CBEST Test – Prep Guide with Tips & Free Practice Questions
Aug 24, 2025
CBEST is an acronym for 'California Basic Educational Skills Test'.
Anyone who wants to work as a teacher in California must either pass the CBEST or show they meet the test criteria by passing an alternative exam or providing evidence of relevant coursework.
The test comprises three categories:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Writing
The test has two versions: candidates can sit the computer-based test at a PearsonVue testing center. The remote proctored exam can be taken at home.
CBEST is an acronym for California Basic Educational Skills Test. Anyone who wants to work as a teacher in California must either pass the CBEST or show they meet the test criteria by passing an alternative exam or providing evidence of relevant coursework.
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What Is the CBEST Test?
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is a compulsory exam taken by prospective teachers in the state of California.
The CBEST is made up of three subtests:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
Each subtest takes 90 minutes to complete. The Reading and Maths subtests are multiple-choice tests comprising 50 questions each. The Writing exam is an essay-based test.
Computer-based tests must be taken at a PearsonVUE testing center. The online-proctored exam can be taken remotely from home or at another suitable location chosen by the candidate.
If a candidate does not wish to sit the CBEST, they can consider a few other options to satisfy the basic skills requirements for a teaching role in California.
These include sitting alternative tests (such as the CSET Multiple Subjects and Writing Skills exam, ACT or SAT or demonstrating the basic skills required through coursework.
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What Are the Three Subtests on the CBEST Exam?
There are three subtests as part of the CBEST test. These are as follows:
Reading
The reading subtest comprises 50 questions, which are designed to test a candidate’s ability to read a passage of text and make deductions from it.
Questions are split into two sections; Critical Analysis and Evaluation (40%) and Comprehension and Research Skills (60%).
Candidates have 90 minutes to answer all of the questions on the test.
Writing
Many CBEST candidates consider this the most difficult of the three subtests. It is made up of two essay questions.
For one of the essays, candidates must analyze a given statement or situation. In the other essay, they must provide a written account of a specific personal experience they have encountered.
Math
The math subtest is made up of 50 multiple-choice questions, which must be answered within 90 minutes.
Candidates must solve math problems in three major areas:
- Estimation, Measurement and Statistical Principles
- Computation and Problem-Solving
- Numerical and Graphical Relationships
Candidates are not allowed to use a calculator during the math subtest.
To pass the CBEST, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 123 across the three subtests.
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Example CBEST Exam Questions and Solutions
Math Example Questions (CBEST Sample Questions)
Rachel needs to order rope for each of her 31 gym students. Each student will need a piece of rope that is 5 feet 10 inches long.
Calculate the total length of rope Rachel needs to order for the class.
a) 170 feet and 9 inches
b) 175 feet and 10 inches
c) 180 feet and 10 inches
d) 182 feet and 5 inches
e) 185 feet and 7 inches
The correct answer is: c)
To get the answer, multiply 31 by 5 = 155 feet. Then multiply 31 by 10 inches = 310 inches. To change into feet, divide 310 by 12 (number of inches in a foot) = 25 5/6 feet (or 25 feet 10 inches). Add it all up and you get 180 feet and 10 inches.
At Rockford College, approximately three out of five seniors move on to attend graduate school.
If there are 850 seniors at Rockford College, how many would be expected to attend graduate school?
a) 310
b) 410
c) 470
d) 510
e) 600
The correct answer is: d)
Three out of five equates to 60%.
You can work out 1% of the student population by dividing 850 by 100 = 8.5. Then multiply 8.5 by 60 to find 60% = 510.
Reading Example Questions (CBEST Sample Questions)
Over the past few years, scientists in Australia have identified that koalas sitting in trees are not simply resting. Thermal imaging has found that in hot weather, koalas climb onto lower branches in the trees, where it is significantly cooler. In colder weather, koalas move to a higher spot in the tree. This study was conducted as part of a wider environmental study, which looked at the effects of climate change on Australian indigenous animals. As the impact of climate change continues, scientists are concerned that koalas must find a more effective method to stay cool in hot weather.
