BACE Exam Overview
Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE)
The Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) validates a candidate’s readiness to enter this dynamic, highly regulated industry by confirming core competencies needed in academic and professional settings.
Developed with input from industry professionals and aligned to national standards, the BACE credential demonstrates that a candidate has the foundational knowledge, technical skills, and professional practices necessary to succeed in laboratory and production environments. Earning the credential demonstrates that a candidate understands fundamental workplace expectations, including accuracy, safety, quality, documentation, and regulatory awareness.
Earning the BACE credential demonstrates a candidate’s commitment to entering the biotechnology and life sciences field with a strong foundation and a clear understanding of essential industry practices.
Exam Fee
- Remote Testing via ProctorU – $200
- On-Site Testing with an Exam Site – $185
Exam Format
- Closed-book, computer-based format
- Delivered online through the University of Florida’s e-Learning platform
- 124 multiple-choice, scenario-based, true/false, and matching questions
- Exam length: up to 4 hours
- Permitted exam locations: at a Biotility-approved Exam Site with an in-person proctor or through remote proctoring via ProctorU
- Required score to pass: 80%
- Length of credential validity: five years
Exam Blueprint
|
Category |
Questions |
Points |
Distribution of Points per Category |
|
Technical Skills & Applications |
25 |
33.25 |
19% |
|
Safety & Workplace Culture |
15 |
21 |
12% |
|
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology |
13 |
17.5 |
10% |
|
Regulation & Quality |
12 |
15.75 |
9% |
|
Biotechnology Skills |
24 |
40.25 |
23% |
|
Applied Mathematics |
15 |
21 |
12% |
|
Standard Equipment |
10 |
14 |
8% |
|
Experimental Design & Data Analysis |
10 |
12.25 |
7% |
|
Total |
124 |
175 |
100% |
Last Updated: 09/17/2026