at a specific test center. The RICA is administered as three separate subtests that can be taken all at once or in parts. The RICA subtests are administered as three separate sessions. You must register for each session separately. Computer-based testing is on a priority basis (first come, first served, with limited seating). You will need to make an appointment. Check appointment availability. 

 

Can I test remotely?

  

Step #1: Evaluate Your Equipment

You provide your own equipment for testing. You must have access to the following:

  • Required — a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam
  • Required if using a desktop computer — a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them
  • Required if using an external monitor with a laptop — you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed
  • Recommended — a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session

Review the complete system and testing environment requirements. 

Step #2: Take the System Test

 

Step #3: Review the Policies and Guidelines

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website. (Select your test to get started.) If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

 

How do I register for the RICA?

 

To register for the RICA assessments, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already.  Then choose if you are registering for the RICA Written or the RICA Video Assessment.  A passing score on either exam will be acceptable. If you select RICA Written, decide if you want to take all three sub-tests at once or one at a time.  If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take just one or two at one time, sign up for and register for the one(s) you want.

 

During the RICA registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program
  • For RICA Written: Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s)
  • For RICA Video: Choose the RICA Video Performance Assessment

For RICA Written: Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test) *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

  • Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements
  • Assign institutions to get your test results (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you
  • Answer questions about your background
  • Read and agree to testing rules
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card

For RICA Written: Schedule your test appointment and look for your confirmation email. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

For RICA Video: Use your account to access the ePortfolio system. There you will find the RICA Video Performance Assessment guide and related templates (you can also find those templates on the website before registering).  The ePortfolio system is where you will upload and submit your evidence (three videos with corresponding documents).

Note for RICA Video: Once you have purchased the RICA video assessment, you have until the last submission deadline of the program year to submit your videos and templates. If you do not submit, you will not have access to upload and will receive a refund.

 

Next steps after registering and receiving confirmation that they have received your submission:

  • (If applicable), request any Testing Accommodations you may need. (See “How to request Testing Accommodations.”)
  • Complete any final test prep.

 

If testing in-person:

  • Look up the location of your testing center.
  • Ensure you are prepared to arrive at least 15 minutes early on the day of the exam.
  • Make sure you have a valid form of identification prepared to show on the day of the test.

 

If testing remotely:

  • Ensure you have a successful workspace prepared.
  • You must use a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam.
  • You must have a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them.
  • If you are using an external monitor with a laptop, you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed.
  • If possible, use a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session.

 

How much does the RICA cost?

 

  • RICA Written Examination: $57 per subtest, $171 in all
  • RICA Video Performance Assessment: $171

 

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

 

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12 issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2023, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

  • California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)
  • California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
  • Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA)
  • California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)
  • California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE)
  • California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)
  • California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®)
  • edTPA for California 
  • Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

 

Are there any COVID precautions in place? 

  • Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level.  The CDC classification is updated weekly.  To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage located at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus-update.aspx.
  • Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.
  •  Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing.  Refunds will not be issued.

 

How should I prepare for the exam?

Create a study plan. Life can be crazy! Try to make a study time schedule and stick to it.  Create the study plan several weeks before the test to ensure you have plenty of time to prepare. Connecting with a group of peers who are also taking the RICA may be helpful to keep you on pace. 

See the following example of a general study plan:

  • Choose one section to focus on at a time.
  • Take the practice test.
  • Use results of the practice test to identify areas for improvement.
  • Use our online test prep resources to prepare and improve.
  • Take the practice test again to see improvement.

 

RICA Written Examination: To prepare for the multiple-choice portions of the RICA Written Examination, search for some example questions and create flashcards or use another study method to remember the information. To prepare for the essay portions of the RICA Written Examination, search for some sample prompts and responses and then get writing. The CTC site includes RICA Written Exam prep materials. Go through as many sample questions as possible to familiarize yourself with what will be asked and expected of you. A detailed scoring rubric is included for the essay practice prompts. On the multiple-choice sample questions document there is an answer key at the end of each question.

 

RICA Video Performance Assessment: Due to the format of the RICA Video assessment, there are not as many options for test prep.  However, the CTC site includes RICA Video Performance Assessment Preparation Materials.  Go look through the documents that explain the test, pay close attention to the templates.  The templates lay everything out the way it should be done. 

 

Should I take the RICA Written Examination or the RICA Video Performance Assessment?

 

If you answer YES to the following, the RICA Written Examination may be best for you:

  • Do you enjoy the predictable nature of standardized tests?
  • Do you prefer to be in control?
  • Do time limits and countdown timers help you with completing work efficiently?
  • Do you feel nervous being on camera?
  • Do you struggle with video-related technology (recording, editing)?

 

If you answer YES to the following, the RICA Video Performance Assessment may be best for you:

  • Do you suffer from standardized test-taking anxiety?
  • Do time limits and countdown timers make you feel pressured?
  • Do you like to take your time re-reading and making edits to your work?
  • Are you competent in recording and editing video?
  • Do you have access to a video camera, computer, and other technological devices needed for the RICA Video Performance Assessment?

Note: From 2010-2015 it was found that a higher percentage of students passed the RICA Written Examination (90.7%) when compared to the RICA Video Performance Assessment (53.6%).

 

Can I take breaks during testing?

  • Computer-Based Testing: You may take restroom breaks during testing. Time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time.
  • Online Proctoring: No breaks allowed.

 

 

What policies and rules should I keep in mind?

 

When can I expect to see my test results?

  • Computer-Based Testing: RICA test results are available within 4 weeks of your test date. Click here to view the RICA testing periods and test results release dates for Computer-Based testing.
  • Online Proctoring: If you’ve taken the test via Online Proctoring, the RICA test results are available within 3 weeks of testing. Click here to view the RICA testing window and test results release dates for Online Proctoring.

Note: Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

 

What is a passing score?

 

A passing score is a total score of 220 for either the RICA Written Examination or the RICA Video Performance Assessment. The scaled scores used for reporting RICA Written Examination results range from 100 to 300. There are five domains, and the result of each domain is measured as a percentage out of 100%. The RICA Video Performance Assessment will be graded by a California assessor twice over-using a four-point scale rubric.

 

What happens if I don’t pass the RICA?

Good news: you can retake the RICA as many times as you need!  However, you must wait 45 days before testing again. If you did not meet the minimum score for the RICA Written Examination, you can choose to retake it or take the RICA Video Performance Assessment.  If you did not meet the minimum score for the RICA Video Performance Assessment, you can choose to retake it or take the RICA Written Examination. 

 

You may also decide to switch from one test to the other (e.g., if you failed the written exam, you can try the video assessment). However, you must wait 45 days before testing again.

 

How do I interpret my test scores?

The scaled scores used for reporting both the RICA Written Examination and the RICA Video Performance Assessment results range from 100 to 300. The required score for passing either exam is 220. There are five domains, and the result of each domain is measured as a percentage out of 100%. 

 

The RICA Written Examination consists of 80% multiple choice and 20% constructed response questions. There are 60 multiple choice questions, 1 case study question, and 5 constructed response questions that are distributed into the 5 different domains. The multiple-choice questions are scored by a machine. The constructed response questions are graded by two different California assessors using standardized procedures, (performance index, using plus signs to represent mastery of the domains).

 

The RICA Video Performance Assessment consists of three 10 minute-long videos with three corresponding documents, six submissions in all. These submissions are graded by two different California assessors and are given a scaled score ranging from 100-300. They use a rubric ranging from 1 (reflects little or no understanding of the relevant content and pedagogical knowledge from the specified RICA domains) to 4 (reflects a thorough understanding of the relevant content and pedagogical knowledge from the specified RICA domains). The scorers could also mark a section “RNM” for requirements not met as listed in the RICA Video Performance Assessment Guide or “B” for the video was blank.

CalTPA Resources

What is the CalTPA?

The California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA) is a teacher performance assessment (TPA) based on the Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs). Passing of a TPA, completion of course work, and engagement in clinical practice are three necessary components of obtaining licensure to teach In California.

The CalTPA was developed and redeveloped to prepare those pursuing single-subject teacher certification. This is one of three available TPAs in the state of California (CalTPA, edTPA, or FAST). To be recommended for a preliminary teaching credential, one must meet all program requirements and complete and pass one of the TPAs. 

CalTPA is distinct from other teacher certification assessments, like CBEST and RICA. Instead of being a timed multiple-choice and constructed response test, CalTPA is designed to be developed over a longer period, usually during a field placement while enrolled in a teacher preparation program. Teacher candidates get to know a group of students and are intentional in creating lessons designed to meet those student’s needs. Teacher candidates record themselves teaching and select video clips that show how they effectively taught the standards and supported each student. Teacher candidates assess, provide feedback to the students, and use the information discovered to plan for future lessons. Teacher candidates write narratives throughout this process to show self-awareness, make connections to pedagogy, and demonstrate their ability to use the appropriate academic language.

CalTPA has two instructional cycles. The first focuses on learning about students and planning instruction. The second cycle focuses on assessment-driven instruction. Although the cycles were intended to build on each other, teacher candidates may take them one at a time and in the order of their preference (depending on whether this is approved by the teacher preparation program). Each Cycle involves planning, teaching, and assessing, reflecting, and applying. 

CalTPA was designed not only to effectively assess teacher candidates, but also to prepare them for the induction period and the world of teaching. The rigor and structure of CalTPA is intended to encourage teachers to set high expectations for themselves and each other and to foster continual professional development. 

CalTPA offers the following Single-Subject areas for certification:

  • Agriculture
  • Art
  • Business
  • Dance
  • English
  • English Language Development
  • Health Science
  • Home Economics
  • Industrial and Technology Education
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Science
  • Social Science
  • Theatre

CalTPA offers the following credential areas for certification:

  • Multiple Subject
  • World Languages

Do I need to take the CalTPA? 

Are you currently seeking certification to teach in the state of California? Then you may need to take the CalTPA! Earning a Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA) based on the TPEs is mandated for those who wish to earn a preliminary multiple subject or single subject teaching credential. If you are not sure if you should take the CalTPA, contact the CTC. Note: CalTPA, like all California Performance Assessment programs must be used toward a California credential within 10 years of the test date.

What are CalTPA examples and support materials?