Read the following proposed titles and choose the most appropriate option for the passage you have just read.
a) How to Save Koalas
b) Trees Are Cool
c) The Australian Government Is Failing Koalas
d) Climate Change Is Killing Koalas
e) Koalas Keeping Their Cool
The correct answer is: e)
The passage talks about how koalas stay cool. It does not mention anything about koalas dying, and there is no indication that the government is the cause of an issue.
The passage supports b), but the trees are not the main focus of the paragraph. The correct answer is e) Koalas Keeping Their Cool.
Who is the passage above most likely targeted towards?
a) Australian government officials
b) People curious about koalas
c) Climate change specialists
d) UN officials responsible for climate change policy
e) Animal scientists in Australia
The correct answer is: b)
The passage does not contain any scientific data or industry terminology. It is likely designed to appeal to someone without expert knowledge of animals or climate change. The other people on the list would need more detailed information than what has been provided.
Study the following table of information. What is the total number of units produced?
a) 260,000
b) 275,000
c) 310,000
d) 365,000
e) 402,000
The correct answer is: e)
The total number of units added together is 402,000. The table specifies that defective units are included as part of the total, so it is unnecessary to count them again.
Writing Example Questions (CBEST Sample Questions)
Everybody is faced with hurdles at certain points during their lives. They can be emotional, mental, physical or psychological, but whatever their form, they can stop you from achieving your goals.
Please write an essay to be read by a group of educated adults, within which you should talk about an obstacle you have faced in your life, detailing how it affected you and explaining how you overcame it or adjusted to work around it.
When approaching this CBEST essay question, follow these tips to craft a coherent, persuasive and insightful response:
- Understand the Prompt: Before you start writing, ensure you understand what's being asked. In this case, you're required to discuss a personal obstacle, its effect on you, and how you overcame or adapted to it.
- Brainstorm First: Spend a few minutes thinking about the significant hurdles in your life. Choose one that allowed for personal growth and that you feel comfortable sharing.
- Organize Your Thoughts: Structure your essay into a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Introduction:
Start with a hook – a sentence that grabs the reader's attention. Briefly introduce the obstacle you'll discuss.
Body:
Divide this section into three main parts:
- Describe the Obstacle: Offer context. Was it an event, a prolonged situation, or a personal trait?
- Explain its Effect: How did it hinder your progress or change your perspective?
- Overcoming or Adjusting: Detail the steps you took, the strategies you used, or mindset shifts you underwent.
Conclusion:
Reflect on the overall journey. What did you learn? How has overcoming or adjusting to this obstacle shaped who you are today?
- Use Real-Life Examples: Being specific about situations, emotions, and reactions can make your essay relatable and authentic.
- Be Genuine: Honesty is compelling. Even if the obstacle is one that many face, your personal experience and reaction to it are unique. Highlight that.
- Stay Focused: Stick to one obstacle for clarity and depth. Resist the temptation to list multiple hurdles.
- Write Clearly and Concisely: Given that your audience is a group of educated adults, ensure your essay is well-articulated, free from slang, and devoid of unnecessary jargon.
- Proofread: Always leave 1-2 minutes at the end to go back, check for grammar errors, and ensure your essay flows well.
- Reflect on the Larger Picture: If possible, relate your personal experience to a broader context or show how it influenced your broader beliefs or values.
- Practice Ahead of Time: Before taking the CBEST, practice writing essays on various topics. This will help you become familiar with the time constraints and develop a strategy for organizing and expressing your thoughts quickly.
Remember, the goal is not just to describe an obstacle but to showcase personal growth, resilience, and adaptability. Your audience will be looking for both the story and the reflection on its significance in your life.
Ernest Hemingway is known to have said, “As you get older, it is harder to have heroes, but it is sort of necessary.”
Write an essay to be read by an audience of educated adults, in which you must convey whether you agree or disagree with Hemingway’s thoughts. You must provide specific examples and logical arguments to back up your position.
