California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE)

revised 8/10/07

The CHSPE is not required for GVCS students.  GVCS graduates receive a GVCS diploma or certificate of completion.

 For general information, visit the CHSPE website.

The California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) is a voluntary test that assesses proficiency in the basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills taught in public schools.  Eligible persons who pass both parts of the CHSPE are awarded a Certificate of Proficiency by the State Board of Education.

You may take the CHSPE only if on the test date, you:

• are at least 16 years old, or

• have been enrolled in the tenth grade for one academic year or longer, or

• will complete one academic year of enrollment in the tenth grade at the end of the semester during which the next regular administration will be conducted.

Certificate of Proficiency

California law requires that the Certificate of Proficiency be equivalent to a high school diploma.  Institutions that are subject to California law and that require a high school diploma also must accept a Certificate of Proficiency.  A student who receives a Certificate of Proficiency may, with verified parental approval, leave high school early.  The Certificate of Proficiency, however, is not equivalent to completing all course work required for regular graduation from high school.  If you are planning to continue your studies in a college or university, contact the admissions office so that you may understand its requirements and whether or not the CHSPE certificate will be accepted.