If you are planning to take the California High School Proficiency Examination, Varsity Tutors can help you prepare with a personalized CHSPE course. We can place you int a CHSPE prep class that focuses on your needs specifically. Your CHSPE class instructor is a test prep expert who knows how to help people like you put everything together to perform at their best on test day. Reach out to our Educational Directors today or continue reading to find out how CHSPE classes could help you reach for your goals.
The CHSPE acts as a gateway to a Certificate of Proficiency, which the State of California considers an equivalent to a high school diploma. By studying effectively in CHSPE courses, you could be eligible to pursue financial aid and move on to college. Your CHSPE prep course instructor can help you focus on the academic areas where you need the most help, or they can assess where your gaps are and put together a customized plan so that you're always working to fill the gaps you need to pursue success on test day. CHSPE prep classes are all about helping you put your best foot forward on the exam.
To earn your Certificate of Proficiency, you'll need to perform up to standards in both the Math and English Language Arts section of the exam. The following table breaks down the exam and what you can expect to study for during a CHSPE class:
CHSPE Breakdown
Number of Test Questions by Content Cluster | |||||
English Language Arts Section | Mathematics Section | ||||
Language Subtest | Reading Subtest | ||||
Content Cluster | Number of Questions | Content Cluster | Number of Questions | Content Cluster | Number of Questions |
Mechanics | 24 | Comprehension | 54 | Number Sense & Patterns | 24 |
Expression | 24 | Vocabulary | 30 | Statistics and Geometry | 26 |
Total | 48 | Total | 84 | Total | 50 |
There's plenty of academic material you'll need to demonstrate your command of during the CHSPE, but that's not all you'll work on with your instructor. Personalized CHSPE prep courses also give you the opportunity to hone your test-taking skills. Strong capabilities in areas like time management and exam strategies can make a difference in your performance. If you have test anxiety issues, understanding the format and utilizing relaxation techniques can help. This is also something a CHSPE course can help you learn about. The goal of building these skills is to help you perform at your maximum potential with confidence.
The drive to build your test-taking skills doesn't come at the expense of making sure you're studying the concepts you need to have command of when test day arrives. Your CHSPE course instructor can help you drill through topics like arithmetic operations, reading comprehension, grammar and punctuation, sentence structure, and more. Here's just a sampling of the topics you can study for in your CHSPE prep courses:
CHSPE Topics (Non-Comprehensive)
- Capitalization
- Usage
- Sentence Structure
- Prewriting
- Initial Understanding
- Interpretation
- Synonyms
- Context Clues
- Number Sense and Operations
- Patterns, Relationships, and Algebra
CHSPE tutors can help you practice concepts at your pace, explaining topics you struggle to understand in unique ways until you feel comfortable moving on to something else. Your instructor can identify and teach to your learning style for maximum efficiency. We'll also set you up with a test prep instructor who can work with you at a time that's convenient. In addition, you can study with your CHSPE class instructor in face to face online sessions using our Live Learning Platform for a convenient test prep experience. If you're ready to get started, contact Varsity Tutors today.

Zoe: CHSPE course instructor
Thanks to one-on-one help in middle and high school, I not only achieved stronger grades/test scores, but gained the confidence I will continue to use even beyond graduate school. I hope to give others the same invaluable tool set!... The ways I've always preferred to learn myself are typically the ways I teach. Once it seems like a student has a pretty strong understanding of a subject, I like to play competitive or timed games. It can be anything from dry-erase board Jeopardy to quiz racing. This way practice problems don't get too repetitive, and students know they can handle the material under pressure. I've found this especially helpful with test prep!
Education & Certification
- Sarah Lawrence College - Current Undergrad, Pre-Medicine
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- +139 subjects

Lisa: CHSPE course instructor
...resources too. Resources may include learning sites, educational gaming, practice resources. I interweave the essential study and problem- solving skills into the lessons. For example, I teach my students to learn how to find answers on their own. If they do not know a word, I show them how to find out what a word means. I interweave the essential study and problem- solving skills into the lessons. I include vocabulary in all lessons because...
Education & Certification
- Ashford University - Bachelor in Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- CSAP/ TCAP
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- +32 subjects

