The CSPA is an online application that looks at your reading writing and numeracy (or math) skills.
Make sure you review the process for taking some CSPA practice tests! They will help you
What is the CSPA used for?
ACCM College will use the results of the CSPA to determine if you will need additional learning support during your online program.
Qualifications funded under Subsidised Training require applicants to complete a supervised CSPA.
ACCM College will monitor the completion of the CSPA using web-video technology/options.
This requirement is in place regardless of your prior education or employment.
If you have recently completed a Diploma-level or higher qualification please let ACCM know immediately, as you may not need to complete the CSPA.
What will the results of the CSPA mean?
The SA government has set some ‘required levels’ for reading, writing and numeracy that need to be met for specific qualifications.
If you don’t meet the required levels, ACCM College will work with you to determine what additional support or specific training you may require.
How does the CSPA work?
The CSPA is completed using a computer (desktop or laptop) and is made up of three components: Reading, Writing and Numeracy.
ACCM College will observe/witness you taking this exam via a web camera (test supervision is required by the SA government).
If securing a web camera is an issue, please contact ACCM College immediately.
Reading
The reading component involves multiple choice and some text-based questions. This section asks you to:
- recognise the correct spelling, meanings and grammatical use of commonly used words.
- read a short passage and demonstrate your understanding of it by answering the accompanying questions.
- read and interpret information from tables, charts and other sources.
Writing
The writing component has two question prompts with extended text entry fields for you to type your answers. This section:
- requires you to write a minimum of 3 paragraphs with at least 3 sentences in each paragraph so the system has enough information to grade you.
- looks at areas such as audience, purpose, vocabulary, grammar, language choices, sentence structure, spelling, and punctuation.
Numeracy
The numeracy component involves multiple choice and numerical entry questions, covering areas in basic numeracy which arise in normal day-to-day life.
- The questions involve basic operations on whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages and simple graphical interpretations, with higher level indicators for problem solving, numbers and algebra, measurement and geometry, and statistics and probability.
- There is an in-built calculator in the numeracy section.
Practice CSPA assessments for Numeracy and Literacy
A practice assessment is available for adults or school students to download so you can experience and complete a mini assessment of your reading and numeracy skills.
The following link will enable you to register your own unique email address and be sent a link to access it.
If you do not receive the link within 15 minutes you should check your ‘junk’ folder in your email inbox.
At the end of the 6 reading and 6 numeracy questions you will be able to see online what you answered correctly or incorrectly and can go back and re-read the question(s).
There is also an option to restart the practice assessment if you wish to try again before you exit. Once you exit the practice assessment you will not be able to use the link to the assessment you received again and will need to re-register with a different unique email address.
Access CSPA Practice Material
ACCM College strongly recommends you give these practice tests a try. It will familiarise you with the process and help you know what to expect.
CSPA information on the writing assessment (use the tabs at the top to see additional information on each subject)
Arranging your CSPA Access
If you haven't already booked your exams as part of the onboarding process, please reach out to ACCM College at cspa@accm.edu.au and let us know when you are available.
Please let us know if you feel you need extra support (ie a special need).