CBST Practice Test
Updated for November 2026
The CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test) is a key test for future teachers in the U.S. It checks their core academic skills. This guide offers important info to help future teachers get ready and do well in this important part of becoming a teacher.
The CBST is a test that checks if teachers know the basics needed for teaching. It’s a big part of the teacher certification process. The CBST makes sure future teachers have the basic skills, subject knowledge, and instructional aptitude needed to teach well.
Key Takeaways
- The CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test) is a critical assessment for prospective teachers in the United States.
- The CBST evaluates core academic skills, including reading comprehension, mathematics, and writing proficiency.
- Passing the CBST is a key requirement for teacher certification and licensure in many states.
- Understanding the CBST format and content is essential for effective preparation and success.
- Developing targeted strategies for CBST preparation can significantly improve performance on the test.
CBST: upcoming dates and official changes
- Updated Nov 2, 2026: Time limit is now 20 minutes (previously 20 minutes).
- Updated Nov 2, 2026: Score release is now Instant upon completion (previously Instant, as soon as the test is finished).
- Updated Nov 2, 2026: Passing score is now No fixed pass mark; raw score out of 40 and percentile ranking (previously No official pass mark; raw score out of 40 plus percentile).
Facts verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) consists of 40 questions measuring basic grammar, spelling, math, and language skills. (Criteria Corp)
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) has an allocated time limit of 20 minutes. (Criteria Corp)
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test has no fixed passing score, providing a raw score out of 40 alongside a percentile rank against norm groups, with target score ranges determined by employers. (Criteria Corp)
- Criteria Corp assessments do not share results across different employers, meaning candidates must complete new assessments as requested by each hiring organization, with any retakes or extensions set by the employer. (Criteria Corp)
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test is delivered online via a web browser with cookies and JavaScript enabled. (Criteria Corp)
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test is designed for evaluating job readiness and trainability in candidates applying for entry-level, clerical, administrative, and customer service roles. (Criteria Corp)
- Criteria Basic Skills Test score reports are generated instantly and made available to employers as soon as a candidate finishes the test. (Criteria Corp)
Facts verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
CBST Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|
| Number of questions | 40 questions | Criteria Corp |
| Time limit | 20 minutes | Criteria Corp |
| Passing score | No fixed pass mark; raw score out of 40 and percentile ranking | Criteria Corp |
| Retake policy | Employer-determined; candidate results are confidential to each hiring company | Criteria Corp |
| Delivery | Online unproctored or proctored remote delivery via web browser | Criteria Corp |
| Eligibility | Job applicants for entry-level, administrative, and customer service positions | Criteria Corp |
| Score release | Instant upon completion | Criteria Corp |
Facts verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Free Criteria Basic Skills Test Study Tools
Interactive Criteria Basic Skills Test resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
- CBST Grammar and Punctuation 1 — 7 questions with answer explanations
- Criteria Basic Skills Test flashcards — review key terms and concepts card by card
- Criteria Basic Skills Test study guide — topic-by-topic overview of what the exam covers
- Criteria Basic Skills Test cheat sheet — one-page printable summary for last-minute review
According to Criteria Corp, “The CBST is a 20-minute, 40-item test that measures basic grammar, spelling, math, and language skills.”[1]
CBST content outline and where to practise each area
The content areas below are copied from the official CBST content outline published by Criteria Corp. The right-hand column shows which of our practice sets covers it.
| Official content area | Practice on this site |
|---|
| Math Skills[4] | CBST Math Skills
Practise basic arithmetic and word problems at speed, since the time limit is short and every question counts toward your raw score. |
| Verbal Ability[4] | CBST Verbal Skills
Practise grammar, spelling and word-meaning questions, and check why each wrong option fails rather than only spotting the right one. |
CBST Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the CBST - Criteria Basic Skills Test exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Worked examples: how to reason through CBST questions
These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.
Example 1
Question: Choose the sentence that uses the correct pronoun case.
- Between you and I, the project needs more work.
- Between you and me, the project needs more work.
- Between you and myself, the project needs more work.
- Between I and you, the project needs more work.
Answer: B. Between you and me, the project needs more work.
Explanation:
Option B is correct. The word 'between' is a preposition, and a preposition takes the objective case, so the pronoun must be 'me'. Option A uses 'I', which is the subject form and is a common slip when a second person is named alongside the pronoun. Option C uses 'myself', a reflexive pronoun that is only correct when it refers back to the subject of the sentence, which is not the case here. Option D puts 'I' after 'between' as well, so it has the same case error and also sounds awkward.
