California Science Test (CAST) Score Calculator — 2025 Edition
The California Science Test (CAST) measures mastery of the CA-NGSS in Grade 5, Grade 8, and once during high school. Use the tool below to convert raw points (questions answered correctly) into a 2025 scale score and see which achievement level you’ve hit. This calculator is unofficial but leverages the latest public scale-score ranges from the California Department of Education.
California Science Test (CAST) — 2025 Score Calculator
Calculate your achievement level using 2025 scoring standards
CAST 2025 Test Blueprint
| Segment | Item Type | Count | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 & 2 | Discrete stand-alone items | 16 each | 1 pt each |
| 3 | More discrete OR Performance Task | Varies | 1-2 pts |
| 4-6 | Performance Tasks (2 total) | 4-6 items/PT | 1 CR = 2 pts |
| Total | 32-34 items + 2 PTs | ≈54-58 pts | |
Achievement Level Cut Points
2025 Scale-Score Ranges & Achievement Levels
| Grade | Min | Max | Level 1 Standard Not Met | Level 2 Standard Nearly Met | Level 3 Standard Met | Level 4 Standard Exceeded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 150 | 250 | 150–178 | 179–213 | 214–230 | 231–250 |
| 8 | 350 | 450 | 350–377 | 378–414 | 415–432 | 433–450 |
| HS | 550 | 650 | 550–575 | 576–614 | 615–635 | 636–650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the CAST?
The test is computer-adaptive and segmented. Most students see between 44 and 60 questions, including three to four performance tasks. Your teacher or district sets the exact configuration.
Is this calculator official?
No. It uses public 2025 scale-score ranges released by the CDE and assumes a linear raw-to-scale relationship. District score reports remain the definitive source.
What scale score do I need to “meet the standard”?
You’ll need to reach the beginning of Level 3 – Standard Met: 214 (Grade 5), 415 (Grade 8), or 615 (High School).
Why does my official score differ from this estimate?
CAST uses item-response theory, not a simple percentage. Question difficulty, task weighting, and adaptive routing all influence final scaling. Our tool provides a directional estimate, especially helpful before official reports arrive.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational planning only and is not endorsed by the California Department of Education.