Your program should provide support and may provide some private CalTPA examples. Templates and assessment guides will be available on your account once you register for the CalTPA. The Performance Assessment Guides contain detailed directions to complete each of the four steps of each cycle. These guides also contain the rubrics for each cycle, as well as a description of what the assessor will be looking at as they score each rubric. Rubrics for Cycle 1 and Cycle 2 are vital resources to prepare for the CalTPA.  

General Prep:

YouTube provides a variety of videos to help viewers better understand each step of the CalTPA. Here are some examples:

Try to become familiar with the ePortfolio system to ensure you are prepared to access necessary resources and correctly upload artifacts when submission time comes. Click here to see a guide on how to use the ePortfolio system. If you will be using a Mac to access the ePortfolio, click here to view some tech tips.

Preparing to Write:

Lesson Plans

Your preparation program should have prepared you to effectively write lesson plans for the CalTPA. To ensure you are using the correct template format and including the appropriate details, look at the instructions and rubrics found in the CalTPA Performance Assessment Guide. 


Narratives

Unlike many college-level papers, the narratives you must provide with each Cycle are simply a running commentary. You don’t have to worry about APA or MLA format, woo-hoo! Simply write in response to the prompts. Make sure you are writing in a way that is organized and easy to read, while using professional language. Make it easy for the scorer. Ensure this by checking grammar, spelling, and punctuation. To guarantee you are using the correct template format and including the appropriate details, look at the instructions and rubrics found in the CalTPA Performance Assessment Guide.


Tip: Once you have written, score yourself using the rubrics. Highlight or underline the evidence found in your writing and the rubric level to support the score you give yourself.

Preparing Videos:

Have you sent home and received video permission forms?

  • Your preparation program may provide you with a permission form to send home.  This is the first and a very critical step when preparing the video portion of the CalTPA. The CTC website provides some permission form examples: Click here to view an editable consent form for the classroom educator or aid to complete. 
  • Click here to view an editable consent form for the parent, guardian, or other family to complete. San Diego university has also made available a Spanish version and an Arabic version of this form.


Do you have the right video equipment?

Click here to view a document which helps ensure you have the recommended video equipment, understand the correct video format, and are aware of the appropriate settings.

Do you know how to use the video annotation tool?

Click here for a guide explaining the video annotation tool. Click here to watch a video on how to use the video annotation tool.

Do you know how to export your video?

Click here to see how to import and export your video with iMovie (Mac). Click here to see how to export your video from the Photos app (on apple devices).


Have you reviewed the related rubrics?

Before you choose your video segment to analyze, look at the instructions and rubrics found in the CalTPA Performance Assessment Guide to ensure your video(s) show enough required evidence.


Do you know how to compress and crop your video?

Click here to see how to compress your video using a Mac. Click here to see how to compress your video using a PC. Click here to see how to crop your video using a Mac. Click here to see how to crop your video using a PC.


Preparing Documents For Submission:


Reference the CalTPA Performance Assessment Guide to ensure your documents are ready to be uploaded in the ePortfolio. Evidence must be organized accordingly into separate documents, and appropriately titled. Even something as small as a misspelled document title can hinder you on submission day. There are requirements for the types, sizes, and names of documents that can be submitted. 


Use our Teach Us online test prep resources to help you prepare.

What are the CalTPA instruction cycles?

The CalTPA is a content-specific performance assessment that consists of two instructional cycles. The first focuses on learning about students and planning instruction and the second cycle focuses on assessment-driven instruction. Each cycle has a focus on the following four areas: planning, teaching and assessing, reflecting, and applying. Teacher candidates compile evidence into a digital portfolio.

Portfolio Content: Evidence to be Submitted

Instructional Cycle 1: Learning About Students and Planning Instruction

  • Plan
  • Part A: Written Narrative: Getting to Know Your Students (no more than 9 pages) 
  • Part B: Lesson Plan (include content-specific learning goal[s] and ELD goal[s])
  • Part C: Written Narrative: Lesson Plan Rationale (no more than 7 pages)
  • Part D: Related Instructional Resources and Materials (no more than 8 pages)
  • Teach & Assess
  • Part E: 3 Annotated Video Clips (no more than 5 minutes each)
  • Reflect
  • Part F: Written Narrative: Reflection on What You Learned (no more than 3 pages)
  • Apply
  • Part G: Narrative: Application of What You Learned (no more than 3 pages of written or no more than 5 minutes of video explanation)

Instructional Cycle 2: Assessment-Driven Instruction 

  • Plan
  • Part A: Written Narrative: Contextual Information (no more than 4 pages) 
  • Part B: Learning Segment Template 
  • Part C: Written Narrative: Assessment Descriptions (no more than 7 pages, including additional materials, if necessary) 
  • Part D: Description or Blank Copy of the Informal Assessment 
  • Part E: Description or Blank Copies of Both the Student Self-Assessment and Corresponding Rubric 
  • Part F: Description or Blank Copies of Both the Formal Assessment and Corresponding Rubric
  • Teach & Assess
  • Part G: 4 Annotated Video Clips (no more than 5 minutes each) 
  • Part H: Written Narrative: Analysis of Informal and Student Self Assessments (no more than 3 pages)
  • Reflect
  • Part I: Formal Assessment Responses from 3 Students (products, processes, or recorded performances) that represent evidence of learning (labeled “exceeded,” “met,” and “not yet met”) with Feedback 
  • Part J: Written Narrative: Analysis of Formal Assessment Results and Reflection for Whole Class and 3 Students (no more than 5 pages) (If detailed, content-specific, rubric based feedback is not included with responses in Part I, include the feedback with this written narrative; feedback does not count toward the 5-page limit.)
  • Apply
  • Part K: Written Narrative: Next Steps for Learning and Re-Teaching or Extension Activity Description (no more than 7 pages) for whole class or group of students
  • Part L: 1 Annotated Video Clip (no more than 5 minutes) of Follow-Up Instruction (Re-Teaching or Extension Activity) for whole class or group of students

How long is the test completion time?

The evidence needed for submitting the CalTPA is usually collected over a period of a week or more. However, this is typically one week amongst many weeks of placement.

What are the passing scores?

Cycle 1 consists of 8 rubrics. To pass Cycle 1 there must be a final cut score of at least 19 points. Cycle 2 consists of 9 rubrics. To pass Cycle 2 there must be a final cut score of at least 21 points. The rubrics are leveled 1-5. If you receive a score of 1 on more than one rubric, you will not pass regardless of your overall score.

What are the location options?

You will submit your CalTPA documents online. Your preparation program will dictate the required location at time of submission.  This may be done at a computer on campus or at home.

How much does the exam cost?

Instructional Cycle 1: $150

Instructional Cycle 2: $150 

Both Cycles: $300

*This is for 2022-23 (please refer to www.ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm. Fee Waivers are available through June 30, 2023.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12 issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.


Which CA assessments are eligible for waivers?


Through June 30, 2023, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

  • California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)
  • California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
  • Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA)
  • California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)
  • California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE)
  • California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)
  • California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®)
  • edTPA for California
  • Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)



Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?


Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

How do I register?

Register first…then schedule. Begin the registration process first complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. The official CalTPA testing service site can be found at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm.

Click here to view the CalTPA registration guide.

How do I schedule my test appointment?


After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Go online to schedule your appointment (24/7).  This is on a first-come, first-served basis so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, LOOK for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.



What are the test dates?

Test dates are available at: www.ctcexams.nesinc.com

If you submit on… (*11:59 p.m. Pacific Time) You will receive the results by…
January 19, 2023 February 09, 2023
February 16, 2023 March 09, 2023
March 16, 2023 April 06, 2023
March 30, 2023 April 20, 2023
April 13, 2023 May 04, 2023
April 27, 2023 May 18, 2023
June 08, 2023
June 01, 2023 June 22, 2023
June 15, 2023 July 06, 2023
July 06, 2023 July 27, 2023

What are the U.S. Military Funding Eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. Military have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

What is the CalTPA timeline?

  1. Register: Register for CalTPA. You may register for Cycle 1, Cycle 2, or both. Check out the CalTPA registration guide.
  2. Read: Read Assessment Guides and Templates. Review each rubric and related steps. (This becomes available after registration).
  3. Plan: Meet with someone from your program to determine a timeline for completing the cycle(s).
  4. Teach: Teach in your placement location. Collect necessary evidence (lesson plans, video recordings, student work, etc.). 
  5. Review: Meet with someone from your program to look over the evidence you have compiled during your placement.
  6. Edit: Make needed edits to your documents based on the feedback you have received and the rubric’s criteria.
  7. Upload: Ensure your documents are in the correct format. Follow your program’s instructions for when and where to upload.
  8. Submit: Check all uploaded documents to ensure the most updated copies are attached in the correct format. Follow your program’s instructions for when and where to submit.
  9. Check: Check for the email confirming your submission. Be on the lookout for results in about 3 weeks.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. 

You will need to submit a request to receive accommodations. The accommodating testing procedures provided will correspond with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. There are some accommodations that do not require a request form. These include General Medical Aids like EpiPens, Inhalers, etc. as well as Devices for Mobility like wheelchairs, canes, etc. The testing site provides some general accommodations like headphones, tissues, etc., which can be used by anyone. You will find a comprehensive list of pre-approved medical resources on Pearson VUE (pearsonvue.com).

If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  1. Register for the CalTPA and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).
  2. Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form
  3. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).
  4. Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).
  5. Schedule test appointment.

What are the documentation requirements for requesting alternative testing arrangements and/or accommodations?

When submitting documentation to request for testing accommodations or alternative testing arrangements, ask yourself:

  • Do I have a signed statement by a qualified professional, written on that person's professional letterhead, whose license or credentials are appropriate to describe or diagnose the disability?
  • Does my documentation include a diagnosis of the disability or disabilities?
  • Does my documentation include recommended alternative assessment arrangements that are specifically related to my disability and that are reasonable within the context of the test, or verification that I have received the requested alternative assessment arrangement(s) at the high school or college/university level?
  • Is my documentation current according to the Documentation Currency Policy?

How to Register and Next Steps 

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take one Instructional Cycle or both.  Your program may have regulations regarding the order in which the cycles are taken or whether you may take one at a time.