Rule to remember: after any preposition, use me, him, her, us or them. If you are unsure, remove the other person from the phrase and see which pronoun sounds right on its own.
Example 2
Question: A gear with 20 teeth meshes with a gear with 10 teeth. If the smaller gear rotates at 60 RPM, how fast does the larger gear rotate?
- 30 RPM
- 60 RPM
- 120 RPM
- 90 RPM
Answer: A. 30 RPM
Explanation:
Option A, 30 RPM, is correct. Meshed gears move their teeth past each other at the same rate, so the gear with more teeth turns more slowly. The larger gear has 20 teeth and the smaller has 10, so it turns at 60 x (10/20) = 30 RPM. Option B, 60 RPM, ignores the difference in teeth and treats the gears as if they were the same size. Option C, 120 RPM, applies the ratio in the wrong direction, which would only be right if the larger gear were the one driving the smaller. Option D, 90 RPM, does not follow from any ratio of these teeth counts.
Rule to remember: speed and tooth count are inversely related, so more teeth means fewer rotations.
Example 3
Question: What factor is least likely to affect a candidate’s test score on the Criteria Basic Skills Test?
- The candidate's preparation and practice
- The test-taker’s physical or emotional state during the test
- The specific test items and questions included in the exam
- The time of day when the test is taken
Answer: D. The time of day when the test is taken
Explanation:
Option D is correct. Of the listed factors, the time of day is the least likely to have a consistent effect on a score. Option A is wrong because preparation and practice change how familiar the question types feel and how quickly you work. Option B is wrong because your physical or emotional state, such as tiredness or anxiety, can affect concentration in a short timed test. Option C is wrong because the specific items you receive can differ in difficulty and topic, which affects your result.
Rule to remember: with 'least likely' questions, test each option against the question and eliminate the factors that clearly matter. What remains is the answer. Read the qualifier in the question stem twice before choosing.
How to use these practice tests
Start by reading the official Criteria candidate FAQs and the CBST page so you know the format: 40 questions in 20 minutes, covering grammar, spelling, math, and language skills. Then take the CBST Math Skills and CBST Verbal Skills sets untimed, and write down every question you miss along with the reason.
Next, work on weak spots with the narrower sets. Use CBST Grammar and Punctuation for pronoun case, agreement and punctuation, and CBST Reading Comprehension for questions based on short passages. The CBST Scoring and Evaluation and CBST Administration and Logistics sets help you understand how the test is run and reported.
In the last days before the test, switch to timed practice. Set a 20-minute timer, mix math and verbal questions, and practise skipping a slow question and returning to it. Review your errors again rather than taking many new sets. On test day, check your internet connection and browser settings beforehand, and find a quiet place to sit the test.
What is the CBST?
Understanding the CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test)
The CBST, or Criteria Basic Skills Test, checks if you have the basic skills needed for teaching. It’s a key test for those wanting to become teachers. It makes sure you know your stuff in important subjects like reading comprehension, mathematics, and writing proficiency. Practice with the free Criteria Basic Skills practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (7 questions with answer explanations).
The CBST is a test you take on a computer. It looks at your skills in key subjects. It’s used by employers to screen applicants for entry-level, administrative, and customer service roles. Passing it gets you a teaching certificate or license.
Candidates preparing for frontline national will find our Frontline Education teacher test 2026 essential for mastering the exam content, format, and scoring criteria.
Why is the CBST Important?
The CBST is key in teacher training. It checks if you have the basic knowledge and skills for teaching. By showing you’re good at reading comprehension, mathematics, and writing skills, you show you’re ready to teach.
Getting through the CBST is often needed to get into teacher training programs. It’s also a step towards getting a teaching license or certification. This test helps find candidates who can do well in teaching and help their students.
Review the official CBST exam content outline Take a diagnostic practice test to identify weak areas Create a study schedule (4-8 weeks recommended) Focus on your weakest domains first Complete at least 3 full-length practice exams Review all incorrect answers with detailed explanations Take a final practice test 1 week before exam day - What is the Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST)?
- The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) is a pre-employment aptitude exam that measures basic math, verbal reasoning, and problem-solving skills for entry-level office, clerical, customer-service, and administrative roles across many industries.
- Who typically uses the CBST when hiring candidates?
