How to Pass the ATI TEAS Test - Prenursing Smarter [2024 Update] (2024)

Welcome to this guide on how to pass the TEAS test! We’ll cover what you need to know to successfully pass the test, including how to prepare for your nursing entrance exam, the exact breakdown of TEAS 7 questions, and how you can study to pass the ATI TEAS test.

What is the TEAS Test?

The TEAS test is a nursing entrance exam also used by allied health programs. It’s usually one of the last steps before you submit your program’s application to get into nursing school. You might also see it referred to as the ATI TEAS, TEAS 7 or the TEAS VII. These are all the same exams.

The TEAS test is a high-stakes, standardized admissions exam. A high-stakes exam means that you, the student, can face consequences (like not getting into nursing) if you don’t do well. Which is why I’ve dedicated my career to helping students like you never have to think about the TEAS again!

Not every nursing program requires that their students take the TEAS. Some require the HESI, the ACT, and many have GPA requirements. There are many paths to working in healthcare. But if your goal is to get into a nursing program that requires the TEAS test, it’s time to figure out how you can pass the test and achieve your goal!

The TEAS is used by nursing schools across the country, but you’ll want to check with your top programs to make sure they require it beforehand.

You’ll want to check:

How many times can you take the TEAS to pass? Some schools only allow 2 – 3 attempts; other programs allow you to take the TEAS nursing test as many times as you like.
What does your program consider a passing score? Some programs require students to score in the 60s to be considered for admission; other programs might require a score in the 80s.
Does your program release its TEAS nursing exam statistics? Some schools show the range of scores of admitted students, which can help you know what a good score is for your preferred program.
Does your program require you to take all 4 sections? Some programs, for example, don’t require the Reading section. If that’s your situation, congratulations! You’re lucky. 🙂

Your school’s nursing program website should provide you with the majority of this information. You can also ask the admissions office for more details.

To prep for your nursing school entrance exam, you’ll want to structure your TEAS studying around 4 main areas: learning, memorizing, applying, and strategizing. You can read about that in the Prenursing Smarter TEAS Prep Study Guide.

Pass the TEAS test – UPDATED TEAS 7 Study Tracker

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TEAS Test Scores

How important is it to get a good score on the TEAS test? Surprisingly, a good TEAS score really depends on the school you want to go to!

When it comes to how to pass the TEAS test, you’ll need to first see how your nursing program defines passing. For example, a passing TEAS test score is about 65 percent, but this score would not be considered for admission at some programs.

Nationally, the average TEAS test score is about 60 percent. For students applying to an associate’s degree program, the typical score is about 66 percent. Students applying to a bachelor’s degree program have an average score around 70 percent.

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For very competitive programs, you’ll need a score in the “Advanced” category, which shows TEAS test scores between 80 and 91.3%. This would put you in roughly the top 10th percentile of all test takers nationwide.

The best possible TEAS test score is getting more than 92% of questions correct. Very few test takers ever reach this level, which is the “Exemplary” category.

ATI TEAS Exam 7 Question Types

The TEAS 7 exam has multiple question types. You will have select-all answer options, fill-in-the-blank questions, and ordering questions. These changes will be rolled out slowly.

In particular, it’s likely that you might have fill-in-the-blank questions for algebra or solving the order of operations (PEMDAS). Ordering numbers from greatest to least, or least to greatest, would be another possibility for the new TEAS question types.

You might also see these new question types in anatomy and physiology questions where you are asked to identify a particular area of human anatomy on a graphic.

How Hard is the TEAS Test?

The TEAS has 4 sections: Reading, Math, Science, and English. Each section has a standardized level of difficulty, and you’ll need to be confident in roughly 150 different concepts. How hard the TEAS test depends on how familiar you are with the material covered and how prepared you are to pass the test.

When you take the TEAS 7 test sections, Reading, Math, Science, and English, you’ll get a total of 209 minutes (that’s just about 3.5 hours) to take the exam, but each section has its own time limit.

TEAS Reading – 45 questions in 55 minutes

On the TEAS 7, you’ll have 39 scored questions with 6 unscored questions for a total of 45 TEAS Reading questions. You won’t know for sure which questions are not scored. Your TEAS score will depend on 3 main types of Reading questions.

Key ideas and details – 15 scored questions

Topic, Main Idea, and Supporting Details
Summaries
Following Directions & Sequences
Finding Info in Visuals (Printed Communications & Graphs)
Finding Info in a Text

Craft and structure – 9 scored questions

Author’s Opinion and Bias
Author’s Point of View and Purpose
Context Clues
Figurative Language
Text Features

Integration of knowledge and ideas – 15 scored questions

Working with Sources
Logical Conclusions, Inferences, and Predictions
Evaluating & Integrating Sources
Evaluating Arguments
Comparing Themes

For Reading, the hard part of the TEAS test for many students includes working with long passages, logical conclusions, and the time pressure of this section. To get a passing score on this section, it’s a good idea to plan for three types of questions.

