The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) was developed as the means by which applicants for teaching or service credentials could demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics. Demonstration of proficiency in these skills was required for the issuance of a credential starting February 1, 1983. When examinees registered for the test, they filled out a background questionnaire. Responses to questions were analyzed in relation to the pass-fail determination made on the basis of test scores. Factors which appear to have some relationship to CBEST performance are: (1) full-time vs part-time attendance for students working toward a baccalaureate degree; (2) attendance at a community college prior to enrollment in a four-year institution; (3) whether or not an examinee had received any tutorial work in these skills after graduating from secondary school; (4) country in which secondary school education was obtained, and facility in English compared with another language; and (5) sophomore and senior grade-point averages. Eleven tables are included in the body of this report, which deals specifically with only some of the background questions. Appended are 14 additional tables and the CBEST background questions. (JMK)