How do I prepare for the Rica?
Robert Clark
Published Jan 09, 2026
How to Study for the RICA Test
- Studying for the RICA Exam. ...
- Step 1: Understand the Test and Its Objectives. ...
- Step 2: Learn About Your Specific Test Format. ...
- Step 3: Access Reliable Study Materials. ...
- Step 4: Schedule Study Time. ...
- Step 5: Join a Study Group.
How long should you study for the Rica?
The RICA is difficult and will demand some serious study time. You should plan on spending an hour or two every day for about eight weeks to fully prepare.How hard is the Rica exam?
The RICA is a notoriously difficult exam to pass on the first try, which is why learning how to study for the RICA is so important. The passing score for the RICA is 220, a score only 62.2% of candidates passed on the first try in the years 2015-2020.What do I need to pass the Rica?
RICA Passing Score. A score of 220 is required to pass the RICA test. This applies to both the written and video examinations.What can I expect from the Rica test?
The RICA written examination is actually a 4-hour computer-based test that includes 70 multiple-choice questions, four open-ended questions requiring essays ranging from 75 to 300 words, and a case study requiring a 300 - 600 word analysis.How to Pass the RICA | California Teaching Credential
Can you take the Rica at home?
The computer-based exam must be taken in a testing center. The online-proctored exam can be taken remotely. Instead of completing the written exam, candidates may choose to take the RICA Video Performance Assessment.How long is the Rica test?
At this time, the RICA Written Examination is a four-hour assessment with 70 multiple choice questions, four constructed response items, and a case study covering the five identified domains of reading instruction.What happens if you don't pass the Rica exam?
Many aspiring teachers in California must pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) to receive their teacher certification. If you did not earn the minimum passing score of 220 on the written or video test, you can retake it. You must register and pay to take the test again.Is California getting rid of the Rica?
Aspiring educators will still be required to complete the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) and Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA) prior to earning a Clear Credential, but testing flexibilities enacted for last school year will be extended for 2021-2022 as part of AB 130.When should I take the Rica?
When should I take the RICA exam? People are allowed to take the RICA exam at anytime; however, for purposes of planning to find a full-time teaching position, teachers will want to make sure they have received a passing score before they graduate from their Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential Program.How long is each Rica subtest?
RICA Subtests for the Written RICA ExamThis subtest is 1 hour and 15 minutes long. It has 35 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed responses. The written responses are both focused task questions, one 150-300 words and the other 75-125 words. It assesses knowledge of the Word Analysis and Fluency domains.