In California, the minimum passing score for the CBEST was established by the Superintendent of Public Instruction using information from a review of the test by practitioners, the statutory advisory committee, and the December 1982 CBEST administration. In Oregon, the minimum passing score for the CBEST was established by the TSPC using information from the advisory committee, the September 1984 standard-setting data, and comparable experience in California. Studies are periodically conducted to review the passing standards.

The scaled scores used for reporting CBEST results range from 20 to 80 for each of the three sections (Reading, Mathematics, and Writing) of the test. For both California and Oregon, the passing score on each CBEST section is a scaled score of 41. A total score (the sum of Reading, Mathematics, and Writing scaled scores) of 123 is required for passing status. It is possible to pass the CBEST with a scaled score on one or two sections as low as 37, provided that the total score is 123 or higher. It is not possible, however, to pass the CBEST if any section score is below 37, regardless of how high the total score may be.

You may take one, two, or three sections at a given test administration. You do not have to pass all three sections at a single test administration.

Once the entire test has been passed, it need never be taken again to qualify for the issuance or renewal of any credential in the future.


Retaking the CBEST

The CBEST may be taken as often as necessary until a passing score is achieved. Please note that examinees who take the CBEST on computer must wait 120 days before retaking the same section(s) on computer.

Candidates who obtain a passing score (41 or higher) on any section of the test need not repeat that section. It may be to your advantage, however, to repeat a section already passed. An increase might help you reach the total score of 123 required to pass the CBEST. The highest score that you obtain on each section, no matter when earned, will be used to compute your total CBEST score.

If you previously passed the Writing section of the CBEST and participate in a subsequent paper-based test administration without reattempting the Writing section, you will automatically receive a refund of $4 approximately five weeks after the subsequent administration. To be registered correctly for the subsequent paper-based administration, however, you must pay the full test fee.

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