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program
  • Choose your assessment cycle(s)
  • Assign institutions to get your test results (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you
  • Answer questions about your background
  • Read and agree to testing rules
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card (Note: If you are a California resident, the fee is currently being waived.
  • You should then have access to the ePortfolio system. Click here to see a guide on how to use the ePortfolio system.

How do I withdraw registration if I already registered to take the CalTPA?

https://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=CACBT_RegistrationPolicies_CalTPA.html

  • If you have registered for the CalTPA within the last year but haven’t submitted your evidence, you can login to your account to cancel and receive a refund.  
  • After logging into your account, select “Current Registrations” then “Withdraw” and then follow the provided instructions. 
  • Be aware that once you withdraw your registration you will no longer have access to the uploaded documents, make sure you have copies if you need them.
  • If it has been over a year since registering, you will not be able to receive a refund. 
  • You will not receive a refund if you used a voucher. 
  • If you used a fee waiver you will not receive a refund but may receive a credit to take the assessment in the future (pending available funds).
  • If you realized you registered for the wrong cycle, just withdraw your registration by following the instructions above and re-register for the correct cycle.

Is there any COVID-related information I need to know?

IMPORTANT UPDATE: COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

  • Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level.  The CDC classification is updated weekly.  To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage located at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus-update.aspx.
  • Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.
  • Vaccination Status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

How do I retake the CalTPA?

The retaking of the CalTPA is dependent upon the preparation program you are enrolled in. Your school’s program coordinator will be able to communicate their retake policies to you. You might not need to be enrolled in the teaching program if you are retaking CalTPA. If your program allows it, you may retake one or both instructional cycles of the CalTPA once you receive results from your previous submission. You will need to re-register, pay fees, and submit a new application with new content and evidence. When you retake, the newest scores replace any previous scores. Click here to view the CalTPA retake policy.

You should submit new evidence (not previously submitted work) when retaking an instructional cycle. Exemptions to this would be:

  • Score voided: Original materials may be submitted
  • Condition Code: Resubmission of the same evidence in the correct format (ex: If a video was not able to be played in the original submission, one may resubmit a playable version)
  • Performance Standard Not Met: May be able to submit different evidence for some rubrics if still using the same group of students

Where would I begin studying if I did not pass?

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Click here to purchase the Teach Us CalTPA test prep plan.

CSET Multiple Subject Resources

What is the CSET Multiple Subject?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

CSET Multiple subject includes three subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. ​The three-hour subtest I and subtest II includes 52 multiple choice questions and 4 constructed responses. The 2-hour and 15-minute subtest III includes 39 multiple choice questions and 3 constructed responses. The passing score is a total score of 660 for all three subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET has be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $99 per subtest or $247 for all three subtests taken together (this is for 2022-23 — refer to ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm). Fee waivers are
available through June 30, 2024.


How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.


Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.


Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.


Are you seeking certification only?
Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?
Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?
For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to
teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you may not need to take the CSET.


Are you applying for a renewal, reissuance, or upgrading of an existing nonemergency credential,certificate, or permit?
Are you applying for a credential to teach adults in an apprenticeship program?
Are you applying for a permit to teach in a children's center?
Are you applying for a credential to teach a designated subject that does not require a baccalaureate degree, including the 30-Day Substitute Designated Subjects Vocational Education Permit?
Are you applying for a credential to provide health services (unless the document also authorizes teaching)?Are you applying for a credential to teach an American Indian language only?

Are you applying for any added authorization to a teaching credential? (Note: This exemption does not apply to individuals who hold a credential to teach that did not require a baccalaureate degree and for whom the teaching authorization sought requires this degree.)
Are you applying for a Certificate of Clearance (required for practice teaching)?
Are you applying for an Eminence Credential?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).


How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:


Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).
Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form.
Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).
Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).
Schedule test appointment.


Where are the testing locations?

CSET locations can be found here. You have a choice between two testing options: computer-based at a test center or testing remotely online. Think about not only what is most convenient but also which setting will best support your attention during the test.


Computer-based tests: Administered at a specific test center. The CSET is administered as three separate sections.
Computer-based testing is on a priority basis (first come, first served, with limited seating). You will need to make an appointment. Check appointment availability.
Online-proctored test: Administered remotely as three separate sections. Read more about online proctoring, including important policies and requirements.
Online proctoring: Each month there is a one-week testing window, and you need to make an appointment with an online proctor.

Is online proctoring right for me?

Step #1: Evaluate Your Equipment

You provide your own equipment for testing. You must have access to the following:


Required — a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam
Required if using a desktop computer — a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them
Required if using an external monitor with a laptop — you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed
Recommended — a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session


Review the complete system and testing environment requirements.

Step #2: Take the System Test

Take the system test before you register. This will determine if your equipment is eligible for online proctoring.

Take the system test for CSET online proctoring

Step #3: Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you
are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.


During the registration process, you will be asked to:


Select a test program.
Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.
Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
Select to have test results emailed to you.
Answer questions about your background.
Read and agree to testing rules.
Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
Look for your confirmation email.


Here are your next steps after registering and receiving confirmation that they have received your submission:


(If applicable), request any testing accommodations you may need.
Complete any final test prep.


If testing in person:


Look up the location of your testing center.
Ensure you are prepared to arrive at least 15 minutes early on the day of the exam.
Make sure you have a valid form of identification prepared to show on the day of the test.

If testing remotely:


Ensure you have a successful workspace prepared.
You must use a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam.
You must have a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if
possible, or unplug them.
If you are using an external monitor with a laptop, you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the

lid of your laptop must be closed.
If possible, use a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can
interfere with your testing session.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?


The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12 issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.


Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:


California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)
California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA)
California Basic Educational Skills TestTM (CBEST®)
California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE)
California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)
California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®)
edTPA for California
Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)


Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.


Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus-update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.
Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.


What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

How should I prepare for the CSET?

Create a study plan. Life can be crazy! Try to make a study time schedule and stick to it. Create the study plan several weeks before the test to ensure you have plenty of time to prepare.


See the following example of a general study plan:


Choose one section to focus on at a time.
Take the practice test.
Use results of the practice test to identify areas for improvement.
Use our online test prep resources to prepare and improve.
Take the practice test again to see improvement.


To prepare for the math sections of the CSET, search for some sample practice problems. The CTC site includes a CSET Sample questions and responses with a detailed scoring rubric. Read as many past questions as possible to familiarize yourself with what will be asked and expected of you.


You can also review these Constructed Response Questions or the Teach Us Constructed Response Document.


Can I take breaks during the test?

Computer-Based Testing: You may take restroom breaks during testing. Time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time.
Online Proctoring: No breaks allowed.


Are there any policies or rules that I need to abide by?

Computer-Based Testing: When you register, you agree to abide by all testing policies and rules. Read them now. Before you test, review the list of materials that are prohibited at the test center.
Online Proctoring: When you register, you agree to abide by all testing policies and rules. Read them now. Before you test, review the list of reasons your exam could be stopped and/or revoked.

When will I receive my test results?

Computer-Based Testing: Candidates will receive preliminary test results at the conclusion of their test center appointment. Test results are available within seven weeks of testing. Online Proctoring: Test results are available within two weeks of testing. View the test results release dates here.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

CSET Science Resources

What is the CSET Science?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).


CSET Science includes two subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. ​The four-hour subtest I includes 100 multiple choice questions and 4 constructed responses. The 2-hour subtest II includes 50 multiple choice questions and 3 constructed responses. The passing score is a total score of 440 for all two subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET has be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $133 per subtest I and $134 for subtest II or $267 for both subtests taken together (this is for 2022-23 — refer to ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm). Fee waivers are available through June 30, 2024.


How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.


Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.


Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.


Are you seeking certification only?
Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?
Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?
For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to
teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you may not need to take the CSET.


Are you applying for a renewal, reissuance, or upgrading of an existing nonemergency credential,certificate, or permit?
Are you applying for a credential to teach adults in an apprenticeship program?
Are you applying for a permit to teach in a children's center?
Are you applying for a credential to teach a designated subject that does not require a baccalaureate degree, including the 30-Day Substitute Designated Subjects Vocational Education Permit?
Are you applying for a credential to provide health services (unless the document also authorizes teaching)?Are you applying for a credential to teach an American Indian language only?

Are you applying for any added authorization to a teaching credential? (Note: This exemption does not apply to individuals who hold a credential to teach that did not require a baccalaureate degree and for whom the teaching authorization sought requires this degree.)
Are you applying for a Certificate of Clearance (required for practice teaching)?
Are you applying for an Eminence Credential?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).


How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:


Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).
Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form.
Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).
Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).
Schedule test appointment.


Where are the testing locations?

CSET locations can be found here. You have a choice between two testing options: computer-based at a test center or testing remotely online. Think about not only what is most convenient but also which setting will best support your attention during the test.


Computer-based tests: Administered at a specific test center. The CSET is administered as three separate sections.
Computer-based testing is on a priority basis (first come, first served, with limited seating). You will need to make an appointment. Check appointment availability.
Online-proctored test: Administered remotely as three separate sections. Read more about online proctoring, including important policies and requirements.
Online proctoring: Each month there is a one-week testing window, and you need to make an appointment with an online proctor.

Is online proctoring right for me?

Step #1: Evaluate Your Equipment

You provide your own equipment for testing. You must have access to the following:


Required — a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam
Required if using a desktop computer — a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them
Required if using an external monitor with a laptop — you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed
Recommended — a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session


Review the complete system and testing environment requirements.

Step #2: Take the System Test

Take the system test before you register. This will determine if your equipment is eligible for online proctoring.

Take the system test for CSET online proctoring

Step #3: Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you
are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.


During the registration process, you will be asked to:


Select a test program.
Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.
Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
Select to have test results emailed to you.
Answer questions about your background.
Read and agree to testing rules.
Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
Look for your confirmation email.


Here are your next steps after registering and receiving confirmation that they have received your submission:


(If applicable), request any testing accommodations you may need.
Complete any final test prep.


If testing in person:


Look up the location of your testing center.
Ensure you are prepared to arrive at least 15 minutes early on the day of the exam.
Make sure you have a valid form of identification prepared to show on the day of the test.

If testing remotely:


Ensure you have a successful workspace prepared.
You must use a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam.
You must have a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if
possible, or unplug them.
If you are using an external monitor with a laptop, you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the

lid of your laptop must be closed.
If possible, use a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can
interfere with your testing session.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?


