CBEST Reading Test Study Guide – Tips and Practice Questions
Oct 21, 2025
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) comprises three subtests – Reading, Mathematics and Writing.
Anyone who wishes to work as a teacher in California must pass the CBEST (or show they meet the criteria of the test through an alternative exam or coursework).
The Reading subtest is a multiple-choice exam. It is made up of 50 questions, which candidates must answer within a 90-minute time limit.
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What Is the CBEST Reading Test?
CBEST is an acronym for the California Basic Educational Skills Test.
Prospective teachers in California are required to sit this test if they want to be considered for a teaching role.
The test comprises the CBEST Reading test and two other CBEST sub-tests (Mathematics and Writing).
If you do not want to sit the CBEST, there are a few other ways to satisfy the basic skills requirements.
These include:
- Passing the CSET: Multiple Subjects and Writing Skills exam
- Achieving a qualifying score on the ACT or SAT
- Passing the Early Assessment Program at CSU
- Passing the CSU Placement Examinations
- Passing another state’s version of the Basic Skills Exam
- Passing Advanced Placement Exams (AP), which are administered by the College Board
- Demonstrating the Basic Skills Required for Coursework
- Demonstrating Basic Skills Requirements through other exams or coursework
The CBEST Reading test is made up of 50 multiple-choice questions. The test takes 90 minutes to complete, and candidates usually receive their full test results within four to six weeks of sitting the exam.
The CBEST Reading test questions are designed to test a candidate’s ability to:
- Read a passage of text
- Interpret a graph or study information stored within a table
- Answer multiple-choice questions relating to what they have read
Forty percent of the test is designed to assess critical analysis and evaluation skills. The remaining 60% of the test is designed to check a candidate’s comprehension and research abilities.
The test questions will check the candidate’s comprehension of the passage or information. They also assess a candidate’s language abilities, sequencing and ability to identify a main idea.
Other test questions are designed to check the candidate’s critical thinking abilities. This includes identifying logical problems, comparing viewpoints or inferring information implied by the text.
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CBEST Reading Study Guide: How to Take the CBEST Reading Exam
To take the CBEST Reading Exam, prospective candidates must register their details and set up an account via the CTC Exams website.
After registering, the candidate must choose the type of test they wish to take and their preferred exam date.
The CBEST is offered as either a computer-based or online-proctored test, which can be taken remotely. The paper-based version of the CBEST is no longer offered.
At the time of writing, registration fees for eligible California residents have been waived. This applies to anyone with a California mailing address.
All test questions are written in English and must be answered in English.
Candidates must use their time wisely. Working quickly and accurately is important, as all questions must be answered within the 90-minute time limit.
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CBEST Reading Study Guide: CBEST Reading Practice Questions
Read the following passage of text before answering the following multiple-choice questions.
In most modern cars, replacing a headlight bulb is quick and easy. You need to open the hood, locate the back of the bulb, and remove its electric connector.
After that, you must twist off the retaining ring and remove the old bulb. You can reverse the process to install the new bulb.
Remember, new headlight bulbs are halogen bulbs. They are brighter than traditional headlamps but more susceptible to breaking once lit if the bulb is scratched, dropped, or in contact with moisture or liquid.
The best way to avoid any problems is to ensure you don’t touch the glass with your bare hands – even your fingertips can leave a trace of moisture on the bulb.
1. If you touch the glass part of a halogen headlight bulb with your bare hands, which of the following outcomes is most likely?
a) You will cause damage to the car’s electrical system
b) Moisture will build up inside the bulb
c) The bulb will shatter when lit
d) The skin on your hands will be damaged
e) The amount of light emitted by the bulb will reduce
The correct answer is: c)
The text states, ‘They are…more susceptible to breaking once lit if the bulb is…in contact with moisture or liquid.’ It later states, ‘Even your fingertips can leave a trace of moisture on the bulb.’
2. The target audience for this passage of text is most likely to be:
a) New drivers
b) Car owners
c) People who collect cars
d) People who sell cars
e) Professional mechanics
The correct answer is: a)
The target audience is most likely new drivers who may not have changed a car headlight before.
3. Having read the passage, what is the last step when replacing a headlight bulb?
a) Checking the bulb for scratches
b) Testing that the lights work
c) Reattaching the electrical connector
d) Cleaning the glass with a soft cloth
e) Replacing the retaining ring
The correct answer is: e)
This is the first step within the passage of text provided, and the text states that replacing the bulb involves repeating the process described in reverse.
Study the following table of information. What is the total number of units produced?
The correct answer is: d)
The total number of units added together is 370,000. Note that defective units are already included as part of the total, so they do not need to be double-counted in this example.
Read the following passage of text, then answer the following question.
Aer Lingus and Ryanair are the most important aircraft carriers operating out of Ireland. They compete on 46 different routes.
Based on the EU Merger Regulation, the vice president of the European Commission has prohibited the proposed takeover of Aer Lingus by Ryanair.
