What is the TEAS Test: Complete Guide to ATI TEAS

The TEAS test is a nursing entrance exam with 170 questions covering reading, math, science, and English. It takes 209 minutes and costs $60-$140. Most nursing programs require passing scores for admission.

What is the ATI TEAS Test?

The ATI TEAS stands for Assessment Technologies Institute Test of Essential Academic Skills. It’s a standardized entrance exam that nursing schools use to check if students are ready for healthcare programs.

This test helps schools pick the best students for their nursing programs. Think of it as the final step before you can apply to nursing school.

The TEAS test measures your knowledge in four main areas. These are reading, math, science, and English language skills. All of these skills are important for success in nursing school.

Many people call this test by different names. You might see it written as ATI TEAS, TEAS 7, or TEAS VII. These all mean the same test.

Not every nursing school requires the TEAS test. Some schools use other tests like the HESI or ACT instead. But if your dream school needs the TEAS, you’ll want to pass it on your first try.

The current version is called TEAS 7. This version started in 2022 and replaced the older TEAS 6.

TEAS 7 Test Format and Structure

The ATI TEAS exam has 170 total questions with 209 minutes of testing time. That’s about 3.5 hours total.

Here’s something important to know. Only 150 questions count toward your score. The other 20 questions are practice questions that don’t affect your grade.

You won’t know which questions count during the test. So you should try your best on every question.

You can take the test in two ways. You can take it in person at a testing center. Or you can take it online from home with a proctor watching you.

Both options have someone watching to make sure the test is fair.

Four Main TEAS Test Sections Explained

The TEAS test has four main sections. Each section tests different skills you’ll need in nursing school.

The test starts with reading. Then you do math. After math, you get a 10-minute break. Then you do science and English.

This break doesn’t count against your testing time. You can’t look at your personal items during the break.

TEAS Reading Section: What to Expect

The reading section has 45 questions. You get 55 minutes to finish them. That’s about 1.2 minutes per question.

This section tests how well you understand written information. You’ll read passages and answer questions about them.

The passages cover topics you might see in healthcare. This could include patient education materials or medical procedures.

Tips for success include reading questions first, then the passage. Look for keywords that match the questions. Don’t spend too much time on one question.

Practice reading healthcare-related materials before your test.

TEAS Math Section Guide

The math section has 38 questions. You get 57 minutes to complete them. That’s about 1.5 minutes per question.

A calculator will be provided for this section. You can’t bring your own calculator to the test.

The math on the TEAS is high school level. You won’t see advanced calculus or complex equations.

Focus on basic arithmetic operations, simple algebra problems, reading graphs and charts, converting measurements, and understanding percentages.

Many students find the math section challenging. Practice word problems since many questions are set up as real-world scenarios.

TEAS Science Section Breakdown

The science section has 50 questions. You get 60 minutes to complete them.

This section covers four main areas of science knowledge.

This section requires some background knowledge. You should know basic concepts from high school biology, basic chemistry, and anatomy and physiology if you’ve taken it.

Don’t worry if you haven’t taken all these classes. The test covers basic concepts, not advanced topics.

TEAS English and Language Usage Section

The English section has 37 questions. You get 37 minutes to complete them.

This is the shortest section of the test. There’s no essay to write. All questions are multiple choice or other question types.

Focus on basic grammar rules, common punctuation marks, word meanings in context, and clear, effective communication.

This section tests skills you use every day. Practice reading and writing to improve your performance.

TEAS Test Scoring System Explained

Your TEAS score report includes three types of scores. Each type is calculated differently.

Total Score is your overall TEAS score. It ranges from 0% to 100%. This is the most important score for school admissions.

Content Area Scores show how you did in each of the four main sections. These help you see your strengths and weaknesses.

Sub-Content Area Scores show the percentage of questions you got right in specific topics. These are useful for focused study planning.

Nationally, the average TEAS test score is about 60 percent. A score of 80% or above is considered “advanced.” Advanced scores are often required for competitive programs.

TEAS Test Cost and Registration

The TEAS test is not free. The cost depends on where you take the test.

One free transcript is included with your registration. You need to pay extra to send scores to additional schools.

You can only pay with a debit card or credit card. Most schools don’t offer refunds if you miss your test.

About 40% of students take the TEAS more than once. You’ll need to pay the full fee each time you take it.

How to Register for the TEAS Test

Registration happens online through the ATI website at atitesting.com.

