The CLEP Biology exam covers approximately 115 questions within a 90-minute time block covering the following topics:

1. Molecular and Cellular Biology (33%)—pertaining to the chemical composition of organisms, cells, enzymes, energy transformations, cell division, and the chemical nature of the gene

2. Organismal Biology (34%)—regarding structure and function in plants with emphasis on angiosperms, plant reproduction and development, structure and function in animals with emphasis on vertebrates, animal reproduction and development, and principles of heredity

3. Population Biology (33%)—encompassing principles of ecology, principles of evolution, principles of behavior, and social biology

The Biology CLEP exam aims to assess knowledge on these specific topics, ranging from basic to complex ideas. A student’s exam success is dependent upon mastery of these concepts. A Biology CLEP exam review on these topics will help to ensure success on CLEP Biology exam day.

The Biology CLEP exam is regarded as a challenging test, meaning it may be difficult for test takers who have no prior experience with life science. For students who have taken biology classes and have ardently studied, the Biology CLEP test is more of a review of prior knowledge rather than an introduction to entirely new concepts. With that being said, a well-structured study plan with time set aside to prepare for the CLEP Biology exam gives you an advantage in achieving the best possible score. Set realistic study goals and visualize your success along the way.

Students who want to gain college credit in biology without taking a class can take the CLEP Biology exam. CLEP exams provide a valuable opportunity to a wide variety of people seeking to save money while earning college credit. Tests assess students’ knowledge of various academic subjects. Learners that benefit from CLEP include:

• Home-schoolers—allowing the student the ability to demonstrate their knowledge and mastery of a specific subject while gaining college credit

• Military personnel—offering the ability to advance in education and achieve career goals while managing a busy schedule

• Adult learners—allowing those who plan to return to school after a break or pursue education for the first time the ability to save money and time

• College students—utilizing CLEP can advance their degree completion

• High school students—giving students a head start on their college education by earning credits towards college on their transcript.

In summation, anyone seeking college credit can take the CLEP Biology exam.

The passing rate for the Biology CLEP pass rate is 60%. The CLEP Biology passing score to earn college credit is 50, according to the American Council on Education (ACE). This is a scaled score, equivalent to earning a C in the relevant course.

By taking CLEP exams you can apply prior or current knowledge to get a head start on your higher education pathway, enhance your degree, and save time and money on courses.

Students can take a variety of exams on entry-level collegiate topics to bypass these courses in college or university. Does this sound familiar? That may be because many students take CLEP tests in conjunction with DSST tests. While both offer college credit, CLEP tests offer testing in mainstream subjects while DSST test subjects are more specialized.

A scaled score is calculated, based on multiple-choice questions and essay scores, that range from 20 to 80. The student then earns an A, B, C, or D based on this score. The letter grade is applied to your college course equivalent.