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.
Please visit the CHSPE website for information on CHSPE registration and requests for records.
LAST CHANCE to take the current CHSPE exam before the transition takes place for the Fall administration.
Registration for Summer 2023 will open on April 18 and will close on May 26, 2023.
Test locations and times are provided on the CHSPE website
.
Registration is on a first come, first served basis, and a waiting list will be established for those who are interested.
In the Fall, the Proficiency test will be offered both online through live proctoring or at a local test center. Computer-based or paper-based testing will also be available at the test center.
The final testing date for the current paper-based test format will be on June 18, 2023.
The CHSPE has three sections of testing: mathematics, reading comprehension, and English language arts. Any remaining unpassed sections of the test will need to be passed prior to the Fall 2023 transition.
If a Certificate of Proficiency is not earned before the Fall 2023 transition, the testing process will begin again by taking the new test series. Sections and subtests previously passed in the current test series will no longer be valid.
Administration Documents
Documents for use with administration of the CHSPE.
Promotional Flyer
(PDF)
Provides 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.
