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FAQS FOR CSET TEST
What is the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET)?
The CSET is a series of tests designed to measure the professional and subject-matter competency of a person seeking to teach in California.
Who has to take the CSET?
Anyone who wants to teach in California must take one or more of the CSET exams. All teachers must take a Subject Matter Exam, either the one for multiple subjects or the one for single subjects.
Some teachers also may need to take the Writing Skills test to meet state credentialing requirements for basic skills. The Commission on Teacher Credentialing will accept passing scores for all three subtests of the Multiple Subjects exam, as well as the Writing Skills exam, as evidence you meet the basic skills requirement.
Additionally, some teachers may be required to take the CSET exams that measure skills in a specific area, such as technology education or teaching English to nonnative speakers.
What knowledge does the CSET measure?
The CSET exams measure the educational skills and knowledge of prospective teachers. The tests include:
- Subject Matter Exam (Multiple Subjects)—Measures teachers’ ability to teach multiple subjects. Usually for those seeking to become credentialed as elementary school teachers.
- Subject Matter Exam (Single Subject)—Measures teachers’ ability to teach a single subject, such as English or physics. Usually for those seeking to become credentialed as secondary school teachers.
- Writing Skills Exam—This test offers an option for meeting California’s basic skills requirement for teacher credentialing. Teachers can fulfill the state’s basic skills requirement by passing all three subtests of the Multiple Subjects exam AND the Writing Skills exam.
- Preliminary Educational Technology Exam—Primarily for out-of-state candidates who must prove they are competent in basic educational technology, which is a requirement for becoming credentialed to teach in California.
- Languages Other than English Exam—Measures teachers’ competency to teach English to nonnative speakers.
- Mathematics Instruction Authorization Exam—Tests mid-level mathematics knowledge. This test is a prerequisite for many educational preparation programs.
What subtests are available as part of the Subject Matter (Single Subjects) exam?
CSET subtests are available in:
- Agriculture
- Business
- Health Science
- Home Economics
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physical Education
- Science
- Social Science
How can I prepare for the CSET?
There are several good ways to prepare for CSET tests. The CSET website (www.cset.nesinc.com) contains practice tests, study guides, and tutorials for test takers. Some companies also sell dedicated preparation materials, such as study guides, practice tests, and flash cards for specific CSET tests.
Where can I take the CSET?
The CSET is available both as a paper-based test and as a computer-based test. The locations for each kind of test are different.
The paper-based CSET can be taken at about twenty sites around California. For a list of these locations, go to www.cset.nesinc.com/CS17_Testsites.asp?PageType=PBT.
The computer-based CSET is administered at more than 225 locations throughout the United States and its territories, as well as thirty international test centers. Computer-based testing is also available in California in nearly two dozen locations. For computer-based test locations, go to www.pearsonvue.com/cset.
When can I take the CSET?
Beginning September 6, 2011, CSET computer-based tests will be available by appointment, year-round, Monday through Saturday (excluding holidays).
Paper-based CSET tests are administered six times per year, every other month: January, March, May, July, September, and November. For dates of upcoming tests, go to www.cset.nesinc.com/CS17_Testdates.asp?PageType=PBT.
Can I take the CSET on the computer?
Yes. Computer-based testing is available at more than 225 locations throughout the United States and its territories, as well as thirty international test centers. Computer-based testing is also available in California at nearly two dozen locations. For computer-based test locations, go to www.pearsonvue.com/cset.
What is the cost of taking the CSET?
The cost of the different CSET tests varies widely. The Multiple Subjects exam costs $238, the Single Subjects exams are $66 each, and other tests cost between $49 and $99 per test. For a complete list of testing fees, go to the CSET website at www.cset.nesinc.com/CS17_testfees.asp.
How do I register for the CSET?
There are three ways to register for CSET: Internet, telephone, or U.S. mail. For information about CSET registration option, go to www.cset.nesinc.com/CS17_regoptions.asp.
When will I get my CSET scores?
Scores are released about one month after the testing date for the paper-based CSET, and from two to four weeks after the testing date for the computer-based CSET.
Who will see my CSET scores?
Your test scores will be reported to you, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, and any school you selected when you registered.
What if I don’t pass the CSET?
Fortunately, with CSET exams being offered every other month, you can retake any exams you failed soon after your original test date. You’ll also want to prepare thoroughly the second time around. The CSET website (www.cset.nesinc.com) contains practice tests, study guides, and tutorials for test takers. Purchasing targeted study materials such as guides or flash cards through a test preparation company can also be helpful.
What if I passed one of the CSET subtests, but not the others?
To pass a CSET exam, you must pass all of that exam’s subtests. However, you may retake a failed subtest as many times as necessary until you pass it.