The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12 issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.


Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:


California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)
California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA)
California Basic Educational Skills TestTM (CBEST®)
California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE)
California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)
California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®)
edTPA for California
Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)


Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.


Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus-update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.
Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.


What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

How should I prepare for the CSET?

Create a study plan. Life can be crazy! Try to make a study time schedule and stick to it. Create the study plan several weeks before the test to ensure you have plenty of time to prepare.


See the following example of a general study plan:


Choose one section to focus on at a time.
Take the practice test.
Use results of the practice test to identify areas for improvement.
Use our online test prep resources to prepare and improve.
Take the practice test again to see improvement.


To prepare for the math sections of the CSET, search for some sample practice problems. The CTC site includes a CSET Sample questions and responses with a detailed scoring rubric. Read as many past questions as possible to familiarize yourself with what will be asked and expected of you.


You can also review these Constructed Response Questions or the Teach Us Constructed Response Document.


Can I take breaks during the test?

Computer-Based Testing: You may take restroom breaks during testing. Time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time.
Online Proctoring: No breaks allowed.


Are there any policies or rules that I need to abide by?

Computer-Based Testing: When you register, you agree to abide by all testing policies and rules. Read them now. Before you test, review the list of materials that are prohibited at the test center.
Online Proctoring: When you register, you agree to abide by all testing policies and rules. Read them now. Before you test, review the list of reasons your exam could be stopped and/or revoked.

When will I receive my test results?

Computer-Based Testing: Candidates will receive preliminary test results at the conclusion of their test center appointment. Test results are available within seven weeks of testing. Online Proctoring: Test results are available within two weeks of testing. View the test results release dates here.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

TExES BES Resources

The TExES Bilingual Education Supplemental is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performing the job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.There is a total of 80 selected-response questions.The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT) with80 selected-response questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial andcompliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES BTLPT Resources

The TExES Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) is designed to assess whether anexaminee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 84 selected-response questions and 7 constructed-response tasks are based on the BTLPT — Spanish exam framework.

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score.
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 20 minutes
  • Exam: 3 hours and 30 minutes
  • Optional: 10-minute break after the speaking tasks

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 84 selected-response questions
  • 4 speaking constructed-response tasks
  • 3 writing constructed-response tasks

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
20 minutes for CAT tutorials andcompliance agreement
10-minute break after the speaking tasks(optional)
3 hours and 30 minutes testing time

NOTE: The total appointment time exceeds thetotal time for tutorials, break, and testing. Thisdifference allows for untimed activity to conductan equipment check prior to testing and untimeddirections at the beginning of each exam section.

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas, PuertoRico, and Mexico.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES Core Subject 4-8 Resources

The TExES Core Subject 4-8 is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performing the job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT).The exam is divided into 4 subsets. Each subtest is composed of selected-response questions. Subtests will be scored individually. The exam is proctored year-round and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 200 selected-response questions. The breakdown is as follows:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 74 selected-response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected-response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected-response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-response questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

This exam (211) includes four Subject Exams:

  • English Language Arts and Reading (806)
  • Mathematics (807)
  • Social Studies (808)
  • Science (809)

Please note: No other TExES exam substitutes for any of the individual SubjectExams.

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • English Language Arts and Reading:74 selected response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-responsequestions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes

Testing time:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
$58 for a Subject Exam taken separatelyAdditional fees may apply.
See additional payment information here.

If you did not pass the Core Subjects 4–8 (211) exam, review the retake policy to learn about your testing options.

Test Experience Tutorials

How to Use On-screen Calculator

Please visit: https://www.tx.nesinc.com/content/docs/calculator_tutorial.pdf

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts. Follow the steps below to create your own study plan.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES Core Subject EC-6 Resources

The TExES Core Subject EC-6 is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performingthe job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT).The exam is divided into 5 subsets.Each subtest is composed of selected-response questions. Subtests will be scored individually. Theexam is proctored year-round and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 210 selected-response questions. The breakdown is as follows:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 45 selected-response questions
  • Mathematics: 40 selected-response questions
  • Social Studies: 40 selected-response questions
  • Science: 45 selected-response questions
  • Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education: 40 selected-response questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 55 minutes
  • Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education: 35 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing
*Results for the Core Subjects EC–6 (391)exam are reported as Passed or NotPassed, as there is no total passing scorefor the overall exam. Testers must earn apassing score of 240 on each individualSubject Exam to pass the overall exam.

Exam Format

This exam (211) includes four Subject Exams:

  • English Language Arts and Reading (901)
  • Mathematics (902)
  • Social Studies (903)
  • ScienceScience (904)
  • Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education(905)

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
$58 for a Subject Exam taken separatelyAdditional fees may apply.

Exam registration fees* must be paid using a credit card (VISA or MasterCard only) or a debit or check card that carries the VISA or MasterCard logo and that can be used with out the entry of a personal identification number (PIN). Bank cards without a VISA or MasterCard logo cannot be accepted. The merchant name that will appear on your credit card statement is "Texas Educator Exam."

Registration is valid for 170 days from the date of issue.
If you do not schedule an exam appointment and take your exam within 170 days, or withdraw your registration within 170 days, your registration will expire and you will receive no refund or credit of any kind.

Testing Day Identification

You must bring to the exam administration two pieces of original (no photocopies or digital ID)and valid (unexpired) identification, printed inEnglish in the name in which you registered.Your identification must contain your name, a recent recognizable photograph, and your signature.

If your identification does not exactly match the name in which you registered (excluding suffix, middle name or initial, spaces, and special characters such as hyphens, accents, and apostrophes), as your name appears in yourTEA account, or does not meet any of the conditions stated above, you will be denied admission. If you are denied admission to the exam for any reason, you will be considered absent and will receive no credit or refund of any kind.

Your primary identification must be one of thegovernment-issued IDs:

  • Driver's license (If you present a Texas driver's license with two expiration dates, your ID will be considered expired if either of the expiration dates has expired.
  • State identification
  • Military identification (with visible or embedded signature)
  • ScienceScience (904)
  • Passport (Diplomatic and embassy ID cards cannot be used in place of a passport.)

Your supplemental identification may be any original and valid identification as long as it contains your name and a clear recognizable photograph, or your name and signature

For more information visit: https://www.tx.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=TXCBT_TestingPolicies.html&t=TX391

Absentee Policy

If you are absent, you will not receive a refund or credit of any kind. You will need to register and pay again to take the exam on a future date.

Emergency circumstances. If you are absent from an exam administration because of an emergency circumstance(illness, injury, hospitalization, or death in the immediate family), you may be eligible to receive reimbursement.

To request reimbursement, you must:

  • Submit a written request to Pearson describing the emergency situation. Include written documentation, such as a dated newspaper obituary or a dated letter signed by a professional licensed to diagnose or treat the emergency condition (e.g., physician), on that person's professional letterhead. Documentation from a medical professional must specifically excuse you from testing on the date of the exam. Documentation containing electronic signatures will not be accepted.
  • The request and required documentation must be received at Pearson within 30 calendar days after the missed appointment.
  • A response to your request will be sent to you within two weeks after the missed appointment, or two weeks after your request is received, whichever is later. If your request for a reimbursement is granted, the reimbursement you receive will be in the amount of the exam fees you paid for the missed appointment, minus the Texas.gov payment processing fee, which is not refundable.

To review all policies visit here.

Test Preparation

The following suggestions are offered to examinees as one possible way to prepare forthe TExES Core Subjects EC-6

  • Learn What the Exam Covers
  • Assess Your Content Knowledge
  • Understand the Types of Exam Questions
  • Gather Study Materials
  • Plan and Organize Your Time
  • Develop Your Study Plan
  • Practice
  • Be Part of a Study Group

Test TakingTips

  • Skip the questions you find extremely difficult.
  • Keep track of the time.
  • Read all of the possible answers before selecting one.
  • Check your answers.
  • Don't worry about your score when youare taking the exam
  • Use your energy to take the exam, not toget angry at it.
  • Practice
  • Be Part of a Study Group

On the day of the exam, you should:

  • Be well-rested.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled reporting time.
  • Eat before you take the exam to keep your energy level up.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and dress inlayers.

TExES Core Subject 4-8 Resources

The TExES Core Subject 4-8 is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performing the job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT).The exam is divided into 4 subsets. Each subtest is composed of selected-response questions. Subtests will be scored individually. The exam is proctored year-round and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 200 selected-response questions. The breakdown is as follows:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 74 selected-response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected-response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected-response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-response questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

This exam (211) includes four Subject Exams:

  • English Language Arts and Reading (806)
  • Mathematics (807)
  • Social Studies (808)
  • Science (809)

Please note: No other TExES exam substitutes for any of the individual SubjectExams.

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • English Language Arts and Reading:74 selected response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-responsequestions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes

Testing time:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.
Find a test center here.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
$58 for a Subject Exam taken separatelyAdditional fees may apply.
See additional payment information here.

If you did not pass the Core Subjects 4–8 (211) exam, review the retake policy to learn about your testing options.

Test Experience Tutorials

How to Use On-screen Calculator

Please visit: https://www.tx.nesinc.com/content/docs/calculator_tutorial.pdf

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts. Follow the steps below to create your own study plan.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES Core Subject 4-8 Resources

The TExES Core Subject 4-8 is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performing the job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT).The exam is divided into 4 subsets. Each subtest is composed of selected-response questions. Subtests will be scored individually. The exam is proctored year-round and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 200 selected-response questions. The breakdown is as follows:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 74 selected-response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected-response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected-response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-response questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

This exam (211) includes four Subject Exams:

  • English Language Arts and Reading (806)
  • Mathematics (807)
  • Social Studies (808)
  • Science (809)

Please note: No other TExES exam substitutes for any of the individual SubjectExams.

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • English Language Arts and Reading:74 selected response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-responsequestions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes

Testing time:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.
Find a test center here.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
$58 for a Subject Exam taken separatelyAdditional fees may apply.
See additional payment information here.

If you did not pass the Core Subjects 4–8 (211) exam, review the retake policy to learn about your testing options.

