The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced the administration of the Computer-Based National Career Assessment Examination (CB-NCAE) for School Year 2025–2026 through DepEd Memorandum No. 108, s. 2025. This national assessment plays a critical role in helping Filipino learners understand their strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
Administered by the Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA) with support from Schools Division Offices (SDOs) and secondary school personnel, the CB-NCAE is aligned with DepEd Order No. 55, s. 2016, ensuring standardized, equitable, and learner-centered testing nationwide.
What Is the CB-NCAE and Why It Matters
The National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE) is not a pass-or-fail test. Instead, it is a career guidance tool designed to help learners make informed decisions about their academic tracks, senior high school pathways, and future careers.
By shifting to a computer-based format, DepEd aims to modernize assessment delivery while improving efficiency, accuracy, and learner familiarity with digital testing environments.
For parents, educators, and guidance advocates, the CB-NCAE provides reliable data to support counseling and long-term educational planning.
Who Will Take the CB-NCAE and When
According to the memorandum, the CB-NCAE will be administered to all Grade 10 learners currently enrolled in:
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Public secondary schools
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Private secondary schools with government permit or recognition
The test will be conducted during regular class days within the national testing window of December 2025 to January 2026.
Specific testing dates will be determined by each Schools Division Office (SDO) in coordination with their respective Regional Offices, allowing flexibility while maintaining national standards.
Test Coverage: Aptitude and Career Interests
The CB-NCAE assesses learners across two major components:
1. General Scholastic Aptitude (GSA)
This measures learners’ cognitive strengths through the following subtests:
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Abstract Reasoning
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Logical Reasoning
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Mechanical Reasoning
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Numerical Reasoning
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Spatial Reasoning
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Verbal Reasoning (English and Filipino)
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Perceptual Accuracy and Response Efficiency (PARE)
2. Career and Occupational Roles Explorer (CORE)
This evaluates occupational interests and preferences using:
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CORE-A (RIASEC Model) – explores career interests such as Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional
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CORE-B (Thurstone Model) – examines work-related preferences and tendencies
Together, these results help learners identify career-aligned senior high school tracks and future professions.
Mock Test and Learner Preparation
To ensure readiness, DepEd mandates a mock test starting December 1, 2025, at least one week before the national administration.
The mock test allows learners to:
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Familiarize themselves with the computer-based system
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Practice navigation and item formats
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Reduce test anxiety
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Identify potential technical issues early
Schools are encouraged to maximize this activity as part of learner preparation and confidence-building.
Addressing Technology and Connectivity Challenges
DepEd recognizes that not all schools have sufficient functional computer units or stable internet connectivity. To address this, the memorandum encourages resource-sharing and collaboration among nearby schools and partner institutions.
Key provisions include:
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Temporary transfer of laptops, tablets, or testing equipment
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Coordination with nearby schools that have adequate facilities
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Learner transfer allowed only within the same school district
This approach promotes equitable access and ensures that no learner is left behind due to infrastructure limitations.
Support, Orientation, and Inclusive Testing
The BEA will conduct a virtual orientation for:
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Regional and Division Testing Coordinators
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Regional and Division IT Officers
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SDO Private School Supervisors
Details will be provided through a separate advisory to ensure smooth and standardized test administration.
Learners with disabilities may also participate, provided that test accommodations under Section 9 of DO 55, s. 2016 are met. Visually impaired learners, or those with difficulty seeing, may opt to skip image-heavy subtests such as Abstract Reasoning, Mechanical Reasoning, Spatial Reasoning, and PARE.
All CB-NCAE-related activities must strictly follow health and safety protocols.
Official Source and Contact Information
This information is based on DepEd Memorandum No. 108, s. 2025, issued by the Department of Education Central Office. For clarifications, schools and stakeholders may contact:
Bureau of Education Assessment – Education Assessment Division
DepEd Central Office, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City
Email: bea.ead@deped.gov.ph
Telephone: (02) 8631-2589
Guiding Learners Toward Informed Futures
The CB-NCAE for SY 2025–2026 underscores DepEd’s commitment to career guidance, inclusivity, and digital transformation in Philippine education. With proper preparation, coordination, and support, this assessment will empower Grade 10 learners to better understand themselves—and confidently plan their next steps.