CBEST Mathematics Exam Overview
Looking to become a teacher in California? The CBEST is a very important credential. For instance, passing it can fulfill the Basic Skills Requirement, which you must meet to gain certification. And while the CBEST is not always mandatory, many school districts will only hire teachers who have passed this three-part test. The CBEST may also be required for you to enter teaching programs or be hired as a substitute.
For many test takers, the Mathematics exam is the most challenging part of the CBEST, which also assesses Reading and Writing. But don’t stress—you’re in the right place. The following article will detail the structure of the CBEST Mathematics exam and offer valuable tips and resources to help you ace it.
The CBEST Mathematics test gauges your foundational math knowledge. If it’s been a long time since you last took a math class – or if math has never been your favorite subject – it’s natural to feel some anxiety about this exam. But there are ways to take charge of your testing experience. For instance, getting familiar with the exam structure can boost your confidence. A suite of effective study tools will also set you up for success on the CBEST Mathematics test.
With that in mind, let’s delve into the details of the CBEST Math exam and explore some strategies for preparation. Whether you’re taking the CBEST for the first time or gearing up for a retake, this article will empower you to tackle the CBEST Mathematics test with confidence. Let’s get to work!
Overview of the CBEST Mathematics Exam
Knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves on test day. Let’s take a broad look at the CBEST Math test to understand what it covers.
The Mathematics exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, which you will have 2 hours to complete. The test assesses your knowledge of the following skill areas:
- Estimation, Measurement, and Statistical principles
- Computation and Problem Solving
- Numerical and Graphic Relationships
Familiarizing yourself with these content expectations should help you allocate study time. As you begin preparing for the CBEST Mathematics exam, prioritize concepts you know will be challenging.
In addition, if you tend to struggle with word problems, you should plan to work on this skill. Most CBEST questions will be in this format.
Overall, a balanced approach to studying the three skill areas listed above will set you up for success on the CBEST Mathematics exam.
Time Limit
You will have 2 hours to complete the CBEST Mathematics test.
Passing Score
You must score 41 or higher on the CBEST Mathematics exam to pass.
Number of Questions
The CBEST Mathematics test has 50 multiple-choice questions that cover three different skill areas.
Cost
You will need to register and pay separately for all three parts of the CBEST exam. Each section, including the CBEST Math test, costs $30.
Visit the CTC website for more information on fees and payment. Be sure to check whether you are eligible for a fee waiver for the CBEST Math exam.
Registration Information
You can register for the CBEST Mathematics test year round. Start the registration process by creating an account, and then choose a convenient time and place to test.
You can take the CBEST Math test as a standalone exam, or you can register for more sections in order to take multiple CBEST exams at once. Remember that there are three CBEST sections (Mathematics, Reading, and Writing) in total, and you must register separately for each.
If you’re willing to abide by online proctoring rules, it’s also possible to take the CBEST Mathematics test at home. Learn more about the remote testing option for CBEST exams.
Scoring Information
If you take the CBEST Math exam in person, you will receive preliminary scores at the end of the test. Your official score report will become available within two weeks. Visit the CTC website to find the day your CBEST Math scores will be released. (Scroll down to “Test Results.”)
If you take the CBEST Math test remotely, you will not receive preliminary scores. You must wait until official scores are released to learn if you passed.
Want to learn more about CBEST Mathematics scores? Explore the details with our CBEST Math scoring guide!
Test Preparation Tips
Given its importance, the CBEST Math exam may feel intimidating. However, the right strategies and mindset will give you the boost you need to succeed. Here are some preparation tips to make the most of your study time:
Take a Proactive Approach
- Get familiar with the skill areas and specific content of the CBEST Math test as soon as you can. The longer you put off studying, the more anxiety you’ll feel. (Reading this article is a great start!)
- Avoid procrastination by using a calendar app to schedule study time. When you’ve made a formal appointment to study, it’s harder to skip.
- Split your study blocks among all three skill areas, and consider setting a timer to stay on track. It’s important that you be ready for every topic that appears on this exam.
Review Key Concepts and Skills
- Before you get started, be aware that you cannot use a calculator on the CBEST Math exam. Therefore, you should ensure that your computation skills are up to the job. Run drills and practice doing math by hand every day, and don’t forget to brush up on how to manipulate decimals and fractions.
