admission test for nursing school

What is the TEAS Exam and How to Prepare For it

What is the teas exam.

• What is on the TEAS Exam?

What You Need to Know About the TEAS Exam

How to prepare for the teas exam, after the teas exam.

If you are thinking about going to nursing school , there is a good chance you will have to take a standardized exam called the Test of Essential Academic Skills, or TEAS exam.

There are some nursing schools without entrance exams and some that don't require the TEAS exam However, most will, and prospective nursing students need to understand what it is.

This article will explore everything you need to know about the TEAS exam, what subjects are on it, how to study for it, what a passing score is, and a range of other TEAS questions so you that can feel confident and prepared when you have to take it. 

The TEAS is an exam that nursing students take when applying for nursing school in the United States. It tests what a nursing student’s academic potential may be in nursing school. Universities use this test because studies have shown that those who perform well also perform well academically in higher education.

The TEAS is often part of the whole application process that nursing students must take to get into nursing school, including transcripts, an application, an essay, letters of recommendation, and fees. The TEAS exam is similar to the Health Education Systems Incorporated Admissions (HESI A2) exam, which some institutions use as part of a student’s application.

What Does TEAS Stand For?

TEAS stands for Test of Essential Academic Skills. The exam ensures that the student has the essential academic skills to perform well in nursing school. A good score on the TEAS will help you get into a nursing program.

Why Do You Need to Take the TEAS Exam?

Many universities use the TEAS exam to determine how well a student will perform in a higher academic setting. Studies have shown that students who do well on the TEAS also do well in nursing school.

Most schools that include the TEAS are a part of their application process, application, transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and other fees.

What is on the TEAS Exam? 

The TEAS will test students on various subjects to see if they are academically proficient enough to succeed in an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor Degree of Nursing (BSN) program. 

There are four general subjects on the test: reading, math, science, and English and language usage.

Sections of the TEAS exam

According to the ATI TEAS website , the test has the following sections:

• Including questions on the integration of knowledge and ideas
• Questions include measurements, numbers, and algebra
• Human anatomy and physiology, life sciences, and scientific reasoning
• Knowledge of language and vocabulary

How Many Questions Are on the TEAS?

There are 170 questions on the TEAS, but only 150 of them count in your score. The remaining 20 questions are for internal company purposes only.

Students have 209 minutes in total to complete the exam.

How Much Does the TEAS Exam Cost?

• The exam can cost anywhere between $65 and $140, depending on where you take your exam.

How Many Times Can You Take the TEAS exam?

• Every institution has its own rules and requirements for how many times a student can take the TEAS exam and how long you must wait between exams. Some universities allow students to take the test one or two times, but others may allow for more. Speak with the institution you plan to attend to find out what their program allows. 

Can You Use a Calculator for the TEAS Exam?

• You cannot bring a calculator with you to take the exam. There will be a calculator for you to use on your computer. If you are taking a paper exam, there will be a desk calculator provided to you.

What is a Passing Score for the TEAS Exam?

• There is no standard passing score on the TEAS. Each university has its own passing requirements, and some may require a higher score in certain areas than others. You must speak with the institution you plan to attend to ensure you know their requirements. Universities vary in what they consider a passing score, but most are above 60%. You should know that questions on the TEAS exam don’t have equal weight. Some questions will hold more points than others, and you will not know which ones they are while taking the test. 

HOW TO REGISTER FOR THE TEAS EXAM

• You can register to take the TEAS exam online or in person at the ATI testing website. When you register, there are also study materials that you can purchase to help you prepare for the exam. 

Allow yourself a minimum of 6 weeks to prepare for the exam. There are also many study resources available for purchase and for free on the website. ATI has a recommended study plan for students taking the TEAS:

• Week 1: English and Language usage
• Week 2: Reading
• Week 3: Reading
• Week 4: Science
• Week 5: Science 
• Week 6: Math

Each subject can be studied using a manual, lessons, pre-tests, post-tests, quizzes, and practice assessments. Depending on your comfort level in a particular subject, you may want to spend more time on some subjects and less on others. However, the ATI-recommended study plan includes recommended hours of study as well.

TEAS Prep Courses

ATI offers six unique study packages depending on your level of knowledge and how much you want to study for the TEAS exam. Each varies in price from $25 to $249 depending on how much study material you need.

It is a great idea to invest in a plan that helps you study and increases your chances of obtaining a higher score. According to the ATI website, about 40% of students end up taking the TEAS at least twice. In many cases, students were not prepared enough to take it the first time.

How Long Does it Take to Get TEAS Results?

If you take the TEAs exam at an on-campus location, you may receive your score immediately, along with your report. Keep in mind that your university may choose not to show students their scores following the exam. In that case, you may need to check with your school to see when you will get your score. 

For candidates taking a paper version of the ATI TEAS exam, ATI will provide you with your score within 24 hours.

How Will You Receive Your TEAS Results?

If you do not receive your results immediately on your computer upon finishing the exam, you can find them in your ATI account under “My Results.”

What Happens if You Fail the TEAS Exam? 

Failing scores can vary between schools. You must check with your school to determine what their failing score is. However, you can always retake the exam if you want to try and achieve a higher score.

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

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Requirements for Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Schools Admission

Be prepared to meet the degree and school requirements and you have a better chance of your nursing school application process running smoothly—no hitches. Find out what entrance exams are necessary, required components for an application, and tips for ensuring success.

What You Need to Get Into Undergraduate Nursing School

Undergraduate nursing school requirements are quite similar to any other college requirements:

• Complete your application and have it submitted by the deadline.
• Complete your application for federal student aid (FAFSA) by the deadline.
• If you have an option to visit the campus and participate in an admissions interview, do so. Some nursing schools don’t have the resources to interview every student so when you have the chance you should take it.
• Any applicable transcripts must be included.
• Know what exams you must have taken, ie. SAT, Nursing School Entrance Exam, and any others.
• Apply for any applicable scholarships or grants through the school or other sources
• You must have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Meet any GPA requirements.

Nursing School Applications

Applications for nursing school or any type of college degree for that matter demand the utmost attention. Incomplete applications are often not considered, especially for competitive nursing programs.

Tips when completing your application process for nursing school:

• Attend any nursing workshops, informational sessions, open houses and admissions seminars that become available at the schools in which you’re interested. Besides access to some insider tips and information on the program you might be able to meet admissions officers face-to-face.
• Write the application deadline on a calendar or date book and don’t miss it! Nursing schools take this date very seriously AND it’s an indication of your motivation and commitment to a degree in the first place. Miss it and you’re done before you even hit the pavement.
• Some nursing schools only accept students on the basis of their application and academics; which means you don’t have the opportunity to “wow” them in a face-to-face interview. Leave nothing blank on an application, get your head screwed on straight for all essay questions and get it postmarked on time.
• Most nursing schools prefer students with above average scores in the sciences and math.

Nursing School Entrance Exams

All nursing schools do not require you take a nursing school entrance exam. But should you be required you’ll find an assortment of potentially required tests:

• PAX-RN, or the Pre-Admission Exam for RN students, developed and delivered through the National League for Nursing (NLN). The exam is broken down into 3 major parts: verbal, science, and math skills.
• TEAS, Test of Essential Academic Skills, includes 4 major parts: reading, math, English, science.
• NET, Nurse Entrance Test, tests candidates in 6 areas: reading, math, stress, social interaction, testing abilities, learning skills.
• Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam

Requirements for Applying to Graduate Nursing School

Graduate level nursing has become more popular especially given the rise in distance education. More and more Masters nursing programs are available as online degree programs for working RNs and students located in areas not local to a nursing school.

• BSN degree from an accredited nursing school, or Bachelors degree in a non-related field
• Complete application submitted by the deadline
• Attached transcripts
• Any required letters of recommendation included
• Any required exams completed, i.e. GRE
• Any required application fees included
• Statement of career goals and/or specialization

Nursing schools don’t really cut you breaks with the application process. The best advice is to read all the requirements of all the schools to which you’re applying and follow them to the letter. Combine a solid application with a good academic record and you have a fighting chance at breaking into a respectable nursing school program.

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Our Guide to Passing Nursing School Entrance Exams

Congratulations on your decision to become a nurse! Your next big step is passing a nursing school entrance exam.

As one of the most in-demand professions today, nursing offers almost certain benefits: guaranteed employment , flexible hours , plenty of options when it comes to specializations , and the opportunity to do important work that makes a difference in people’s lives .

Jump to Sections

Nursing school entrance exams to know, test of essential academic skills (teas), health education systems admissions assessment (hesi a2), national league for nursing (nln) pre-admission exam (pax), nursing entrance test (net), kaplan nursing school admission test, psychological services bureau (psb) health occupations aptitude exam (hoae).

If you’re in the process of applying to nursing school, you have to pass some type of nursing school entrance exam. This means you’ll need to do well to be accepted into the program you want.

Overwhelmed by the entire process? No worries! We’ll explain some nursing school admission exams to be aware of and offer tips to help you pass your nursing entrance exam.

The exact entrance exam you’ll take depends on your degree and the program to which you’re applying — so it’s a good idea to do a little research beforehand.

Some schools may only require nursing school candidates to take a general healthcare admissions test, while others may use entrance exams tailored to the nursing profession.

In addition, some tests may focus more on academic knowledge, while some balance academics with a personality assessment. The personality assessment predicts the likelihood of success in nursing school and a career in health care.

To get you started, we’ll explore six common nursing school entrance exams.

If you’re applying to an RN or LPN program, you might be required to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), especially if you’re applying to a fairly competitive undergraduate nursing program. 

