Basic Skills & Subject Matter Competency Requirements
In order to obtain a teaching credential in the state of California, all students must prove they meet two requirements:
-
Basic Skills: acknowledges the ability to understand basic reading, math, and writing, and
-
Subject Matter Competency: acknowledges understanding of the subject one intends to teach
Both requirements must generally be met prior to admission to a teaching credential program. Please refer to program admission websites for additional details.
Basic Skills Requirement
The
Basic Skills Requirement can be met 8 different ways, including passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). Please refer to the
Basic Skills Requirement flyer for detailed information about how to meet the Basic Skills Requirement.
Requesting a Verification Letter for Coursework
If you meet the Basic Skills Requirement with coursework, or a combination of cousework and qualifying exams, you may need to include supporting documents as evidence when submitting your credential program application.
Complete the
Course Verification Request for CTC Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) form to receive a verification letter.
Preparing to Take the CBEST
If you need to take the California Basic Educational Skills Test, refer to the CBEST registration website for additional information, including
preparation materials available for download.