Test Experience Tutorials

How to Use On-screen Calculator

Please visit: https://www.tx.nesinc.com/content/docs/calculator_tutorial.pdf

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts. Follow the steps below to create your own study plan.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES Core Subject 4-8 Resources

The TExES Core Subject 4-8 is intended to assess the concepts that are important in performing the job of an educator. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT).The exam is divided into 4 subsets. Each subtest is composed of selected-response questions. Subtests will be scored individually. The exam is proctored year-round and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 200 selected-response questions. The breakdown is as follows:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 74 selected-response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected-response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected-response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-response questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

This exam (211) includes four Subject Exams:

  • English Language Arts and Reading (806)
  • Mathematics (807)
  • Social Studies (808)
  • Science (809)

Please note: No other TExES exam substitutes for any of the individual SubjectExams.

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • English Language Arts and Reading:74 selected response questions
  • Mathematics: 42 selected response questions
  • Social Studies: 42 selected response questions
  • Science: 42 selected-responsequestions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes

Testing time:

  • English Language Arts and Reading: 1 hour and 55 minutes
  • Mathematics: 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Social Studies: 50 minutes
  • Science: 50 minutes

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.
Find a test center here.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
$58 for a Subject Exam taken separatelyAdditional fees may apply.
See additional payment information here.

If you did not pass the Core Subjects 4–8 (211) exam, review the retake policy to learn about your testing options.

Test Experience Tutorials

How to Use On-screen Calculator

Please visit: https://www.tx.nesinc.com/content/docs/calculator_tutorial.pdf

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts. Follow the steps below to create your own study plan.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES BTLPT Resources

The TExES Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) is designed to assess whether anexaminee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 84 selected-response questions and 7 constructed-response tasks are based on the BTLPT — Spanish exam framework.

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score.
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 20 minutes
  • Exam: 3 hours and 30 minutes
  • Optional: 10-minute break after the speaking tasks

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 84 selected-response questions
  • 4 speaking constructed-response tasks
  • 3 writing constructed-response tasks

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
20 minutes for CAT tutorials andcompliance agreement
10-minute break after the speaking tasks(optional)
3 hours and 30 minutes testing time

NOTE: The total appointment time exceeds thetotal time for tutorials, break, and testing. Thisdifference allows for untimed activity to conductan equipment check prior to testing and untimeddirections at the beginning of each exam section.

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas, PuertoRico, and Mexico.
Find a test center here.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExES English Language Arts and Reading 7-12 Resources

The TExES English Language Arts and Reading 7-12 (ELAR) is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 100 selected-response questions and 2 constructed-response questions:

  • Questions on this exam range from grades 7–12.
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 100 selected-response-questions
  • 2 constructed-response-questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Test Experience Tutorials

Pearson Professional CenterTour
CAT Tutorial

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExEs ESL Supplemental Resources

The TExES English as a Second Language Supplemental (ESL) is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 80 selected-response questions based on the English as a Second LanguageSupplemental exam framework.

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score.
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 80 selected-response questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Test Experience Tutorials

Pearson Professional CenterTour
CAT Tutorial

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExEs Mathematics 7-12 Resources

The TExES Mathematics (7-12) exam is to ensure all Texas public school educators have the required content and professional knowledge. The test is required for all aspiring teachers in the state of Texas to pass with a minimum score of 240. The test consists of 100 selected-response questions based on grades 7th-12th mathematics framework and can be completed with an approved graphing calculator. The exam is a computer-administered test (CAT) and prospective teachers have five hours to complete a 15-minute CAT tutorial and compliance agreement and all exam questions.

The test is organized into six content domains:

  • Number Concepts
  • Patterns and Algebra
  • Geometry and Measurement
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Mathematical Processes and Perspectives
  • Mathematical Learning, Instruction and Assessment

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

There are a total of 100selected-response questions based on the Mathematics 7-12 framework

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward your total score
  • The final scaled score will only based on scored questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

The exam code is 235
A Definitions and Formula page is provided with your exam.

Graphic Calculator Specifications

Calculators will not be provided at the testing site.

Candidates must bring their own graphing calculator (without the manual) to the test.
Only the brands and models listed are permitted at the testing site.
Calculator memory will be cleared before the exam begins.

Approved Calculators:

  • Texas Instruments TI-73
  • Texas Instruments TI-83
  • Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus
  • Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus Silver Edition
  • Texas Instruments TI-84
  • Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus
  • Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus C Silver Edition
  • Texas Instruments TI-Nspire Handheld with the TI-84 Plus Keypad

Examinees using the TI-Nspire Handheld may not remove the TI-84 Plus Keypad while testing. The violation of the rule, or any other test site rule, may result in the voiding of exam scores.)

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Registration Policies

After registering for the exam, you may update your background and score reporting responses before the exam is taken by accessing your account.

If you need to change your exam selection, you will need to withdraw your current registration and submit a new registration for the desired exam.

If you need to withdraw and have not yet scheduled your exam:

  • Submit a withdrawal request through your account

If you need to withdraw and have already scheduled your exam:

  • Cancel your exam appointment at least 48 hours before your scheduled test time. Log into your account and select “Reschedule/Cancel”
  • After canceling the appointment, submit a withdrawal request through your account

If your registration is withdrawn before your scheduled exam or you cancel your appointment at least 48 hours before the test time, you will receive a refund for your exam fees, minus $25.

Testing Policies

You must bring two pieces of original (no copies) and valid identification that includes your name, photograph and signature.

The primary identification item must be government-issued and one of the following:
Driver’s License
State Identification
Military Identification
Passport

The following items can be used in place of a passport:

  • Permanent Resident Card/Resident Alien Card (Form I-551 or I-151)
  • Temporary Resident Card (Form I-688)
  • Employment Authorization Card (Form I-688A, I-688B, or I-766)
  • Mexican Border Crosser Card (accepted only at test centers within 25 miles of theMexican border)

The supplemental identification item may be any original and valid identification as long as it contains your name, photograph and signature.

The exam can be retaken after 30 days and cannot register for another exam until the results from the initial are posted.

If you are associated with an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), you must request approval from your program in order to retest.

You are limited to 5 attempts to taking a certification exam- this includes the first attempt and four retakes.
If you are unable to pass the exam after 5 attempts, you will be prohibited from taking the exam again unless the Texas Education Agency approves a test-limit waiver. Additionally, not passing the exam will not allow a certificate in the certification field.

If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, you may not be admitted. If you are not admitted, you will not receive a refund or credit. You will need to register for another exam date.

If you are absent, you will not receive a refund or credit.
If you are absent due to an emergency circumstance, you may be eligible for reimbursement and must submit a written request to Pearson within 30 days of the missed appointment.

Score Reporting Policies

The exam results are reported to you, TEA (Texas Education Agency), and EducatorPreparation Program (if applicable)

At the completion of your exam, you have the options of either canceling or reporting your scores for that exam session.

  • Opting to cancel scores: the scores will not be reported and you are not eligible for a refund or credit; this exam session will not count as an attempt and you must wait 30 days to retake the exam
  • Opting to have scores reported: these scores will be included in your record and reported; this exam will count as an attempt and cannot be canceled after scores are reported; you must wait 30 days to retake the exam, if necessary

Test Preparation

Begin by preparing for your exam by reviewing content specifications which detail the knowledge and skills measured with the exam. Once you have reviewed the content material, create a study plan to help you identify which items need additional review and support.

TExEs Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12 Resources

The TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12 (PPR) is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 100 selected-response questions.

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 100 selected-response questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Test ExperienceTutorials

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

TExEs Science 7-12 Resources

The TExES Science 7-12 is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a ComputerAssisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5hours.

There is a total of 140 selected-response questions.

  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 140 selected-response questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Test ExperienceTutorials

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

CBEST Resources

What is the CBEST?

 

The CBEST, or the California Basic Educational Skills Test™, is designed to fulfill the basic skills requirement mandated by California law for full-time and substitute teachers. The CBEST passing score is good for life. It is the minimum requirement for most teacher credential programs and is also used in California for obtaining a substitute permit or an Early Childhood Teacher Assistant certificate. If you have completed 90 units of college coursework OR hold a bachelor’s degree, you may request a substitute teaching credential upon passing the CBEST.

 

CBEST includes three subtests: Mathematics, Reading, and Writing. The two-hour Mathematics subtest includes 50 multiple choice questions. The 1.5-hour Reading subtest includes 50 multiple choice questions and takes 1.5 hours to complete. The 1.5-hour Writing subtest includes two essays. The passing score is a total score of 123 for all three subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 37 for each subtest. The CBEST can be taken in two formats: online proctored or computer-based testing site options. The cost is $30 per subtest, or $90 total (this is for 2022-23 — refer to ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm). Fee waivers are available through June 30, 2023.

 

How do I register for and schedule the CBEST?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

 

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

 

Do I need to take the CBEST test?

 

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CBEST.

  • Are you applying for a first teaching credential or services credential?
  • Have you obtained an initial credential but have not completed the basic skills requirement at the request of a California employing agency?
  • Are you applying for the issuance or renewal of an Emergency Permit (e.g. for a 30-day substitute teaching permit)?
  • Did your school district or other California agency request that you fulfill the basic skills requirement?
  • Are you applying for admission to a CTC-accredited teacher preparation program (and you don’t already have a valid California teaching credential for which a baccalaureate degree is required)?
  • Are you applying for admission to a CTC-accredited services credential program?
  • Have you been or are you currently a student taking courses for college credit to pursue a career in education?

 

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you may not need to take the CBEST.

  • Are you applying for a renewal, reissuance, or upgrading of an existing nonemergency credential, certificate, or permit?
  • Are you applying for a credential to teach adults in an apprenticeship program?
  • Are you applying for a permit to teach in a children's center?
  • Are you applying for a credential to teach a designated subject that does not require a baccalaureate degree, including the 30-Day Substitute Designated Subjects Vocational Education Permit?
  • Are you applying for a credential to provide health services (unless the document also authorizes teaching)?
  • Are you applying for a credential to teach an American Indian language only?
  • Are you applying for any added authorization to a teaching credential? (Note: This exemption does not apply to individuals who hold a credential to teach that did not require a baccalaureate degree and for whom the teaching authorization sought requires this degree.)
  • Are you applying for a Certificate of Clearance (required for practice teaching)?
  • Are you applying for an Eminence Credential?


