CBEST/CSET

What is the CBEST and CSET?

Most teaching credential programs require applicants to take an exam that tests for a broad knowledge of the subject matter and critical thinking skills. The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) assesses candidates' general math, writing, and reading comprehension skills. It is one way candidates can meet the basic skills requirement for teacher certification. While the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) is a criterion-referenced test designed to measure a specific set of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities reflecting the subject area of the credential sought.

Passing the CBEST also fulfills one of the requirements to earn a permit to serve as a substitute teacher in California.

Bonus: If you are a math or science student interested in teaching, MSTI will pay for your CBEST and CSET exam!*

The California Basic Educational Skills Test

General Info

The California Subject Examinations for Teachers

General Info

How to Prepare for Each Exam

CBEST Study Tools:

There are many helpful and free study tools offered by MSTI you can utilize.

Periodic informational and study meetings
CBEST practice book take-home rental available in Del Mar, Building 3
Practice exam offered on California Educator Credentialing Assessments
Mometrix online test prep with videos and practice exams
Union Test Prep provides free practice test, flashcards, study guides
Teachers Test Prep
- Make an account with Teacher Test Prep. This site allows you to take a free full-length practice test. After submitting the test: it shows you the likelihood of passing, view of each of your answer choices along with the correct answer, and lets you view your Basic Diagnostics. You can purchase your written response grading and feedback.
What You Need to Know Before Taking the CBEST offers more tips on what to expect when taking the CBEST

CSET Study Tools:

The CSET will require a greater amount of study and revision, but MSTI's got your back.

CSET practice book take-home rental offered in Del Mar, Building 3
Practice exam offered on California Educator Credentialing Assessments
Free online mathematics and science CSET courses and workshops also offered through:

Important info to know about each test:

CBEST EXAM

The CBEST examination is typically easier to find dates for and easy to find a testing location near you.
However, give yourself enough time to schedule a testing date after purchase.
There are two ways to take the exam, paper-based and computer-based.
There are three parts to a full CBEST exam (math, reading, and writing). Taking the full exam in a single session will take 4 hours.
A total passing score of 123 for all sections of the exam is required by the teaching credential program.
Test results for Computer-based are available within 2 weeks of testing. Paper based results are available within 3 weeks of testing.
Should you not pass a section(s) of the exam, you may retake that specific section(s) at a later date. You will have to pay the exam fee for that section(s).*

CSET EXAM

CSET exam locations fill up fast, making it challenging to find a test location the closer you get to scheduled dates - particularly towards the end of the year.
The results take awhile to release, about 7 weeks, so plan accordingly.
There are two subtests for Science (General Science CSET exam #215, and a more content specific test - choose from #217, 218, 219, or 220); Math has three sub-tests.
Each exam sub-test has a multiple choice and free response section. A passing score of 220 per sub-test is required.
Should you not pass a sub-test(s), you can schedule to retake that specific sub-test(s) on a later date. You will have to pay exam fees for the sub-test(s).*

*MSTI Exam Payment Policy: MSTI will pay for a student to take the CBEST and the CSET. First priority goes to those who have not yet taken one of the tests. If interested, please contact Dr. Dennis Kombe in the Del Mar, building 3 for further information.

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