TEAS Test: What it Is & How to Prepare
Learn thoroughly about the TEAS Test in nursing in this guide.
Posted February 17, 2025
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The TEAS test serves as a crucial admissions requirement for many university nursing programs, assessing a candidate’s academic readiness. Nearly 40% of test-takers fail their first attempt, highlighting the importance of strategic preparation. The TEAS exam, officially known as the ATI TEAS, consists of 170 multiple-choice questions covering four key areas: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English and Language Usage. Nursing schools evaluate these scores alongside transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters to determine an applicant’s potential for success.
The current version, TEAS 7, launched in June 2022, requires a solid grasp of foundational knowledge in each section. Most programs set a minimum score threshold between 60% and 75%, but higher scores improve admissions chances. Understanding the test structure and deploying an effective study plan can significantly boost performance.
An Overview of the TEAS Exam Structure
The TEAS exam follows a standardized format, requiring test-takers to complete 170 questions within 209 minutes. However, only 150 questions contribute to the final score, while 20 serve as pretest questions for future exams. The sections break down as follows:
- Reading - 39 questions in 55 minutes
- Mathematics - 34 questions in 57 minutes
- Science - 44 questions in 60 minutes
- English and Language Usage - 33 questions in 37 minutes
Each question carries a different weight due to an equating process. As a result, students receive three score types: total scores, content area scores, and sub-content area scores. These scores place individuals into one of the following academic preparedness levels:
| Preparedness Level | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Exemplary | 90.7% - 100% |
| Advanced | 78.0% - 90% |
| Proficient | 58.7% - 77.3% |
| Basic | 41.3% - 58% |
| Developmental | 0% - 40.7% |
On average, national scores vary by section:
- Reading: 72.4%
- Mathematics: 68.6%
- Science: 57.2%
- English and Language Usage: 66.3%
Understanding these score distributions can help students set realistic targets as they prepare for the TEAS test at an official testing center.
Creating an Effective Study Plan
The ATI TEAS creators recommend at least six weeks of structured preparation. Successful test-takers typically follow one of three study paces:
- Sprint: Intensive one-month focus on core areas
- Steady: Two months with regular practice exams
- Marathon: Three months for those aiming for top-tier scores
A study plan should allocate time based on subject difficulty, with additional focus on weaker areas. Students should dedicate at least 50 hours to structured study, incorporating deep learning sessions and quick review sprints.
Timed practice tests are essential for building endurance and pinpointing knowledge gaps. Many test-takers use official ATI TEAS study guides, mobile study apps, and video-rich courses to reinforce learning.
Tips to Study and Pass the TEAS Test
Successful students understand that preparation is key to passing the TEAS exam on their first attempt. Here are six essential tips to maximize study efficiency and improve performance:
Develop a structured study plan
Jumping into studying without a clear plan can lead to inefficient learning. Instead, create a structured TEAS study plan that aligns with your timeline and learning preferences. Assess your strengths and weaknesses to determine which subject areas need improvement, then allocate your study time accordingly. Choose a study approach that suits your learning style, whether self-study, group sessions, or tutoring. Utilize a mix of ATI TEAS study guides, online courses, video tutorials, and flashcards to reinforce concepts. Set a realistic study timeline, ideally six weeks, and stick to a consistent schedule to maximize retention.
Avoid cramming – focus on long-term retention
Cramming at the last minute leads to stress and poor recall. Instead, implement spaced repetition, which improves memory retention over time. Break study sessions into manageable 60-90 minute blocks with short breaks to maintain focus. Review material regularly to reinforce learning and prevent forgetting. Mixing up study techniques, such as reading, practice questions, and active recall, can enhance comprehension and keep study sessions engaging.
Take multiple TEAS practice tests
Practice exams are one of the most effective tools for success on the TEAS test. Start with a diagnostic test to determine your baseline score and identify weak areas. Simulate real exam conditions by taking full-length practice tests in a quiet environment with timed sections to build test-taking endurance. After each test, analyze incorrect answers to understand your mistakes and refine your approach. Track your progress over time to ensure continuous improvement before test day.
Identify and adapt to your learning style
Every student absorbs information differently, so recognizing your learning style can improve efficiency. Auditory learners benefit from listening to study podcasts or recorded lectures. Visual learners retain information better with diagrams, charts, and color-coded notes. Kinesthetic learners engage best by rewriting notes, using flashcards, or teaching concepts to others. By tailoring study methods to your learning style, you can retain information more effectively and feel more confident when answering exam questions.
