Test Support

Strategic Preparation Steps

1. Take a Diagnostic Test First Before you dive into deep study, take a full-length, official (or high-quality third-party) practice test under timed conditions. This is the single most important step. It will tell you:

• Which of the three subtests you are already comfortable with.

• Which specific domains (e.g., Physical Science vs. History) need the most work.

• Whether you have issues with pacing.

2. Focus on Weaknesses Do not waste hours studying content you already know well. Use your diagnostic results to build a study plan that prioritizes your weakest areas. If you consistently miss questions on geometry, for example, dedicate your first week of study to that specific domain.

3. Master the Constructed-Response (CR) Prompts Many candidates focus heavily on multiple-choice questions but neglect the written portion. The CR questions require you to demonstrate your pedagogical knowledge and ability to connect content to student learning.

• Practice outlining: For each prompt, practice creating a clear outline with an introduction, specific supporting details, and a concluding thought.

• Review rubrics: Look for official examples of "passing" responses so you understand the depth and structure scorers are looking for.

4. Use Official Resources Always prioritize materials from the California Educator Credentialing Examinations (CTC) website. They offer:

• Test Guides: Detailed descriptions of the domains.

• Sample Questions: These are the most accurate reflection of the actual exam difficulty.

• Tutorials: If you are testing at a center, watch the tutorials on how the on-screen tools and calculators work so you don't lose time on exam day.

5. Simulate Exam Conditions When you take practice tests, avoid "open book" sessions. Sit in a quiet room, time yourself, and practice the mental stamina required to sit for the full 5-hour session if you plan to take all three at once.

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A Note on Pacing

• Subtest I & II: You have 3 hours each.

• Subtest III: You have 2 hours and 15 minutes.

• Combined: You have 5 hours total.

If you struggle with time, prioritize answering all multiple-choice questions first to secure those points, then dedicate the remainder of your time to writing thorough, well-structured constructed responses.

Teachers Test Prep

APU Global has partnered with Teachers Test Prep to provide students with services to help prepare for the CSET. These services include free practice tests, instant diagnostics, and study guide overviews. If you are interested in extended CSET support, Teacher Test Prep offers a Core Plus online prep. This is a paid service, which is offered at a 15% discount for APU Global students. Contact your Credential Analyst to get set up with an account.

CTC's CSET Website Preparation Materials

Click "Select a Test," and choose the relevant CSET.

San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE)
Provides low-cost, comprehensive online prep courses.

Test Prep Review
Offers free practice questions for various CSET exams.

California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA)

This official CTC page offers useful information about the CalTPA, including both general information and helpful handouts.

CalTPA Preparation Materials

This official CTC page contains useful instructions and handouts about preparing your materials for CalTPA submission.

APU Global's In-House Support

We offer EDUC 595 for specific support with your CalTPAs. This course is free for LAPU students. It is optional for our student teachers and required for those on an internship track.