Reading, mathematics, and writing are the three sections of the California Basic Educational Skills TestTM (CBEST®). The CBEST® scores are made up of these sections. When these individual scores are added together, the total test score is calculated.
Each section of the test is graded separately on a scale of 20 to 80, with a scaled score of 41 being a passing score in any section. To pass the CBEST®, a person’s total score must be at least 123 when the three different scores are added together. If a person receives a scaled score of 37 on any section of the CBEST®, it is still acceptable and possible for him to pass as long as his overall test score is at least 123. A score of less than 37 indicates that a person did not pass that section of the test and, as a result, did not pass the CBEST®.
The total number of correctly answered questions determines the CBEST® scores in the reading and mathematics sections. The writing section is a little different in that a person’s score is determined how well he or she wrote his or her two essays. The scoring for the writing section is done at least two different people on a four-point scale. The final score for each essay is a combination of two different scores. The total score for the writing section is made up of both essay scores, which are eventually added together and converted to the score scale.
A person tests in different skill areas within the reading and mathematics sections to further analyze the CBEST® scores. In the reading section, for example, a person is assessed on Critical Analysis and Evaluation, Comprehension, and Research Skills. If a student performs exceptionally well in one section but not so well in another, his score report will reflect this. If a person needs to retake a section of the test, this indication can help him study for a specific skill area. A diagnostic score for the writing section will tell a person what areas of his writing need to be improved.
It is not necessary to retake the CBEST® if you pass the first time. If a person passes two sections but not the third, he will have to retake that section in order to pass the CBEST®. It may be beneficial to retake all three sections, though it is not required. This is due to the fact that the highest score a person receives on each section is used to compute his overall test score. When the highest CBEST® scores are added together, he has the best chance of reaching 123.