The CSET Social Science Exam is a computer-based exam that consists of three subtests.
Subtest 1 focuses on World History and World Geography. Subtest 2 focuses on
History and U.S. Geography. Subtest 3 focuses on Civics, Economics, and
California History
Examinees with conditions covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act that require
special testing accommodations, may make this request in writing.
Some of the special requests that may be accommodated, are extra time, breaks that do not
lessen your testing time, Braille test materials, and a screen magnifier.
Online CSET Social Science Prep Course
If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online CSET Social Science Prep Course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The CSET Social Science Course includes:
- Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
- 350+ CSET Social Science Practice Questions
- More than 450 Digital Flashcards
- Over 70 Instructional Videos
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The CSET Social Science Prep Course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their CSET Social Science exam. Click below to check it out!
What domains and topics are covered on this exam?
Subtest 1: World History & World
Geography
You will be given 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete 39 multiple-choice questions and 3
constructed-response questions.
Domain 1: World History
Under World History, the topics that will be addressed include ancient civilizations,
medieval and early modern times, and modern world history.
Domain 2: Principles of Geography
Under Principles of Geography, the topics that will be addressed include tools and
perspectives of geographic study, diversity of natural landscapes & human
societies, and culture & the physical environment.
Subtest 2: U.S. History & U.S.
Geography
You will be given 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete 39 multiple-choice questions and 3
constructed-response questions.
Domain 1: U.S. History
Under U.S. History, the topics that will be addressed include pre-Revolutionary Era &
the War for Independence, the constitution and early republic, emergence of a
new nation, Civil War and Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, the United States
being a world power, the 1920s, Great Depression and New Deal, World War II,
post-World War II in America, post-World War II and foreign policy, and the
Civil Rights Movement.
Domain 2: Principles of Geography
Under Principles of Geography, the topics that will be addressed include geographic
study, diversity of natural landscapes & human societies, and culture &
the physical environment.
Subtest 3: Civics, Economics, and
California History
You will be given 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete 40 multiple-choice questions and 3
constructed-response questions.
Domain 1: Principles of American
Democracy
Under Principles of American Democracy, the topics that will be addressed include
values and principles of a civil society, branches of government, landmark U.S.
Supreme court cases, national, state, and local elective offices’ issues
regarding campaigning, national, state, local, and tribal governments, the
media and American politics, political systems, and constitutional democracy
and issues surrounding it.
Domain 2: Principles of Economics
Under Principles of Economics, the topics that will be addressed include basic
economic terms and economic reasoning, America’s economy in a global setting,
connection between politics and economics, U.S. Labor Market in a global
setting, the American economy and behaviors associated with it, and the
American economy & international trading.
Domain 3: California History
Under California History, the topics that will be addressed include the Pre-Columbian
Period – Mexican Rule, and the Gold Rush – Present.
What is the most convenient way to
register?
You can register and pay online. Registration is available 24/7.
What is the cost of taking this exam?
If you take an individual subtest, the cost is $99/subtest. If you take all three subtests
at one time, the fee is $297.
What are the testing dates and
locations?
This exam is offered year-round, Monday-Saturday. This excludes national holidays.
There are various testing centers throughout the world, at which you can take a
subtest/entire exam.
What
should I do the day of the exam?
In order to have sufficient time to check-in for your exam, you should report at
least 15 minutes early.
Bring a form of identification that includes your name, signature, and photo.
This test does not require a calculator, nor are you allowed to bring one. The test center will provide you with a pen and booklet to write notes. Personal items such as a cell phone, purse, and jackets are prohibited from the testing area.
Can I take a break during the
exam?
You are permitted to take breaks during the exam, but this time will count against
your exam time. In other words, if you take a break, the exam clock will
continue to count down while you are on break.
What happens after I take the exam?
Your score report will be available for review within seven weeks of you taking the exam.
What is the minimum passing score on
this exam?
220 per subtest
What happens if I don’t pass the
exam?
You are allowed to re-take a subtest or entire exam after a 45-day waiting period (from
the most recent attempt of the exam).
How Can I Prepare for the CSET Social Science Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!