Answering this essay question effectively requires a clear stance, a solid understanding of Hemingway's quote, and the use of persuasive techniques. Here are some tips for crafting a strong response:
- Understand the Quote: Reflect on the meaning and implications of Hemingway's statement.
- Choose a Clear Stance: Decide if you agree or disagree with Hemingway.
- Essay Structure:
- Introduction: Introduce the quote and state your position.
- Body: Use varied examples to support your stance, address counterarguments.
- Conclusion: Summarize main points and restate your position.
- Stay on Topic: Relate every point directly to Hemingway's statement.
- Use Logical Flow: Ensure a coherent progression of ideas.
- Language: Maintain a formal and respectful tone suitable for educated adults.
- Proofread: Check for errors and clarity.
- Practice: Familiarize yourself with the test's time constraints by practicing in advance.
Keep your focus on analyzing Hemingway's quote, defending your stance with strong examples, and ensuring clarity and coherence throughout your essay.
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How Do You Pass the CBEST Test?
The CBEST is made up of three subtests. Test results are calculated using a scaled scoring system. The mathematics and reading elements of the test are scored according to how many correct answers are given.
The written element of the test is scored twice using a scale between one and four. One is the lowest score; four is the highest score.
These scores are added together to give a score between two and eight. A candidate’s results from each essay are combined, giving a total score between four and 16. This score is translated to a scaled score, giving a final score between 20 and 80.
To pass, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 123 across the three subtests.
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The Different Types of Tests on the CBEST Exam
Computer-Based
Candidates can take the computer-based test on various dates throughout the year. All computer-based tests take place between Monday and Saturday.
If you want to sit the computer-based CBEST, you must attend a PearsonVue testing center, where you will be required to sit in a room with other CBEST test takers.
Computer-based tests usually last about one hour and 30 minutes. You will usually be able to review your preliminary test results on the official exam website after completing the reading and mathematics elements of the test.
Full test results, including your writing test result, will be issued up to six weeks after sitting the test. Test results will include a breakdown of your score for each test sub-section.
Online-Proctored Test
The online-proctored CBEST can be taken remotely at home or in another appropriate venue.
When taking the CBEST test online, you must comply with strict requirements such as working on a single monitor, ensuring a secure network connection, and not allowing anyone else to enter the test room during the exam.
Candidates are prohibited from using a tablet or smartphone to complete the test.
The paper-based version of the CBEST is no longer available.
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How to Prepare for the CBEST Test
If you are sitting the CBEST test, you must allow yourself sufficient time to prepare. Here are some ideas on how to make sure you are ready for the CBEST test.
Complete Practice Papers
Working through CBEST practice test papers or a CBEST practice exam is a great way to become familiar with the test format.
It also shows you the type of questions you will be answering. Once you have completed a few CBEST test examples, you can use your results to identify any areas where you need more practice.
Revise Certain Subjects
It is important to think carefully about what aspects of the test you feel most confident in. If math is your strong point, you might want to spend more time preparing for the reading or writing elements.
However, practicing answering a few math questions is still important too. After you have spent some time revising, take a couple more practice papers to see whether your score has improved.
Check Your Computer
If you have opted to sit the online-proctored test, it is important to check that your computer equipment meets the minimum requirements. Remember, when taking the online-proctored test, you can only use one computer monitor.
Before taking the online-proctored test, you must log in to your account and upload a valid ID document that shows your photo and full name.
Before the test starts, the camera on your computer will be used to scan the room you are working in. You will be asked to read and sign a digital nondisclosure agreement (NDA), and you will be asked to make sure that no one enters the room while you are working on the test.
Arrive Early
If you are sitting the test at a PearsonVUE test center, you must arrive with plenty of time to spare. You should aim to get there about 30 minutes before the start time of your test. If you arrive late, you won’t be allowed to sit the test and will be asked to reschedule.
Prior to the test date, spend time planning your route and build in extra time in case there is heavy traffic, road closures, parking problems or public transport delays.
