CSET stands for California Subject Examinations for Teachers. As one might gather from the name, CSET is a series of subject matter tests aimed at educators who wish to teach in California. It was developed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) in conjunction with California teachers, the Common Core State Standards, and Pearson. CSET exams are designed to test prospective teachers on their subject matter knowledge in various areas. To teach one or more subjects in a California preschool or K-12 setting, an instructor must first pass the corresponding CSET exam(s).
Teaching in California public schools requires a credential. Those who are interested in teaching just one subject can take a CSET: Single Subject test in pursuit of their Single Subject Teaching Credential. Prospective educators who wish to teach multiple subjects can either pass the corresponding Single Subject tests or the exam for CSET Multiple Subject to fulfill the subject matter requirement of their Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
Single Subject tests are specific to singular subjects like art, English, and mathematics, while the Multiple Subjects exam consists of three sections that cover a range of primary and secondary education subjects.
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Create AccountThe CSET format for the majority of Single Subject tests have two to three subtests. A few only have one, as with Foundational-Level General Science, and English has four. Each subtest can be identified by a unique test code.
The Multiple Subjects test consists of three subtests, each of which groups related fields together. CSET Multiple Subject Subtest 1 (101) covers Reading, Language, and Literature in one section and then History and Social Science in the other. Both sections have 26 multiple choice questions and two constructed-response questions, making the total 56. As with every other subtest, test takers must score at least 220 points to pass. CSET Multiple Subject Subtest 2 (214) deals with Science in the first section and Mathematics in the second. Each section has 26 multiple choice questions and two constructed-response questions for a total of 56. CSET Multiple Subject Subtest 3 (103) goes into Physical Education, Human Development, and Visual and Performing Arts. Every section in this subtest has 13 multiple-choice questions and one constructed-response question, meaning that altogether the subtest has 42 questions.
Most subtests will have around 30-50 questions. The bulk or entirety of these can be multiple-choice questions, though a subtest may have both multiple choice and constructed-response questions or just constructed-response questions. Some have fewer, like CSET English Subtest 3 (107) with only two constructed-response questions, while others have far more, as in the Foundational-Level General Science Subtest I (215), which has 100 multiple-choice questions and four constructed-response questions. The time given to complete each subtest varies, but most fall between an hour and a half to three hours. Breaks are allowed when taking tests at a testing center, though test takers have to get permission from their proctor before they leave the testing room.
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Create AccountFor those in California with no outside teaching experience, they are expected to take the CSET exams that correspond with the areas they wish to teach. Prospective educators can review CSET tests and other assessments offered by the CTC to see what subject matter areas are available and what grade range each test qualifies one to teach.
The Multiple Subjects test has three CSET sections that cover Reading, Language, and Literature; Science and Mathematics; and Physical Education, Human Development, and Visual and Performing Arts. Passing each subtest within the Multiple Subjects exam allows one to verify their subject matter competence in each of the areas dealt with in the test, which can be used in earning one's Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. This credential allows preschool and K-12 educators to teach most subjects with few exceptions, World Languages being a prime example. If one wishes to teach Spanish or another world language, they must pass the relevant Single Subject subtests. Additionally, the Multiple Subjects exam, along with the CSET Writing Skills test, can be taken to satisfy the basic skills requirement needed for most California teaching credentials, certificates, and permits.
Single Subject tests are an alternative route to the Multiple Subjects exam for proving one's subject matter competency. If one wishes to teach just one or two subjects, then passing the necessary Single Subject subtests can be a quicker alternative to taking each of the Multiple Subjects subtests. Beyond saving time, Single Subject tests also allows individuals to avoid subjects they are weak in. For instance, if a person only wants to teach English, they can get around having to take exams on science by taking the necessary Single Subject subtests. Certain subjects like World Languages require would-be educators to take Single Subject exams as their content does not appear on the Multiple Subjects test.
To teach secondary education (middle school and high school) in California educators must hold a Single Subject Teaching Credential in the subject they teach (or a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential if they teach more than one). Getting CSET scores of 220 or higher on every required subtest satisfies the subject matter competency requirement in that subject matter area. Depending on how one fulfills each of the prerequisites for their credential, a Single Subject test may be enough on its own or can be pursued in addition to a Multiple Subjects exam.
An Education Specialist Instruction Credential allows one to teach and support students with special needs, such as hearing impairment, visual impairment, autism spectrum disorders, physical and health impairments, and various other disabilities. Part of the credentialing process for special education teachers in California is the basic skills requirement. Passing both the Multiple Subjects exam and the Writing Skills (142) exam can fulfill this requirement. A common alternative to passing both of these exams is to take the CBEST test.
