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NESCode: 305

NES Biology (305) Practice Tests

Prepare for the NES Biology (305) exam. Covers the nature of science, biochemistry and cell biology, genetics and evolution, biological unity and diversity, and ecology and the environment. 150 questions, 180 min, passing score 220.

150
Questions
3h
Time limit
220
Pass score
5
Domains
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Explanation for every question
Domain-level score breakdown
Timed full-length practice mode

Source: All exam details are drawn from official examination program websites and state educator certification agency documentation. Most state licensure exams are developed and administered by Evaluation Systems of Pearson (nesinc.com) on behalf of state departments of education. Always verify current requirements with your state's teacher certification agency.

Praxis NES Biology (305): Test at a Glance

Key facts directly from the official ETS test specifications.

Test Code
305
NES
Total Questions
150
Selected-response
Time Limit
3h
Computer-delivered
Passing Score
220
Scaled; varies by state
Registration Fee
$130
Paid to ETS at registration
Content Areas
5
Official blueprint
Score Reporting
5 wks
After test date
Delivery
Computer
Prometric or remote

Official Exam Blueprint

The official ETS blueprint defines exactly 5 content categories. Percentages are drawn directly from the ETS Study Companion.

Category 1
Nature of Science
20%
30 questions
Category 2
Biochemistry and Cell Biology
13%
20 questions
Category 3
Genetics and Evolution
27%
41 questions
Category 4
Biological Unity and Diversity
20%
30 questions
Category 5
Ecology and the Environment
20%
30 questions

Registration & Test Day

Everything you need to know before and on test day.

Registration

Register atpraxis.ets.org
Registration fee$130
ID requiredGovernment-issued photo ID
Score recipientsDesignate at registration

Scoring

Score typeScaled score
Raw score basisCorrect answers only
Passing scoreVaries by state
Results available5 weeks post-test

In-Person Testing

Test centersPrometric locations
Personal itemsStored in locker
Scratch paperProvided at station
Admission ticketPrint from ETS account

Remote Testing

DeviceLaptop/desktop only
No touchscreensTablets not allowed
Browser requiredETS Secure Test Browser
Equipment neededCamera, mic, speakers

Passing Score Requirements by State

Passing scores are not uniform across states.

Important: Passing score requirements for the NES Biology (305) 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 at ets.org/praxis/states before registering.

Your raw score (number of correct answers) is converted to a scaled score that accounts for minor difficulty differences between test editions. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so never leave a question blank. Note that some questions on the exam are unscored pretest items — these do not affect your score.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers sourced from ETS official documentation and test preparation resources.

How many questions are on the NES Biology (305) exam?+
The NES Biology (305) consists of 150 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 NES Biology (305)?+
Passing scores vary by state and institution. Most states require a scaled score between 140–150. Always verify the specific requirement for your state at ets.org/praxis/states before registering.
How much does the NES Biology (305) exam cost?+
The standard registration fee is $130, paid directly to ETS at the time of registration. Some states or institutions may charge additional fees. Register through your ETS account at praxis.ets.org.
When will I receive my NES Biology (305) score?+
Official score reports are typically available 5–6 weeks after your test date. Scores are posted to your ETS account and sent to any institutions you designated at registration.
Can I take the NES Biology (305) exam at home?+
Yes. Remote testing is available and requires a laptop/desktop with the ETS Secure Test Browser, webcam, microphone, and speakers. A live proctor will monitor your session via video. You must complete a room scan and show valid ID.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers on the NES Biology (305)?+
No. Your score is based solely on correct answers. There is no penalty for incorrect responses, so you should answer every question — never leave one blank.

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Sources: ETS NES Biology (305) Study Companion (official PDF, praxis.ets.org); ETS Praxis Test Schedule 2025–26. Praxis® is a registered trademark of Educational Testing Service (ETS). This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by ETS. Passing score requirements vary by state — always verify at ets.org/praxis/states.
Last Updated: September 25, 2026