PagineCalifornia Curriculum Guide & Practice Tests
California uses the Common Core State Standards for ELA and math, the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for science, and its own History–Social Science content standards. Ethnic studies is a graduation requirement being phased in, and the 2023 math framework emphasizes big ideas and data science.
- 13 levels
- 290 practice tests
- 2 exam guides
Choose a level
Exams and tests
| Exam | Subjects | When | Counts? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAASPP Smarter Balanced Tests | English language arts/literacy and mathematics | Spring, online | School accountability; Grade 11 results can signal college readiness for the CSU early assessment. |
| California Science Test (CAST) | Science (NGSS) | Spring, online | School accountability. |
How school is organized
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten, Grades 1–5, 6–8 and 9–12. Many districts teach integrated math (Math I, II, III) instead of Algebra/Geometry/Algebra II.
Finishing school: State minimum requirements include 3 years of English, 2 of math (including Algebra I), 2 of science, 3 of social studies, and courses in the arts, world language or CTE; districts add more. A one-semester ethnic studies course is scheduled to become a requirement for later graduating classes, subject to state funding.
Official curriculum: California Common Core State Standards, NGSS and History–Social Science Framework
Other states
Frequently asked questions
What curriculum does California use?
California uses the Common Core State Standards for ELA and math, the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for science, and its own History–Social Science content standards. Ethnic studies is a graduation requirement being phased in, and the 2023 math framework emphasizes big ideas and data science.
How are school years organized in California?
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten, Grades 1–5, 6–8 and 9–12. Many districts teach integrated math (Math I, II, III) instead of Algebra/Geometry/Algebra II.
What is needed to finish school?
State minimum requirements include 3 years of English, 2 of math (including Algebra I), 2 of science, 3 of social studies, and courses in the arts, world language or CTE; districts add more. A one-semester ethnic studies course is scheduled to become a requirement for later graduating classes, subject to state funding.
Which exams do students take in California?
CAASPP Smarter Balanced Tests; California Science Test (CAST).