Proficiency exam planned

Anyone wanting to complete high school and advance to college or a career may earn the equivalent of a high school diploma through the California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE).

The exam is open to anyone 16 or older, whether enrolled in school or not. Those under 16 may take the CHSPE if they have completed 10th grade or are enrolled in the second semester of 10th grade.

A Certificate of Proficiency is awarded by the state Board of Education to those who pass the CHSPE. This certificate is equivalent by law to a high school diploma and should be accepted as such for any purposes requiring a high school diploma.

Registration forms must be received no later than the registration deadline of Nov. 1. The registration fee is $50.

The three-hour test will be administered on Sat., Nov. 18 at El Camino Real High School in Woodland Hills for Los Angeles County residents and at the Ventura County Office of Education in Camarillo for Ventura County residents.

Copies of the "Information Bulletin" with sample questions, additional test sites, registration form, and mailing envelope are available at public and private high schools and all public libraries; at the Web site http://www.chspe.com or by calling (916) 383-9506.