A market investigation identified that any new carrier would unlikely enter the Irish market following the merger.
Throughout the process, Ryanair suggested several remedial arrangements. These included the divestiture of Aer Lingus’ 43 overlapping air routes to Flybe and giving up slots for take-off and landing at London airports to British Airways.
However, the commission decided that this set of measures needed to be revised due to the size of the Flybe Company and its status in the aeronautical industry.
Based on the information in the passage, is the following sentence true, false or impossible to say?
The main reason the merger was prohibited was to avoid abuse of dominant power.
a) True
b) False
c) Not possible to say based on the information provided in the passage
The correct answer is: a)
The passage states initially that Aer Lingus and Ryanair are the most important aircraft carriers operating out of Ireland. As you continue reading, the text states that Ryanair had plans to take over Aer Lingus but was not allowed to do so, as it was unlikely any new carrier would enter the Irish market following the merger.
This information implies that if Ryanair took over another important carrier, such as Aer Lingus, it would lead to an accumulation of dominant power in its hands. This is why the merger was prohibited, so it is reasonable to state that the sentence is true.
Study the following information on trains between Leeds and Newcastle:
According to the information, when does the train with the most passengers leave Leeds station?
a) 8:00 a.m.
b) 9:00 a.m.
c) 10:00 a.m.
d) 11:00 a.m.
e) 12:00 p.m.
The correct answer is: a)
To find the answer, you need to use the following calculation for each row:
Number of seats – number of empty seats
- At 8:00 a.m.: 400 – 20 = 380
- At 9:00 a.m.: 350 – 60 = 290
- At 10:00 a.m.: 300 – 75 = 225
- At 11:00 a.m.: 200 – 50 = 150
- At 12:00 p.m.: 350 – 45 = 305
Study the following passage of text, then choose the appropriate word from the list to fill in the gaps.
Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is defined as any act of __________ behavior that takes place in the work _________.
It can be anything from making threats and verbal _________ to physical assaults and ________.
It can affect and involve all parties, including clients, customers, employees and visitors.
One way to reduce the frequency of workplace violence is to identify the risk factors in advance. Organizations should also __________ a zero-tolerance policy against workplace violence.
a) Disruptive
b) Abuse
c) Environment
d) Homicide
e) Establish
The correct answers are:
Workplace violence is defined as any act of disruptive behavior that takes place in the work environment.
It can be anything from making threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide.
It can affect and involve all parties, including clients, customers, employees and visitors.
One way to reduce the frequency of workplace violence is to identify the risk factors in advance. Organizations should also establish a zero-tolerance policy against workplace violence.
CBEST Reading Study Guide: The Different Types of Test
As mentioned, candidates can take the CBEST Reading test in two different ways. These are:
Computer-Based
Test dates are available throughout the year. Candidates can sit the computer-based test on any day between Monday and Saturday.
Candidates who wish to take the computer-based test must attend a PearsonVue testing center, where they will sit in a room with other CBEST candidates.
The computer-based exam lasts about one hour and 30 minutes. In most cases, candidates can view their preliminary test results on the official exam website after completing the test. Full test results are issued within four to six weeks of completing the test. This includes a breakdown of your score for each test section.
Online-Proctored Test
The test can also be taken remotely, either at home or another venue of the candidate’s choosing.
If you want to take the test remotely, you must work in line with strict requirements. These include using a single monitor, having a secure network connection, and working in a room alone.
You will not be allowed to use a smartphone or tablet to complete the test.
Candidates should note that the paper-based version of the CBEST is no longer offered.
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What Is a Passing Score on the CBEST Reading Test?
A candidate’s raw score is calculated out of 50. This score is converted to a scaled score between 20 and 80. On the reading subtest, each question has the same value, and candidates will not be penalized for giving an incorrect answer.
The CBEST Reading test is one of three CBEST subtests. To pass the CBEST, candidates must achieve a score of 123 across the three tests.
This means that candidates should aim to score at least 41 on the CBEST Reading test if they want to pass the full test. To stand a chance of passing, candidates must score at least 37 on the reading subtest.
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How to Prepare for the CBEST Reading Test
Here are some ideas on preparing and practicing for the CBEST Reading test.
Complete Practice Papers
Working through a few practice papers is one of the most effective ways to practice for any test, including the CBEST.
Completing practice papers helps you become familiar with the test format and get to know the type of questions you will face. You can also use your practice test results to work out the areas that you need more practice in.
Revise Certain Subjects
You must analyze which aspects of the test you feel most confident in.
Once you have identified areas you don’t feel so confident with, you should dedicate extra time to revising and practicing these. Once you have revised, try retaking a practice paper to track your improvement.
Check Your Computer
If you are taking the online-proctored test, make sure that the computer equipment you are going to be using meets the minimum requirements. If you are taking the online-proctored test, you can only use one computer monitor.
When taking the online-proctored test, you will need to log in to your account before starting the test. You will need to have a valid ID document showing your photo.