The purpose of the TEAS is to evaluate whether you have the educational foundation to succeed in a health sciences program like nursing.

Who needs to take the TEAS?

The TEAS is designed for students going into any medical profession – from doctors, to EMTs, to dentists. This, of course, includes those going into LPN or RN programs.

How many questions are on the TEAS?

The TEAS consists of 170 multiple-choice questions total, with 20 unscored questions included. The exam tests your knowledge in these areas:

• Reading: 51 questions that test your ability to understand and interpret written passages, maps, and graphs
• Math: 42 questions covering algebra, geometry, statistics, and general problem-solving abilities
• Science: 56 questions about anatomy and physiology, life and physical sciences, and your ability to engage in general scientific reasoning

English language proficiency: 41 questions that test your vocabulary and your understanding of English language conventions.

What’s the time limit for the TEAS?

You have 209 minutes to complete the exam. Each area is broken down into its own time limits:

• Reading – 55 minutes
• Math – 57 minutes
• Science – 60 minutes
• English language proficiency – 37 minutes

How is the TEAS scored?

Test takers are given a total composite score based on correct answers. A passing score depends on your attending school, but it’s typically somewhere between 60% and 80% .

How much does the TEAS cost?

The cost also varies depending on the school, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $50-$115.

SimpleNursing’s TEAS prep ensures you get the help you need for even the most difficult topics covered by the exam.

Nursing schools use The Health Education Systems Admission Assessment (HESI A2) in the student admission process to weed out possible poor-performing students. It measures the ability to read and understand information in-depth, along with writing skills.

HESI A2 also assesses learning style and provides a personality profile. The HESI exam covers knowledge in academic areas like high school-level science, math, and English. 

Who needs to take the HESI A2?

Anyone going through a nursing program (including LPN and RN) must take the HESI A2.

How many questions are on the HESI A2?

There are 326 questions total on the HESI A2, and is split into nine sections:

• Math: 50 questions
• Grammar: 50 questions
• Vocabulary: 50 questions
• Reading comprehension: 50 questions
• Biology: 25 questions
• Chemistry: 25 questions
• Physics: 25 questions
• Anatomy/physiology knowledge: 25 questions
• Learning styles and personality: 29 questions]

What’s the time limit for the HESI A2?

Test-takers have up to four hours to complete the HESI A2.

What is the passing score for the HESI A2?

A passing score for the HESI A2 is usually at least 75% , but that can depend on the specific school you’re testing for.

How much does the HESI A2 cost?

You can expect an exam fee between $30-$110 , but varies by school.

Another common nursing school admissions test is the National League for Nursing (NLN) Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) . It’s designed to test your knowledge of nursing topics and make sure that you have enough skills before entering.

Who needs to take the NLN PAX?

Any nursing student must complete the NLN PAX at schools offering degrees in nursing.

How many questions are on the NLN PAX?

The 160 multiple-choice questions take and are designed to test proficiency in aspiring LPNs and RNs in the following areas:

• Verbal abilities: 60 questions covering reading comprehension, word knowledge, and the ability to properly complete sentences.
• Mathematics ability: 40 questions covering decimals, percentages, integers, fractions, conversions, graphics, algebra, applied mathematics, and basic calculations.
• Science understanding: 60 questions covering general science, as well as anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science.

What’s the time limit for the NLN PAX?

Test-takers have up to 40 minutes per section.

How is the NLN PAX scored?

Similar to the TEAS, a passing score depends on the school, and there are some questions that won’t be graded at all.

How much does the NLN PAX cost?

The cost also varies depending on the school, but expect to pay an exam fee of $55 to $100.

The Nursing Entrance Test (NET) focuses on the skills needed to succeed in an LPN or RN program. Along with testing your knowledge of academic disciplines like math and reading, the NET helps schools assess other qualities that predict your potential for success in nursing school.

Given by the National League for Nursing, it is designed to evaluate your ability to succeed as a student nurse. This also includes your reaction under stress and your decision-making skills.

Who needs to take the NET?

Several schools make this exam mandatory for all nursing students.

How many questions are on the NET?

The NET consists of a total of 233 questions and is divided into six sections:

• Math: With 60 questions covering algebra, fractions, decimals, percentages, and number systems conversions
• Reading: With 33 questions designed to discern your reading level and command of English grammar — capitalization, pronoun case, punctuation, sentence structure, subject-verb agreement, etc. — and reading speed (a one-minute reading speed test is included)
• Learning style: With 44 questions designed to determine whether your dominant learning style is auditory, visual, social, solitary, etc.
• Social decisions: With 17 questions designed to assess how you react in different social scenarios
• Stressful situations: Consisting of 49 questions that predict how you cope with stress in academics, family matters, money and time management, social situations, and the workplace
• Exam-taking skills: Consisting of 30 questions that gauge your abilities to infer meaning, predict outcomes, and grasp the main idea of a passage.

What’s the time limit for the NET?

You have up to 155 minutes to complete the NET.

How is the NET scored?

A passing score for the NET is 65 on the math portion, and 55 on the reading portion. But passing scores for the other sections depends on the school. 

How much does the NET cost?

The cost of taking the NET varies by school – $50 at minimum.

Also known as the Kaplan Nursing School Admission Test, the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam measures performance and identifies gaps in academic disciplines. The test also evaluates your critical thinking skills, which can indicate how well you’ll perform as an LPN or RN student and in practice as a nurse.

Who needs to take the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?

Anyone attending an RN or LPN or LVN program needs to take the exam for schools requiring it.

How many questions are on the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?

The Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam covers four sections containing 91 total multiple-choice questions, 

Along with critical thinking, the 91-question exam tests your ability in:

• Reading: The 22 questions in the reading section are designed to see if you can determine the logic and purpose of a passage, comprehend details, and draw basic inferences.
• Math: Contains 28 questions covering basic arithmetic to algebra. These are used to measure your ability to apply mathematical principles with respect to conversions, operations, ratios, and word problems.
• Writing: Test-takers read nine passages and then answer 21 questions. These are designed to determine whether they have the essential skills required for college-level writing, including story development, paragraph logic, and writing mechanics.
• Cardiovascular system
• Electrolytes
• Gastrointestinal system
• Immune system
• Renal system
• Hematological system
• Homeostasis
• Respiratory system
• Sensory system

What’s the time limit for the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?

You have up to 165 minutes to complete the Kaplan Entrance Exam.

What is the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam passing score?

A passing score is typically around 65%, but depends on the school you test for.

How much does the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam cost?

Cost also varies, but you can usually expect to pay an exam fee of $25 to $100.

Also known as the PSB Aptitude for Practical Nursing , the PSB HOAE is used to assess candidates for various healthcare-related academic programs and disciplines. You might be required to take this exam when applying to certain schools and programs.

The primary purpose of this test is to evaluate the candidate’s academic knowledge, skills, and abilities. While it doesn’t focus on personality traits per se, it does incorporate a vocational adjustment index to test behavioral traits. 

Who needs to take the PSB HOAE?

The PSB HOAE is mainly for those wanting to pursue a career in psychology, counseling, or social work, but also includes nursing students.

How many questions are on the PSB HOAE?

There are 305 questions total, which are split into these sections:

• Academic Aptitude
• Reading Comprehension
• Natural Sciences
• Vocational Adjustment Index ]

What’s the time limit for the PSB HOAE?

You have two hours and fifteen minutes to complete the exam, and it is timed per section.

How is the PSB HOAE scored?

Schools typically rank completed PSB HOAE exams by percentile (on a curve). So if a majority of test-takers perform poorly on the exam, you could get away with more wrong answers. 

But if you get more correct answers, you could possibly score low if a majority of test-takers in your sessions perform better than you.

How much does the PSB HOAE cost?

The cost of the PSB HOAE varies by school, but expect to pay somewhere between $25-$60.

5 Tips for Passing Nursing School Entrance Exams

While there’s no substitute for knowledge when it comes to getting a passing score on your nursing admission exams, there are some tips and tricks that can help you prepare.

1. Know what to expect on the exam.

They say knowledge is power, and nothing could be more true when it comes to preparing for your nursing school entrance exam. Knowing as much as you can about the structure and content of the exam can go a long way in making sure you’re prepared. Be sure you know exactly what to expect, including:

• The format of the exam (e.g., multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, essay, or a combination).
• The topics that will be covered.
• How many sections the test has and what subjects fall under which sections.
• How much time you’ll have to complete each section.

2. Start studying early and plan.

Once you know the topics that are covered on the test, the test format, and how much time you have to complete the exam, you’re ready to create a study plan. 

Think about how long you have until the scheduled test date and which topics need the bulk of your attention. Then divide your time accordingly, devoting more time to your weaker subjects but still giving yourself enough time to review your stronger subjects.

nursing students studying for entrance exams

Most people find it helpful to map out a study schedule on a calendar, with reasonable and achievable goals for each study session.

Think about setting the same time aside each day to study. Set up rewards for yourself when you complete each study guide section, or successfully meet your study goals over a few days.

The idea is to start as early as possible and find a study rhythm that works for you and your schedule. Find a rhythm that you can commit to and keep up with until you actually sit for the exam.

3. Study by your learning style.

Different people have different learning styles. For example, some people need to process information through hearing. These auditory learners thrive in lectures or reviewing recorded materials.

Visual learners , on the other hand, prefer reading and reviewing written materials. 

Kinaesthetic learners understand better with hands-on experiences when covering material. For example, many kinaesthetic learners use a trick to rewrite notes by hand or take notes while listening to a lecture or reading materials.