Arriving at the test center in good time will help you to feel calmer at the start of the test.
You should also make sure that you visit the restroom before going into the test – you are allowed to leave to visit the restroom during the test, but the test timer will not be paused, so you will have less time to answer the questions.
Check What to Bring
Always read the information that you are sent before the test. This includes details of what to bring, including two forms of government-issued identification, which must be printed in English and in the name you registered for the test.
You may be asked to scan your face or palm; you might also be asked to submit a virtual signature. You will be asked to read and sign the NDA upon entering the test room.
It is also important to check what you cannot bring into the test room – remember, calculators are not permitted during the math subtest.
Make Time for Self-Care
Looking after yourself is key. Ensure you get plenty of rest, eat well, and remain hydrated in the days before the test.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBEST test?
The CBEST test is the California Basic Educational Skills Test. Anyone who wants to work as a teacher in California must pass the test (or show that they meet the minimum requirements by passing another similar test or completing relevant coursework).
What is on the CBEST test?
The CBEST test is made up of three subtests: Reading, Mathematics and Writing.
Candidates must answer multiple-choice questions for the Reading and Mathematics tests. For the Writing test, candidates must write answers to two essay questions.
What is the CBEST test for?
The CBEST is used to check whether prospective teaching candidates meet the basic educational skills requirements to work as a teacher in California.
Where can I find CBEST test examples for practice?
You can find CBEST test examples for practice within this article. You can also find test examples and CBEST study guides on websites such as JobTestPrep.
How long is the CBEST test?
CBEST candidates are allowed 90 minutes for the Reading subtest, 90 minutes for the Writing subtest, and two hours for the Mathematics subtest. The total length of the CBEST test is five hours.
How much is the CBEST test?
CBEST test fees are currently waived for eligible residents in California. If you do not qualify for the exemption, the CBEST cost is \$30 per subtest, which gives a total cost of $90. These charges apply for both the computer-based test and the online proctored test.
Where do I take the CBEST test?
Candidates can take the computer-based CBEST test at a PearsonVue test center. The online-proctored test can be taken remotely from home.
Where can I find CBEST practice test packs?
You can find CBEST practice test packs on websites such as JobTestPrep. Use a search engine to find CBEST practice tests to view all available options. You will incur a cost for downloading some practice tests, but free CBEST online practice test options are available.
Who can take the CBEST test?
Candidates taking the CBEST test must have a high school diploma, a GED or equivalent qualification.
Anyone applying for a teaching role in California must satisfy the basic skills requirement by passing the CBEST (or showing evidence that they have passed another similar qualification or completed relevant coursework to demonstrate the required proficiency).
How do I take the CBEST test?
You can sit the computer-based CBEST test at a PearsonVue test center. You can sit the online-proctored version of the test remotely. The paper-based version of the test is no longer available.
How long does it take to get test results for CBEST?
Candidates can normally view their preliminary CBEST results on the official exam website after completing the Reading and Mathematics sections.
Full results, including writing test results, are issued within six weeks of sitting the test. This includes a detailed breakdown of the candidate’s score for each of the test subsections.
Can I find a full CBEST test prep guide online?
You can find various CBEST test preparation resources, including a full CBEST test prep guide, online.
Visit websites such as JobTestPrep to find useful information on the CBEST. You can also use a search engine to find practice test questions, a CBEST study guide and other useful resources.
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Final Thoughts
If you are interested in finding employment as a teacher in California, you will need to pass the CBEST (or show that you meet the requirements by passing another similar test or submitting evidence of relevant coursework).
After passing the test, your CBEST score remains valid indefinitely throughout your teaching career.
Candidates who do not pass the CBEST can retake the exam as many times as necessary. However, you should note that a registration fee may be charged. At the time of writing, these fees are waived for eligible California residents. You must also wait a minimum period of 45 days between tests.
Preparation is vital if you want to pass the CBEST. Completing mock CBEST assessments and analyzing your results is one of the best ways to determine what areas you need more practice in.
