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CSET Mathematics Pass Rate, Format & Study Guide

A real reference for anyone preparing for the CSET: Mathematics (Subtests 211, 212, 213) — California Commission on Teacher Credentialing exam — pass rate, retake policy, how it's scored, and a practical study timeline. This is independent reference content, not a sales page: everything below is sourced from CSET Mathematics's own certifying body.

What the CSET Mathematics exam is

CSET Mathematics has three subtests (211, 212 and 213); in each, multiple-choice questions count for 70% and constructed-response questions for 30% of the subtest score (CTC test guide). Scores are reported on a 100 to 300 scale, and you need a scaled score of 220 on each required subtest. The fee is $99 per subtest, and you may register for any one subtest in a test session (CTC/Pearson test page).

Why it matters

Passing the required CSET Mathematics subtests is one of the ways to show subject matter competence for a California single-subject mathematics credential.

Who this exam is for

Prospective California middle and high school mathematics teachers.

Pass rate

The certifying body does not publicly publish an official pass rate for this exam. Be wary of third-party sites citing a specific number here — treat any pass-rate claim you see elsewhere for this exam as unverified.

If you don't pass — retake policy

Retake policies are set by the CTC and Pearson; check the CSET policies page for the current waiting time and attempt limits before you register again.

How it's scored

You need a scaled score of 220 on each required subtest, which are scored on a 100 to 300 scale. The portal's percentages are a self-check and do not predict your scaled score. Format: three subtests, each with multiple-choice and constructed-response questions; the portal practices the multiple-choice part only. No official pass rate is available for this exam, so none is quoted here.

Format at a glance

Format: Three subtests, each with multiple-choice and constructed-response questions · computer-based · scaled scores 100 to 300 per subtest
Real exam cost: $99 per subtest (CTC/Pearson test page, October 2026)

CSET Mathematics has three subtests (211, 212 and 213); in each, multiple-choice questions count for 70% and constructed-response questions for 30% of the subtest score (CTC test guide). Scores are reported on a 100 to 300 scale, and you need a scaled score of 220 on each required subtest. The fee is $99 per subtest, and you may register for any one subtest in a test session (CTC/Pearson test page). Three subtests, each with multiple-choice and constructed-response questions · computer-based · scaled scores 100 to 300 per subtest. You need a scaled score of 220 on each required subtest, which are scored on a 100 to 300 scale. The portal's percentages are a self-check and do not predict your scaled score.

Full eligibility requirements and everything the CSET Mathematics study portal includes is on the CSET Mathematics product page.

What each domain actually tests

The CTC test guide gives each subtest its own content domains and weights. This portal groups its practice by number and quantity, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics, and calculus.

Eligibility requirements, in full

Anyone may register. Your credential program or the CTC leaflets explain which subtests you need or whether a program of study can replace them.

What it actually costs

$99 per subtest, so all three subtests cost $297 if you register for each at the listed fee.

Keeping the credential — maintenance & recertification

CSET scores are used for a credential application according to CTC rules; confirm current validity on the CTC site.

How to actually prepare

Work through the exam topics one area at a time, finish with timed full-length practice runs of 100 questions in one sitting.

What's changing (2026)

The CTC and Pearson revise test guides and fees; this guide follows the documents listed under Verification as of October 2026.

Want a full practice question bank built around this exact format?

See the CSET Mathematics study portal

Try a free sample first: Flashcards · Quiz · Mock Exam