The CBEST meets the “Basic Skills Requirement” for California teachers and substitutes. It tests Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, and Writing skills, while the CSET Multiple Subject Test includes a wider breadth of subjects (including History, Science, Visual and Performing Arts, Human Development, and Physical Education). The CSET is also required for many student teaching and credential programs, but the CBEST alone can suffice for a substitute teaching credential. There is a large demand for substitutes in the Los Angeles Unified School District, along with smaller districts like Santa Monica-Malibu, Culver City, and Beverly Hills, so a CBEST credential can be very helpful for aspiring teachers.
There are several ways to meet the “Basic Skills Requirement” for California teachers, including meeting a minimum SAT or ACT score, so you should check here before deciding which option to pursue. If you haven’t, the CBEST may be the easiest way to qualify for a graduate teaching and credential program, such as Pepperdine, Occidental, and Cal State Los Angeles.
The test is offered year-round at computer testing centers, with several locations in the Los Angeles area. The paper CBEST test has been phased out, so all students must take the test electronically. You can search for a test center here.
A passing scaled score for each individual section is 41, or 123 total for all three sections. The minimum passing score for a section is 37. There are no official guidelines for how this translates from the percentage of questions correct, but students scoring lower than 75% on practice tests should do additional preparation.
