California High School Proficiency Examination
The California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) is a test for students who need to verify their high school level skills. In some cases, students take the test and leave high school early to work or attend college. Those who pass the test receive a Certificate of Proficiency, which is equal by law to a California high school diploma, from the State Board of Education.
People who are sixteen years of age or older may take the test. Younger persons who meet other criteria also may take the test. The CHSPE is given twice each year at many sites throughout the state. The test covers three subjects: reading, writing, and math. There is a fee to take the test.
- For more information about the CHSPE, contact your school district or visit the CHSPE Website
. - The CHSPE - CalEdFacts page provides a more detailed overview of the exam.
- The links and information below were developed for educators and others who work with the CHSPE.
Test Cancellation Notice
The March 21 and 22, 2020 California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) has been cancelled due to many school closures pertaining to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). With the utmost regard for the safety and the well-being of our test takers, proctors, and testing center staff and in following the best available guidance from the California Department of Public Health and other California agencies, the California Department of Education has cancelled the March 21 and 22, 2020 CHSPE testing.
Next Test Administration
Registration for all persons scheduled for the March test date have been transferred to the Sacramento location for the next test administrations, which are scheduled between June 15, 2020 and July 15, 2020.
If you were scheduled for the June 20, 2020 administration, please be aware the only county testing site that has been approved by the Health Department is at the Sacramento County Office of Education. In order to accommodate all test takers, CHSPE has extended the testing dates to take place between June 15, 2020 and July 15, 2020.
If you are unable to test during the June through July testing period, please contact the CHSPE office by phone at 866-342-4773 or by email at chspe@scoe.net, and we will work to refund your test registration fees.
Please visit the CHSPE website for information on CHSPE registration and requests for records.
Administration Documents
Documents for use with administration of the CHSPE.
Promotional Flyer
Provide information on the CHSPE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about the CHSPE.
Program Resources
Annual Report and Program Notes
Certified Foster Youth Fee Wavier Information
To be eligible for a foster youth fee waiver, a foster youth must submit, at the time of registration for a test administration, all standard, required registration materials and certification of their foster youth status. This certification can be provided by the county of residence or the California Department of Social Services. Eligibility for the fee waiver is valid until the certified foster youth reaches twenty-five years of age.
Homeless and Foster Youths Waiver
Homeless Certification Form (PDF)
The Homeless Certification Form is to be used by a homeless child or youth to obtain a fee waiver for the high school equivalency test.
Homeless Certification Form Instructions (PDF)
The instructions for the Homeless Certification Form.
Homeless and Foster Youths Flyer (PDF)
Promotional flyer for distribution.
Stay Up-to-Date
Assessment Spotlight web page contains archives of all previous Assessment Spotlight emails. Send a blank email to subscribe-caaspp@mlist.cde.ca.gov to receive regular updates on the latest information about the statewide assessment system.
