If you need help studying for the GACE Science test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place!
Click below to take a free GACE Science practice test!
What’s on the Test?
The GACE Science test contains 160 multiple-choice questions and is timed at 4 hours and 20 minutes.
The exam is split into two subtests, which are taken in separate testing sessions (but can be taken on the same day if you’d like).
SUBTEST I (024)
80 questions | 2 hours and 10 minutes
Scientific Inquiry, Processes, Technology, and Society (30%)
- Methods of scientific inquiry and design
- History and nature of scientific knowledge
- Major historical developments of science
- Processes involved in scientific data collection and manipulation
- Interpreting and drawing conclusions from data
- Correct prep, storage, use, and disposal of lab materials
- Using standard lab and field equipment
- Safety and emergency procedures in the lab
- The impact of science and technology on the environment and society
- Major issues pertaining to energy production
- Applications of science and technology in daily life
- The impact of science on public health issues
Physical Science (30%)
- The organization of matter
- The atomic model
- Relationships involving matter and energy
- The periodic table
- Compounds
- Chemical formulas
- Bonding
- Reactions
- Solutions
- Mechanics
- Electricity and magnetism
- Wave properties
SUBTEST II (025)
80 questions | 2 hours and 10 minutes
Life Science (60%)
- Basic cell and organelle structure and functions
- Cell reproduction and division
- Basic biochemistry
- Basic genetics
- The theory of evolution
- Elements of the hierarchical classification scheme
- Major structures of plants
- Basic anatomy and physiology of animals
- Population dynamics
- Community ecology
- Ecosystems
Earth and Space Science (40%)
- Types and characteristics of rocks and minerals
- Erosion, weathering, and sedimentation
- Earth’s basic structure and internal processes
- Plate tectonic theory
- Historical geology
- The water cycle
- Characteristics and processes of Earth’s oceans and other bodies of water
- Basic structure and composition of Earth’s atmosphere
- Weather developmentMajor factors that affect climate and seasons
- Major solar system features
- Interactions within the Earth-Moon-Sun system
- Major features of the universe
How to Register
To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to create a MyPSC account on the GaPSC website. You should receive a Georgia Certification ID (GA CERT ID) during this process, which you’ll use for identification throughout the registration and testing process.
The next step is to create an ETS GACE testing account on the ETS website. This account will allow you to register for the exam and pay the testing fee(s). If you take each subtest separately, the fee is $123 for each subtest. If you take both subtests together, the fee is $193.
GACE Science Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
How the Exam is Scored
The GACE Science test is scored using a scaled scoring method. Here’s how it works:
For every question you answer correctly, you get one point added to your raw score. At the end of the test, your final raw score will be converted to a scaled score. You’ll need a scaled score of at least 220 to pass the exam.
The reason your raw score is converted to a scaled score is because everyone that takes the test is given a slightly different set of questions. Since everyone has a different arrangement of questions, and because some questions are harder than others, converting your raw score to a scaled score ensures a more even playing field.
Passing Scores
There are two passing levels for this exam: induction and professional. Each level has its own minimum passing score requirements:
- Induction Level: 220-249
- Professional Level: 250
Here’s something to keep in mind: You have to pass at the professional level on BOTH subtests in order for your final exam scores to count at the professional level. If you only pass at the induction level on one of the subtests, your final exam score will only count at the induction level.
Retaking the Exam
If you don’t get the score you want on your first try, that’s okay! You can take the exam again after a mandatory 30-day waiting period.
FAQs
How many questions are on the GACE Science exam?
The exam contains 160 questions.
What is the time limit for the GACE Science exam?
The exam is timed at 4 hours and 20 minutes.
What is the passing score for the GACE Science exam?
You’ll need to get a score of at least 220 to pass the exam.
How much does the GACE Science exam cost?
The fee for the full exam is $193.