Some people perform their best when they have study partners or can work with others in groups, and some people excel as solitary learners testing their knowledge with flashcards.

There’s no right or wrong way to learn. What’s important is understanding your own learning style and using study tactics that can help you pass your nursing exam with flying colors.

4. Study practice questions.

When it comes to standardized testing, practice really does make perfect. So the more practice tests you take, the better you’ll do for the real thing. And for mock tests, you not only gauge your knowledge on substantive topics, but you also learn test-taking strategies like how to manage your time. 

You’ll figure out when to skim the answers before reading the lengthy essay, or how to skip difficult questions so you can return to them later.

5. Use the best exam resources.

While many exam prep companies tout their expertise in nursing school material, few focus exclusively on helping nursing school candidates succeed.

If you’re seeking a nursing education resource to support your success throughout your nursing career, a nursing school resource membership could be for you. 

Supplemental resources help you prepare for your admission exam, complete your nursing school courses, and pass your nursing licensure exam.

Get the Best Nursing School Entrance Exam Resources 

SimpleNursing is different from other nursing school resources. We provide full-spectrum testing achievement support, including a free TEAS prep course, and access to TEAS and HESI A2 practice questions, mock exams, and tutorials.

SimpleNursing supports nursing students with a robust knowledge base to draw from and exam prep throughout their academic programs. Our material goes right up to and including preparing them for graduation and post-graduate nurse licensing exams.

We’re a trusted resource for nursing students worldwide. In fact, over 1 million students have earned a 96% pass rate with the help of SimpleNursing.

Get into nursing school with the help of our free trial today.

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Home / TEAS Test Review Guide

TEAS Test Review Guide

Introduction: what is teas and what does it measure, details about teas, teas reading, teas mathematics, teas science, teas english & language usage, latest articles & guides.

PLEASE NOTE: This guide’s foundation is structured on the ATI TEAS® version of the test. 

ATI (Assessment Technologies Inc.) is the company that, among other things, constructs and authors the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). The TEAS measures and assesses a person's ability to be academically prepared to enter and succeed in nursing school. The data from this test is highly useful and helpful to those considering entering a nursing school and it is also helpful to nursing programs that use TEAS scores as part of their admission criteria. People who are interested in embarking on a career in nursing want to be able to successfully graduate from a nursing school without failure and schools of nursing want to provide quality education to those who are able to succeed in and graduate from their school of nursing. This standardized test also gives test-takers valid and reliable data that reflects their strengths, their weaknesses, their areas that need improvement and remediation, and their readiness, or lack of readiness, to begin nursing school.

"Nursing student attrition continues to pose a problem and, when paired with an already understaffed nursing workforce, interventions are urgently needed. Inconsistent measurement of attrition data has historically impeded studying the causes of nursing school attrition. ATI partners with the majority of nursing programs in the United Sates and, as a result, a product usage based, and broadly applicable, proxy for understanding nursing student attrition is described in this paper. After comparing product usage at the beginning and conclusion of each graduating class, attrition rates were calculated for 3,084 unique RN classes (2009-2011). Of these classes, 528 classes' students were found to have been screened using the TEAS V during pre-admissions testing. Analysis of class level TEAS V data shows that programs with higher TEAS V performance have significantly lower nursing student attrition."

Source : ATI Nursing Education. Research Brief: Predicting RN Student Attrition using the TEAS V

TEAS is a predictor test that statistically predicts whether or not a person can pass and graduate from a school of nursing. This type of comprehensive test statistically measures the test taker’s knowledge in four academic areas or subjects which are:

Mathematics

English and language usage.

*** While we provide this extensive study guide free of charge other professional guides and adaptations are available via Amazon.com . (ad) ***

TEAS is a timed test that has only multiple-choice questions with four possible choices.

The test has a total of 170 multiple-choice questions and the total time that you have in order to take and complete the test is exactly 209 minutes or 3 hours and 29 minutes. Only 150, of the total 170, multiple-choice questions are scored and graded. The remaining 20 questions are NOT scored, graded, or part of your score on the test. These 20 questions are used by ATI to determine whether or not these questions are good and whether these questions can or cannot be used in future tests. These questions do NOT affect your final grade on the test

Each of the four areas has different maximum time allotments and each has a different number of questions.

These maximum time allotments and the number of questions are shown below for each of the four major testing sections:

• Maximum Time Allotment: 64 minutes
• Number of Scored Questions: 47
• Number of Non-Scored Questions: 6
• Total Number of Questions: 53
• Maximum Time Allotment: 54 minutes
• Number of Scored Questions: 32
• Number of Non-Scored Questions: 4
• Total Number of Questions: 36
• Maximum Time Allotment: 63 minutes
• Maximum Time Allotment: 28 minutes
• Number of Scored Questions: 24
• Total Number of Questions: 28

How Long Does the TEAS Test Take?

Although the test time is exactly 209 minutes, all test takers will be given a 10-minute break after the Mathematics section of the test, which is the second of the four sections in the examination. These 10 minutes are NOT considered part of the 209 minutes allocated for the test.

If there is a need for you to take a break, use the restroom, or for any other reason, you must raise your hand to get permission to do so. The time you spend taking this optional break will be counted against your test time. It is, therefore, highly recommended that you not take any breaks other than the 10-minute break all are given after the Mathematics section.

What Is the Difference Between TEAS V and ATI TEAS?

Unlike the TEAS V, you will be provided with a four-function calculator and scrap paper to use during the tests. All scrap paper, used and unused, and the calculator must be returned to the test monitor, or proctor after the test is over.

The difficulty of the exams is on par with each other however adjustments were made in the ATI TEAS to align current academic standards and understandings.

What Should I Bring to the Test?

• Valid photo ID (Gov’t issued or State ID such as a driver’s license
• Student ID card if taking it at your local school
• Copy ATI email confirmation
• Everything else will be given to you during the exam by the provider

How Much Does the TEAS Cost?

Currently, the exam runs $81 according to the ATI website.

See our TEAS test study tips .

The TEAS Reading test section measures and tests your ability to comprehend some reading passages that contain multiple paragraphs and also to interpret labels, maps, graphs, charts, directions, and measurement tools.

The three subsections for the TEAS reading section and the number of scored questions for this section are:

• Key Ideas and Details: 22 scored questions
• Craft and Structure: 14 scored questions
• The Integration of Knowledge and Ideas: 11 scored questions

TEAS Reading Details

• Total Scored Questions: 47 questions
• Number of Unscored Questions: 6 questions
• Maximum Time Allocation: 64 minutes

The three subsections for the TEAS reading section are further divided, similar to the other three major testing areas of TEAS. For the purpose of this TEAS review, we will refer to these and the other subsections of the TEAS with coding as below.

PLEASE NOTE : A tutorial content area labeled R II: 3 relates to the meaning of words and phrases in context and a test question labeled R III; 1 relates to primary sources in various media.

Key Ideas and Details: R I

In this section, you are expected to be able to:

• Summarize a Complex Text
• Infer the Logical Conclusion from a Reading Selection
• Follow a Given Set of Directions
• Identify Specific Information from a Printed Communication
• Identify Information from a Graphic Representation of Information
• Recognize Events in a Sequence

Craft and Structure: R II

• Distinguishing Between Fact and Opinion, Biases, and Stereotypes
• Recognizing the Structure of Texts in Various Formats
• Interpreting the Meaning of Words and Phrases Using Context
• Determining the Denotative Meaning of Words
• Evaluating the Author's Purpose in a Given Text
• Evaluating the Author's Point of View in a Given Text
• Using Text Features

The Integration of Knowledge and Ideas: R III

• Identifying Primary Sources in Various Media
• Using Evidence from a Text to Make Predictions and Inferences and to Draw Conclusions About a Piece of Writing
• Comparing and Contrasting Themes From Print and Other Sources
• Evaluating an Argument and Its Specific Claims

The TEAS mathematics test section measures and tests your ability to use algebra, measure, interpret data, and perform various mathematical operations using numbers.

The two subsections for the TEAS mathematics section and the number of scored questions for this section are:

• Numbers and Algebra: 23 scored questions
• Measurement and Data: 9 scored questions

TEAS Mathematics Details

• Total Scored Questions: 32 questions
• Number of Unscored Questions: 4 questions
• Maximum Time Allocation: 54 minutes

The two subsections for the TEAS mathematics section are further divided, similar to the other three major testing areas of TEAS. Again, for the purpose of this TEAS review, we will refer to these and the other subsections of the TEAS with coding as below.

PLEASE NOTE : A tutorial content area labeled M II: 3 relates to the comparison and ordering of rational numbers and a test question labeled M II: 4 relates to primary sources in various media.

Numbers and Algebra: M I

• Converting Among Non Negative Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages
• Arithmetic Operations with Rational Numbers
• Comparing and Ordering Rational Numbers
• Solve Equations with One Variable
• Solve One or Multi-Step Problems with Rational Numbers
• Solve Problems Involving Percentages
• Applying Estimation Strategies and Rounding Rules for Real-World Problems
• Solve Problems Involving Proportions
• Solve Problems Involving Ratios and Rates of Change
• Translating Phrases and Sentences into Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities

Measurement and Data: M II

• Interpreting Relevant Information From Tables, Charts, and Graphs
• Evaluating Information in Tables, Charts, and Graphs Using Statistics
• Explaining the Relationship Between Two Variables
• Calculate Geometric Qualities
• Converting Within and Between Standard and Metric Systems

Candidates often find this section to be one of the most challenging. The TEAS Science subtest assesses a student’s knowledge of scientific reasoning, life science, the human body, and physical and earth science.

