Basic Skills Requirements

In order to obtain a teaching credential in the state of California all students must demonstrate Basic Skills which acknowledges the ability to understand basic reading, math and writing.

Basic Skills Requirement

The Basic Skills RequirementPDF File (BSR) can be met 8 different ways, including passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). Please refer to the How to Meet the Basic Skills RequirementPDF File flyer for more information about how to meet the BSR requirement.

How to verify if you meet the Basic Skills Requirement using coursework:

  • If you are a current CSUF student completing your undergraduate degree and have questions about how your coursework may satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement, please make an appointment with one of our Advisors.
  • If you are submitting a CSUF Credential Program application, please read the information on the Basic Skills Verification formPDF File to determine if your coursework meets the criteria.  If you have the appropriate coursework, complete the Basic Skills Verification form and submit it with your Credential application. You do not need to obtain a signature on the form before submitting it with your application. The courses will be verified by a Program Advisor and the form will be sign when you complete the program.
  • If you are a current CSUF student or CSUF alumni seeking formal approval of the Basic Skills Requirement for job placement, complete the Basic Skills Verification formPDF File , include supporting documentation (i.e. official transcripts, official exam reports, etc.) and send to the Credential Prep Center for processing.

If you need to take the CBEST, please refer to the registration information.