- The CBST is commonly used by employers in call centers, corporate offices, healthcare support, financial services, and general administration to quickly assess whether applicants have the foundational skills needed to succeed in training and everyday tasks.
- What core skills does the CBST focus on measuring?
- The CBST focuses on basic arithmetic, word problems, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and logical reasoning. Employers use these skill areas to predict how well candidates will learn new information, follow instructions, and work accurately with written material and numbers.
- How is the CBST different from a general IQ or personality test?
- Unlike broad IQ or personality measures, the CBST targets work-related basic skills that directly support job performance. It emphasizes day-to-day reading, math, and reasoning tasks rather than abstract intelligence, attitudes, or behavioral traits such as style or temperament.
- How many questions are on the CBST?
- The CBST typically includes fifty timed multiple-choice questions that mix verbal and numerical items. This compact length lets employers screen large applicant pools efficiently while still collecting meaningful information about each candidate’s basic academic abilities.
- How much time do test-takers have to finish the CBST?
- Most CBST administrations allow around twenty minutes to complete all questions, making it a fast-paced assessment. Candidates must work efficiently, so practicing under timed conditions is important to build speed without sacrificing accuracy or careful reading.
- What types of question formats appear on the CBST?
- The CBST uses standard multiple-choice items, including short reading passages with questions, vocabulary comparisons, basic arithmetic problems, and realistic word or number scenarios. There are no essay questions, but time pressure makes the exam feel challenging for many people.
- Is the CBST given on paper, computer, or both?
- Employers can administer the CBST either online through a secure testing platform or in a traditional paper-and-pencil format. Computer delivery is now more common because it simplifies scoring, reporting, and scheduling for both in-person and remote hiring events.
- How do employers usually schedule CBST testing for applicants?
- Most employers invite candidates to sit for the CBST after an initial application or screening. They either send a secure online testing link with a deadline or schedule an in-person assessment session at the company’s office or a designated testing location.
- Can I register to take the CBST on my own?
- In many cases, the CBST is arranged directly by employers rather than taken independently. Some assessment providers offer self-scheduled practice or demonstration tests, but official results used in hiring decisions are usually requested and managed by the hiring organization.
- Are CBST test dates available year-round?
- Because the CBST is typically delivered online or on-demand, employers can schedule testing throughout the year instead of relying on fixed national test dates. This flexibility allows companies to add the CBST at any stage of their hiring or screening process.
- Is there a fee for taking the CBST, and who pays it?
- Candidates usually do not pay directly for the CBST. Employers purchase testing credits or platform access from the assessment provider and then invite candidates to complete the exam as part of the organization’s internal recruitment and selection budget.
- What is considered a good or passing score on the CBST?
- Assessment publishers provide recommended score ranges that indicate whether candidates meet typical hiring benchmarks. Employers may set their own cut scores, but higher CBST scores generally signal stronger trainability, faster learning, and greater readiness for detail-oriented entry-level work.
- How are CBST scores reported back to employers?
- After the exam is scored, employers typically receive a numerical score and sometimes a percentile ranking that compares the candidate with a norm group. Reports may also flag whether the applicant meets the organization’s minimum benchmark for the specific role.
- How long does it usually take to receive CBST results?
- Because the CBST is machine-scored, results are often available immediately or within a very short time after completion. Employers can review candidate performance quickly, which allows them to move forward with interviews or next steps in the hiring process.
- How long are CBST scores valid once I have taken the test?
- Score validity policies vary by employer and assessment provider. Some organizations treat CBST scores as current for one to two years, while others ask applicants to retest for each new hiring cycle to ensure skills information is recent and reliable.
- How should I prepare for the math portion of the CBST?
- Review basic arithmetic, fractions, percentages, and word problems using timed practice sets. Focus on doing simple calculations accurately without a calculator, and practice translating short verbal scenarios into equations so you can move quickly through similar questions on test day.
- What can I do to strengthen CBST verbal and reading skills?
- Read short workplace-style passages, such as emails, memos, and instructions, then answer comprehension questions. Build vocabulary by reviewing common employment-related terms and synonyms, and practice identifying main ideas, specific details, and logical relationships between sentences and answer choices.
- Are there official CBST practice tests or sample questions?
- Many assessment providers and test-prep websites offer CBST-style practice questions that mirror the real exam’s difficulty and format. Working through several full practice sets under timed conditions helps you become familiar with question types and reduce anxiety before testing.
- What strategies can help me perform well on CBST exam day?