First, you’ll have questions that require understanding the overall big picture of a passage. You’ll need strategies to find the answer quickly so that you don’t get overwhelmed by a giant passage.

Second, you’ll have questions that focus on specific words or details. Many times, you don’t need to read the full passage. Instead, you can use specific strategies for specific question types.

Third, you’ll have questions that require you to use different sources, charts, and graphs. Memorizing types of primary, secondary, and tertiary sources can help you with these TEAS test Reading questions.

If you are interested in diving into these three types of questions, please check out my online TEAS prep program that includes comprehensive TEAS reading lessons.

TEAS Math – 38 questions in 57 minutes

You’ll have 34 scored TEAS Math questions and 4 unscored questions. TEAS scores depend on two general areas. A TEAS Math passing score is about 70%.

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Numbers and algebra – 18 scored questions

Operations with Numbers and Fractions
Rational Numbers
Word Problems
Algebra with one variable
Percentages

Measurement and data – 16 scored questions

Data, Statistics, and Variables
Geometric Measurements
Conversions and the Metric System
Charts, Graphs, & Tables

In general, a passing score on this section requires working with word problems, knowing a few formulas (velocity, mean, percent increase, and area formulas for different shapes) like the back of your hand, and doing TEAS math practice question drills so that you can be ready for test day.

You’ll want to do drills with PEMDAS questions (the order of operations), and converting decimals, fractions, and percentages. It’s also a great idea to practice solving algebra questions with one variable, especially with negative numbers and fractions.

In addition, the TEAS 7 has many more questions on calculating geometric quantities like perimeter and area. You’ll want to know the formulas of perimeter and area for common shapes (rectangle, circle, triangle, etc.) and combined shapes (a rectangle with a triangle on top, for example).

TEAS Science – 50 questions in 60 minutes

You’ll have 44 scored questions and 6 questions that are not scored. TEAS scores are decided by 4 types of science questions. A TEAS Science passing score is roughly a 67%.

TEAS chemistry questions will still focus on the periodic table of elements, chemical bonding, and reactions. Balancing chemical reactions is now a confirmed scored concept (it wasn’t on previous versions of the TEAS exam).

For TEAS biology, you’ll need to know about genetics and DNA, macromolecules, and eukaryotic cell structure and organization. In addition, mitosis and meiosis are now confirmed scored concepts.

The TEAS 7 Science section has a new section on infectious and non-infectious diseases.

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Anatomy and Physiology – 18 scored questions

Body Basics & Organization – Cavities and Planes
Cells, Tissues, and Organs in the Human Body
Respiratory System – Structures and Functions
Cardiovascular System – Circulation, Cells, & Pathology
Gastrointestinal System – Structures, Hormones, and Enzymes, Digestion & Absorption
Reproductive System – Structures, Hormones, and Key Differences
Endocrine System – Organs, Hormones & Communication
Immune System – Cells and Types of Immunity
Integumentary System – Skin Layers and Functions
Genitourinary System – Kidney Anatomy and Urine Production
Skeletal System – Cells, Bones, & Structures
Neuromuscular System – Nerves, Muscles, and Signaling
Human Anatomy & Physiology Pathology(Non-Infectious Diseases)

Biology – 9 scored questions

Cellular Biology – Organelles and Differentiation
Macromolecules
DNA & Chromosomes
Genetics & Inheritance
Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Mitosis and Meiosis

Chemistry – 8 scored questions

Phase Changes
States of Matter
Chemical Bonds
Chemical Reactions (Identifying and Balancing)
Water and Solutions
Acids and Bases
Catalysts and Enzymes
Periodic Table of Elements

Scientific Method and Reasoning – 9 scored questions

Experimental Design & Analysis
Scientific Measurement & Tools
Scientific Relationships & Sequences
Scientific Reasoning & Logic

The majority of your TEAS science questions will be about human anatomy and physiology. Focusing on anatomy and physiology is one of the best ways to improve TEAS scores and make sure you pass your TEAS exam.

My TEAS 7 Question Bank currently has 5 full TEAS practice exams with 1000+ questions, including Select All and math Fill-in-the-Blank questions. You can take 10-question quizzes or full exams, and there’s no limit on retakes while you are enrolled.

TEAS English – 37 questions in 37 minutes

You’ll have 33 questions that are scored and 4 questions that are not scored. A TEAS English passing score is around 70%.

