What CASAS STEPS Test Will I Take Next?

If you’re wondering what CASAS STEPS test you will take next, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions ESOL students ask. The answer depends on your current class, your previous score, and where you are on your English journey. The CASAS STEPS Reading and Listening tests are carefully aligned to student levels so every learner is placed fairly and progress is measured consistently. For background, see the official CASAS website.

The Locator Test: Form 620 (Your First Step)

New students don’t start with a full level test. You begin with the CASAS STEPS Locator Test (Form 620) — only 14 questions, about 15 minutes. Its job is to recommend the best starting level for you (A, B, C, D, or E) in Reading or Listening. Think of the locator as the “on-ramp” to the CASAS highway: it chooses the first lane so you can show what you know quickly and comfortably.

Which CASAS STEPS Level Matches My ESOL Class?

Programs often pair ESOL classes with CASAS STEPS levels. For example, an ESOL 3 student may test at Level B or C, while an ESOL 5 student may test at Level D or E. If you’ve been asking yourself, “what CASAS STEPS test will I take next after ESOL 4?” the general rule is C or D — but your score makes the final call.

CASAS STEPS Levels, Forms, and Timing (Reading)

Here are the current CASAS STEPS Reading levels with form numbers, items, and time. Listening follows the same level structure with slightly different times. For a publisher overview of STEPS timing and levels, see Pearson’s CASAS STEPS page.

  • Level A: Forms 621–622 • 33 questions • 30 minutes • for beginning literacy/low-beginning learners.
  • Level B: Forms 623–624 • 36 questions • 50 minutes • for high-beginning learners.
  • Level C: Forms 625–626 • 36 questions • 75 minutes • for low-intermediate learners.
  • Level D: Forms 627–628 • 36 questions • 75 minutes • for high-intermediate learners.
  • Level E: Forms 629–630 • 36 questions • 75 minutes • for advanced, college/workforce-ready learners.

CASAS STEPS Listening forms use the same numbering (e.g., 625L, 629L) and typically range from about 28–56 minutes depending on level.

How Scores Decide Your Next CASAS STEPS Test

So, what CASAS STEPS test will I take next? It depends on your previous score. Your ESOL class suggests a level, but the exact form number (like 625, 627, 629) — and even whether you remain at the same level or move up — is determined by your last result.

Using examples from a real “Next Assigned Test” report:

  • Student A: Scored 202 on 625R (Level C Reading). The next assigned test was 626R — still Level C.
  • Student B: Scored 216 on 628R (Level D Reading). The next test was 627R — remaining at Level D.
  • Student C: Scored 217 on 627R (Level D Reading). The next test was 629R — moved up to Level E.
  • Student D: Scored 213 on 629L (Level E Listening). The next test was 630L — stayed at Level E.

Two ESOL 4 students can therefore receive different assignments: one might take 627R (Level D Reading) while another jumps to 629R (Level E Reading). It’s also normal to be at different levels by skill — for example, Level D in Listening (627L) but Level E in Reading (629R).

Who Actually Decides the Next CASAS STEPS Test?

Many students ask, “what CASAS STEPS test will I take next after finishing my class — does my teacher choose?” The answer is no. The CASAS STEPS system automatically assigns the next form when you log in with your student credentials. It reads your previous score and selects the correct test. Neither the teacher nor the student overrides this — automation keeps placement fair and accurate.

Why This Matters

Knowing what CASAS STEPS test you will take next removes uncertainty and helps you prepare the right way. Each form is designed for your current ability, so you’re challenged — but not overwhelmed. As you move from A to E, your scores show measurable growth in real-world English skills that matter for school, work, and life.

Start Practicing with Confidence

Build momentum before test day. Try a free quiz at your level on our CASAS STEPS Reading practice and CASAS STEPS Listening practice hubs, or explore structured paths on the Courses page. One of the best features of CASASTEPS.com is that when you take a full-size midterm at the end of Unit 5 or a final test at the end of Unit 10, right after you submit you’ll see a CASAS-like score (for example, 210, 235, etc.). That score shows which level you’re currently in and what your next level will likely be. So… what CASAS STEPS test will I take next? CASASTEPS.com can help you estimate what your real CASAS STEPS assignment will be — and practice for it with confidence.