Beyond the basic skills requirement, special education instructors must also demonstrate subject matter competency to obtain their credential. This can be achieved through passing the Multiple Subjects exam or any pertinent Single Subject tests.
For CSET registration, one must first create or log in to their CTC account. Following this, registrants will select one or more subtests they wish to take. Then they may apply for testing accommodations. After this, they will specify which institution(s) they wish to have their test results sent to and choose what email address they want their results sent to for personal use. Background questions come up next, followed by a section reviewing the testing rules that registrants will have to agree to. Then comes the registration fee, which can be paid using a MasterCard or VISA credit card or a debit or check card bearing a MasterCard or VISA logo. Each subtest has its own registration fee, and these vary between subtests and subjects. Most Single Subject subtests will have a registration fee between $70-$130. The CSET Multiple Subject cost is $99 per subtest, amounting to $297 for all three, though the total price is discounted to $247 when all subtests are taken together. After the registration fees are paid, the registrant will select the date and time they wish to take their subtest(s) and the testing center they wish to use.
CSET tests are traditionally taken on computers at testing centers, but a few subjects allow online proctoring, meaning certain tests can be taken using one's own computer. Subtests that can be taken via online proctoring include: all four subtests of the English test, subtests I and III of the Multiple Subjects exam, and all three subtests in the Social Science test. For online proctored exams one must use a desktop or laptop as tablets and phones are not allowed. Proctoring for occurs via the test takers' webcams, so a webcam and adequate lighting are necessary as well.
Online proctoring exams are held using Pearson's remote exam platform, OnVue. Test takers will have to download this software prior to the date of their exam and run a system test to ensure that their hardware can run OnVue. OnVue exams require test takers to use only one monitor, be alone for the entire duration of the exam, and have nothing that is not permitted within arm's reach. To take the exam, test takers must first copy an access code that will either be on the testing program's website or the Pearson Vue webpage for the testing program. These access codes are only available thirty minutes before the appointed start of the test and fifteen minutes afterward. The access code can then be copied into the OnVue app, which allows test takers to check-in but not begin their exam early. Test takers must then submit a photo of themselves, their photo ID, and their testing environment so that proctors can verify who is taking the exam. Test takers are not allowed to get up and walk around, talk, eat, or smoke during online proctored exams. Such actions can lead to the proctor revoking a test taker's exam.
CSET exams can be retaken as many times as a test taker wants until they pass. Each retake must be registered for separately and carries its own fees. Subtests carrying the same test code cannot be taken less than 45 days apart. This applies to subtests one registers for but does not end up taking or finishing as well. However, this does not apply if one changes the date of their test more than 24 hours in advance of the scheduled testing time. Rescheduling tests during this window carries no fee. Passing CSET scores remain valid for ten years.
During the registration process there is a section for requesting accommodations. Accommodations for CSET tests are available for people with disabilities and those who are nursing. Alternative Testing Arrangements Request Forms can be used for computer-based in-person tests or online proctored exams. Requests for accommodations have to be reviewed and then approved or rejected, so those seeking them should not schedule their test prior to hearing the results of the request. To receive accommodations one must also submit documentation signed by a qualified professional that details the test taker's disability or disabilities, recommends alternative testing arrangements, and is up-to-date. Once alternative testing arrangements are approved the applicant will be directed to schedule their exam at one or more specific testing centers that will be able to accommodate them if they are scheduled for an in-person exam.
Passing any CSET exam requires an understanding of the subject matter covered in its subtests, though this is not the only material test takers should familiarize themselves with before the date of their exam. For instance, knowing how CSET subtests are scored can affect how one answers questions come exam day and potentially improve one's scores.
CSET subtests are scored individually. The final CSET scores of each are converted from raw points earned on each question answered correctly. With multiple choice questions correct answers earn test takers points while incorrect answers neither earn or subtract points from the final total. Multiple choice questions are machine scored, and constructed-response questions are reviewed by two qualified California educators whose scores focus on how closely the answer addresses the prompt, the accuracy of subject matter knowledge displayed, and the relevancy and strength of supporting evidence used in the response.
Final scores are weighted on a scale from 100-300. The minimum CSET passing score for every CSET subtest is 220. Passing scores can be used for certification purposes for ten years after exam results are received.
Exam results are emailed to those who chose this option during CSET registration on their test's result date. CSET score release dates are typically six weeks after the day a test is given. When test takers receive their score reports, each subtest will either disclose that they have passed or specify their score if it is below 220. Passing scores are not disclosed. Failed subtests also come with summaries of what test takers got right and what they got wrong so that they can adjust their studying accordingly. If one has taken and failed one or more subtests in the past information on them will also be included in the report. Diagnostic feedback on failed subtests is only sent to test takers, not the institutions they send their scores to.