The TEAS science test section measures and tests your knowledge of life sciences, physical science, earth science, scientific reasoning, and the human body.

The three subsections for the TEAS science section and the number of scored questions for this section are:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology: 32 scored questions
• Life and Physical Sciences: 8 scored questions
• Scientific Reasoning: 7 scored questions

TEAS Science Details

• Maximum Time Allocation: 63 minutes

The three subsections of the TEAS science section are further divided, similar to the other three major testing areas of TEAS. Again, for the purpose of this TEAS review, we will refer to these and the other subsections of the TEAS with coding as below.

PLEASE NOTE : A tutorial content area labeled S I: 3 relates to the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system and a test question labeled S II: 4 relates to basic atomic structure.

Human Anatomy and Physiology: S I

Physiology is the study of the functions of the body. Anatomy and physiology, although technically discrete and different bodies of knowledge, anatomy, and physiology are closely aligned with each other. For example, the anatomy of cardiac muscles enables the physiological performance of the heart to fulfill the body's physical need for blood flow and oxygenation and the anatomy of the digestive system enables the person to consume food and process foods so that the physical need for nutrition is fulfilled.

Some of the major physical needs of the body that are fulfilled with the body's physiology and its physiological functioning are the need for:

• Homeostasis and bodily equilibrium
• Oxygenation
• Elimination
• Fluid balance
• Movement and activity
• Freedom from external threats (infection)
• The five senses
• Reproduction

In this section, you are expected to be able to describe the following:

• General Anatomy and Physiology of a Human
• Respiratory System  – Blood flow
• Cardiac System  – Oxygenation, blood flow
• Circulatory System  – Blood flow
• Digestive or Gastrointestinal System  – Nutrition, elimination
• Nervous System  – Sensory perception, voluntary & involuntary movements
• Musculoskeletal System – Skeletal  – Movement, activity, protection
• Musculoskeletal System – Muscular  – Same as Skeletal
• Reproductive System  – Reproduction, growth
• Integumentary System  – Temperature regulation, bodily protection
• Endocrine System  – Growth, metabolism, fluid balance
• Genitourinary System – Rids waste, fluid management, and control
• Immune System  – Protection against infection
• Hematological System  – Protection against infection, oxygenation w/ red blood cells

Life and Physical Sciences: S II

• Basic Macromolecules in a Biological System
• Chromosomes, Genes, and DNA
• Mendel’s Laws of Heredity
• Basic Atomic Structure
• Characteristic Properties of Substances
• Changing States of Matter
• Chemical Reactions

Scientific Reasoning: S III

• Scientific Measurements & Laboratory Measurement Tools 
• Scientific Explanations Using Logic and Evidence
• Relationships Among Events, Objects, and Processes
• Analysis and Design of a Scientific Investigation

The TEAS English and Language Usage test section measures and tests your knowledge of spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and contextual words.

The three subsections of the TEAS English and Language Usage test section are:

• Conventions of Standard English: 9 scored questions
• Knowledge of Language: 9 scored questions
• Vocabulary Acquisition: 6 scored questions

TEAS English & Language Usage Details

• Total Scored Questions: 24 questions
• Maximum Time Allocation: 28 minutes

PLEASE NOTE : A tutorial content area labeled L I: 3 relates to the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system and a test question labeled 1 II: 4 relates to basic atomic structure.

Conventions of Standard English: E 1

• Using Conventions of Standard English Spelling
• Using Conventions of Standard English Punctuation
• Analyzing Various Sentence Structures

Knowledge of Language: E 2

• Using Grammar to Enhance Clarity in Writing
• Distinguish Between Formal and Informal Language
• Apply Basic Knowledge of the Elements of the Writing Process
• Developing a Well Organized Paragraph

Vocabulary Acquisition: E 3

• Using Context Clues to Determine the Meaning of Words or Phrases
• Determine the Meaning of Words by Analyzing Word Parts

Now go get accepted into nursing school!

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Nursing School Entrance Exams: Tips & My Experience

Table of contents.

Types of Nursing Entrance Exams

Nursing schools will vary as to what exactly you need to do to get in, but there is a good chance that you will need to take some type of entrance exam. Therefore, it is important to have some understanding of the various types of nursing entrance exams and what they require.

Depending on which nursing schools you plan on applying to, the entrance exam that you are required to take will vary. Many aspiring nursing students apply to multiple universities, so being aware of the different types of entrance exams can be helpful, given that you may have to take more than one before getting accepted into a program. 

Many people wonder whether nursing entrance exams are required by every program. Although there are nursing schools without entrance exams, it is very rare, so it is best to plan on taking entrance exams to increase your odds of getting into a nursing program. Below, we’ve outlined a few of the most common nursing entrance exams and what to expect from each one. 

National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Exam (PAX)

The PAX exam is one of the most common nursing school entrance exams. This exam is split into three parts – reading comprehension, math, and science – and consists of 160 multiple choice questions. Test takers have two hours and five minutes to complete the test. 

Nursing Entrance Test (NET)

If your nursing school requires the Nursing Entrance Test (NET) for admission, you’ll be required to answer questions that evaluate your mathematical skills, reading speed, learning style, social decision making, and your ability to respond to stressful situations. You’ll be given 155 minutes to complete this exam. 

Test of Essential Academic Skills Exam (TEAS)

Another common nursing entrance exam is the TEAS Exam . This test has four sections including reading, math, language use, and science. Test-takers are given 209 minutes to complete this 170 question exam, which covers high school-level knowledge such as algebra, vocabulary, and physical sciences. 

Health Education Systems, Inc. Admissions Assessment (HESI A2)

The HESI A2 exam has nine sections that cover biology, chemistry, grammar, reading, and math. This exam also draws on high school-level knowledge, as many of the entrance exams do. 

PSB Registered Nursing School Aptitude Exam

The PSB Registered Nursing School Aptitude Exam is designed specifically for nursing students who plan to attend an RN program. This test consists of 360 multiple choice questions, offers a 105-minute testing window, and has five sections. The sections cover: academic aptitude, spelling, reading, science, and a vocational adjustment index. 

PSB Health Occupations Aptitude Exam

This nursing entrance exam may be used for a variety of healthcare programs, including those who are pursuing a career as a registered nurse. The PSB Health Occupations Aptitude Exam assesses the test-takers’ knowledge in reading comprehension, spelling, math, and natural sciences. This exam also assesses personality traits and behavioral characteristics.

Preparing for Nursing School Entrance Exams

If you’re getting ready to apply to take your entrance exams for nursing school, there are a variety of ways to prepare. I recommend looking into resources your university offers, taking practice tests, and estimating the cost of the exams ahead of time. 

University resources

Some universities will offer testing resources such as courses to help prepare students. Look into what your university offers if you’re applying for a program at the university that you’re already attending. I was required to take the TEAS exam for my nursing program and because I was already a student at the school I was applying to, I was able to complete a TEAS exam preparation course that really helped me with testing strategy. 

Study books and practice tests

Practice tests are an invaluable resource when it comes to preparing for nursing school entrance exams because they offer nursing admission assessment examples and practice questions. Once you’ve determined which test you’ll need to  take, you can get a study book for that exam and start delving into the material. You’ll want to dedicate plenty of focused, independent study time to preparing for these exams, because they often cover material that test takers haven’t seen since high school (such as algebra and long division). 

Practice tests are a great way to prepare because you can practice sitting for the given amount of time and gauge how far you get, which will help guide your studying. If you’re having a hard time staying focused during the time it takes to complete a practice test, you’ll know you need to prepare a bit more. Also, you can look at how you score on the practice tests to determine which specific sections need more work and which ones you feel confident in. 

The Cost of Entrance Exams

Something important to note is that these entrance exams will cost money and you’ll need to be prepared for that.

Although I wouldn’t recommend signing up to take your exams until you feel fully confident in the testing material, there is a good chance you’ll still want to take your exams more than once to get the highest score possible.

I will be the first to admit that I took the TEAS exam many times to get the highest score I could. My score went up after my first few retakes, and then when it plateaued, I knew I’d reached my highest possible score and decided to use that score to apply for nursing school. This is also a good reason to start taking your entrance exams well before it is time to apply to nursing school, so that you can have plenty of time to retake exams if you want to. 

Most nursing entrance exams cost between $25 and $70 each time you take them, and this price will quickly add up when you’re retaking the test often. I can’t speak for all nursing programs, but my nursing program allowed students to retake the TEAS exam as many times as they felt necessary, taking only the highest score of all attempts. Because the program was incredibly competitive, I heard plenty of stories of students taking the test over and over again to get their highest possible score. 

For this reason, you’ll want to plan ahead for the financial investment that entrance exams will require, especially if you’re already on a budget. Keep in mind that this is an investment into your future and the money spent is well worth it. Try to find as many free or low-cost preparation materials as you can to lower your spending on entrance exams because the testing books and practice tests are also an additional cost. Luckily, there are plenty of resources that fit this bill.

My Experience Taking the TEAS Exam

The nursing program I applied to required the TEAS Exam for admission. This exam was definitely a challenge and it required plenty of preparation. Back when I took it, calculators were not allowed, and part of the math section covered long division. This required me to review material I hadn’t even thought about since high school. I also found the science section to be particularly challenging because it covered topics relating to Anatomy and Physiology and Chemistry (two subjects I have struggled with in the past). 

I prepared with university resources and a test booklet. I delved into every section of the exam by slowly moving through my test preparation book and completing practice questions along the way. The testing book I purchased came with a few practice tests, so I would take a practice test, evaluate where I needed to study more and then take another practice test when I felt ready. The practice tests were a huge help because it got me used to the feeling of sitting and staying focused for the full amount of time it would take to complete the actual exam. 