The camera on your laptop or computer will be used to scan the room. You will be required to read and sign the digital version of the nondisclosure agreement (NDA) before starting the test, and you must ensure nobody enters the test area while you are taking the exam.
Arrive Early
If you are attending a test center to sit the CBEST, ensure you arrive in plenty of time. It is best to be at the testing center around 30 minutes before your test start time. If you arrive late, you won’t be allowed to sit the test.
Ensure that you plan your route, allowing yourself additional time in case of traffic, detours or parking problems.
Allowing yourself sufficient travel time should help you feel calmer when you arrive to sit the test. Visit the restroom before entering the test room – breaks to visit the toilet are permitted, but time will not be paused, so you will have less time to answer the questions.
Check What to Bring
Take time to read through any information you are sent before the test. You must bring two forms of current government-issued identification document, one of which must include your photo.
Both of your ID documents must be printed in English and in the name you registered for the test with.
You might be asked to scan your palm and/or face, and you might be required to submit a virtual signature. When you enter the testing room, you will be asked to review and sign the NDA.
You should also check the information for details of any items you cannot bring inside the test center. You will not be permitted to bring personal belongings into the test room.
Make Time for Self Care
In the days leading up to the test, ensure you get adequate rest, eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBEST Reading test?
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) Reading test is one of three subtests that must be taken by prospective teachers in the state of California. The reading subtest comprises 50 multiple-choice questions, which must be answered within 90 minutes.
Is the CBEST Reading test hard?
The CBEST Reading test is difficult for some students. To stand the best chance of passing the test, it is important to focus your preparation on two key skill areas – critical analysis and evaluation (40%) and research and comprehension (60%).
Completing a few CBEST Reading practice exams is a good way to familiarize yourself with the test format and the types of questions you must answer.
What is a good CBEST Reading score?
To pass the CBEST, candidates must achieve a combined score of 123 for the three subtests. The minimum score for each subtest, including the CBEST Reading test, is 37. A score of 41 is considered a passing score on the CBEST Reading test.
How do I pass the CBEST Reading section?
To pass the CBEST Reading section, you will need to aim for a score of 41. To stand the best chance of passing, it is important that you spend adequate time preparing for the test.
You can do this in several ways, such as reading various materials, playing educational games and quizzes, and completing practice CBEST tests online.
Where can I find a CBEST Reading practice test with answers?
You can find a CBEST Reading practice test with answers online – just search for it using your preferred search engine. You can also visit websites like JobTestPrep to find relevant preparation resources for the CBEST and other similar tests.
How many minutes should you spend on each reading question of CBEST?
You should aim to spend no longer than 90 seconds on each question. This will allow you sufficient time to answer all 50 questions and have a little time to spare.
How should I study for the CBEST Reading test?
There are two main steps to studying for the CBEST Reading test – revising any areas you are unsure of and completing CBEST Reading practice exams. If you need help deciding which areas to revise, complete a practice paper first.
After you have reviewed your answers, it should be easy to see which areas you require more practice in.
Remember, you don’t need any specific knowledge to pass the CBEST Reading test, as all the information you need can be found within the test. The exam is designed to check whether you can read, analyze and digest information you have read.
What type of reading questions are on the CBEST?
Question types within the CBEST test include comparing and contrasting information, finding evidence, making predictions, identifying viewpoints and intended audiences, separating fact from opinion, the difference between logical assumptions and fallacies, and finding inconsistencies.
For some questions, you will be shown a passage of text, in others you will be given a simple chart or graph to analyze and make inferences from. Completing a few practice papers will help you become familiar with the different question types on the CBEST Reading test.
What should I look out for in the CBEST Reading Test?
When taking the CBEST Reading test, it is important to look out for event sequencing, key themes, inferences, context clues, figurative speech and relationships between ideas.
How many can you miss on the CBEST Reading test?
If you are unsure of an answer, you can miss a question on the CBEST reading subtest. However, it is important to note that you must achieve a minimum score of 37/50 to pass the full CBEST.
How long is the CBEST Reading test?
The CBEST Reading test is 90 minutes long.
Where can I get CBEST Reading practice questions?
You can find a variety of CBEST reading practice questions online. You can visit websites such as JobTestPrep or use a search engine to search for ‘CBEST reading practice questions’, ‘CBEST reading study guide’, or ‘CBEST reading practice test online’.
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Final Thoughts
If you aspire to work as a teacher in California, you must pass the CBEST. Once you have passed the test, your score will remain valid indefinitely throughout your teaching career.
If you do not pass the test, you can repeat the test as many times as necessary, although you may be charged a registration fee each time. At present, the registration fee is waived for eligible California residents.
It’s also worth noting that there is a 45 day waiting period between tests, which can be used for additional practice and preparation.
If you want to pass the CBEST, adequate preparation is vital. One of the best ways to prepare for the test is by completing mock CBEST assessments and using your results to identify areas where you require further practice.