Jennifer: CHSPE course instructor
...struggled with both math and reading comprehension. I had never been taught good study habits. However, I changed my approach to school work and graduated Summa cum Laude from college. As a math tutor, my goal is for my students to not only learn, but to also understand that it is an exercise in reasoning. I want them to come to know that math can, in fact, be fun. As a reading tutor, I want...
Education & Certification
- McKendree University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting and Business Management
- Lindenwood University - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- A Level
- ISEE
- SHSAT
- +84 subjects

Reba-Anna: CHSPE course instructor
I have taught high school and college level course for over a decade. I believe that there are common themes that students posses that can impede their learning. A key element is self confidence in their ability to learn. I believe in building up a student's confidence as they learn a subject so they can retain the information and can apply it in real world scenarios.... I believe that all students can learn whatever you offer them. It is just a matter of self-motivation and confidence in their abilities.
Education & Certification
- University of California-Santa Barbara - Bachelors, English literature
- Alliant International University - PHD, Educational Technology
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- SAT
- GED
- ISEE
- +67 subjects

Ryan: CHSPE course instructor
...prior experiences in teaching and tutoring with young people. I have 6 years of experience teaching summer reading classes for students ages K-12, in which I helped students hone their skills in comprehension, textbook reading, fluency, beginning phonics, essay-writing, long-word decoding, and vocabulary enhancement. I also have one year of experience in individual tutoring for ACT/SAT test prep, reading (K-12), writing (K-12), world and U. S. history (high school and college), and writing skills (K-12)....
Education & Certification
- The Catholic University of America - Bachelor in Arts, History
- SUNY at Binghamton - Master of Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- SAT Subject Tests
- HSPT
- SSAT
- +266 subjects

Varun: CHSPE course instructor
...about helping others reach their educational goals. Whatever the task, no matter how long it takes, I will make sure you get the most out of your sessions and will tailor my personal approach to whatever you need. I have been tutoring middle school, high school, and college students for five years. As an Ivy League graduate, I know what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive academic environment and can help you succeed...
Education & Certification
- Dartmouth College - Bachelors, Government/Film and Media Studies
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- ACT
- Florida EOC Assessment
- ECAA
- +149 subjects

Stephanie: CHSPE course instructor
...Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. Since then, I have taught 8th Grade Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, and Geometry. Most of my students' focus in tutoring sessions have been Algebra skills at the high school or college level. I enjoy working with middle school students all the way up to college students; and I cannot wait to start working with you! You have the potential to reach your goals - whatever they may be!
Education & Certification
- Emporia State University - Bachelor of Education, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- GED
- Differential Equations
- Algebra 2
- +54 subjects

Destiny: CHSPE course instructor
...in a positive and prolific direction. I have been tutoring and teaching music since January 2007, and I have enjoyed it since day one! Currently I am: 1. A product manager 2. A published author 3. A personal fitness and nutrition trainer 4. A seasoned tutor since 2007 5. An entrepreneur and business woman since age 9 6. Music teacher (Piano & Guitar) 7. Product Manager, Product Owner, & Scrum Certified Additional Subjects I teach:...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelors, 1. Public Administration, Policy, & Management 2. Psychology 3. Gender & Women's Studies
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- SAT Subject Tests
- CogAT
- CAHSEE
- +578 subjects

Julie: CHSPE course instructor
...in Bachelor of Arts in Education and Iowa State University receiving a Special Education Endorsement. While attending school, I tutored students in grades 7-12 with an emphasis on study skills, organizational skills, and test-taking skills. Soon after, I taught special education where I empowered students to become independent learners while using creative approaches to accommodate varied learning styles while tracking student progress and following timelines for re-evaluations. I developed IEP and 504 plans with collaboration...
Education & Certification
- Buena Vista University - Bachelor of Education, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
- Iowa State University - Certificate, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- SAT
- ASVAB
- HSPT
- +41 subjects

Allison: CHSPE course instructor
...degree in general sciences (i.e. Pre-Med) and masters in Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness as well as in Biology. I decided to tutor because when I was an undergraduate I often struggled in my classes and spent far too much time struggling just to get the answer, much less understand the material.I like tutoring students because I can help make the learning process easier, and perhaps enjoyable. I don't think it is beneficial to struggle for...
Education & Certification
- University of Oregon - Bachelors, General Science
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Masters, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- CLEP
- SAT
- ACT
- +249 subjects

