US3 California Government Waiver Exam

What is the US3 Waiver Exam?

The US California Government waiver exam may be used to waive the US3 California Government graduation requirement. It is a 60-minute, multiple-choice examination with 50 questions. A score of 35/50 is needed to pass. The test may be taken a maximum of two times (2 weeks between attempts).

This exam is administered on an individual basis, in-person, by advance appointment only. Passing the waiver exam only waives the US3 requirement; it does not grant any unit credit.

The US1 (US History) and US 2 (American Government/US Constitution) requirements can be cleared (with credit) using the appropriate CLEP exam.

Who Needs the US3 Waiver Exam?

Waiver exams are optional. No one is required to take them; however, they may be of benefit to students who want to clear lower division GE requirements, advance more quickly towards their degree, or satisfy program admission criteria.

How to Register for the US3 Waiver Exam?

We host waiver exams on an appointment basis. Email us to schedule an appointment at least two business days in advance.

Fees

The fee for the exam is $11 (SJSU students w/Tower Card) and $15 (non-SJSU students).

Testing fees are collected after you have completed the exam. We accept credit or debit cards only.

Special Circumstances

I usually test with accommodations.

If you receive disability-related accommodations, contact SJSU's Accessible Education Center after you schedule an appointment with our office. Additional time may be necessary to process your accommodations; we can reschedule if needed.

I need to reschedule my exam.

Email us to reschedule your test date. We can reschedule you to another available date/time. We reserve the right to approve/deny all requests.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prepare for the test?

The suggested reading list for the test includes California Politics and Government: A Practical Approach (14th Edition), and Guide to California Government (16th Edition). Reading both texts is advised; older editions may be substituted.

Topics to study include:

  • California's early constitution
  • Growth and Population Characteristics of California
  • Political Parties
  • Direct Democracy
  • Elections
  • Campaigns
  • Interest Groups
  • The Courts
  • The Legislature
  • The Governor and Executive Branch
  • Local Government
  • Major Issues in Public Policy (e.g., education and immigration)

For questions on how to prepare for the US3 California Government Waiver Exam, contact the Department Chair of the SJSU Department of Political Science.

When will I know my score?

Your score will be available within 2-3 business days. SJSU students will be notified via MySJSU messaging; non-SJSU students will receive their score report in the mail.

 

Email testing-office@sjsu.edu for any questions.