Most prospective educators take their CSET exams before or while earning their teaching degree. Some wish to get a jump on the certification process, while others wait until the final year of their degree to take the test. Either approach is a valid option and teachers-to-be should go with what works best for them and their schedule.
Those looking to take any CSET test should first go to the CTC webpage for the exam and acquaint themselves with the content of its subtest(s). With this done, a good next step would be seeking out relevant practice tests and study guides.
A CSET practice test is a great resource whether one is just beginning to study or in the latter stages of their test prep. This is because practice tests can be used to gauge what one is good at and what one needs to focus on more while studying. This can help future test takers choose which subjects to go over in detail, or give someone nearer their test date confidence that they are prepared for the exam.
A CSET study guide can direct those looking to take one or more subtests on how best to prepare for them. Study guides vary in their content, but most contain practice problems and many also include study tips. These might advise one on how to schedule study time and how to keep to that schedule, or they might be more specific to the subject itself, like helpful mnemonics or distillations of general principles.
To become a certified teacher in California one must earn at least a Preliminary Credential, which comes in Multiple Subject, Single Subject, Education Specialist, and other varieties. CSET exams can satisfy two of the six requirements needed to earn a Preliminary Credential: basic skills and subject matter competency. World Language teachers must pass the Single Subject subtests related to the language they wish to teach, and out-of-state teachers may be required to take the Preliminary Educational Technology test to prove their proficiency with technology used in the classroom if they do not have an equivalent credential or certification.
Teaching credentials in California have two tiers: Preliminary and Clear. Both allow educators to teach in any preschool or K-12 setting, but Preliminary Credentials only last for five years, cannot be renewed, and must be upgraded within that time frame for educators to remain qualified to teach in California.
To earn a Preliminary Credential one must have graduated from a regionally accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree or higher in education. As previously mentioned, applicants must fulfill the basic skills requirement and demonstrate competency in whatever subject(s) they wish to teach. The next requirement is completing a two semester credit course on the US Constitution or an exam on the same subject provided by a regionally accredited college or university. Following this applicants must go through a CTC-approved teacher preparation program, and at the end, receive a recommendation for their credential from the program's sponsor.
Doing all of this earns one their Preliminary Credential. To upgrade a Preliminary Credential to a Clear Credential one can either complete a Teacher Induction Program or become certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). Clear Credentials are typically valid for five years and must be renewed online.
CSET and CBEST are both tests developed in part by the CTC. Each exam fulfills one or more credentialing requirements for educators looking to teach in California. California Basic Educational Skills Test CBEST, and as the name suggests the main purpose it serves is to satisfy the basic skills requirement needed to earn a Preliminary Credential. The CBEST test has three sections, similar to the Multiple Subjects exam, and these are Reading, Mathematics, and Writing. Passing the CBEST is enough to demonstrate one's basic skills, whereas those who take the Multiple Subjects exam in this pursuit must also pass the Writing Skills test, thus time and money can be saved by opting for the CBEST in this instance.
The Reading section of the CBEST exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions that test one's ability to read, analyze, and evaluate various textual genres. The Mathematics section also has 50 multiple choice questions, though these assess one's ability to solve number problems, interpret graphical data, and understand statistical principles. The Writing section gives test takers two essay prompts, one of which asks for an analysis of a statement or scenario while the other is asks one to elaborate on a personal experience. Both essays are used to measure the test taker's ability to communicate effectively through writing.
Two of the six steps needed to earn a Preliminary Credential can be completed by passing certain CSET tests. Passing every subtest within the Multiple Subjects exam and the Writing Skills test fulfills the basic skills requirement for credentialing. The other step CSET exams can be used to satisfy regards verification of subject matter competence. Passing the necessary subtests that correspond to a subject serves as proof that a teacher will be qualified to teach those subjects in a preschool or K-12 setting.
Lindsey Seril, M.Ed. has worked as a teacher for 8 years. She passed the CSET and CBEST exams while obtaining her license. Lindsey also holds Montessori teacher certifications for early childhood and elementary school. She earned her M.Ed. from St. Catherine's University and her Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies from Sonoma State University.
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The difficulty of the CSET varies based on the expertise of the test taker, but generally, 80.9% of CSET takers pass the exam.
The subtests of the CSET are scored on a scale from 100 to 300, and in order to pass, the examinee must score 220 or higher on each subtest.
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