After a few test attempts, I finally got a score I was happy with. Rest assured, not everyone has to take their entrance exams as many times as I did. Since I wasn’t accepted into nursing school on my first try, I spent extra time preparing for my second application attempt and chose to take the exam many times to get the highest possible score. Some students only have to take their entrance exams once to reach a score they feel happy with.

My name is Sophia. I am a Registered Nurse with experience working as a floor nurse on a Renal Care Unit and Hematology/Oncology Unit.

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Further Reading

HESI vs. TEAS: Nursing School Entrance Exams Compared

How Hard Is Nursing School? The Truth About What to Expect

How to Prepare for Nursing School: 7 Ways to Hit the Ground Running

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Complete guide to nursing entrance exams.

If you found your way here, you are probably interested in becoming a nurse – best of luck to you! There are many steps to take and requirements to meet before you can apply to a nursing program. Pre-licensure nursing programs, at any level, will require an entrance exam, pre-requisite courses, and a minimum GPA. Sometimes they can even require CPR or nursing assistant training. Be sure to review all required application materials. Entrance exam requirements, often referred to by acronyms, include the “HESI”, the “TEAS” or “PAX”. These are some of the most common exams, designed to help determine your readiness for a nursing program and aptitude in several different knowledge areas such as comprehension and math. There are exams focused in healthcare, some specific to nursing, and some programs require the more general SAT or ACT.  The following is an explanation of each exam and suggestions for study tools.  

Test of Essential Academic Skills Exam (TEAS)

This exam is offered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) and includes 170 multiple-choice questions separated into four sections – reading, mathematics, English and language, and science. This exam is primarily used or required by nursing programs but can also be required for other healthcare programs. 

ATI recommends at least 6 weeks of preparation for this exam, and offers packages to help study and practice – there is also a free practice exam here . The cost of the exam itself is between $35 and $70 and it must be completed within 209 minutes.

Health Education Systems, Inc. Admissions Assessment (HESI)

The HESI A2 is another common requirement and is healthcare, but not necessarily nursing, specific. It has nine sections, placing more emphasis on science subjects than the TEAS, which include grammar, biology, chemistry, reading comprehension, and math. The other interesting difference with the HESI is the exam includes questions about personality and learning styles.

The cost for this exam is $40-$65 and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. There are a variety of resources to help prepare for the HESI, such as this complete study guide which includes a practice exam.

National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Exam (PAX)

This nursing-specific exam includes 160 multiple-choice questions across three subject areas: reading comprehension and word knowledge, math, and science. The exam must be completed within 125 minutes and costs $60-$100 depending on the school requiring it. Among the various options for study materials and resources available to prepare for the PAX is a free one through Mometrix.

Nursing Entrance Test (NET)

Similar to the PAX, this nursing-specific exam tests math and reading speed, but it also includes questions designed to evaluate decision-making skills, assesses learning style, and ability to handle stressful environments. There are six sections of multiple-choice questions and a 1-minute speed-reading test.

The cost of this exam varies by school and while scores of 65 and 55 on the math and reading sections are often the competitive requirement, it is up to each school to judge the other section scores. Study.com offers an option for preparation guides and materials for the NET.

Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test 

This exam offered through Kaplan is another nursing-specific one designed to assess the potential success of someone in an RN program. There are 91 multiple-choice questions spread over four sections: reading, math, writing, and science. The cost for this exam is between $25 and $45 and it takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. Because this exam tests basic high-school level subject matter, many people utilize SAT/ACT study materials to prepare for it, but Kaplan also offers their own options.

Psychological Services Bureau (PSB) 

The PSB offers several exams – one for practical nursing programs and a separate one for RN programs. There are 360 multiple-choice questions including some unique sections such as academic aptitude. The other sections are spelling, reading comprehension, natural sciences, and a vocational adjustment index. Test-takers have 105 minutes to complete the exam and it costs $25-45. Mometrix offers a popular study guide for this test.

Most nursing programs will have a preferred or required exam.  Once you have a list of possible programs, be sure to determine which exam is required. In my experience, I find that schools often require a specific exam and will not take any of the others. TEAS or HESI are the most common. To learn more about the testing and application process for a specific nursing program, be sure to reach out to the school directly.

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Nursing Pre-Entrance Exam Online Course

Prepare with our Nursing Exam Study Guide and Practice Questions. Print or eBook. Guaranteed to raise your score. Get started today!

Nursing Exam Flashcards. Proven Nursing test flashcards raise your score on the Nursing entrance test. Guaranteed.

Your nursing pre-entrance exam (PAX-RN) is very important to your future, so most students invest in a Nursing Exam Study Guide and many choose to supplement with Nursing Exam Flashcards. Given what’s at stake, taking responsibility for your own preparation is the prudent course.

If you don’t need to go through our Nursing Pre-Entrance Exam online course, click here for basic information about the  Nursing Pre-Entrance test and PSB tests , and the TEAS ® Test .

Please review our basic information about these different exams. Nursing schools use different exams for screening applicants across the country. Make sure you know the acronym of the exam you are taking.

We have provided the Nursing Pre-Entrance Exam resources and the tools. The rest is up to you- the best teacher is the person who knows you best- YOU!

Online PAX Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online PAX Prep Course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The PAX Course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 1,100+ PAX Practice Questions
• More than 300 Digital Flashcards
• Over 280 Instructional Videos
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The PAX Prep Course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their PAX exam. Click below to check it out!

Take the self assessment module quizzes below (make notes of your scores and remember which revealed significant gaps in your learning):

• Basic Algebra
• Intermediate Algebra
• Advanced Algebra
• Averages and Rounding
• Estimation and Sequences
• Fractions and Square Roots
• Author's Purpose
• Basic Grammar
• Intermediate Grammar
• Advanced Grammar
• Intermediate Math
• Advanced Mathematics
• Measurement
• Percents and Ratios
• Basic Reading Comprehension
• Intermediate Reading Comprehension
• Advanced Reading Comprehension
• Reading for the Main Idea
• Reading Vocabulary
• Vocabulary1
• Vocabulary2

PAX Practice Test

  PAX stands for Pre-Admission Exam. Nursing schools used the exam to determine if an applicant had the skills and aptitudes necessary to do well in a program of nursing education.

PAX Practice Tests by Subject

If you need some extra practice in a specific subject, click one of the subjects below to get started on a subject-specific PAX practice test.

PAX Verbal Practice Test PAX Mathematics Practice Test

PAX Science Practice Test

Exam Outline Review

The PAX test contained 160 multiple-choice questions, and you would be given 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete it.

The test was split into three sections:

I. Verbal (60 questions)

This section was divided into two subsections, and you would have 45 minutes to complete all of the questions.

The passages would be either general or scientific in nature and would test your ability to fully grasp the information presented. The difficulty of the passages increased as you went through this subsection, starting at an 8th-9th-grade reading level and ending at a basic college reading level

Word Knowledge (30 questions) The questions in this subsection assessed your ability to correctly identify the meaning of words in certain contexts within a sentence. The difficulty level of these words and sentences ranged from an 8th-grade reading level to a basic college reading level:

II. Mathematics (40 questions)

This section, which was timed at 35 minutes, tested your ability to solve a wide array of basic math problems, including problems that involve algebra and geometry.

There were two categories of questions in this section: computation and problem-solving. This meant that you would be given the chance to perform mathematical operations and apply them to word problems. In total, there were 18 computation questions and 22 problem-solving questions.

These were the specific topics that were covered:

• Percentages
• Measurement conversions
• Math concepts

III. Science (60 questions)

This section focused on your knowledge and cognitive skills in relation to various fields of science, and you would be given 45 minutes to complete this section. These were the topics covered:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

Bloom’s Taxonomy was used as the basis for the questions in this section:

Prepare with our PAX Study Guide and Practice Questions.

Get practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons

Registration

While the exam itself was the same no matter where you took it, it was administered by the school that you were applying to. So you would have to register for your appointment through the school. The exam fee also depended on where you were taking it but would usually range from $60 to $100.

When you registered, you would have a range of dates to choose from. It was offered several times each month. Many locations would also offer a range of start times on each date so that you could find something that fit best with your schedule.

PAX Test Scores

When you received your score report, you would see what percentage of questions you answered correctly in each section of the test, as well as a composite score and overall percentile rank. Since each nursing program has its own standard for acceptable scores, there was no standard passing or failing score.

Check Out Mometrix's PAX Flashcards

Get complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts

Online PAX Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online PAX Prep Course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The PAX Course includes:

• 80+ Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 650+ PAX Practice Questions
• More than 300 Digital Flashcards
• Over 240 Instructional Videos
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The PAX Prep Course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their PAX exam. Click below to check it out!

How to Study for the PAX Exam

How to study effectively.

Your success on PAX test day depends not only on how many hours you put into preparing but also on whether you prepared the right way. It’s good to check along the way to see whether your studying is paying off. One of the most effective ways to do this is by taking PAX practice tests to evaluate your progress. Practice tests are useful because they show exactly where you need to improve. Every time you take a free PAX exam practice test, pay special attention to these three groups of questions:

• The questions you got wrong
• The ones you had to guess on, even if you guessed right
• The ones you found difficult or slow to work through

This will show you exactly what your weak areas are and where you need to devote more study time. Ask yourself why each of these questions gave you trouble. Was it because you didn’t understand the material? Was it because you didn’t remember the vocabulary? Do you need more repetitions on this type of question to build speed and confidence? Dig into those questions and figure out how you can strengthen your weak areas as you go back to review the material.

