CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) (CBEST) Exam Blueprint

CBEST

100Questions
240 minDuration
37 (20-80)Passing Score
$102Price
1Languages
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Credential type: admission or placement test · verified on the issuer's site September 19, 2026 issuer page

Exam Domains

Reading Reading Weight not published
  • 1.0Critical Analysis and Evaluation
    Comprehend information presented in written passages, tables, and graphs; Approximately 40 percent of the questions are drawn from this area
  • 2.0Comprehension and Research Skills
    Approximately 60 percent of the questions are drawn from this area
Mathematics Mathematics Weight not published
  • 1.0Estimation, Measurement, and Statistical Principles
    Approximately 30 percent of the questions are drawn from this area
  • 2.0Computation and Problem Solving
    Approximately 35 percent of the questions are drawn from this area
  • 3.0Numerical and Graphic Relationships
    Approximately 35 percent of the questions are drawn from this area
Writing Writing Weight not published
  • 1.0Analysis of a Given Situation or Statement
    Respond to both topics
  • 2.0Writing About a Specified Personal Experience
    Respond to both topics

Exam Details

Question Typesmultiple_choice, essay
FormatMultiple-choice (Reading, Mathematics) + 2 essay prompts (Writing); computer-based or paper-based
Online ProctoringNot available
PrerequisitesRequired for California teaching credential, administrative services credential, or pupil personnel services credential; also required for many classified staff positions (recommended)
Retake PolicyCandidates must register and pay for each section separately.
LanguagesEnglish

Official Study Resources

official study guideCBEST Reading Section
official study guideCBEST Mathematics Section
official study guideCBEST Writing Section