CBEST Test
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is meant for candidates aspiring to work in or teach in the administration at a school in California or Oregon. This is also applicable for those desiring to work as substitute teachers. This test was mandated by legislators to ensure that the future educators possess a bare minimum level of knowledge in various areas, so that students can receive quality education.
The test is conducted several times a year and the test centers are located throughout in both states. The results for the examination will be announced a month after the test date. CBEST is conducted only in English for testing the basic proficiency in areas of writing, reading and mathematics. All three tests need not be attempted on the same day, and in case of failures, the examinee can re-attempt the tests as many times until a pass score is obtained. All three tests together should be completed in four hours. Hence in case a candidate is well versed in Reading and writing than in math, the candidate can choose to finish writing and reading in two hours, and devote the rest two hours entirely for mathematics.
In addition to certification, CBEST is required as a condition for employment. The CBEST certification is also taken for diagnostic purposes while seeking admission to a teacher preparation program. More information regarding this requirement will be available with universities and colleges. CBEST is administered by the National Evaluation System (NES).