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CSETCode: 217

CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) Practice Tests

Prepare for the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217): 50 multiple-choice questions and 3 constructed-response questions in 2 hours, covering 4 content areas: From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes, Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics, Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits and Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity.

Written by Craig JohnReviewed by Marcus ThompsonUpdated October 24, 2026
53
Questions
2h
Time limit
220
Pass score
4
Domains
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Source: All exam details are drawn from the official California Educator Credentialing Assessments website (Evaluation Systems of Pearson, on behalf of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing). Verify requirements at ctc.ca.gov.

Free CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) Sample Quiz

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Which process in plant cells converts light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose?

CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217): Test at a Glance

Key facts directly from the official California Commission on Teacher Credentialing test specifications.

Test Code
217
CSET
Total Questions
53
Selected-response
Time Limit
2h
Computer-delivered
Passing Score
220
Scaled; varies by state
Registration Fee
Varies
Paid to California Commission on Teacher Credentialing at registration
Content Areas
4
Official blueprint
Score Reporting
Varies
After test date
Delivery
Computer
Prometric or remote

Official Exam Blueprint

The official California Commission on Teacher Credentialing blueprint defines exactly 4 content categories. Percentages are drawn directly from official exam specifications.

Category 1
From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
%
0 questions
Category 2
Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
%
0 questions
Category 3
Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
%
0 questions
Category 4
Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
%
0 questions

Registration & Test Day

Everything you need to know before and on test day.

Registration

Register withCalifornia Commission on Teacher Credentialing
Registration feeVaries
ID requiredGovernment-issued photo ID
Score recipientsDesignate at registration

Scoring

Score typeScaled score
Raw score basisCorrect answers only
Passing scoreVaries by state
Results availableVaries by exam

In-Person Testing

Test centersVaries by exam program
Personal itemsStored in locker
Scratch paperProvided at station
Admission ticketPrint from testing account

Remote Testing

DeviceLaptop/desktop only
No touchscreensTablets not allowed
Browser requiredSecure test browser (if applicable)
Equipment neededCamera, mic, speakers

Passing Score Requirements by State

Passing scores are not uniform across states.

Important: Passing score requirements for the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) are set individually by each state or licensing agency. A score that meets requirements in one state may not meet requirements in another. Always verify the exact passing score for your state with California Commission on Teacher Credentialingor your state's teacher certification agency before registering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers sourced from official examination program documentation and test preparation resources.

How many questions are on the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) exam?+
The CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) consists of 53 selected-response questions with a standard time limit. Questions assess both foundational knowledge and the ability to apply concepts to practical situations.
What is the passing score for the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217)?+
Passing scores vary by state and institution. Always verify the specific requirement for your state with California Commission on Teacher Credentialing or your state's teacher certification agency before registering.
How much does the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) exam cost?+
Registration fees vary by exam and are paid directly to California Commission on Teacher Credentialing at the time of registration. Some states or institutions may charge additional fees.
When will I receive my CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) score?+
Official score reports are typically available several weeks after your test date. Scores are posted to your testing account and sent to any institutions you designated at registration.
Can I take the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217) exam at home?+
Remote testing availability varies by exam program. Check with California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for current options, which may include a secure browser, webcam, microphone, and live proctor monitoring.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers on the CSET Science Subtest II: Life Sciences (217)?+
Scoring policies vary by exam program — verify with California Commission on Teacher Credentialing whether incorrect answers are penalized before test day.

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Adaptive questions aligned to all 4 official content categories. Domain-level analytics so you know exactly where to focus.

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Sources: Official CSET examination program documentation and state educator certification agency resources, administered by California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Passing score requirements vary by state — always verify current requirements with your state's teacher certification agency.
Last Updated: October 24, 2026

About the Authors

Craig John

Written by

Craig John

Content Development Lead, M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction, B.S. in Mathematics Education

Steve John, bringing over ten years of experience in SEO content strategy, educational content development, and exam preparation. He specializes in creating clear, comprehensive, and search-optimized learning resources that help candidates prepare for certification and teacher licensure exams, including Praxis, GACE, and other educator assessments.

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Marcus Thompson

Reviewed by

Marcus Thompson

Education Content Development Manager, M.Ed. Mathematics Education, B.S. Mathematics

Marcus Thompson is a dedicated mathematics educator with over 12 years of classroom experience and curriculum development expertise. As a former curriculum director, he has designed test preparation programs used by hundreds of teacher candidates. His deep knowledge of TExES mathematics exams and proven teaching methodologies help candidates build confidence and master mathematical concepts.

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