California CAASPP / Smarter Balanced & CAST Science Exam Timetable Guide 2026
This complete guide explains the California state testing timetable for Grade 11 students, including Smarter Balanced English language arts, Smarter Balanced mathematics, and the California Science Test, commonly called CAST.
For the 2025–2026 school year, California’s statewide testing window runs from January 20, 2026 through June 30, 2026. Each district or school chooses its own exact local testing dates inside that window, and the local window must generally include at least 25 instructional days.
Quick California Exam Timetable
| Assessment | Grade / Students | Subject | 2026 Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smarter Balanced Summative Assessment | Grade 11 | English Language Arts / Literacy | January 20 – June 30, 2026 |
| Smarter Balanced Summative Assessment | Grade 11 | Mathematics | January 20 – June 30, 2026 |
| California Science Test | High school students, typically once in Grade 10, 11, or 12 | Science | January 20 – June 30, 2026 |
What Is CAASPP?
CAASPP stands for California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress. It is California’s statewide assessment system used to measure student learning in key academic areas. For Grade 11 students, the most important CAASPP exams are the Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and mathematics.
The purpose of these exams is not only to assign a score. The results help schools, families, and students understand readiness for college, career pathways, academic support, and long-term skill development.
Smarter Balanced Grade 11: ELA and Mathematics
ELA / Literacy
Students read passages, analyze evidence, answer comprehension questions, and complete writing tasks. The exam focuses on critical reading, research, vocabulary, grammar, and written communication.
Mathematics
The math test measures algebra, functions, statistics, modeling, problem solving, reasoning, and application of mathematical concepts.
Format
Smarter Balanced tests are computer-based and include computer-adaptive questions plus performance tasks.
CAST Science: California Science Test
The California Science Test is aligned with California’s science standards and focuses on scientific reasoning, investigation, data analysis, and real-world application. High school students usually take CAST once during Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12, depending on the district’s local testing plan.
CAST covers major science areas including life science, physical science, earth and space science, and engineering practices. Students should expect questions that ask them to interpret diagrams, evaluate evidence, analyze experiments, and apply scientific models.
Simple Testing Timeline
January 20, 2026
Statewide CAASPP testing window opens.
February – March 2026
Schools finalize testing calendars, train students on testing tools, and begin preparation activities.
April – May 2026
Many schools complete their main Smarter Balanced and CAST testing during this period.
June 30, 2026
Statewide testing window closes. Make-up testing must be completed before the deadline.
Interactive Exam Planner
Math Skills Students Should Review
For Smarter Balanced mathematics, Grade 11 students should review algebra, functions, modeling, statistics, and problem-solving strategies. A useful example is slope, which appears often in linear relationships:
\[ m=\frac{y_2-y_1}{x_2-x_1} \]
Students should also understand linear equations in slope-intercept form:
\[ y=mx+b \]
For statistics and data questions, students may need to understand mean:
\[ \text{Mean}=\frac{\text{Sum of all values}}{\text{Number of values}} \]
How to Prepare for California CAASPP Exams
- Check your school calendar: Confirm the exact local test dates with your school.
- Practice online format: Use practice questions so students are comfortable with computer-based tools.
- Review reading strategies: Focus on evidence, central idea, author’s purpose, and written response structure.
- Review math foundations: Practice algebra, functions, statistics, geometry basics, and real-world modeling.
- Prepare for CAST: Review scientific models, data tables, graphs, experiments, and evidence-based reasoning.
- Plan make-up days: Students who miss a session should complete make-up testing before the state window closes.
Student Checklist
| Before testing | Know your schedule, sleep well, bring required materials, and complete practice tests. |
| During testing | Read every question carefully, use scratch paper when allowed, and manage time calmly. |
| After testing | Review score reports with teachers or parents and identify areas for improvement. |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the California CAASPP testing window for 2026?
The statewide 2025–2026 CAASPP window runs from January 20, 2026 through June 30, 2026. Schools choose their exact testing dates inside this window.
Do all California Grade 11 students take Smarter Balanced?
Grade 11 students generally take Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and mathematics unless they qualify for an alternate assessment.
What is CAST?
CAST stands for California Science Test. It measures science understanding and reasoning aligned with California science standards.
Is CAASPP online?
Yes. Smarter Balanced and CAST are computer-based assessments.
Can students retake CAASPP?
CAASPP is administered according to state and local school testing schedules. Students who miss testing may complete make-up testing within the official window.
Final Advice
The best way to approach California CAASPP testing is to treat it as a skills check, not just a test day. Grade 11 students should focus on reading evidence, explaining reasoning, solving math problems step by step, and interpreting scientific data. With steady preparation, students can enter the testing window with confidence.
