CBEST vs ParaPro: which test do you actually need?
If you want to work in a classroom, whether as a substitute, a teacher or an instructional aide, you may have been told you need to pass a basic skills test. Two names come up a lot: the CBEST and the ParaPro Assessment. They sound similar, and both check reading, math and writing, but they are meant for different roles. Here is a clear, friendly comparison so you can register for the right one.
Try it free first
Every exam below has a free 25-question diagnostic with an explanation for every answer, created by a registered nurse.
The short answer
The CBEST is one way to meet California's basic skills requirement for credentials, certificates and permits from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, and some districts ask for it as a condition of employment. The ParaPro Assessment, from ETS, is designed for people who are becoming or already working as paraprofessionals, such as instructional aides, and the passing score is set by each state or district that uses it.
So if you are applying for a California credential or permit, look at the CBEST and the other basic skills options. If you are applying for a paraprofessional or instructional aide job, ask the district whether it uses the ParaPro and what score it requires.
CBEST at a glance
- Three separate sections: Reading (50 multiple-choice questions), Mathematics (50 multiple-choice questions) and Writing (2 essays).
- Testing time: 1 hour and 30 minutes each for Reading and Writing, and 2 hours for Mathematics. You register for each section separately.
- Fee: $30 per section, at a test center or online with a remote proctor.
- Passing: a scaled score of 41 on each section, although a section score as low as 37 is accepted when your total is at least 123.
- Calculators are not allowed, and passing scores stay valid indefinitely for credential and employment purposes.
ParaPro at a glance
- 90 selected-response questions in 150 minutes.
- Three equal areas: reading, mathematics and writing, with 30 questions each.
- About two-thirds of the questions in each area test basic skills and knowledge, and about one-third ask you to apply those skills in a classroom setting, such as helping students with reading or math.
- Passing scores are set by the state or district, so the score you need depends on where you are applying.
Which one should you study for?
Let the job or credential decide. A quick email or call to the district's human resources office or your credential program will tell you exactly which test, and which score, they accept. In California, many people who hold a bachelor's degree no longer need the CBEST at all, so it is worth reading our guide on whether you still need it before you register.
Once you know your test, take the free diagnostic below to see which skills need the most practice. Both the CBEST and ParaPro passes include full-length practice tests with the real timing, and every question explains why the right answer is right.
Ready to see where you stand?
The free CBEST diagnostic takes about 30 minutes, and you will see an explanation for every answer when you finish.
Common questions
Is the ParaPro harder than the CBEST?
They test similar skills at different depths and for different roles. The CBEST has longer sections and two essays, while the ParaPro is one 150-minute test with 90 selected-response questions. The right test is the one your credential or district requires.
Can I use the CBEST for a paraprofessional job?
Some districts may accept different ways of showing basic skills for instructional aide roles. Ask the district directly which tests and scores it accepts.
What score do I need on the ParaPro?
Each state or district that uses the ParaPro sets its own passing score, so check with the district where you are applying.
What is a passing CBEST score?
A scaled score of 41 on each of the three sections, or a total of at least 123 with no section below 37.
Sources
We checked these official pages on October 21, 2026. Exam details can change, so always confirm with the exam owner before you register.
More study guides
CBEST is a registered trademark of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and Pearson Education, Inc. or its affiliate(s). TPM Exam Prep is not affiliated with or endorsed by either organization.
ParaPro and ETS are trademarks of ETS. TPM Exam Prep is not affiliated with or endorsed by ETS.