Answer Explanations

Additionally, many PAX practice tests have a section explaining the answer choices. It can be tempting to read the explanation and think that you now have a good understanding of the concept. However, an explanation likely only covers part of the question’s broader context. Even if the explanation makes sense, go back and investigate every concept related to the question until you’re positive you have a thorough understanding.

Comprehend Each Topic

As you go along, keep in mind that the PAX practice test is just that: practice. Memorizing these questions and answers will not be very helpful on the actual test because it is unlikely to have any of the same exact questions. If you only know the right answers to the sample questions, you won’t be prepared for the real thing. Study the concepts until you understand them fully, and then you’ll be able to answer any question that shows up on the test.

Strategy for PAX Practice

When you’re ready to start taking practice tests, follow this strategy:

• Remove Limitations. Take the first test with no time constraints and with your notes and PAX study guide handy. Take your time and focus on applying the strategies you’ve learned.
• Time Yourself. Take the second practice test “open book” as well, but set a timer and practice pacing yourself to finish in time.
• Simulate Test Day. Take any other practice tests as if it were test day. Set a timer and put away your study materials. Sit at a table or desk in a quiet room, imagine yourself at the testing center, and answer questions as quickly and accurately as possible.
• Keep Practicing. Keep taking practice tests on a regular basis until you run out of practice tests or it’s time for the actual test. Your mind will be ready for the schedule and stress of test day, and you’ll be able to focus on recalling the material you’ve learned.

How many questions are on the NLN PAX exam?

There are 160 multiple-choice questions on the exam

How long is the NLN PAX exam?

The time limit for the test is 2 hours and 5 minutes.

What is the passing score for the NLN PAX exam?

There is no set passing score for this exam. The nursing program of your choice will decide what scores they accept as passing.

How much does the NLN PAX exam cost?

The fee for the exam will be different depending on where you take the test. Generally, it ranges from $60 to $100.

By Kate Nockunas

Kate has been Mometrix’s Nursing and Medical Editor for over four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Vanderbilt University, a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Marymount University, and a master’s degree in Education from Johns Hopkins. Kate is a critical care registered nurse who still works occasionally in the ICU and PACU.

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How to Study and Pass the TEAS Test

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), healthcare practitioners and technical occupations (including registered nurses, physicians, and surgeons) make a median annual salary of $77,760. They can expect to see about 1.8 million job openings projected each year to 2032.

Thus, it’s no surprise many students seek to enroll in healthcare schools and degree programs to pursue these in-demand careers.

However, starting one’s career in a healthcare program often involves passing the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). This standardized exam evaluates students’ readiness for various healthcare programs, including nursing.

Read on to discover what students can expect from the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) as well as six tips on how to study and prepare for this examination.

What is the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized, multiple-choice exam that tests students’ readiness for enrollment in healthcare-related programs, such as nursing.

The exam covers four key areas:

English and Language Use (28 minutes): Measures one’s knowledge and understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and written communication skills in relation to communication with patients and in healthcare settings. Math (54 minutes): Tests the student’s proficiency in basic mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills often used in the healthcare industry. Reading (64 minutes): This section evaluates the candidate’s ability to comprehend and analyze healthcare-related texts. Science (63 minutes): Tests the understanding of fundamental biological and anatomical concepts.

Many healthcare schools consider a student’s score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills to be evidence of their problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. As such, passing this test also often reveals a student’s academic skills and shows prospective nursing programs that they can provide high-quality patient care.

Every nursing and healthcare program’s admission requirements will vary, so students should research when applying to understand what will be required. For example, at Goodwin University, our prospective nursing students will need to pass the TEAS test before beginning their program.

6 tips on how to study and pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)

Successful students should want to succeed on any exam, including the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). To do so, students should make sure they are prepared so they can pass on their first attempt. Follow these tips for success as you study and prepare for the TEAS exam.

Tip #1: Make a plan

Before diving into studying, create a personalized plan that will utilize your strengths and improve any weaknesses. Consider the following as you make your study plan:

Learning style: Do you excel in group settings, individual study, or work best with a tutor? Resources: Use online tutorials, study guides, and practice tests offered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) and other test prep programs. Study timeline: How much time do you have before you take the test? While it’s recommended that students aim for at least six weeks, they can adjust based on their needs. Weaknesses: Identify the sections of the test you may need more time with and prioritize those sections accordingly.

Tip #2: Don’t wait until the last minute

Now you’ve got a plan, it’s time to follow through! Cramming is never the solution. Instead, build consistent study habits to retain and recall information, as well as avoid the stress of procrastination and cramming. The American Technologies Institute (ATI), which creates and writes the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), recommends students take at least six weeks of preparation before taking the exam.

Students should identify their ideal study time—morning, afternoon, or evening—and schedule sessions accordingly.

Tip #3: Use resources and take TEAS practice tests

The American Technologies Institute (ATI) offers study guides, online tutorials, study manuals, learning strategies, and practice tests to help students prepare for and pass the TEAS test.

These materials help students familiarize themselves with each section’s question format, content, and time constraints. Students can then analyze their performance to identify the areas that have given them trouble and refocus their studying accordingly.

Tip #4: Understand your learning style

Just as every student is different, so too is every student’s learning style. Students should utilize various study methods to discover how and in what ways they learn best. For example:

Auditory learners: Listen to study guides or record yourself reading key concepts Kinesthetic learners: Rewrite notes by hand or practice answering questions while you walk or move around. Visual learners: Utilize flashcards, diagrams, and flowcharts

Understanding your learning style will not only help for the TEAS exam, but also will help you throughout your collegiate and professional career.

Tip #5: Answer every question

The TEAS exam does not penalize students for wrong answers, so students should answer every question, even if they may not know the answer.

Students can also strategize to save time by leaving unanswered questions until the end of each section. Then, read the question again carefully, try not to overthink the answer, and attempt to answer the question mentally before you look at the multiple-choice answers.

Tip #6: Take breaks

Be sure to give yourself breaks throughout your studying and preparation. Doing so will maximize retention, keep cramming to a minimum, and avoid sickness and burnout.

Always balance studying with physical activities or time with friends and family, and be sure to get enough sleep, especially in the days leading up to the exam.

The TEAS requirement at Goodwin University

At Goodwin University, we believe in supporting future nurses every step of the way. Our nursing programs prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in this in-demand and rewarding field.

We offer the following Nursing programs :

• Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
• APRN- Family Nurse Practitioner (APRN-FNP)
• APRN- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (APRN- PMHNP)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)

Additionally, we require all incoming nursing students to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) before beginning their program. Students may only test once per application cycle , and if they are unsatisfied with their score, they must wait until the next application cycle to retake their test.

Contact us today for more information about our Nursing degree programs and how we can help you prepare for and pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). We’re ready when you are!

Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.

NCLEX Study Tips and Resources for Students

Tables of Contents

Nurse Requirements

Nclex preparation, study tips for the nclex-rn exam, preparation is key to nclex success.

The respect and high esteem that the nursing profession enjoys is no accident. Generations of nurses have worked diligently to provide the quality care and advocacy that has earned the trust of patients and their families. That’s why qualifying to work as a registered nurse is difficult. Prospective nurses must demonstrate that they possess the skills and character to meet the nursing profession’s standards.

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and its partner examination for practical nurses (NCLEX-PN) are intended to confirm that a nursing student is prepared to work as an entry-level RN or PN. In addition to testing a candidate’s medical knowledge, the exams require that students demonstrate the critical thinking skills necessary to make sound nursing decisions.

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses describes the  benefits of nurse certification  for patients, employers, and nurses:

• It gives patients and their families confidence in the nurse’s decision-making skills and work experience.
• It contributes to the professionalism of healthcare employers’ work environments and promotes retention, which becomes critical in light of the continuing nursing shortage.
• It positions nurses to receive the recognition and advancement they deserve while boosting their confidence and sense of achievement.

Becoming a nurse  begins by earning a postsecondary degree in nursing. The most recent  National Nursing Workforce Study  conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and the National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers found that 45% of RNs have a bachelor’s degree in nursing as their highest education level achieved. This was followed by 28% with an associate degree in nursing and 17% with a master’s degree in nursing.

The percentage of nurses holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree is increasing, according to the study. By contrast, the percentage of nurses whose highest education level is an associate degree or a nursing diploma is decreasing.

In addition to passing the NCLEX-RN exam, RNs must be licensed by the state in which they practice; the NCSBN notes that the  Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)  allows nurses to practice in multiple states with a single state-issued license. The NLC has been approved or is pending in 39 states, although California and New York are among the states that are not members of the compact.

Types of Nursing Degrees

Advanced  nursing degrees  include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in nursing. However, the most common types of nursing degrees are the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Nursing Degrees vs. Nursing Licenses

• Licensed Practical Nurses (Also Referred to as Licensed Vocational Nurses) : The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) describes the  duties of LPNs  as providing basic patient care, such as taking vitals and changing wound dressings. They comfort and discuss care with patients, maintain health records, and collaborate with RNs and doctors. They receive a certificate or diploma after completing an education program that typically takes about a year. They must also pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
• Registered Nurses : According to the BLS, an  RN’s duties  include assessing and diagnosing patients’ health, recording their health histories, administering treatments and medicine, and collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals. They run and monitor medical equipment, administer diagnostic tests, and analyze results. They also educate patients and families about continuing treatment. RNs earn a nursing diploma or certificate, ADN, or BSN. Some states also require a criminal background check in addition to a passing score on the NCLEX-RN exam.

