Every teacher must pass a Basic Skills Examination. There are two alternatives: PPST (Pre-Professional Skills) or CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills). These tests check for basic skills in math, reading, and writing.

Every teacher must pass a "content" examination. The test for elementary and middle school teachers if the MSAT (Multiple Skills Assessment). For endorsement to teach math or science in high school, tests on the specific topic are required. In most cases there are multiple portions of content-area tests. All portions are required. Students who are not well prepared find these tests difficult.

The Teacher Standards & Practices (TSPC) publishes a flyer called "Testing Information." This flyer and copies of information about the tests is available from the TSPC office in Suite 105 of the Public Service Building at 255 Capitol Street NE (just NE of the front door of the Capitol Building). The flyer is also available in the Willamette University Admission Office and at the School of Education.