Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)

What Is the TEAS?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized assessment tool used primarily by nursing and allied health programs to evaluate potential students' academic readiness. Developed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), the TEAS measures fundamental skills in the academic content domains of reading, mathematics, science, and English and language usage.

The test serves as a predictive indicator of a candidate's potential for success in health education programs, helping institutions identify students who are most likely to complete their programs successfully and pass licensure examinations in the future.

Why Take the TEAS?

Many nursing schools and allied health programs require applicants to submit TEAS scores as part of their admissions process. These scores provide admissions committees with an objective measure of academic competency across subjects that are foundational to healthcare education.

The TEAS helps schools:

• Compare applicants on a standardized scale
• Predict which students are likely to succeed in rigorous healthcare programs
• Identify academic strengths and areas where incoming students might need support
• Ensure that entering students possess the minimum knowledge necessary for program success

TEAS Exam Structure

The current version, TEAS 7, consists of 170 multiple-choice questions drawn from four main subject areas. The exam is administered in a computerized format and takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes to complete, with each timed section having its own designated time limit.

Among the questions, 20 are pretest items that are not scored. These pretest questions are distributed throughout the exam, and test-takers cannot distinguish them from actual scored questions.

Content Overview

Reading Section

The reading section assesses comprehension skills needed for academic success in healthcare education. It covers:

• Key ideas and details
• Craft and structure
• Integration of knowledge and ideas

Mathematics Section

The mathematics portion evaluates mathematical skills necessary for healthcare calculations. It includes questions on:

• Numbers and algebra
• Measurement and data

Science Section

The science section tests knowledge in scientific concepts applicable to healthcare. The domains covered are:

• Human anatomy and physiology
• Life and physical sciences
• Scientific reasoning

English & Language Usage Section

This section evaluates standard English conventions and language skills needed for effective communication in academic and healthcare settings, including:

• Conventions of standard English
• Knowledge of language
• Vocabulary acquisition

Scoring

TEAS scores are calculated for each individual content area as well as for the total exam. The scaled score system generates scores ranging from 0.0% to 100.0%.

Scores are available immediately after completing the computerized version of the exam. Students receive a breakdown of their scores by content area, allowing them to identify strengths and weaknesses for potential re-examination or preparation.

Registration and Administration

To register for the TEAS exam:

• Create an account at the ATI Testing website
• Select a testing date at a preferred institution or testing center
• Pay the registration fee (approximately $65-$115 depending on the institution)

The TEAS can be taken at various locations, including colleges, universities, and testing centers throughout the United States and some international locations. Many institutions offer the exam multiple times throughout the year.

There are also remote proctoring options available, allowing students to take the exam from their own homes while being monitored by an online proctor.

Preparation Strategies

Effective preparation for the TEAS requires a strategic approach. Here are some recommendations:

• Start preparing 6-8 weeks before your scheduled test date
• Take a practice exam to identify your strengths and weaknesses
• Focus study time on areas where you scored lowest
• Use official ATI study materials, which are considered the most representative of actual exam content
• Create a study schedule that allocates time to each content area
• Review fundamental concepts in math and science rather than memorizing facts
• Practice time management strategies to ensure you have enough time for each section
• Join study groups with other students preparing for the exam
• Ensure you understand the testing interface before your actual test day

Retaking the TEAS

If you don't achieve your desired score, you may retake the TEAS exam. However, most institutions have the following policies:

• A waiting period between attempts (typically 30 days)
• A limit on the number of attempts within a specific time frame (often 3 times per year)
• Requirements that the highest score or the most recent score will be used for admission

When retaking the exam, analyze your score report to identify which sections need improvement and focus your preparation efforts accordingly.

Conclusion

The TEAS examination serves as an essential gateway for many aspiring healthcare professionals. By understanding the test structure, content areas, and preparation strategies, students can approach the exam with confidence. While the TEAS represents a significant hurdle in the nursing school admissions process, thorough preparation and a clear understanding of what to expect can maximize your chances of success and bring you one step closer to your healthcare career goals.