- Arrive rested, manage your time carefully, and avoid spending too long on any single item. Read each question once carefully, eliminate obviously wrong answers, choose the best remaining option, and move on so you can attempt every question within the time limit.
Reading Comprehension Preparation
Preparing for the CBST: Key Strategies
To do well on the CBST, you need a solid plan. Focus on improving your reading, math, and writing skills. This will help you pass the test and show you’re ready to teach.
Improve your reading skills by practicing active reading. Look closely at what you read, find the main ideas, and think critically. Read different types of texts, like articles and books, to get better at understanding and thinking deeply.
Mathematics Skills Practice
The math part of the CBST checks your basic math knowledge and problem-solving. Get better by solving practice questions on topics like arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Use online tools, study guides, and timed tests to boost your confidence and speed.
Writing Proficiency Enhancement
Show off your writing skills on the CBST by improving your grammar and how you organize your thoughts. Work on writing clear essays with strong arguments. Get feedback from others to make your writing even better.
| Skill | Preparation Strategies |
|---|
| Reading Comprehension | - Practice active reading techniques
- Analyze diverse range of texts
- Develop critical thinking abilities
|
| Mathematics | - Work through practice questions
- Master fundamental math concepts
- Engage in timed practice tests
|
| Writing Proficiency | - Practice essay writing
- Refine grammar and mechanics
- Seek feedback to improve
|
Using these strategies, you can boost your reading comprehension, math skills, and writing proficiency. This will help you do well on the CBST and show you’re ready for a teaching career.
CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test): Test Format and Content
The CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test) checks if an educator has the basic skills and knowledge needed. It looks at a candidate’s skills in key areas. This makes sure they have what it takes to be a good entry-level teacher.
The CBST has three main parts:
- Reading Comprehension: This part sees if the candidate can understand, analyze, and think about written texts. It also checks their critical thinking.
- Mathematics: This section tests the candidate’s math skills, problem-solving, and how they think about numbers.
- Writing: The writing part looks at how well the candidate can write clearly. It checks their grammar, spelling, and how they put words together.
Each part of the educator licensing test checks if the candidate knows the basic skills needed to teach. The test makes sure new teachers have the knowledge to teach well. It’s all about making sure they can give quality lessons.
| CBST Section | Content Overview | Question Types |
|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Looks at how well the candidate understands written texts, thinks critically, and analyzes information | Multiple-choice, short answer |
| Mathematics | Tests the candidate’s math skills, problem-solving, and how they handle numbers | Multiple-choice, open-ended |
| Writing | Checks the candidate’s writing skills, including grammar, spelling, and how they structure their writing |
Knowing what the prerequisite teaching exam covers helps teachers prepare. They can show they have the basic skills and knowledge needed for the CBST (Criteria Basic Skills Test).
CBST: Pros and Cons
Pros
- CBST exam preparation strengthens your knowledge across all domains
- Passing the exam proves competency to employers and clients
- Study materials and practice tests are widely available
- Exam-based credentials are portable across states and employers
- Clear exam objectives help focus your study plan effectively
Cons
- Exam anxiety can affect performance — practice tests help reduce it
- Registration fees are non-refundable if you miss your test date
- Limited retake opportunities may apply with waiting periods
- Exam content updates periodically — use current study materials
- Testing center availability may require advance scheduling
Sample Criteria Basic Skills Test Practice Questions
Try these questions from our free Criteria Basic Skills Test practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
What factor is least likely to affect a candidate’s test score on the Criteria Basic Skills Test?
- A. The candidate's preparation and practice
- B. The test-taker’s physical or emotional state during the test
- C. The specific test items and questions included in the exam
- D. The time of day when the test is taken
Answer: D. The time of day when the test is taken
While factors like preparation, emotional state, and the specific test items significantly influence a score, the time of day when the test is taken is generally least likely to have a consistent or significant impact. Standardized tests are designed to be robust against minor environmental variations, focusing instead on the candidate's inherent skills and knowledge.
What is usually prohibited during the Criteria Basic Skills Test to maintain test integrity?
- A. Using a calculator for basic arithmetic
- B. Bringing personal electronic devices into the test area
- C. Taking breaks between sections of the test
- D. Consulting with a study group before the test
Answer: B. Bringing personal electronic devices into the test area
To maintain the integrity of the Criteria Basic Skills Test and prevent cheating, bringing personal electronic devices into the test area is usually prohibited. Devices like phones, smartwatches, or unauthorized calculators could be used to access external information or communicate, compromising the fairness and validity of the examination results.
