If you need help studying for the CSET Art 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 CSET Art practice test!
What’s on the Test?
The CSET Art test contains 85 constructed-response questions, and you’ll be timed at 4.5 hours. Most of the questions are in your standard multiple-choice format, but five of the questions are in a constructed-response format.
The constructed-response questions are split into two types: extended-response and focused-response.
- Extended-response questions require you to write out your answer instead of selecting from a list of choices. Your written responses are expected to be 250-350 words each.
- Focused-response questions require you to draw your response in order to complete an art-making exercise. For example, you may be asked to show asymmetrical balance by drawing simple geometric shapes.
The exam is split into two subtests, which you can choose to take separately or together.
SUBTEST I (229)
43 questions | 2 hours and 15 minutes
Creating
- Generating artistic work and ideas
- Conceptualizing artistic work and ideas
- Developing artistic investigations
- Reflecting on art
- Refining art
Presenting
- Selecting works of art for presentation
- Analyzing and interpreting works of art for presentation
- Developing and refining presentation and exhibition techniques and methods
- Communicating meaning via art presentation
SUBTEST II (230)
42 questions | 2 hours and 15 minutes
Responding
- Perceiving art
- Analyzing art
- Interpreting intent and meaning in art
- Evaluating art
Connecting
- Synthesizing knowledge to create art
- Relating personal experiences to create art
- Deepening understanding by relating artistic ideas with various contexts
How to Register
To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to create an NES account on their website. You can then register for the exam via your account.
The testing fee is $267 for the full exam. If you choose to split each subtest into their own sessions, the price for Subtest I is $133, and the price for Subtest II is $134.
CSET Art 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 CSET Art 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 ranging from 100 to 300. You’ll need a scaled score of at least 220 on both subtests 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.
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 45-day waiting period.
FAQs
How many questions are on the CSET Art test?
The test contains 75 questions.
What is the time limit for the CSET Art test?
The test is timed at 4.5 hours.
What is the passing score for the CSET Art test?
You’ll need to get a final scaled score of at least 220 on each subtest to pass the full test.
How much does the CSET Art test cost?
The full test costs $267.