WEST-B: The Professional Educator Standards Board established the Washington Educator Skills Test Basic (West-B) as a requirement for admission to PESB-approved teacher preparation programs in August of 2002.(RCW 28A.410.220) Passing the WEST-B is also required of persons from out-of-state seeking a Washington State residency teaching certificate. The WEST-B consists of three sub-tests that measure the basic skills in reading, mathematics, and writing. All three sub-tests must be passed to meet the WEST-B requirement.
WEST-B Extension: Individuals applying for a Washington State residency teaching certificate who have completed a teacher preparation program in another state or country may be eligible for an extension to the WEST-B requirement.
WEST-B Exemption: Under certain circumstances, there are exemptions for individuals who are prepared and/or certified out-of-state applying for a Washington State teacher residency certificate or out-of-state candidates applying to masters-degree level teacher preparation programs and residing outside of the state of Washington at the time of application.
WEST TESTS TRANSITION FROM PAPER- TO COMPUTER-BASED DELIVERY: Beginning June 2013, paper-based tests (PBT) will transition to computer-based delivery over a seven-month period. All WEST tests will be available on computer as of January 2014. WEST-B is scheduled to be transitioned to computer-based delivery November 2013. Visit WEST Test Transition for more information.
Computer-based tests taken on or after June 13, 2013 will be available year round by appointment, Mon-Sat.(excluding holidays).
Questions regarding Computer-based tests: FAQ