The Computer-Based National Career Assessment Examination (CB-NCAE) for School Year 2025–2026 is set to guide millions of Grade 10 learners toward informed academic and career decisions. Administered by the Department of Education (DepEd) through the Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA), this nationwide assessment reflects a growing global emphasis on data-driven career guidance and learner profiling.
This post provides a clear, detailed, and student- and teacher-friendly overview of the CB-NCAE—what it is, what it measures, when it will be conducted, and how schools and learners can prepare effectively.
🎯 What Is the CB-NCAE and Why It Matters
The National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE) is designed to help learners understand their aptitudes, interests, and potential career pathways. Under DepEd Order No. 55, s. 2016, the assessment supports the K to 12 Basic Education Program by providing reliable data that can inform future educational choices, specialization tracks, and career planning.
The shift to a computer-based format (CB-NCAE) aligns with international assessment practices, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and learner familiarity with digital testing environments—skills increasingly essential in higher education and modern workplaces.
🧠 Key Domains Assessed in the CB-NCAE
The CB-NCAE evaluates learners across two major domains, offering a holistic view of both aptitude and interest.
📘 General Scholastic Aptitude (GSA)
The GSA measures cognitive and academic abilities across multiple skill areas essential for learning and problem-solving:
Abstract Reasoning – recognizing patterns and relationships
Logical Reasoning – analyzing arguments and drawing conclusions
Mechanical Reasoning – understanding basic physical and mechanical concepts
Numerical Reasoning – working with numbers and quantitative data
Spatial Reasoning – visualizing objects and spaces
Verbal Reasoning (English and Filipino) – comprehension and language use
Perceptual Accuracy and Response Efficiency (PARE) – speed and accuracy in task performance
These components help identify strengths that may align with specific academic disciplines or professional fields.
🧭 Career and Occupational Roles Explorer (CORE)
The CORE component focuses on learner interests and preferences, supporting personalized career guidance.
CORE-A (RIASEC Model)
Based on the internationally recognized RIASEC framework, this identifies interests across six areas: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional.CORE-B (Thurstone Model)
This inventory examines occupational inclinations using a structured interest model, offering deeper insights into work preferences and career compatibility.
Together, CORE-A and CORE-B help learners explore career options that align not just with ability, but with motivation and interest.
🗓️ Testing Schedule and Coverage for SY 2025–2026
In accordance with DepEd Order No. 012, s. 2025, the CB-NCAE will be administered during regular class days within the official testing window:
Testing Window: December 2025 to January 2026
Target Examinees: All Grade 10 learners enrolled in public and private schools with government permits or recognition
Exact Testing Dates: To be determined by Schools Division Offices (SDOs) in coordination with their respective Regional Offices
This flexible window allows divisions to manage logistics while ensuring nationwide participation.
🧪 Mandatory Mock Test Starting December 1, 2025
To ensure readiness and reduce test-day anxiety, all Grade 10 learners are required to take a mock test beginning December 1, 2025, at least one week before the actual examination.
The mock test allows learners and teachers to:
Experience the computer-based testing environment
Identify technical or procedural issues
Practice navigating test items and time constraints
Improve overall confidence and performance
A standardized mock test will be provided to guide schools in implementing this activity effectively.
💻 Addressing Technology and Connectivity Challenges
Recognizing that not all schools have sufficient computer units or stable internet access, DepEd encourages resource-sharing and collaboration among schools.
Key provisions include:
Coordination with nearby or partner schools that have adequate facilities
Temporary transfer of laptops, tablets, or testing resources to schools with limited capacity
Transfer of learners allowed only when the partner school is within the same school district
This approach promotes equity and ensures that no learner is left behind due to infrastructure limitations.
👩🏫 Orientation and Test Administration Support
To maintain consistency and quality in test administration, the BEA will conduct a virtual orientation for:
Regional and Division Testing Coordinators
Regional and Division Information Technology Officers
SDO Private School Supervisors
Details regarding schedules and access links will be issued through a separate official advisory.
♿ Inclusive Assessment for Learners with Disabilities
Learners with disabilities may participate in the CB-NCAE, provided that appropriate test accommodations outlined in Section 9 of DO 55, s. 2016 are observed.
Visually impaired learners or those with difficulty seeing may opt to skip image-heavy subtests, including:
Abstract Reasoning
Mechanical Reasoning
Spatial Reasoning
PARE
This ensures fair assessment while respecting individual learner needs.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD CB-NCAE MATERIALS
🩺 Health and Safety Measures
All activities related to the CB-NCAE must strictly follow existing health and safety protocols, ensuring a safe and supportive testing environment for learners, teachers, and administrators.
📩 Official Contact Information
For clarifications and official concerns, contact:
Bureau of Education Assessment – Education Assessment Division
Department of Education Central Office
Meralco Avenue, Pasig City
📧 bea.ead@deped.gov.ph
☎️ (02) 8631-2589