Online High School Exit Exam Preparation & Testing Center Support

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the CAHSEE?

Beginning with the class of 2006, every student planning to graduate from a high school in California must first pass the California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE). A State Law enacted in 1999 authorized the implementation of the test, its primary purpose being to improve the academic achievement of public school students. The Exam was created to ensure that students graduating from public school would be able to perform at their grade level in reading, writing, and mathematics.

2. When do students take the CAHSEE?

California high school districts are required to provide students with multiple opportunities to take the exam. Dates are determined by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the first opportunity provided is during the second semester of 10th grade in an attempt to provide sufficient time for those who are unable to pass the Exam to improve. Five additional opportunities are given before graduation.

The test is administered over a two-day period. Day One will deal with the Language Arts section, while Day Two deals with Mathematics.

3. What is the ISTEP+?

ISTEP+ measures student achievement in English/Language Arts and Mathematics.

4. When do students take the ISTEP+?

Students take the ISTEP+ in the 10th grade in an attempt to provide sufficient time for those who are unable to pass the Exam to improve. In the event that a 10th grade student moves into the state after the Fall testing period, the student may take the test in the Spring. Indiana offers the exam three times each year, in both the Fall and Spring semesters.

5. Does the CAHSEE have a time limit?

The CAHSEE is not timed, so students can use the entire school day if needed. The test is administered over a two-day period. Day One will deal with the Language Arts section, while Day Two deals with Mathematics.

6. Does the ISTEP+ have a time limit?

The ISTEP+ takes approximately 6.5 hours to complete.

7. How should I study for the CAHSEE?

Use a study schedule to keep yourself on task and organized. Using a schedule will also help prevent jumping from one subject to the next without completing proper practice, review and study. Start now! It's never too early. It's also not a good idea to wait until the last minute and try to cram.

Utilizing the free preparation course provided here will allow you to review the materials required for the test at your own speed. While doing so, be sure to jot down notes; study guides are a valuable resource while reviewing before the Exam. Also be sure to write down key concepts and complete the practice materials provided.

8. How should I study for the ISTEP+?

Cramming for any test is never a good way to prepare. Keep up with your homework and ask your teachers for help when you need it. Also pay close attention in the weeks before the test when your teacher reviews important information.

If you've had trouble with ISTEP+ in the past, ask a teacher, counselor, or parent about extra help now. Our online course is also a great resource and is provided free of charge.

9. I am enrolled in an adult school program operated by a public school. Do I still have to take the CAHSEE?

In order to receive a high school diploma, you must take and pass the Exam.

10. How can I find out how I did on the CAHSEE?

Two sets of results are available within 10 weeks of taking the test. One set is provided to the student's parent or guardian (with encouragement to retain the record with the child's other important documents), and the other set is kept in the student's Permanent Record.

11. What do I do if I didn't pass the CAHSEE?

In the event that a student does not pass the Exam in its entirety, only the failed sections must be retaken. For example, if a student were to pass the Language Arts section but fail the Mathematics section, only the Mathematics section must be retaken.

By using study resources before your next attempt, such as the free course provided here, you will be able to focus more effectively on the particular subject areas in which you need improvement.

12. What do I do if I didn't pass the ISTEP+?

Students who do not pass the ISTEP+ are entitled to more help and instructional time to assist them in any areas of weakness. Ask your teachers or guidance counselor for more information.

13. How does the online course provided on this site work?

Using a combination of lecture materials, handouts, quizzes, and practice exams, the course covers the concepts that are the focus of the blueprint used to create the Exit Exam. The following topics will be covered, along with many others: literary criticism, narrative analysis, essay formation, reading comprehension, and vocabulary.

14. How much does it cost to enroll in the Exit Exam preparation course?

The course is provided free of charge. In order to take advantage of this offer, click the Get Started link above to create an account.

15. Do you offer other educational resources?

We also offer an SAT test prep course available at www.satexamprep.com