If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

 

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

 

How do I request testing accommodations?

 

To request testing accommodations:

  • Register for the CBEST and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).
  • Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form.
  • Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).
  • Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).
  • Schedule test appointment.

 

Where are the testing locations?

CBEST locations can be found here. You have a choice between two testing options: computer-based at a test center or testing remotely online. Think about not only what is most convenient but also which setting will best support your attention during the test.

  • Computer-based tests: Administered at a specific test center. The CBEST is administered as three separate sections. Computer-based testing is on a priority basis (first come, first served, with limited seating). You will need to make an appointment. Check appointment availability.
  • Online-proctored test: Administered remotely as three separate sections. Read more about online proctoring, including important policies and requirements.
  • Online proctoring: Each month there is a one-week testing window, and you need to make an appointment with an online proctor.

 

Is online proctoring right for me?

Step #1: Evaluate Your Equipment

You provide your own equipment for testing. You must have access to the following:

  • Required — a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam
  • Required if using a desktop computer — a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them
  • Required if using an external monitor with a laptop — you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed
  • Recommended — a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session

 

Review the complete system and testing environment requirements.

 

Step #2: Take the System Test


Take the system test before you register. This will determine if your equipment is eligible for online proctoring.

Step #3: Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

 

How do I register for the CBEST?

 

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you.
  • Answer questions about your background.
  • Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
  • Look for your confirmation email.

 

Here are your next steps after registering and receiving confirmation that they have received your submission:

  • (If applicable), request any testing accommodations you may need.
  • Complete any final test prep.

 

If testing in person:

  • Look up the location of your testing center.
  • Ensure you are prepared to arrive at least 15 minutes early on the day of the exam.
  • Make sure you have a valid form of identification prepared to show on the day of the test.

 

If testing remotely:

  • Ensure you have a successful workspace prepared.
  • You must use a desktop or a laptop; tablets and touch screens cannot be used for your exam.
  • You must have a single monitor; extra monitors are not allowed; you need to remove them from the testing room, if possible, or unplug them.
  • If you are using an external monitor with a laptop, you must have an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam and the lid of your laptop must be closed.
  • If possible, use a personal computer rather than a work computer, which may have additional security that can interfere with your testing session.

 

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

 

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

 

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

 

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?


Through June 30, 2023, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

  • California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)
  • California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
  • Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA)
  • California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)
  • California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE)
  • California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)
  • California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®)
  • edTPA for California 
  • Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

 

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?


Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

 

Are there any COVID precautions in place?

  • Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus-update.aspx.
  • Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.
  • Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

 

How should I prepare for the CBEST?

 

Create a study plan. Life can be crazy! Try to make a study time schedule and stick to it. Create the study plan several weeks before the test to ensure you have plenty of time to prepare.

 

See the following example of a general study plan:

  • Choose one section to focus on at a time (Math, Reading, Writing).
  • Take the practice test.
  • Use results of the practice test to identify areas for improvement.
  • Use our online test prep resources to prepare and improve.
  • Take the practice test again to see improvement.

 

To prepare for the writing section of the CBEST, search for some sample prompts and responses and then get writing. The CTC site includes a CBEST Practice Writing Test with a detailed scoring rubric and sample responses for each score. Read as many past prompts as possible to familiarize yourself with what will be asked and expected of you.

 

You can also review these Constructed Response Questions or the Teach Us Constructed Response Document.

 

Can I take breaks during the test?

  • Computer-Based Testing: You may take restroom breaks during testing. Time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time.
  • Online Proctoring: No breaks allowed.

 

Are there any policies or rules that I need to abide by?

 

When will I receive my test results?

  • Computer-Based Testing: Candidates taking the Reading Section or Mathematics Section will receive preliminary test results at the conclusion of their test center appointment. Candidates taking the Writing Section will receive a receipt of completion at the conclusion of their test center appointment. Test results are available within two weeks of testing.
  • Online Proctoring: Test results are available within two weeks of testing. View the test results release dates here.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

 

What is a passing score?

 

A passing score is a total score of 123 for all three sections. The scaled scores used for reporting CBEST results range from 20-80 for each of the three sections (Reading, Mathematics, and Writing) of the test. The passing score on each CBEST section is a scaled score of 41. A total score (the sum of Reading, Mathematics, and Writing scaled scores) of 123 is required for passing status. It is possible to pass the CBEST with a scaled score on one or two sections as low as 37, provided that the total score is 123 or higher. It is not possible, however, to pass the CBEST if any section score is below 37, regardless of how high the total score may be.

 

Can I retake the CBEST?

 

Good news: You can retake the CBEST as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CBEST score. Re-register and retake the CBEST if your total score is lower than 123. You can re-test on the sections in which you scored lower than a 41. You may also re-test on sections where you made a 41 or higher to give you a better chance of earning a total of 123. 

 

How do I interpret my test scores?

 

You will receive a scaled score for each of the CBEST exams that you take (Reading, Writing, and Math). You will receive the raw score and the CBEST scaled score. The reading and the math test each have 50 questions. The raw score would be the correct number of questions answered out of 50. The writing assessment is scaled in a different way. The writing assessment consists of two essays which will be scored using a rubric ranging from 1-4. The essays will be scored twice, so the raw score can range from 4-16.

The raw scores are converted to the scaled score, which ranges from 20 to 80. The formula used to convert the raw score to scaled scores is: (raw score + 15)/2 = scaled score. Basically, the maximum number for the raw score is set to the same scale as the maximum number for the scaled scores. If you scored 50/50 on the math section, you would have a scaled score of 80. If you scored a 40/50, you would have a scaled score of 64/80. The passing scaled score for each test is 41. The total score needed to pass is 123.

 

What do I do if I don’t pass?

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CBEST test prep course to help you get the results you want.

 

CBEST can be taken as many times as a person needs to pass. Once a section is passed it does not need to be taken again, though one might retake a section in an attempt to improve their score so that their overall score increases. Whether one passes or fails a section, they must wait 45 days before they can register for that section again.

TExES STR Resources

The TExES Science of Teaching Reading (STR) is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

There is a total of 90 selected-response questions and 1 constructed-response question.

  • Questions on this exam range from Prekindergarten–Grade 6
  • The exam may contain questions that do not count toward the score.
  • Your final scaled score will be based only on scored questions.

The following are the time breakdowns per section:

  • CAT tutorial and compliance agreement: 15 minutes
  • Exam: 4 hours and 45 minutes

The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 90 selected-response questions
  • 1 constructed-response question

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$136 for the total exam
See additional payment information here.

Test ExperienceTutorials

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

CSET Mathematics Resources

What is the CSET Mathematics?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

CSET Mathematics includes three subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. The two-hour and thirty minutes subtest I and subtest II includes 35 multiple choice questions and 3 constructed responses. The 2-hour subtest III includes 30 multiple choice questions and 2 constructed responses. The passing score is a total score of 660 for all three subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $99 per subtest (this is for 2022-23 — refer to ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm). Fee waivers are available through June 30, 2024.

How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, now you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first- come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.

Are you seeking certification only?

Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?

Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?

For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).

Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).

Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).

Schedule test appointment.

Step #3: Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

During the registration process, you will be asked to: Select a test program.

Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).

Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.

Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)

Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.

Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.

Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

Look for your confirmation email.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain: California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA) California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)

California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)

California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) edTPA for California

Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus- update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.

Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

CSET Health Sciences Resources

What is the CSET Health Sciences?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

CSET Health Sciences includes three subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. If all 3 subtests are taken in a single session the allotted time is 4 hours and 45 minutes. The breakdown of format and session length per subtest can be found below.

• Subtest I: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Subtest II: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Subtest III: 40 multiple-choice questions and 1 constructed-response question with a session length of 1 hour and 15 minutes

The passing score is a total score of 660 for all three subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $99 per subtest or $297 for all subtests taken together.

How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first- come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.

Are you seeking certification only?

Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?

Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?

For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).

Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).

Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).

Schedule test appointment.


Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

During the registration process, you will be asked to: Select a test program.

Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).

Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.

Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)

Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.

Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.

Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

Look for your confirmation email.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA) California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)

California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)

California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) edTPA for California

Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus- update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.

Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.


Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

CSET English Resources

What is the CSET English?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

CSET English includes four subtests that are composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. If all 4 subtests are taken in a single session the allotted time is 6 hours. The breakdown of format and session length per subtest can be found below.

• Subtest I: 50 multiple-choice questions with a session length of 1 hour and 30 minutes

• Subtest II: 50 multiple-choice questions with a session length of 1 hour

• Subtest III: 2 constructed-response questions with a session length of 2 hours

• Subtest IV: 4 constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 30 minutes

The passing score is 880 for all four subtests (scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET has been taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost breakdown is the following:

• Subtest I: $72

• Subtest II, III, and IV: $75 per subtest

• $297 for all subtests taken together

How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first- come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.

Are you seeking certification only?

Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?

Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?

For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).

Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).

Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).

Schedule test appointment.


Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

During the registration process, you will be asked to: Select a test program.

Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).

Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.

Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)

Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.

Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.

Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

Look for your confirmation email.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA) California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)

California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)

California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) edTPA for California

Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus- update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.

Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.


Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

CSET Social Sciences Resources

What is the CSET Social Sciences?

The CSET, or the CaliforniaSubject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single SubjectTeaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

 

CSET Social Sciences includes three subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. If all 3 subtests are taken in a single session the allotted time is 4 hours and 45 minutes. The breakdown of format and session length per subtest can be found below.

Computer-based test (CBT) and online-proctored test:

• Subtest I: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Subtest II: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Subtest III: 40 multiple-choice questions and 1 constructed-response question with a session length of 1 hour and 15 minutes

The passing score is a total score of 660 for all three subtests(scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $99 per subtest or $297 for all subtests taken together..

How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first- come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.

Are you seeking certification only?

Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?

Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?

For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).

Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).

Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).

Schedule test appointment.


Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

During the registration process, you will be asked to: Select a test program.

Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).

Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.

Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)

Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.

Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.

Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

Look for your confirmation email.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA) California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)

California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)

California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) edTPA for California

Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus- update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.

Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.


Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

CSET Physical Education Resources

What is the CSET Physical Education?

