California Proficiency Program (CPP) Replaced CHSPE

  • Statement on the CPP from the California Department of Education (December 21, 2023):

    What is the CPP (replacing CHSPE)?

    California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) tests have been replaced by the California Proficiency Program (CPP) examination. The new CPP measures proficiency in language arts and mathematics using subtests from the State Board of Education approved GED or HiSET high school equivalency vendors. Tests results from the previous CHSPE will not be considered for the new CPP.

     

    Students can take the CPP test online from their homes, with live proctoring, or on a computer in a testing center. The paper-pencil version is available only in testing centers. The CPP can be taken in both English and Spanish.

     

    HiSET will be the first vendor to offer the CPP. To prepare for the HiSET-Proficiency, please visit: https://hiset.org/test-takers-hiset-test-prep-materials/, to access preparation materials to study for the mathematics and language arts subtests. Both vendors provide a list of testing accommodations, test specifications, and testing locations on their websites.

     

    After passing the language arts and mathematics subtests of the proficiency program, the student will earn a State Board of Education-issued Certificate of Proficiency, which is the legal equivalent to a high school diploma issued by the state of California. After passing the CPP, the student may choose to remain in high school or exit with parent or guardian's permission to begin attending higher education or their career.

     

    Once the individual has taken the CPP, passed both language arts and mathematics subtests, and exited high school, they may take the remaining High School Equivalency (HSE) subtests to earn their HSE Certificate, opening even more doors than the Certificate of Proficiency alone. The CPP is referred to as a program because it acts as a stepping stone for individuals who may choose the earn their HSE Certificate.

    How do I register for the CPP?

    You can now register for the California Proficiency Program (CPP). To sign up, please visit the HiSET-Proficiency registration page.

    Who is Eligible?

    The CPP will serve the same population as the previous CHSPE. Eligible students may be either excelling or struggling in high school and need to take the CPP in order to exit high school to begin attending higher education or begin their career.

     

    A student is eligible to take the CPP if they are currently enrolled in high school and either:

    • 16 years of age or older; or,
    • Have completed one year of enrollment in grade ten; or,
    • Will have completed one year of enrollment in grade ten at the end of the semester during which the next exam is administered.

    The  California Department of Education website will always have current and updated information available. Please visit the CDE website for additional information.