The Biology examination covers material that is usually taught in a one-year college general biology course. The subject matter tested covers the broad field of the biological sciences, organized into three major areas: molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, and population biology.
Topics include:
- Chemical composition of organisms
- Cells
- Enzymes
- Energy transformations
- Cell division
- Chemical nature of the gene
- 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
- Principles of heredity
- Principles of ecology
- Principles of evolution
- Principles of behavior
- Social biology
This test is given by The College Board which is a mission-driven not-for-profit organization that connects students to college success and opportunity.
Founded in 1900, the College Board was created to expand access to higher education. Today, the membership association is made up of over 6,000 of the world’s leading educational institutions and is dedicated to promoting excellence and equity in education.
Each year, the College Board helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success. The organization also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators and schools.
This exam is available to all but is especially relevant to juniors and senior high school students.
Schedule a meeting with your school counselor or a teacher to learn about the process for taking this exam including deadlines for signing up for courses at your school.
There are many reasons to take this exam but many students choose it to set themselves apart in college admission and to earn the college credit and placement that come with a successful exam score.
The examination gives approximately equal weight to molecular and cell biology, organism biology, and population biology. The examination contains approximately 115 questions to be answered in 90 minutes. Some of these are pretest questions that will not be scored. Any time candidates spend on tutorials and providing personal information is in addition to the actual testing time.