Answer every question strategically
The TEAS exam does not penalize for incorrect answers, so always attempt every question. Use elimination strategies to rule out incorrect options and increase the likelihood of selecting the correct answer. If you're stuck, mark difficult questions and return to them later if time allows. Managing your time effectively is crucial, as each section is timed, so practice pacing yourself during study sessions to ensure you can complete all questions on test day.
Prioritize self-care and test-day readiness
Your physical and mental well-being directly impact test performance. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night, especially in the days leading up to the test. Maintain a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting foods like protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Take short breaks while studying to prevent burnout and improve focus. Stay hydrated, as proper hydration supports cognitive function. Lastly, plan your test day in advance by knowing your testing center location, arriving early, and bringing all required materials such as a valid ID and confirmation email.
TEAS Test Day: What to Expect
Arriving at the testing center prepared can ease anxiety and improve performance. Test-takers should bring valid identification and follow specific guidelines set by the exam administrators. Some centers may require advanced registration and payment before granting entry.
To ensure a smooth experience:
- Arrive early to complete check-in procedures.
- Bring permitted materials (photo ID, confirmation email, and required supplies).
- Know the rules regarding breaks and prohibited items.
In case of access issues, contacting the site owner to let them know of any technical problems may be necessary. If a test-taker finds themselves unable to access their testing account, they should email the site owner for further instructions.
How to Overcome TEAS Test Challenges
The TEAS test plays a critical role in nursing school admissions, requiring careful planning and execution. By developing a structured study plan, utilizing high-quality preparation materials, and taking full-length practice exams, students can significantly improve their scores.
Despite the blocked opportunities some students face on their first attempt, a well-prepared approach ensures success. Those struggling with access issues should be aware of potential security protocols. Certain factors, such as if you submit a certain word, phrase a SQL command, or execute a command or malformed data, could inadvertently cause an error.
For individuals who encounter restricted access, Cloudflare Ray ID messages may indicate protective measures by the security service to protect online testing environments. Certain actions, such as entering a SQL command or malformed data, performed triggered the security response mechanisms. Additionally, using a certain word or phrase in a request could trigger this block including unauthorized access attempts. Ensuring compliance with the testing center guidelines helps prevent disruptions.
Maximize Your TEAS Score with Expert Guidance
Achieving a top TEAS exam score can significantly improve your chances of nursing school admission. A well-structured study plan, the right preparation materials, and strategic practice can make all the difference. However, if you're looking for personalized guidance, working with a nursing admissions coach can give you a competitive edge.
Get expert support to refine your test-taking strategies, strengthen weak areas, and boost your confidence before test day. Whether you're a first-time test-taker or looking to improve your score, a nursing admissions coach can help you maximize your potential.
Take the next step—connect with a nursing admissions coach today and turn your TEAS prep into success!
FAQs
What is the hardest part of the TEAS test?
- Students who fail to prepare properly will most likely find the going difficult. According to research, most students find reading and mathematics the hardest topics in the TEAS exam.
What is a good score for a TEAS test?
- A "passing" TEAS score varies by institution. Generally, scoring in the Proficient range (59% to 79%) or higher is considered competitive for many nursing programs. Always check with specific schools for their requirements.
Is 70 a good TEAS score?
- Generally speaking, a TEAS score between 59% – 79% is considered “proficient.” A score in this range often qualifies a student for a nursing program, particularly for ADN/ASN programs. This varies by state and program, however!
What kind of math is on the TEAS test?
- What math questions are on the TEAS? The TEAS Math questions are broken into two categories: Numbers and Algebra, and Measurements and Data.
How many times can you take the TEAS?
- You are allowed to take the ATI TEAS up to 3 times in a calendar year.
What if I can't pass the TEAS test?
- Retaking the TEAS test can make a difference. The ATI® TEAS exam reports that schools will typically allow you to take the TEAS test three times a year. Your prospective nursing school or healthcare program gets the final say on the number of attempts you can make, however, so be sure to check with them to verify.
Can you use a calculator on TEAS?
- The calculator is embedded in the exam. Personal calculators are not allowed.
What kind of questions are on the TEAS test?
- The ATI TEAS exam is comprised of 170 total questions, with 209 minutes in allocated testing time. Question types include multiple choice, multiple select (select all that apply), fill-in-the-blank, ordered response, and hot spots.