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The TEAS English section pulls questions from 3 main concepts:

Conventions of English – 12 scored questions

Spelling & Similar Sounding Words
Sentence Parts & Terms
Punctuation Rules

Grammar and Language Knowledge – 11 scored questions

Grammar & Clarity
Formal & Informal Language
Parts of Speech
Irregular Plural Nouns

Vocabulary and Word Usage – 10 scored questions

Medical Terminology and Word Parts
Word Meaning
Context Clues
Slang, Jargon, and Word Selection (informal vs. formal)

The TEAS English section is the very last section you’ll take, so you’ll likely be tired by the time you get to it. It’s also the fastest: you only have a minute per question. Students with higher TEAS scores in this section make sure to study compound, complex, and simple sentences; pronoun-antecedent agreement, and medical terminology.

How to Prepare for the ATI TEAS Test So You Pass

Your TEAS score will make or break your application. Even if you have a great GPA, you still need a great TEAS score to get into nursing school.

Common Questions about Passing the TEAS – Tips and Advice

What is a good TEAS score?

This really depends on your target program. Generally speaking, a TEAS score between 59% – 79% is considered “proficient.” A score in this range often qualifies a student for a nursing program, particularly for ADN/ASN programs. This varies by state and program, however! A score of 80% or above is considered “advanced.” Advanced scores are often required for competitive programs. A score above 92% is considered “exemplary.”

For many students, getting into the 80s is the most difficult hurdle. Other students want above a 92 percent so that they can feel confident about admission into some of the most competitive nursing programs in the country.

Please note that TEAS scores do not indicate quality nursing programs. Sometimes score cutoffs reflect state population and college funding.

What is the TEAS exam?

The TEAS nursing exam is a standardized test used by nursing schools and allied health programs around the county. It covers reading, math, science, and English language.

Prenursing Smarter’s TEAS Prep Program is updated for the TEAS 7, and I’ll continue to share updates and information about the ATI TEAS 7.

What should I bring to the TEAS test?

If you are taking the TEAS in person, bring your mask and government issued ID. Check with your ATI testing center for whatever else they might recommend. For example, you might be able to bring a water bottle. If you are taking the TEAS remotely, bring a scrap paper, a pen/pencil, and your government-used ID. Be prepared to show your testing room on camera, so tidy up. 🙂

Should I study the day before the test?

Focus just on reviewing and confidence building. Study in a way that helps you reduce anxiety: write out your notes, tell yourself you will do great, get some exercise, and talk it out with a friend. Rehearse what you’ll do when the exam starts. For example, maybe when the exam starts, you’ll write out some formulas on your scrap paper, so you’ll review those the day before you test.

Do I get a calculator on the TEAS?

Yes, during the math section you’ll get a calculator that’s built into the testing program. You can’t bring your own.

Do I get a break during the TEAS test?

You should! Typically, it’s after the math section. If you are taking the TEAS remotely, you’ll want to confirm with your proctor ahead of time.

Do I get scrap paper on the TEAS?

Yes! You might be limited to only one piece of paper, however. If you are taking the TEAS remotely, you’ll likely show the piece of paper before you begin the test, and you’ll need to rip up the paper on camera.

Do I have to take the TEAS?

Maybe. Different schools use different nursing entrance exams. The HESI is another popular test, so check the admission requirements of your target schools.

How long is the TEAS test?

You’ll spend just under 4 hours taking the TEAS, including a short break. Each section is timed. For the TEAS 7, here is how much time you get:
Reading = 55 minutes
Math = 57 minutes
Science = 60 minutes
English = 37 minutes

What is the longest part of the TEAS test?

The studying. 🙂 Science is the longest section, but only by 3 minutes. Most TEAS 7 sections are about an hour long; English is the shortest section at just 37 minutes.

How to Pass the TEAS Test with My Online Study System

As you can see, there’s SO much that goes into how to pass the TEAS test. If you’d like a step-by-step system for your TEAS prep to help you pass your exam, check out my premium program from Prenursing Smarter. Students who use this program increase their average assessment scores by 25% (that’s a 15 point boost!).

The program’s built around my 4-step study framework that I built after working with thousands of busy college students. You’ll get 60+ lessons, to help you master the most important TEAS concepts necessary for passing the test.

Video lessons will cover

How to work with long Reading passages
How to solve TEAS math word problems
How to master the periodic table of elements
How to save time on English punctuation questions
How to understand the cardiovascular system
And more!

Ready to study smarter? Enroll in Prenursing Smarter today!

Kate

Kate is a CRLA certified tutor and test prep expert. She founded Prenursing Smarter in 2017. Kate lives in sunny Southern California and is an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (Mnikȟówožu Lakȟóta). Prenursing Smarter is an inclusive business and actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with and support diverse voices.