Graduate Degrees in Nursing

• Entry-level master’s degrees  include baccalaureate-level material and typically take two to three years to complete.
• RN to master’s degrees  are intended for nurses who hold associate degrees; they also require two to three years to complete on average.
• Bachelor’s to master’s degrees  are the most common graduate degrees for nurses, offering courses that build on the baccalaureate curriculum; they typically require 18 to 24 months to finish.
• Dual master’s degrees  serve nurses looking to combine a degree with a concentration in a specific aspect of health, such as business (Master of Business Administration), public health (Master of Public Health), or health administration (Master of Health Administration).
• Post-master’s certificates  provide master’s program graduates with the opportunity to gain clinical skills and knowledge in healthcare specialties, such as leadership, education, and informatics.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice : The practice-focused doctoral degree in nursing prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership positions as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified RN anesthetists, and certified nurse midwives. DNP degree holders also serve as health educators, administrators, and public health nurses.
• PhD in Nursing : The research-focused doctoral degree for nurses prepares them to conduct clinical research in such areas as diabetes treatment, cancer treatment, and eating disorders. Some nursing education programs offer a Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) or Doctor of Education (EdD) rather than a PhD in nursing.

Nursing School Accreditation

A nursing school’s accreditation indicates to potential students that the institution’s bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in nursing have met an established standard of quality. The AACN explains the benefits of nursing school accreditation for patients, nurses, educators, and students.

• Accredited programs gain the trust of the public, prospective students, financial backers, educational institutions, government agencies, and other institutions. To receive federal support under the Higher Education Act of 1965 or Title VIII of the Public Health Services Act (Nursing Education Act), a program must be accredited by an agency acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Institutional accreditation  is conducted by regional organizations and the National League for Nursing (NLN) for schools not affiliated with a higher education institution.
• Specialized accreditation  is conducted by the NLN and specialty nursing associations for schools that operate within a higher education institution.
• In addition to the NLN, nursing schools are accredited by the American Nurses Association, American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, and other nursing organizations.

The number of people who took the NCLEX-RN exam from January to June 2020 and the percentage who passed, with figures for first-time and repeat takers who were educated in the U.S. and abroad. All candidates: 128,175; pass rate: 76.53%. First time, U.S. educated: 96,463; pass rate 89.25%. First time, internationally educated: 6,095; pass rate 45.27%. Repeat, U.S. educated: 17,591; pass rate 40.27%. Repeat, internationally educated: 8,026; pass rate 26.86%.

NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN Exams

For nursing students, the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams can be daunting, yet each year far more first-time exam takers pass than fail. The key to success is thorough preparation.

To work as an RN, a person must be licensed, which involves passing the NCLEX-RN exam and meeting other licensure requirements that vary by state. NursingLicensure.org lists the  LPN/LVN and RN licensing requirements  for each state and the District of Columbia.

• RN and LPN  licenses  are issued by state agencies; they must be renewed after a number of years, and they may be revoked by the state for a number of reasons.
• A nursing  credential  is issued by an educational institution or a professional association as proof of qualification for a specific practice area.
• A nursing  certification  requires meeting education, experience, and skill levels demonstrated by passing a certification exam, such as that for  certified emergency nurse  (CEN).

Resources for Nurse Requirements

• American Nurses Association, Resources to Succeed  — Information for  nursing professionals  and  nursing organizations
• American Nurses Association, Nurse Focus  — Links to sources for professional development
• The Joint Commission, Nursing Resources  — Standards and guides relating to nursing practice on topics such as  pain management  and  safety in nursing

Nursing students begin to think about the NCLEX exam long before they graduate. The first step in preparing for the NCLEX is to obtain an  Authorization to Test (ATT)  from the appropriate  nursing regulatory body  for the location where the student will practice. This is typically done well in advance of the test date.

• The nursing regulatory body declares the student eligible, and the student receives the ATT via email.
• The ATT email is required to register for the exam and schedule the student’s NCLEX test date.
• The ATT contains an authorization number, candidate identification number, and expiration date.
• The ATT remains valid for the period specified by the nursing regulatory body, which is typically 90 days.

NCLEX Facts and Figures

The NCSBN’s  2020 NCLEX fact sheet  provides statistics on the number of students taking the test each quarter, the number who pass the test, and other information about the test results.

• NCLEX Pass Rates : The NCSBN provides fact sheets that include NCLEX pass rates  dating back to 1983 . The fact sheets break down testing by the number of U.S.-educated and international-educated students who took the test, the number of first-time takers, the number of repeat takers, and the pass rates in each category.
• Computerized Adaptive Testing  (CAT) : The NCSBN administers the test using a technique that is intended to make the examination process more efficient. CAT adjusts the question difficulty based on the student’s incorrect answers as the test proceeds. For example, high-ability students get fewer “easy” questions because such questions don’t fully represent those students’ knowledge. Similarly, low-ability students receive fewer “difficult” questions to minimize the number of answers that are guesses.
• Inability to answer the minimum of 75 questions in the six-hour test period
• Failure to reach a certain competency level after answering the maximum of 265 questions
• Answering so few questions correctly that the system determines a passing score is impossible

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the five most common employers of RNs as of 2018. State, local, and private hospitals: 60%; Ambulatory healthcare centers: 18%; Nursing and residential care facilities: 7%; Government entities: 5%; State, local, and private educational services: 3%.

How to Prepare for Taking the NCLEX Exam

Before registering for the NCLEX, the NCSBN recommends that students read the  NCLEX Candidate Bulletin , which details the test registration process, eligibility requirements, test fees, and registration time limits. The bulletin covers a range of topics related to the NCLEX:

• Domestic and international test appointment scheduling
• Personal identification requirements
• Testing rules and grounds for dismissal or cancellation of results
• Check-in process and breaks
• Test environment and technical issues
• How the test results will be reported

The bulletin explains the steps used to develop the NCLEX and includes definitions of terms used in the exam questions.

After becoming familiar with the necessary test preparations, students turn their attention to the  NCLEX test plans , which act as frameworks for the outlines students will use to study for the exam. Each test plan includes the following components:

• Definitions of the exam’s Client Needs categories
• Nursing activity statements
• Examples of test content
• Sample questions
• A guide to item writing

These are among the other steps that students can take to prepare for the NCLEX exam:

• Take the NCSBN’s  NCLEX tutorial , which helps students get accustomed to the Pearson VUE exam software.
• View the NCSBN’s  CAT educational video and presentation  that explains how the system works and why it is used.
• Peruse the  NCSBN’s FAQs , which cover topics such as changing registration, choice of testing jurisdiction, and the forms of identification accepted at test centers.
• Read the organization’s  exam-day advice  that recommends wearing comfortable attire, arriving early, and setting a pace, and explains what to do when you’ve completed the test.
• To stay a step ahead, review the NCSBN’s  after the exam instructions  to learn about unofficial and official results, and, for candidates who don’t pass, how to retake the exam.

Resources for NCLEX Preparation

• California Board of Registered Nursing, NCLEX Review Resources and RN Refresher Courses  — A directory of resources for preparatory material as well as organizations offering RN refresher courses
• Canadian Nurses Association, NCLEX-RN Exam Resources — Free resources from the NCSBN and other organizations, as well as various resources to purchase
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Resources  — A searchable database including brochures and magazines, videos, and webinars

The more students know about how the NCLEX-RN exam works, the types of questions posed by the test, and the topics it covers, the more likely they are to achieve a passing score. A successful NCLEX strategy begins by creating a study plan that includes answering dozens, perhaps hundreds, of sample questions. The strategy will help students adopt a test-taking approach that identifies difficult questions and parses them so they are easier to answer.

Devising a Study Plan

The best way for students to familiarize themselves with the topics and types of questions included on the NCLEX exam is to carefully review the NCSBN test plans, which are updated every three years to ensure they reflect current trends in nursing and healthcare. The most recent test plans were released in April 2019.

• The test plans describe in detail the content covered on the exam and the appropriate writing process for exam answers.
• Management of Care (17% to 23%)
• Safety and Infection Control (9% to 15%)
• Health Promotion and Maintenance (6% to 12%)
• Psychosocial Integrity (6% to 12%)
• Basic Care and Comfort (6% to 12%)
• Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (12% to 18%)
• Reduction of Risk Potential (9% to 15%)
• Physiological Adaptation (11% to 17%)
• They include nursing activity statements, content examples, sample NCLEX items, and an item-writing guide.

Five processes are integrated into the questions for all Client Needs categories:

• Nursing Process : Applying scientific and clinical reasoning to patient care
• Caring : Mutual trust and respect in all client interactions
• Communication and Documentation : Verbal and nonverbal interactions with patients, their families, and fellow healthcare professionals
• Teaching/Learning : Promoting changes in behavior by acquiring knowledge, skills, and capabilities
• Culture and Spirituality : Recognizing and acknowledging the unique preferences of individual patients in light of standards of care and legal considerations

Types of Questions

The number of questions the CAT system presents to students ranges from 75 to 145, 15 of which are unscored pretest items. The test must be completed within five hours (plus a one-hour break), which includes the introductory screen and optional breaks. The types of questions, or “items,” on the NCLEX-RN exam include the following:

• Fill-in-the-blank calculation
• Multiple choice
• Order response
• Select all that apply (SATA)

Order response and SATA tend to be the most problematic for students, according to Daily Nurse.

• Order response questions present students with a scenario and a list of actions; students are asked to put the actions in the correct order to address the situation described in the scenario.
• SATA questions present students with a statement or scenario along with a list of potential answers; they must determine which answers apply to the scenario.