The CSET, or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers®, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject specific examinations. The CSET passing score is good for life. The subject matter competence requirement for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the educational technology requirement, and the competence requirement for effective teaching of English learners (for a bilingual authorization).

CSET Physical Education includes three subtests each composed of multiple choice and constructed-response questions. Each subgroup will be scored individually. If all 3 subtests are taken in a single session the allotted time is 5 hours. The breakdown of format and session length per subtest can be found below.

Computer-based test (CBT)only:

• Subtest I: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Subtest III: 40 multiple-choice questions and 1constructed-response question with a session length of 1 hour and 45 minutes

Computer-based test (CBT) andonline-proctored test:

•Subtest II: 40 multiple-choice questions and 2constructed-response questions with a session length of 1 hour and 30 minutes

The passing score is a total score of 660 for all three subtests(scaled scores); minimum score of 220 for each subtest. The CSET can be takenby computer-based testing (CBT). The cost is $99 per subtest or $297 for allsubtests taken together..

How do I register for and schedule the CSET?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at www.ctcexams.nesinc.com. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first- come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your CTC account at ctcexams.nesinc.com and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test- takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the CSET test?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the CSET.

Are you seeking certification only?

Are you Seeking certification for a specific content area?

Are you a Full-time teacher candidates in California seeking their teaching credential?

For example: A candidate should take the CSET exam that corresponds to the subject area they wish to teach. For example, a high school English teaching credential may require passing the CSET English exam.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please contact the CTC for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

Register for the CSET and ensure you have identified your intent to receive testing accommodations. (Don’t schedule a testing appointment yet).

Complete and submit the applicable Alternative Testing Arrangement Request Form. Submit any other required documentation (listed under “Required Documentation”).

Check for and follow instructions from the email confirming your testing accommodations. (This should come in 1-3 weeks after request is received).

Schedule test appointment.


Review the Policies and Guidelines

Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (select your test to get started). If you are able to comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the CSET?

To register, you must create a CTC account if you do not have one already. Then decide if you want to take all three sections at once or one at a time. If you want to knock them all out you may sign up for all of them, but you will still have to register for each separately. If you’d like to take it one at a time, just sign up for and register for the one you want.

During the registration process, you will be asked to: Select a test program.

Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).

Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.

Identify if you are planning to request for alternative testing arrangements.

Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)

Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.

Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.

Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.

Look for your confirmation email.

Do I qualify for the fee waiver?

The California State Budget included the approval of the California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fee waivers. This means that California Educator Exam and Performance Assessment fees are now waived for eligible candidates as of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, or until funds are used. For candidates who register for an exam or performance assessment beginning July 1, 2022, refunds will be provided to eligible candidates at a future date, subject to approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. For additional information, please see the California Examinations and Assessments Fee Waivers Program Sponsor Alert (PSA) 22-12  issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the California assessment fee waivers, you must have a valid California mailing address entered in your account. You may register or create an account on the Account Information webpage.

Which California assessments are eligible for waivers?

Through June 30, 2024, you may register for the following assessments free of charge, while funds remain:

California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA)

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

Education Specialist California Teaching Performance Assessment (EdSp CalTPA) California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST®)

California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET®)

California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) edTPA for California

Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA®)

Is there a number of waivers you can apply for?

Although there is no limit to the total number of fee waivers used, a test taker can register and schedule five (5) concurrent assessments while funds remain. A combination of subtests scheduled in a single test appointment counts as one (1) concurrent active registration.

Are there any COVID precautions in place?


Pearson VUE owned and operated test centers: Masks are required any time the CDC rates the area as a “high” COVID-19 community level. The CDC classification is updated weekly. To find out if a mask will be required at your appointment that is scheduled at a Pearson VUE owned and operated test center, check the requirements for your test center on Pearson’s COVID-19 webpage at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/Coronavirus- update.aspx.

Pearson VUE partner centers: Mask requirements may be stated on your appointment reminder email, or you may call the test center directly to verify their requirements.

Vaccination status: In compliance with federal, state, local, or tribal guidelines, some test centers may require proof of vaccination status. Candidates who are unwilling to comply with mask or proof of vaccination status requirements at any test center will be refused testing. Refunds will not be issued.

Score reports may be delayed for up to two weeks for candidates taking this test via online proctoring. Candidates taking an online-proctored test will not receive preliminary test results or a receipt of completion when their test ends.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each subtest was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from California teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined on the basis of total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.


Can I retake the CSET?

Good news: You can retake the CSET as many times as you need! The highest scores from all attempts from each section of the test will be used to calculate the final CSET score.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers a CSET test prep course to help you get the results you want.

TExES English Language Arts and Reading Resources

The TExES English Language Arts and Reading 7-12 (ELAR) 331 is designed to assess whether an examinee has the requisite knowledge and skills that an entry-level educator in this field in Texas public schools must possess. It is a Computer Assisted Test (CAT). The exam is proctored year-round, and appointments are scheduled for 5 hours.

  • Computer-administered test (CAT)
  • 90 selected-response questions 
  • 1 constructed-response question
  • The passing score is 240 per subject exam. The results will be available within 7 days of testing.

 

Exam Format

Computer-administered test (CAT)

  • 100 selected-response-questions
  • 2 constructed-response-questions

Exam Time

5 hours total appointment time:
15 minutes for CAT tutorial and compliance agreement
4 hours and 45 minutes testing time

Exam Dates & Location

By appointment, year round. Test appointments are available on a first come, first-served basis.
Check appointment availability here.

CAT sites are located in Texas and nationwide.

Exam Fees

$116 for the total exam

See additional payment information here.

 

Test Experience Tutorials

Pearson Professional CenterTour
CAT Tutorial

 

Study Plan

A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for a Texas Educator Certification Program examination. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the exam and where to focus your attention. Creating a study plan will help you organize your efforts.

  • Know what to expect: Identify the information the exam will cover by reading through the test competencies that are in the preparation manual for the exam you are taking. Within each domain of the exam, each competency will receive approximately equal coverage.
  • Get the prep materials: Identify books, courses, and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
  • Establish a strategy: Organize, create, and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods. The study plan sheet will help you organize.
  • Study: Stick to your study schedule! Don't wait until right before your exam to begin preparing. You can also join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same exam.
  • Practice: Practice taking the sample questions in the preparation manual to get familiar with the types of questions on the exam and to find out where you may need to focus your attention.

Constitutions of the US and AZ

What is the Constitutions of the US and AZ exam?

The Constitutions of the US and AZ, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject-specific examinations. The Constitutions of the United States and Arizona test is a customized educator certification test designed to measure a candidate's knowledge and skills about Arizona learning standards.

The US and AZ Constitutions include two subareas composed of 100 selected-response questions. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial andnondisclosure agreement
  • 90 selected-response questions 

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

The Constitutions of the US and AZ, is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject-specific examinations. The Constitutions of the United States and Arizona test is a customized educator certification test designed to measure a candidate's knowledge and skills about Arizona learning standards.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the Constitutions of the US and AZ exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Arts Education (PreK-12)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Early Childhood (Birth-Grade3)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Elementary (Grades K-8)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Secondary (Grades 6-12)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Early Childhood
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Hearing Impaired?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Mild/Moderate Disabilities?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education moderate/Severe Disabilities?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Visually Impaired?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Speech-Language Pathologist?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Career and Technical Education?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medicaldevice in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  • Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the exam? What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section)and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 240 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Foundations of Reading

What is the Foundations of Reading exam?

The Foundations of Reading is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject-specific examinations. The Foundations of Reading (190)test for Arizona assesses proficiency and depth of understanding of reading and writing development. The test reflects scientifically based reading research.

 

The Foundation of Reading exam includes four subareas composed of 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 open-response items. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

Test Design

  • Subarea I1: 43–45 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea II2: 33–35 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea III3: 21–23 multiple-choice questions
  • Subarea IV4: 2open-response items

Test Time

Computer-Based Testing (CBT)

  •  15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  •  4 hours of testing time

Online Proctoring

  • 15 minutes for tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  • 2 hours and 30 minutes for the multiple-choice questions
  • 15minutes for optional break
  • 1 hour and 30 minutes for the open-response assignments

The passing score is 240. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam is $139 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at AEPA Log In. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your AEPA account at AEPA Log In and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the Foundations of Reading exam?

Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 15-501.01 and Arizona Administrative Code R7-2-615, teachers who provide English language arts instruction to students in kindergarten through grade five are required to obtain a Literacy K–5 endorsement by August 1, 2028. The endorsement requires completion of coursework or training and passing an exam designed to ensure the educator has the knowledge and skills to: 1. Effectively teach foundational reading skills, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension; 2. Implement reading instruction using high-quality instructional materials; and 3. Provide effective instruction and interventions for students with reading deficiencies, including students with characteristics of dyslexia. The Arizona State Board of Education adopted the Foundations of Reading assessment to meet the exam requirement for the Literacy K–5 endorsement.

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  • Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the exam?

To register, you must create an AEPA account (Log in or create an account) if you do not have one already. Sign up for and register for the certification exam that you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background.Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment. 
  • Look for your confirmation email.

Are there any fee waivers?

Candidates who are Arizona residents and currently enrolled in an educator preparation program and incumbent teachers residing in Arizona who are seeking a Literacy K–5 endorsement will be eligible to receive a one-time fee waiver to take the Foundations of Reading assessment for free. For more information please visit FeeWaiver FAQ.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section(multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 240 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! TeachUs offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Subject Knowledge for Elementary

What is the Elementary Education exam?

The Elementary Education exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking subject-specific examinations. Elementary Education Subtests I and II are National EvaluationSeries™ tests. This test is the official test to fulfill the subject knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

The Elementary Education exam includes two subtests composed of 75 multiple-choice questions per subtest. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Subtest I

  • Reading and English Language Arts
  • Social Studies

Subtest II

  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • The Arts, Health, and Fitness

 

Test Time

Computer-Based Testing

  • Subtest I: 1 hour and 30 minutes testing time
  • Subtest II: 1 hour and 45 minutes testing time

Online Proctoring

  • Subtest I: 1 hour and 30 minutes testing time
  • Subtest II: 1 hour and 45 minutes testing time

 

The passing score is 220 per subtest. The passing score is good for life. The exam can betaken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam if taken through CBT is $85 for a single subtest or $165 for both subtests and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card. If the exam is taken through online proctoring the cost is $85 per subtest.

