California High School Proficiency Examination

Added to Programs No Longer Administered by the California Department of Education (CDE) on June 19, 2023.

This information is for historical purposes only and it is possible that information contained here may not be current.

Background

The CHSPE was a test for students who needed to verify their high school level skills. Those who passed the test received a Certificate of Proficiency. The CHSPE was discontinued as of June 30, 2023.This examination has been replaced with the California Proficiency Program in accordance with California Education Code Section 48412. The CHSPE provided an opportunity for eligible persons to demonstrate their proficiency in the basic requirements and earn the legal equivalent of a California high school diploma. The CHSPE was given two times each year at approximately 75 sites throughout the state. Current enrollment in high school is not a requirement; however, at the time the test is taken, the registrant must be either:

1. Sixteen years of age; or
2. Have completed one year of enrollment in grade ten; or
3. Will have completed one year of enrollment in grade ten at the end of the semester during which the next exam is administered.

There is no upper age limit to take the test. The State Board of Education awards each person who passed the CHSPE, a Certificate of Proficiency, which is equivalent by law to a California high school diploma. In other words, institutions that are subject to California law and require a high school diploma for any purpose must also accept the Certificate of Proficiency as satisfying that requirement. However, the Certificate of Proficiency is not equivalent to completing all course work required for graduation from high school. The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) administered the CHSPE program under contract with the California Department of Education.