CCTST

University Testing Center

The California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) is a graduation requirement for all ETSU undergraduate students. Students are eligible to complete the CCTST upon earning 96 credits. Failure to take the CCTST will result in having your diploma held until this condition is met.

What is the CCTST? 

The California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) is an approved standardized test administered by ETSU to fulfill Quality Assurance Funding (QAF) Standard 1: General Education Assessment.  The General Education Assessment is designed to provide incentives to institutions for improvement in the quality of their undergraduate general education program as measured by the performance of graduates on an approved standardized test of general education.  Each year ETSU's average is compared to the national average for that year.

All undergraduate students graduating in the fall, spring, or summer semesters are required to take the CCTST, but some exemptions may apply. The CCTST is a 45 minute, 34-item, multiple-choice test that evaluates students’ ability to analyze, infer, explain, evaluate, and interpret information. 

Contact:  Megan Miller
Telephone:  (423) 439-6712
E-Mail:  millerme2@etsu.edu 


For more information, please visit the Student Guide or Faculty/Advisor Guide.

Why is it important for me to do my best on the CCTST?

  • Employers and graduate programs value the ability to think clearly, solve problems, and evaluate arguments.  You will receive your CCTST score as soon as you finish the test, along with standards showing how well you did.  You can use this information to show prospective employers and graduate schools you have the abilities they desire.
  • Your degree means more when it comes from a respected university. By doing your best on the CCTST, you help raise ETSU’s institutional score. The better ETSU looks, the better you look.
  • ETSU benefits from your success. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission awards funding based in part on CCTST institutional scores. As much as $600,000 could be awarded to ETSU from the state government based on our students' performance on the CCTST in any academic year.

What is the test like? 

The CCTST is a computer-based test consisting of 34 questions and designed to be completed in 45-50 minutes. To do your best, you should spend the full 45-50 minutes on the test. You can access test prep information and sample questions at  www.insightassessment.com

Is the CCTST the same thing as a "Major Field Test"?

No. The CCTST is different from a Major Field Test (e.g. the "Senior Business Exam").  All graduating seniors must take the CCTST; only those in certain majors take a Major Field Test.  You will be contacted by your department with the dates and locations of tests if you are required to take a Major Field Test. If you are graduating from a program that requires a Major Field Test, you must complete both the CCTST and the Major Field Test in order to graduate. 

Who doesn't have to take the CCTST?

Some students are exempt from the CCTST requirement. 

  • Students who have already taken the CCTST;

  • Second degree candidates (not Reverse Transfer students);

  • Students registered with Disability Services as having a documented disability that the test and/or testing center is not designed to accommodate; and

  • Non-native English speakers.

Where do I take the CCTST?

You can take the CCTST at University Testing Services (UTS), located in Sherrod Library. (Online and distance students may complete the CCTST at an approved offsite location. For assistance, please contact Megan Miller: millerme2@etsu.edu.)

  • To Make an Appointment to take the CCTST on campus at ETSU, please follow this Link;  for hours or directions, please follow the "Testing" link at www.etsu.edu/students/testing
  • To take the CCTST at another testing center, see below.

  • Online only and distance students may take the CCTST at an approved offsite location.  If you are an online only or distance student, please contact the Office of Assessment:

    Megan Miller

    Email:  millerme2@etsu.edu

    Telephone: 423-439-6712

Reminders:

  • You must have your ETSU Student ID with you when you arrive to take the test in order to verify your identity and E-number. 
  • The CCTST is designed to be completed in 45-50 minutes.  To do your best, you should spend the full 45-50 minutes on the test.    

Contact Testing Services at testing@etsu.edu or (423) 439-6708 if ...

  • you have questions about testing and/or Testing Services, or you need assistance scheduling the CCTST in the University Testing Center.