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at AEPA Log In. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Login to your AEPA account at AEPA Log In and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the Elementary Education exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for elementary (grades K-8)?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  • Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.


Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary

What is the Assessment of Professional Knowledge exam?

The Assessment of Professional Knowledge exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or must meet certification requirements by taking subject-specific examinations. The Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Elementary is a National Evaluation Series™ test. This test is the official test to fulfill the professional knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

The Assessment of Professional Knowledge is one subarea composed of 100 multiple-choice questions, 1 case study written assignment, and 1 work product written assignment. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Test Design

  • Student Development and Learning
  • Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment
    • Case Study
  • The Professional Environment
    • Work Product

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  • 3 hours of testing time

 

The passing score is 220. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam is $145 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at AEPA Log In. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your AEPA account at AEPA Log In and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Arts Education (PreK-12)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for elementary (grades K-8)
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Hearing Impaired?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Special Education Visually Impaired?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  • Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

Are there any fee waivers?

Fee waivers may be available for college students who meet the eligibility criteria indicated below. You may receive only one fee waiver per year. Requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
  • You must be currently receiving financial aid.
  • You must meet certain eligibility income guidelines.

 

To apply and submit the fee waiver request form visit https://www.aepa.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=NTCBT_PaymentInformation.html&t=NT102.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.
 

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! TeachUs offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary

What is the Assessment of Professional Knowledge exam?

The Assessment of Professional Knowledge exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or must meet certification requirements by taking subject-specific examinations. The Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Secondary is a National Evaluation Series™ test. This test is the official test to fulfill the professional knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

The Assessment of Professional Knowledge is one subarea composed of 100 multiple-choice questions, 1 case study written assignment, and 1 work product written assignment. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Test Design

  • Student Development and Learning
  • Assessment, Instruction, and the Learning Environment
    • Case Study
  • The Professional Environment
    • Work Product

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  • 3 hours of testing time

 

The passing score is 220. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam is $145 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at AEPA Log In. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your AEPA account at AEPA Log In and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

 

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Arts Education (PreK-12)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Secondary (Grades 6-12)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Career and Technical Education?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Subject Matter Expert (Grades 6-12)?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  • Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the exam?

To register, you must create an AEPA account (Log in or create an account) if you do not have one already. Sign up for and register for the certification exam that you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background.Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
  • Look for your confirmation email.

Are there any fee waivers?

Fee waivers may be available for college students who meet the eligibility criteria indicated below. You may receive only one fee waiver per year. Requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must be enrolled in an under graduate or graduate degree program.
  • You must be currently receiving financial aid.
  • You must meet certain eligibility income guidelines.

To apply and submit the fee waiver request form visit https://www.aepa.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=NTCBT_PaymentInformation.html&t=NT102.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section (multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get theresults you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Subject Knowledge for Secondary General Science

What is the Secondary General Science exam?

The Secondary General Science exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or must meet certification requirements by taking subject-specific examinations. Middle Grades General Science is a National Evaluation Series™test. This test is the official test to fulfill the subject knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

The Secondary General Science exam is one subarea composed of 150 multiple-choice questions. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Test Design

  • Nature of Science
  • Physical Science
  • Life Science
  • Earth and Space Science

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  •  3 hours of testing time

 

The passing score is 220. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam is $119 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

Do I need to take the exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Secondary (Grades 6-12)?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  •  Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the exam?

To register, you must create an AEPA account (Log in or create an account) if you do not have one already. Sign up for and register for the certification exam that you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
  • Look for your confirmation email.

Are there any fee waivers?

Fee waivers may be available for college students who meet the eligibility criteria indicated below. You may receive only one fee waiver per year. Requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
  • You must be currently receiving financial aid.
  • You must meet certain eligibility income guidelines.

 

To apply and submit the fee waiver request form visit https://www.aepa.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=NTCBT_PaymentInformation.html&t=NT102.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section(multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Subject Knowledge for Secondary Mathematics

What is the Secondary Mathematics exam?

The Secondary Mathematics exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or must meet certification requirements by taking subject-specific examinations. Middle Grades Mathematics is a National Evaluation Series™ test.This test is the official test to fulfill the subject knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

Secondary Mathematics is one subarea composed of 150 multiple-choice questions. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Test Design

  • Number Sese and Operations
  • Algebra and Functions
  • Measurement and Geometry
  • Statistics, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  • 5 hours of testing time

 

The passing score is 220. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT). The cost of the exam is $119 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

Do I need to take the exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Secondary (Grades 6-12)?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I register for the exam?

To register, you must create anAEPA account (Log in or create an account) if you do not have one already.Sign up for and register for the certification exam that you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background.Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
  • Look for your confirmation email.

Are there any fee waivers?

Fee waivers may be available for college students who meet the eligibility criteria indicated below. You may receive only one fee waiver per year. Requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
  • You must be currently receiving financial aid.
  • You must meet certain eligibility income guidelines.

 

To apply and submit the fee waiver request form visit https://www.aepa.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=NTCBT_PaymentInformation.html&t=NT102.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section(multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!

Subject Knowledge for Secondary English Language Arts

What is the Secondary English Language Arts exam?

The Secondary English Language Arts exam is designed for prospective teachers who choose to or must meet certification requirements by taking subject-specific examinations. Middle Grades English Language Arts is a National EvaluationSeries™ test. This test is the official test to fulfill the subject knowledge testing requirement for Arizona teacher certification.

 

The Secondary English Language Arts is one subarea composed of 150 multiple-choice questions. The breakdown of the format and session length of the exam can be found below.

 

Test Design

  • Reading Process and Comprehension and Reading in Multiple Subject Areas
  • Reading various Text Forms and Analyzing and Interrupting Literature
  • English Language Conventions, Composition, Writing Process, and Research
  • Modes of Writing
  • Oral and Visual Communication

Test Time

  • 15 minutes for computer-based testing (CBT) tutorial and nondisclosure agreement
  • 3 hours of testing time

 

The passing score is 220. The passing score is good for life. The exam can be taken by computer-based testing (CBT) or online-proctored test. The cost of the exam is $119 and must be paid using a credit card, debit, or check card.

How do I register for and schedule the exam?

Begin the registration process first. Complete the registration and payment process at AEPA Log In. After you have registered, you need to schedule your test appointment. Schedule your appointment online. This is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do this immediately to save your spot. Log in to your AEPA account at AEPA Log In and click on “schedule.” After you schedule your test appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email which will list your test date, testing time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

 

Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?

Qualifying U.S. military members have the opportunity of options to check out at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Military/Test-takers.aspx#funding.

Do I need to take the exam?

If you answer “YES” to any of the following questions, you need to take the exam.

  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Middle Grades (Grades 5-9)?
  • Are you seeking certification or endorsement for Secondary (Grades 6-12)?

If you are still uncertain about your eligibility to test, please Contact AEPA for approval to test.

Do I qualify for testing accommodations?

Let’s make sure you have what you need to be successful! You may be eligible for testing accommodations if you have one or more disability, one or more health conditions, if English is not your primary language, or if you are nursing/breastfeeding. If you are approved to receive testing accommodations, you may be directed to a specific testing center that can provide you with the environment and support you need. If you are a nursing mother who needs to bring in specialized equipment or storage materials, be aware that children will not be allowed in the testing center or into the secure testing room. Nursing mothers will not be able to leave the test center once testing has begun, and time taken for breaks is considered part of the available testing time. If you are visually impaired, braille testing materials will be available, and you will be allowed to have a medical device in the testing room (if needed).

How do I request testing accommodations?

To request testing accommodations:

  • Review "Documentation Requirements" below and collect any necessary documents.
  • Register for the test. Be sure to declare your intent to request alternative testing arrangements during registration. Do NOT schedule your test appointment until you receive notification of resolution.
  • Submit your completed Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form and supporting documentation to the examination program. Once you submit your Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Form, you will receive confirmation of your submission via email.
  • Check your email for your notification of resolution (usually between 1–3 weeks after your completed request is received).
  •  Follow the instructions provided in your resolution email to schedule your appointment with any approved alternative testing arrangements.

Review the Policies and Guidelines:

  • Review the testing policies and what to expect on the day of the test on this website (Select your exam to get started). If you comply with these policies and guidelines, you may register for online proctoring.

How do I register for the exam?

To register, you must create an AEPA account (Log in or create an account) if you do not have one already. Sign up for and register for the certification exam that you want.

 

During the registration process, you will be asked to:

  • Select a test program.
  • Choose your test, subtest(s), or test section(s).
  • Choose to test at a test center or remotely (if remote testing is available for your test). *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you may be told which testing center to go to.
  • Identify if you are planning to request alternative testing arrangements.
  • Assign institutions to get your test results. (Note: Only institutions designated during registration will automatically receive your test results.)
  • Select to have test results emailed to you. Answer questions about your background. Read and agree to testing rules.
  • Pay for the test(s) using a credit, debit, or check card.
  • Schedule your test appointment. *Note: if you are seeking to receive testing accommodations you should wait to schedule the test appointment.
  • Look for your confirmation email.

Are there any fee waivers?

Fee waivers may be available for college students who meet the eligibility criteria indicated below. You may receive only one fee waiver per year. Requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
  • You must be currently receiving financial aid.
  • You must meet certain eligibility income guidelines.

 

To apply and submit the fee waiver request form visit https://www.aepa.nesinc.com/TestView.aspx?f=NTCBT_PaymentInformation.html&t=NT102.

What is a passing score?

The minimum passing score for each exam was established by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing based on recommendations from Arizona teachers and teacher educators. Passing status is determined by total subtest performance. Test results are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score is based on the number of raw score points earned on each section(multiple-choice section and/or constructed-response section) and the weighting of each section. Raw scores are converted to a scale of 100 to 300, with the scaled score of 220 representing the minimum passing score.

Can I retake the exam?

Good news: You can retake the exam as many times as you need! You must complete the registration process again and wait 30 days before retaking a test.

 

Didn’t pass? Don’t stress! Teach Us offers test prep courses and tutoring sessions (webinar based and 1:1) to help you get the results you want. Check out the offers at Teach Us!