TEAS Exam Guide
This guide is here to help you pass the TEAS exam, a crucial part of nursing school admissions.
Many nursing programs require this test as part of their entrance requirements, though not all schools do.
It’s important to know what the TEAS exam is, how to prepare for it, and where to find the best study materials to help you succeed.
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) assesses the academic skills you need for nursing school, covering four main areas: reading, math, science, and English/language use.
The exam takes about 3.5 hours to complete, with 170 questions (of which 150 are scored). The remaining 20 questions are practice items, so they don’t count toward your final score.
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Why Is the TEAS Exam Important for Nursing School Admission?
The TEAS exam plays a significant role in nursing school admissions. Nursing programs often use the TEAS score as part of the selection process. So, preparing well for the exam is essential if you want to get into your desired nursing school.
What’s Covered in the TEAS Test?
The TEAS exam covers four subjects: Reading, Science, Math, and English/Language Use. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to study:
Reading Section: Key Concepts
Reading makes up 35% of the TEAS exam. In this section, you’ll need to:
- Identify key ideas and details
- Understand the author’s purpose and tone
- Make inferences and draw conclusions from texts
- Analyze and interpret written information
Study Tip: Focus on practicing how to find the main points in a passage quickly.
Science Section: Important Topics
Science is another big part of the TEAS, comprising 35% of the exam. Topics include:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Life and physical sciences (biology, chemistry, etc.)
- Scientific reasoning and application
Study Tip: Make sure you review the basic concepts of biology, chemistry, and physics that are most relevant to nursing.
Math Section: Key Math Skills
Math accounts for 21% of the test. You’ll need to:
- Solve algebraic equations
- Work with numbers and decimals
- Interpret graphs and data
- Convert between units of measurement
Study Tip: Practice basic math problems and get comfortable with nursing-related measurements (like drug dosages).
English and Language Use: Grammar and Vocabulary
This section makes up 17% of the test. You’ll be tested on:
- Grammar and punctuation
- Sentence structure and word usage
- Vocabulary
Study Tip: Brush up on common grammar rules and work on improving your vocabulary to understand nursing terminology better.
How to Study for the TEAS Test
Preparing for the TEAS exam requires careful planning. Here are a few key strategies to help you succeed:
- Create a Study Plan: Set aside time each day to review the content areas, and make sure to stick to a schedule. You’ll need several weeks to prepare effectively.
- Use TEAS Practice Tests: One of the best ways to get ready for the TEAS exam is by taking practice tests. Practice tests help you understand the format and the types of questions you’ll face, so you can get used to the timing and pacing of the actual exam.
- Leverage Study Materials: Make use of study guides, prep books, and online resources. Many nursing programs offer custom study materials, and you can find additional tools through ATI, which offers a comprehensive TEAS study guide for nursing school, along with practice tests and study courses.
- Online TEAS Test Prep: If you’re studying remotely, you can find online courses and test prep services designed specifically for nursing students. These can be a convenient option if you’re unable to attend in-person classes.
5 Tips for Acing Your TEAS Test
- Study Regularly: Try to study every day to keep the material fresh in your mind. Don’t skip over any section—even the ones you think you’re already good at.
- Plan in Advance: Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying. Set a target date for your test and create a study plan that gives you enough time to cover all topics thoroughly.
- Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask. You can talk to your teachers, join study groups, or reach out to a tutor for extra help.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Taking practice exams under real test conditions will help you manage your time and get familiar with the test format. It’s a good way to see what areas you need to focus on.
- Rest Well Before the Exam: Make sure to get a good night’s sleep before the exam. Being well-rested will help you stay focused and perform at your best.
How to Register for the TEAS Test
Before registering, you’ll need to decide where and when you want to take the TEAS exam. You can take it at an approved testing center or online. Online testing requires a stable internet connection and a proctor who monitors the exam via webcam.
To register, visit the ATI website and choose your preferred test date and location. You’ll need to create an account and pay the exam fee, which varies depending on where you take the test.
Resources for TEAS Test Preparation
There are many study resources available to help you prepare for the TEAS exam. These include:
- Official ATI Study Materials: ATI offers a range of prep materials, including practice tests, study guides, and prep courses. The prices range from $25 to $189, depending on what resources you choose.
- Third-Party TEAS Prep Resources: Other companies also offer study guides and online TEAS prep courses. These might be a good option if you prefer different teaching styles or formats.
- Study Groups and Tutoring Services: Many nursing students find studying with a group or a tutor to be helpful. Check with your school to see if they offer free tutoring services or study groups.
FAQ About the TEAS Exam
- How Many Times Can You Take the TEAS Test?
Each nursing school sets its own rules for how many times you can take the TEAS exam. On average, students can take the test up to three times. There’s usually a waiting period between retakes. - How is the TEAS Test Scored?
The TEAS exam uses a scoring system called “equating,” where each question has a different weight. Your overall score is a combination of your performance on the individual sections. - What Do You Need on Test Day?
You’ll need to bring a valid photo ID, two No. 2 pencils, and your ATI login information. Be sure to review your school’s specific test day requirements. - Can You Take the TEAS Test Online?
Yes, ATI offers online proctored TEAS tests. Make sure your school allows online testing before you register.
Study Plan for TEAS Test
An ideal study plan should give you at least six weeks of preparation time. During this time, you should focus on all four test sections, adjusting your plan based on your strengths and weaknesses. Make sure to incorporate regular practice tests, review the TEAS exam scoring system, and use study materials from trusted sources.
How to Prepare for HESI® Entrance Exams
If you’re also preparing for other nursing entrance exams like the HESI® exam, many of the same study principles apply. Both exams assess similar academic skills, so using shared prep resources can save you time.
In conclusion, proper preparation for the TEAS exam is key to getting into nursing school. By using the best TEAS study materials, sticking to a study plan, and practicing regularly, you can increase your chances of passing the exam and getting into your desired nursing program.
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