What kind of questions are most commonly found in the numerical reasoning section of the Criteria Basic Skills Test?
- A. Essay questions on economic theories
- B. Multiple-choice questions involving basic arithmetic operations
- C. Open-ended questions about statistical methods
- D. Case studies requiring in-depth data analysis
Answer: B. Multiple-choice questions involving basic arithmetic operations
The numerical reasoning section of the Criteria Basic Skills Test aims to assess foundational mathematical understanding. It commonly features multiple-choice questions that involve basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages. This format efficiently evaluates a candidate's ability to work with numbers in practical contexts.
What is the primary objective of the Criteria Basic Skills Test?
- A. To assess advanced technical skills in a specific field
- B. To evaluate basic cognitive and functional abilities
- C. To measure professional experience and job performance
- D. To gauge specialized knowledge in a particular industry
Answer: B. To evaluate basic cognitive and functional abilities
The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) is designed to evaluate fundamental cognitive and functional abilities essential for various roles. Its primary objective is to assess foundational skills such as reading comprehension, numerical reasoning, and problem-solving, rather than specialized technical knowledge or professional experience. This helps employers gauge a candidate's readiness for training and entry-level positions.
Take the full Criteria Basic Skills Test practice test
CBST Questions and Answers
Is the CBST considered difficult for most test-takers?
The CBST is short but fast-paced, so many people find it challenging the first time they take it. Difficulty depends on how recently you have practiced basic math and reading skills, and whether you are comfortable working under tight time limits.
Can taking the CBST improve my chances of getting hired?
A strong CBST score signals to employers that you can learn quickly, handle written information, and work accurately with numbers. While it does not guarantee a job offer, it can help your application stand out and support your performance in interviews and training.
How often can I retake the CBST if I am unhappy with my score?
Retake policies depend on the assessment provider and the employer using the test. Many organizations allow retesting after a waiting period, such as several weeks or months, so candidates have time to practice skills rather than immediately repeating the same mistakes.
Does the CBST include penalties for wrong answers or guessing?
Most CBST scoring models simply count the number of correct answers and do not subtract points for wrong responses. Because there is no guessing penalty in many versions, it is usually better to make an educated guess than to leave items blank under time pressure.
Can the CBST be used for remote or work-from-home hiring decisions?
Yes. Employers frequently use online CBST administrations when recruiting remote or hybrid staff. Candidates receive a secure testing link and complete the exam at home, sometimes with additional proctoring or identity checks to protect test integrity and ensure fair, comparable results.
What topics are covered in the CBST math section?
The math portion of the CBST focuses on whole numbers, fractions, percentages, and basic word problems related to workplace situations. You might calculate totals, differences, or simple rates, so refreshing fundamental arithmetic skills can provide a big boost to your performance.
What reading and language skills does the CBST verbal section assess?
The verbal section measures vocabulary, sentence logic, and reading comprehension using short passages. You may identify main ideas, interpret details, or choose words that best complete a sentence. These tasks reflect everyday office communication, such as understanding memos, emails, and basic written instructions.
Are calculators allowed while taking the CBST?
Calculator policies are set by the test administrator. Many CBST sessions do not permit calculators because the math content is intentionally basic. Always read your testing instructions carefully so you know whether calculators, scratch paper, or on-screen aids will be provided or restricted.
How should employers interpret CBST percentile scores when comparing applicants?
Percentile scores show how an individual’s performance compares to a reference group of test-takers. For example, a candidate at the seventieth percentile scored as well as or better than seventy percent of the norm group, helping employers distinguish between minimally qualified and highly trainable applicants.
What accommodations are available for CBST candidates with disabilities?
Test publishers and employers may offer accommodations such as extended time, screen-reader compatibility, or a quiet testing room for candidates with documented disabilities. Applicants should contact the employer or assessment provider in advance, supply appropriate documentation, and confirm which supports can be arranged.
How many questions are on the CBST?
The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) consists of 40 questions measuring basic grammar, spelling, math, and language skills. (Verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp.)
How long is the CBST?
The Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) has an allocated time limit of 20 minutes. (Verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp.)
What is the passing score for the CBST?
The Criteria Basic Skills Test has no fixed passing score, providing a raw score out of 40 alongside a percentile rank against norm groups, with target score ranges determined by employers. (Verified Nov 9, 2026 against Criteria Corp.)