All About the TEAS Exam: 2025 Guide and Tips to Help You Pass
All About the TEAS Exam with Tips to Help You Pass
Congratulations on your decision to pursue a career in nursing! Many nursing programs require the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) to assess a student's readiness for the rigors of nursing education. This guide provides an overview of the TEAS exam and offers strategies to help you succeed.Chamberlain University
What Is the TEAS Exam?
The TEAS is a standardized entrance exam developed by ATI Testing for students applying to nursing and allied health programs. The current version, TEAS 7, evaluates proficiency in four key areas:ATI Help Center+5Main+5Main+5
- Reading: 45 questions (6 unscored), 55 minutes
- Mathematics: 38 questions (4 unscored), 57 minutes
- Science: 50 questions (6 unscored), 60 minutes
- English and Language Usage: 37 questions (4 unscored), 37 minutesMain
The exam includes various question types, such as multiple-choice, multiple-select, fill-in-the-blank, ordered response, and hot spot items.
Is the TEAS Required?
Most nursing schools require a passing TEAS score, especially for competitive programs. For instance, Chamberlain University mandates the TEAS for all Bachelor of Science in Nursing applicants. However, requirements can vary, so it's essential to check with each school's admissions criteria.Chamberlain University
When Should You Take the TEAS?
Applicants typically take the TEAS when they are ready to apply to their nursing program. It's advisable to schedule the exam well before application deadlines to allow time for potential retakes.
How Long Is the TEAS Exam?
The TEAS consists of 170 questions, of which 150 are scored. The remaining 20 are unscored pretest questions used for internal purposes. The total testing time is approximately 209 minutes.
When Will You Receive Your Results?
The timing of your results depends on how you take the exam:
- Online at ATI: Immediate results upon completion.
- In-person at a PSI center: Results are typically available within 72 hours.
ATI Testing sends one transcript to your chosen school, and additional transcripts can be purchased if needed. Ensure that other schools accept TEAS results from different testing locations.
TEAS vs. HESI: What's the Difference?
While the TEAS assesses general academic readiness, some nursing programs require the HESI Admission Assessment (A2) Exam, which focuses more on medical knowledge. For example, Liberty University requires the HESI A2 for its BSN program applicants. If you're applying to multiple schools, you may need to take both exams, depending on each program's requirements.
Preparing for the TEAS
1. Develop a Study Plan
Allocate at least six weeks for preparation, focusing on your strengths and weaknesses. Use official study materials, such as the ATI TEAS Study Manual, to guide your studies.
2. Utilize Practice Tests
Practice tests help familiarize you with the exam format and identify areas needing improvement. Consider resources like the Free ATI TEAS Practice Test and Mometrix TEAS Practice Test.Main+4Main+4Mometrix+4
3. Focus on Weak Areas
Identify subjects where you need improvement and dedicate extra study time to those areas. For instance, if math is a challenge, concentrate on algebra and data interpretation skills.
4. Simulate Test Conditions
Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and improve time management.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Ensure adequate rest, nutrition, and hydration leading up to the exam. A healthy body contributes to a focused mind.
What to Bring on Test Day
For In-Person Testing
- Valid photo ID
- ATI login credentials
- Two No. 2 pencils (for paper exams)
- Any items required by your testing center
Do Not Bring
- Electronic devices (calculators are provided)
- Personal items like purses or backpacks
- Food or drinks (unless medically necessary)
For Online Testing
Ensure your computer meets system requirements and complete a dry run before test day. On the exam day, log in early, follow instructions, and wait for the proctor to authorize your test start.
After the TEAS: Next Steps
Upon receiving your results, compare your score to the requirements of your desired nursing programs. If necessary, you can retake the TEAS; however, policies on retakes vary by institution. For example, Sandhills Community College allows the HESI A2 to be taken twice in a school year.
Once you've achieved a satisfactory score, focus on completing your nursing school applications. If you're uncertain about which program to choose, explore various options to find the best fit for your goals and needs.
For more information on nursing careers and to explore job opportunities, visit GoodWork World.
