The CSTs for English–language arts, mathematics, science, and history–social science are administered only to students in California public schools. Except for a writing component that is administered as part of the grade four and grade seven English–language arts tests, all questions are multiple-choice. These tests were developed specifically to assess students' knowledge of the California content standards. The State Board of Education adopted these standards, which specify what all children in California are expected to know and be able to do in each grade or course. The 2009 CSTs were required for students who were enrolled in the following grades/courses at the time of testing or who had completed a course during the 2008–09 school year, including 2008 summer school.

Adams scores can also be found on-line at the California Department of Education by clicking here.