Mabel: CHSPE course instructor
I am passionate about teaching math and I am committed to educating ALL students! I have worked with students of varying academic abilities, with ease, from elementary school through college. I love breaking down barriers to academic success!
Education & Certification
- The Ohio State University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- Cleveland State University - Masters in Education, Adult and Continuing Education
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- GED
- ACT
- Trigonometry
- +20 subjects

Kristen: CHSPE course instructor
...Puzzle Piece Effect:" the triumph of unlocking untapped knowledge and potential, after "mentally" puzzling over complex and disorganized concepts. I, personally, identify with it well, having felt it commonly myself. It's exceptionally satisfying to have the capacity to help other people fulfill their pursuits, especially when they finally get "last puzzle piece" to fall into place. You can appreciate the bigger picture in the grand scheme of things, especially after conquering each detail "one puzzle...
Education & Certification
- University of Arkansas - Current Undergrad, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- TOPS
- ISAT
- TOEFL
- +424 subjects
Education & Certification
- Wright State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Computer Engineering Technology
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- GED
- Programming VB.NET
- History
- +90 subjects

Susan: CHSPE course instructor
...in French, an MA in Teaching of Writing, and a PhD in Rhetoric. I have been teaching and tutoring writing for 24 years. I am an expert on grammar and mechanics. I can help you develop your thesis, your argument, your paragraphs, your introduction, and your conclusion. I am incredibly good at helping write college application essays. In addition, I can help you find quality research and integrate it professionally into your essays. I do...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, French
- Carnegie Mellon University - PHD, Rhetoric
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- CLEP
- ACT
- TEAS
- +242 subjects

Carolyn: CHSPE course instructor
My name is Carolyn. I have taught middle school, high school, and tutored freshmen in college in math. I have always loved working with students to help them improve their thinking skill and help them be successful in their classes. Working one on one is the most enjoyable part.
Education & Certification
- University of California-Los Angeles - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- REGENTS
- SAT
- CogAT
- +63 subjects

Susana: CHSPE course instructor
It is with great interest to help students in various education subjects to continue their education path for better opportunities to come their way. I will instill in students an illustration of maximizing the individual performance of self-thinkers, inspiring students' interest in creativity and instilling a sense of self-worth among all students to prepare for their next level of education.
Education & Certification
- Sul Ross State University - Bachelor in Arts, Social Sciences
- Sul Ross State University - Master of Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- GED
- GED Social Studies
- Spanish
- +46 subjects

Andrew: CHSPE course instructor
...College with my Medical Degree and from Tulane University with my Master of Science in Clinical Research Methods. I received my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Florida. While I am able to tutor a broad range of subjects in both math and science, I am most passionate about teaching any of the medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, internal medicine, pediatric medicine, etc.), research and research-related subjects (epidemiology, statistics,...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelors, Biomedical Sciences
- New York Medical College - PHD, Doctor of Medicine
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- PSAT
- GED
- HSPT
- +171 subjects

Maggie: CHSPE course instructor
I am a graduate from New York University with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication. I have experience tutoring from elementary level through college level, as well as in SAT prep. I think patience is the key to being an effective teacher, which is something I apply while tutoring students. Furthermore, I think it is important that students never lose the joy that comes with learning.
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor of Science, Digital Communications and Multimedia
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- A Level
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +126 subjects

Luke: CHSPE course instructor
...the University of Alabama Honors College, and I am originally from a small town about an hour north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I graduated high school 4th in my class, and I am attending UA on a full tuition academic scholarship. I specialize in teaching test prep (I scored in the top 1% on both the ACTs and SATs) but I am also very knowledgeable about almost every high school core academic subject with the exception...
Education & Certification
- The University of Alabama - Current Undergrad, Finance, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- GED
- PSAT
- SAT
- +58 subjects

Francisco: CHSPE course instructor
...own pace. I focus on mastery based learning where the student must demonstrate adequate aptitude in the theoretical and practical aspects of a subject before we move on to a different one. Emphasis is placed on teaching principles and nurturing independent thought for problem solving. As a tutor, I rely on being patient, having dynamic lessons, and on demonstrating how various aspects of a subject tie together and build upon each other.
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor of Science, Physics
Subject Expertise
- CHSPE
- ACT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +43 subjects