2026 CAASPP Testing Window Link to this section
| Assessment | Grade | Administration Window |
| Smarter Balanced (ELA and Math) | 3-8, 11 | March 16 - June 3 |
| CAST Science | 5, 8, 11 | March 16- June 3 |
| California Alternate Assessment (ELA and Math) | 3-8, 11 | March 16 - June 3 |
California Alternate Assessment Science | 5, 8 & 11 | September 25- June 3 |
2025-26Dates & Resources Link to this section
2025-26 Dates & Resources Dates to remember and helpful resources for administering Smarter Balanced Assessments
Before Testing Link to this section
4-6 Weeks Before Testing
Plan your Testing Schedule Link to this section
- Develop a schedule that is most effective for your site
- Test schedules can be flexible due to the length of testing window
- CAASPP previous years sample schedules and template
2-3 Weeks Before Testing
Verify Test Assignments using Illuminate Reports
Send home Family Notification Letters Link to this section
Provide Training to Teachers Link to this section
- Test Administrator Training: Google Slides (forthcoming)
- Materials Folder
1 Week Before Testing
Prepare Materials for Administration Link to this section
During Testing Link to this section
Testing Day
Have ready: Devices for Testing & Materials (DFAs) for Administrators
- 2026 State Assessment Session Tickets (list)
- Test Security Chart, Disable Pop-ups, CAASPP Pause Rules, CAASPP Test Session Verification Form
- Administer and Monitor Testing,
After Testing Link to this section
1 Week After Testing
- Check Student Completion Status & Securely Dispose of Secure Materials
- Submit Accountability Documentation
- Share Results Information with Families
Illuminate Reports Link to this section
Use these reports to help plan testing: verify student's test assignments, EL status, and designated supports
| Illuminate Report | Description |
| 2025 - 26 CAASPP Test Assignment Report | List of CAASPP assessments by student (example: CAA, Science) |
| US Entry For EL Students | List of students exempt from ELA/Literacy |
| List of students with assigned supports and accommodations | |
| 2025-25 SBA Session Tickets (list) | Student CAASPP log-on information |
Accessibility Supports Link to this section
This page was last updated on November 3, 2025