First, create an ATI account. Go to the website and click on “Exam Registration.” Create your account with email and password.

Next, choose your testing method. You can take the test online from home, in person at a testing center, or at your college.

Then select your test date. Browse available dates and times. Choose what works with your schedule.

Finally, pay for your exam. Enter your credit card information and complete payment to secure your spot.

You’ll need government-issued photo ID to take the test. This includes a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.

ATI has a strict rescheduling policy. Check your school’s specific requirements before registering.

TEAS Test Preparation Strategies

ATI recommends at least 6 weeks of studying for the TEAS test.

Start by taking a practice test to find your weak areas. Focus more study time on your problem subjects. Set daily study goals and track your progress.

Official ATI prep materials include the study guide, online practice tests, SmartPrep tutorial, flashcards, and mobile app.

Students who passed the test recommend investing in prep products. One student said, “I would advise someone preparing for the exam to invest in the prep products, because they prepare you for success on the ATI TEAS exam.”

Another student shared, “Do not stress! Honestly, take your time. I gave myself a month ahead of time to start studying, and it helped me so much.”

Effective study methods include using practice tests to identify weak areas, reviewing high school science and math concepts, practicing reading comprehension daily, and studying grammar and vocabulary rules.

Don’t rely only on free materials. The problem with free resources online is that there are no guarantees they are accurate or up-to-date.

TEAS Test Day: What to Expect

Arrive at your testing location 15-30 minutes early. If you are late, you will have to reschedule and pay the fee again.

Bring your government-issued photo ID and test confirmation email. Don’t bring anything else.

You cannot bring calculators, cell phones, bags, food, drinks, or study materials. Cell phones must be turned off.

The testing environment is quiet and monitored. You’ll get one piece of scratch paper. A calculator will be provided for the math section.

During the break, you can’t access personal items or study materials.

After the test, score reports take 72 hours to post. You’ll get an email when scores are ready. Log into your ATI account to view results.

TEAS Retake Policy and Requirements

About 40% of test-takers must retake the TEAS. Don’t feel bad if you need to try again.

You can take the TEAS test as many times as you want. However, most schools have their own limits.

Many schools require waiting periods between attempts. The minimum is usually 30 days between tests. Some schools allow only 2-3 attempts per year.

For example, the UCF College of Nursing allows students to take the TEAS three times in a calendar year with a minimum of 30 days between attempts.

Check your school’s specific retake policy before taking the test.

When you retake the test, review your score report carefully. Focus on your lowest-scoring sections. Use different study materials and consider taking a prep course.

There are no fee waivers for retakes. You’ll pay the full amount each time you take the test.

TEAS Scores for Nursing School Admission

Different nursing programs have different score requirements. You need to check how your program defines passing.

Some schools require specific scores. For example, beginning June 3, 2025, one school requires a passing score of 63.0 or higher for nursing programs.

Another school requires an overall cut score of 62% on the first attempt to advance in the application process.

Schools typically look at your total TEAS score first. They may also check individual section scores and whether you passed on your first attempt.

TEAS scores are usually good for 2-3 years. Some schools accept scores for up to 3 years. Check your school’s specific policy.

Tips for meeting requirements include researching your target school’s average scores, aiming higher than the minimum requirement, and considering applying to multiple programs.

Common TEAS Test Mistakes to Avoid

Poor time management is a common problem. Don’t spend too much time on hard questions. Keep track of time during each section and practice with timed tests.

Inadequate preparation hurts many students. Don’t rely only on free study materials. Give yourself enough study time and take practice tests regularly.

Many students ignore their weak areas. Focus extra time on your problem subjects. Don’t avoid topics you find difficult.

Test day errors include arriving late, forgetting proper identification, and not following testing rules. Arrive early and stay calm and focused.

Registration mistakes happen when students don’t check their school’s requirements first. Make sure you register for the right test location and understand the rescheduling policy.

Some students have unrealistic score expectations. Don’t expect to pass without studying. Understand your school’s requirements and have realistic score goals.

Poor study material choices hurt preparation. Invest in quality prep materials and use official ATI resources when possible. Don’t rely only on outdated materials.

Finally, plan for possible retakes. Understand waiting period requirements and budget for multiple attempts if needed.

The TEAS test is challenging, but with proper preparation, you can achieve the score you need. Remember that many successful nurses had to take the TEAS more than once.

Start studying early, use quality materials, and don’t give up on your nursing dreams. The TEAS test is just one part of your nursing school application journey.