- If your math knowledge is rusty in general, be sure to go over the basics before you dig into CBEST Math content. For instance, check that you remember the order of operations, basic geometry rules, and how to use Cartesian coordinates. You may be surprised to find how much you’ve forgotten over time.
Study Sample Questions and Take Practice Tests
- Attempt sample questions in every skill area. While you may already have a sense of your strengths and weaknesses in math, you should test those assumptions against exam materials.
- Take full-length practice tests on a regular basis to ensure you’re comfortable with the exam’s format and timing. If you’re unable to finish tests within 120 minutes, avoid attempting a drastic time cut. Try gradually accelerating your pace instead.
- Use official CBEST Mathematics exam preparation materials. Studying content that aligns with the real CBEST will help prevent surprises on test day.
Develop Effective Study Strategies
- Whenever you miss a practice question, don’t just move on. Read the explanation behind each answer and ensure it makes sense.
- Break down your study routine into manageable chunks. It’s better to dedicate 20 minutes to studying every night than to burn out after 10 hours of nonstop prep.
- Use charts, diagrams, and flashcards to organize mathematical concepts. Visualizing complex ideas can make them easier to remember.
- Engage in active learning techniques, such as defining math rules in your own words, explaining a problem to someone else, or participating in study groups. These strategies will help ensure you’re truly mastering the material, as opposed to memorizing surface details.
Important Exam Day Instructions
On the day of your CBEST Mathematics exam, read all pre-test instructions carefully. Allow ample time for travel—and verify that you’re headed to the location named in your confirmation email. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes before the time of your exam.
If you’re taking your exam at home, read all instructions carefully to understand how and when you need to sign in.
Check Required Items
Before your exam, double-check that you have all you need. Essential items can include:
- Valid identification: You must present a current, government-issued ID that bears your photo and signature. Examples of acceptable ID include driver’s licenses and passports.
- Sensible clothing: If you’ll be at a test site, the CTC website recommends bringing clothes that you can layer. You should also be sure to wear soft-soled shoes to keep the testing space quiet.
- Equipment and workspace: If you’re testing at home, you must have access to a desktop or laptop computer. You also need a quiet, private, and well lit workspace that is free of prohibited items.
- Note: You should not bring a calculator to this exam. Calculators are not allowed on the CBEST Math test.
Read the official instructions to learn more about testing policies and what to bring to the exam site.
If you are taking the exam at home, make sure that you’re viewing the tab that reads “Online Proctoring” when you click on the link above. Test takers who plan to use online proctoring should pay special attention to these requirements. The rules for remote testing are very strict, and a violation will cancel your score.
Understand Exam Format and Instructions
To prevent confusion on test day, familiarize yourself with the format and basic instructions of the CBEST Mathematics exam well in advance. Key things to remember include:
- Time limits: Be aware of the time limit and set your pace accordingly. You will have 2 hours to answer all 50 multiple-choice questions.
- Marking scheme: Make sure you know how to mark selections properly on your screen. Whether you are at a testing center or at home, CBEST exams take place exclusively via computer.
- Special instructions: Pay attention to any special instructions provided by the exam proctors, especially if you’re testing remotely. Rules for remote tests are very strict.
Manage Time Effectively
Time management is crucial to finishing the CBEST Mathematics exam within 2 hours. The following tips can help you manage your time effectively.
- Read and understand the instructions: Take a moment at the beginning of the test to go over all instructions thoroughly. This will help prevent errors and wasted time.
- Pace yourself: On average, you will have a little under 2.5 minutes for each question. However, try to work faster than that whenever possible, in order to save time for tough problems.
- Know when to move on: There is no guessing penalty on the CBEST Math exam, so if you’re stuck on a question, it’s in your best interest to guess. You can always return to the question if you have time.
On exam day, you can use these tips to streamline your test-taking process and maximize your chances of success. Working efficiently, staying calm, and maintaining your focus are all essential to doing well on the CBEST Mathematics test.
Conclusion
The CBEST Math exam is a crucial part of the CBEST, which is in turn very important for your teaching career. To pass this test, you’ll need to show proficiency in areas such as computation, basic algebra and geometry, statistics, and probability.
While the scope of this test is broad, don’t let that intimidate you. If you familiarize yourself with the exam structure, review all content areas, and follow our test prep tips, you can approach the CBEST Mathematics exam with confidence, increasing your chances of success.
More CBEST Mathematics Resources