NCLEX Study Tips for Tackling Difficult Questions

A study plan for the NCLEX exam should set aside at least one to two hours of study time each day beginning at least several weeks before the test date. Daily Nurse describes strategies for increasing the chances of answering the exam’s most difficult questions correctly:

• Study unit conversions to prepare for questions that involve drug dosage calculations.
• Be familiar with prioritization in the nursing process: assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate.
• Approach SATA questions as extended true or false: determine whether each independent answer option pertains to the question.

Students often review general nursing concepts before focusing on the detailed information that the NCLEX tests, but Brilliant Nurse explains that a more effective strategy is to begin by studying the details. Once students feel they have mastered the facts, they can gain a better understanding of the overarching principles that link them.

Brilliant Nurse’s other study tips include the following:

• Go over practice test results carefully to understand why mistakes were made.
• Join a study group or study with a friend, but only if the group is focused on success.
• Answer sample questions out loud to reinforce the material.
• Read questions carefully, looking for keywords and details.
• For multiple choice and SATA questions, eliminate obvious wrong answers.
• Spot the small differences in similar potential answers.
• When two options are opposite, one of the options is usually the correct answer.

Resources for NCLEX Study Tips

• Canadian Nurses Association, NCLEX-RN Exam Writing Tips — Preparatory steps, study tips, and typical routines for exam day, during the test, and after the test.
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing, NCLEX Practice Exam for RN and PN — Downloadable tests designed to represent the actual test environment that feature questions from previous exams.
• Onward Healthcare, “Do’s and Don’ts for Passing the NCLEX”  — Test advice, including start studying early, avoid cramming, take as many practice tests as possible, eat a nutritious breakfast on test day, take deep breaths, and relax.

It’s much easier for students to relax while taking the NCLEX exam when they’re confident that they have mastered the material. Students usually have more nursing knowledge than they give themselves credit for. By focusing on their test-taking strategy and the material they have mastered, students are much less likely to have any single question or topic throw them for a loop. The more work a student does in the weeks leading up to the test, the calmer they’ll be on test day, and the happier they’re likely to be when the test results are announced.

National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2020 NCLEX Pass Rates

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses

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TEAS Exam Guide

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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

When applying to nursing school, candidates may need to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) as an admission requirement. While not all nursing schools expect applicants to submit TEAS scores, many do. Therefore, prospective students should prepare for the TEAS exam.

The TEAS exam evaluates whether students possess the academic skills to earn a higher education degree in the health sciences. The exam covers four basic general education areas: reading, math, science, and English and language usage.

Testing time takes 209 minutes, or about 3.5 hours, and comprises 170 questions, including 20 pretest sample questions. Only 150 questions are scored in total. The pretest questions are not scored.

About 40% of TEAS test-takers need to repeat the exam, according to ATI , the company that publishes and administers the TEAS. Even if you feel confident in these subjects, preparation is key. The harder that you study for the TEAS, the greater your chance for success as a first time test-taker.

“For some students, it may have been years since you’ve been immersed in these topics,” says Jannah Amiel, a registered nurse and nursing content manager at Osmosis.

“Even if you think the TEAS academic areas aren’t topics you struggle with, prepare anyway,” Amiel advises.

This guide offers useful tips on how to study for the TEAS exam, with expert advice from Amiel.

What Subjects are Covered in the TEAS Test?

Reading and science are the two biggest components of the TEAS exam, with a combined total of 62% of the test.

The Reading section evaluates concepts like:

Science includes content on:, mathematics comprises 21% of the teas. this section includes content on:, finally, english and language use make up 17% of the test. content evaluated includes:, how to study for the teas test.

You can find many ways to prepare for the TEAS test. You can come up with your own study plan that suits your schedule, or you can keep yourself on track with ATI’s provided study plan . Identify your own strengths and weaknesses, and focus on the subject areas where you struggle or have known weaknesses.

Many organizations provide published study guides and full-length practice exams to help students. You might find these TEAS test guides at your local or school libraries for free. More independent test-takers might prefer to read a study guide book and make their own flash cards.

In addition, students can take advantage of school resources. “I often recommend turning to your network of instructors or in-school student resource centers,” Amiel advises.

Amiel suggests looking for these services at your school or college: “For example, do any of your college instructors offer reading, math, science and English and language usage tutoring? Is there a student resource center that offers tutoring on these subjects?” Forming study groups is a great way to study!

Amiel adds that these resources are usually free for students.

No matter how you study, ATI recommends you dedicate at least six weeks of preparation for the exam. You can find additional study tips for online nursing students here.

5 Tips for Passing Your TEAS Test

1. dont skip studying.

Some students approach the exam without studying, but it is important to review all topics, including strength areas. Amiel adds that studying not only helps test-takers review their knowledge on these subjects for the test, but also helps boost confidence before entering the testing room. Students that do not study have a greater chance of not passing the test as a first time test-taker.

2. Plan Ahead

Do not wait until the last moment to prepare. Planning ahead means scheduling a testing time slot and beginning study sessions weeks (or months) before the testing date.

“Waiting too late to schedule your exam may compromise the amount of time you’ll have to study, and it may mean that you’ll have to settle for a test date/time that isn’t ideal, adding to the stress of the exam,” Amiel says.

3. Ask Questions

Make sure you know exactly what to expect on the date of your test. Consider how ATI scores answers, what you should take to the testing room, and whether your testing facility provides breaks during the test.

<"With a clear picture of what test day looks like, you can prepare without any hiccups," Amiel says, thus alleviating unnecessary stress which will be a test-taking barrier./p>

4. Practice the Test

Practice and test and use a study guide. The ATI/TEAS site has a number of different study options that students can choose from which are a great place to start. “This is a great tool to use because it simulates the actual test which means you can get a feel for what the exam and questions will look like,” Amiel says.

5. Get a Good Nights Rest

This is another tip you might hear often, but Amiel emphasizes the importance of rest.

“Taking an exam when you’re tired can affect your ability to focus, which of course can affect your outcomes,” she says. “So get rest, and eat good food that will provide you with the energy you need before conquering the TEAS.”

How to Register for TEAS

Before registering for the TEAS, determine where and when you want to take the exam. You can choose from three different options : taking the test at school, through an online proctored test , or in person at a PSI Testing Center.

ATI Testing hosts two proctored tests, once in the morning and once in the afternoonIf you choose the online option, make sure you have a stable internet connection. Proctors watch test-takers through webcam and audio, checking for any unusual or erratic behavior while students work through the exam. Exam monitoring software may also be used.

If you prefer to take the exam in person, you can find PSI testing center locations here. Ask your institution whether they host the TEAS exam on campus as well.

Once you decide where you want to take the test, you can register for the exam online here .

TEAS Test Taking Resources

Students can take advantage of many resources to help them prepare for the exam. Some of these study aids come from ATI, while others come from independent test prep organizations.

To help you structure your study plan, you can use ATI’s free TEAS six-week study plan . This plan suggests weekly study topics and advises how many hours test-takers should dedicate to studying.

ATI also publishes several test preparation products , including practice assessments, study manuals, and tutorials. These range in price from $25-$189, and students can purchase these in bundles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can you take the teas exam.

Each school sets its own limit for how many times students can take the TEAS and what an acceptable score looks like. However, the average student takes the test three times, according to ATI. Keep in mind that many schools employ a waiting period between exams.

Can the TEAS test be taken online?

ATI offers proctored online sessions. Make sure your school allows online exams before you sign up for a remote session.

How is the TEAS scored?

ATI uses a system called “equating” to score the TEAS test, which means questions are weighted. Test-takers do not know which questions are worth more points as they go through the exam, although some questions may seem harder than others.

What grade do you need to pass the TEAS?

Each school determines which score students need to earn a passing score. Check with your school for requirements.

What should I bring on test day?

Bring your ATI log-in information and two sharpened No. 2 pencils. Most importantly, remember to bring photo identification. Otherwise, the proctors will not let you into the exam room. If special accommodations are needed, it is important to notify the testing company in advance of your testing date or accommodations may not be granted.

Is there a break during the test?

You may take an optional 10-minute break after the math session of the exam.

Meet Our Contributor

Jannah Amiel

Jannah Amiel, MS, BSN, RN Jannah Amiel, MS, BSN, RN, is the nursing content manager at Osmosis. She received her MS in nursing, emerging nurse leaders track, from Florida Atlantic University and her BSN and ASN from Keiser University. Jannah’s clinical background is in pediatrics, specifically pediatric intensive care (PICU), pediatric emergency & level 1 trauma, and pediatric urgent care and school health. Eventually, she discovered her undying love for education, so she moved into nursing academia, where she became a director of nursing for several college nursing programs. Later, Jannah started TootRN™ (Tools of Our Trade, RN) LLC, where she prepares nursing graduates to take and successfully pass their NCLEX licensure exam. She also serves on the Florida Action Coalition, is a member of the Women’s Media Center, is a nursing education subject matter expert (SME), and sits on several nursing advisory boards.

Reviewed By:

Theresa Granger

Theresa Granger, Ph.D., MN, NP-C With over two decades of teaching and clinical practice as a family nurse practitioner, Dr. Granger is an expert in nursing education and clinical practice at all levels of education (associate, baccalaureate, and graduate). She has published and lectured extensively on nursing education and clinical practice-related content. Her expertise ranges from student advising and mentoring to curricular and content design (both on ground and online) to teaching and formal course delivery. Dr. Granger is one of the founding faculty members of the University of Southern California’s first ever fully online graduate family nurse practitioner program .

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

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