CPACE

This page provides access to all the key info you need as a CPACE test-taker, including 2024 exam dates, testing center locations, fees, registration info and prep resources.

You can view our free CPACE Study Guides for a concise, bullet-pointed listing of exactly which topics appear on your exam. You can also take our free CPACE Practice Tests to see your current likelihood of passing and a breakdown of your individual strengths and weaknesses.

Need help preparing? We offer live CPACE Prep Courses and self-paced Online Prep.

  • CPACE-Content (Test Code 603) and CPACE-Performance (Test Code 604)
  • 70 multiple-choice questions and 3 constructed-response assignments (Content); 2 performance modules (Performance)
  • 3 hours and 15 minutes for Content; 4 hours for Performance
  • 220 per subtest (scaled score)

CPACE Overview

The California Preliminary Administrative Credential Examination (CPACE) is designed to assess candidates planning a career in school administration. The exam is comprised of two components: CPACE-Content and CPACE-Performance.

CPACE-Content includes 70 multiple choice questions and three focused written assignments from six major areas: Visionary Leadership, Instructional Leadership, School Improvement Leadership, Professional Learning and Growth Leadership, Organizational and Systems Leadership, and Community Leadership.

CPACE-Performance includes one performance module related to Instructional Leadership and a second performance module related to School Leadership.

CPACE Testing Costs

2024 CPACE Testing Costs*

Below is an overview of the 2024 CPACE testing fees for computer-based testing. Registration fees for California educator examinations are currently being waived for eligible California residents. Visit the official testing service website to learn more.

Service Fees
Registration for CPACE-Content $294 test registration fee
Registration for CPACE-Performance $358 test registration fee
Change of registration No fee
Additional copy of test results  $10 per copy
Score verification for constructed-response (CR) section $50 per subtest
Fee to clear an account $20

 

CPACE Test Dates

2024 CPACE Test Dates*

Computer-based testing for the CPACE exam is available during four 6-day testing windows each year, with upcoming dates listed below.

CPACE Test Dates Results Release Date
5/23/24 - 6/5/24 6/26/24

 

CPACE Test Dates - Online Proctored Results Release Date
5/30/24 - 6/5/24 6/26/24

*This information is subject to change. All test-takers should visit the official CPACE website at https://www.ctcexams.nesinc.com to confirm fees, registration, and testing requirements before enrolling.

Not sure how you’ll perform on the exam? Start by viewing our free CPACE Study Guide to get a concise overview of exactly what subject matter will appear on your exam. Then take our free, full-length CPACE Practice Test with diagnostics to see your overall likelihood of passing and identify any areas in which you may need to improve.

Our Core Plus Online Prep Programs feature: 

  • instructional videos that teach you the exact content you need to pass
  • interactive practice tests that replicate the real exam
  • virtual tutoring videos that guide you through every practice question
  • advanced diagnostics that offer in-depth insights into your strengths and weaknesses
Learn more about CPACE Online Prep
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