Test Information and Requirements

California Credential Requirements

Basic Skills Requirement for All Credential Applicants 

The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) was developed to meet requirements of laws relating to credentialing and employment. This test requirement in no way replaces any of the other requirements of subject matter knowledge, professional preparation, and practice teaching or field experience used in the issuance of credentials. The CBEST is designed to test basic reading, mathematics, and writing skills found to be important for the job of an educator; the test is not designed to measure the ability to teach those skills.

See Admissions Basic Skills Requirement for more about the exam, test preparation, other tests, and coursework options to fulfill this prerequisite.

 

Subject Matter Competency

Mild/Moderate and Extensive Support Needs Credential Programs 

The California Subject Examinations for Teachers® (CSET) have been developed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for prospective teachers who choose to or are required to meet requirements for certification by taking examinations. The CTC contracted the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson to assist in the development, administration, and scoring of the CSET.

See Admissions Subject Matter Competency for more about the exam, test preparation, and coursework option to fulfill this prerequisite.

Subject Matter Competency (Mild/Moderate & Extensive Support Needs Only)

 

Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Credential Program

The CSET is NOT required for the ECSE credential program, however, applicants must have completed a child development course. See Admissions Subject Matter Competency (ECSE) for coursework options to fulfill this prerequisite.

 

Master's Degree Requirements

The Graduate Record Examinations® (GRE) is no longer a requirement for our master's degree programs.