TEAS Practice Tests & Exam Information

Take a TEAS practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses, build on existing knowledge and feel confident for the real exam.

Try it risk-free

Start your test preparation with a practice test to determine your level of mastery in each of the exam's subject areas. Study.com's professionally-designed TEAS practice tests mimic the style, structure and subject areas of the official test. Our automatically generated results report evaluates your areas of strength and weakness, allowing you to review material efficiently. For each question you get wrong, we'll show you answer explanations and relevant study guide lessons. Reinforce concepts and track your progress by taking multiple practice tests throughout your preparation. Prepare for success with Study.com's full suite of TEAS prep resources!

What is the TEAS test?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills, or TEAS test, measures skills in the areas of math, science, reading, and English language and usage. It is commonly used as a prerequisite for admission to nursing school and other allied health programs.

Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) publishes the TEAS test. ATI TEAS refers to the sixth and current version of the exam which was released in 2016. ATI TEAS V refers to the previous version of the test.

Take a free TEAS practice test
Find your strengths and weaknesses, monitor progress with tracking tools, and feel confident on test day!
Take Practice Test

What is on the TEAS test?

The purpose of the TEAS test is to measure skills in the basics of reading, math, science, and English language and usage. The test questions are based on high school level content which provides the background knowledge necessary for success in nursing school and allied health programs.

What is on the TEAS reading test?

The TEAS reading test measures reading comprehension. This includes both reading paragraphs and reading graphics such as maps, directions, graphs, and labels. There are 53 questions (6 of which are unscored experimental items) on the reading test, and the questions are divided into three subsections.

Reading subsection Concepts addressed Number of questions
Key ideas & details
  • Finding specific information in a paragraph
  • Recognizing sequential events
  • Using graphics to locate information
  • Drawing conclusions from a text
  • Summarizing a text
 22
Craft & structure
  • Using context to determine the meaning of words and phrases
  • Determining an author's meaning and point of view
  • Understanding biases and stereotypes in text
  • Using text features and graphics
 14
Integration of knowledge & ideas
  • Formulating predictions
  • Making inferences
  • Drawing conclusions
  • Evaluating arguments
  • Comparing themes from multiple sources
  • Identifying primary sources
 11

What is on the TEAS math test?

The TEAS math test measures not only proficiency in performing basic numeric operations, but also the ability to do algebra, interpret data, and make measurements. The 36 questions (4 of which are unscored experimental items) are divided into two subsections. You will be allowed to use a basic calculator on the test, which will be provided by the test center.

Math subsection Concepts addressed Number of questions
Numbers & algebra
  • Solving problems with percentages, proportions, ratios, and rates of change
  • Converting decimals, fractions, and percentages
  • Performing arithmetic operations
  • Estimating with real-world problems
  • Solving equations
  • Translating verbal information into mathematical expressions
 23
Measurement & data
  • Performing standard and metric conversions
  • Interpreting graphs, charts, and tables
  • Using statistics to evaluate information from graphs, charts, and tables
  • Establishing the relationship between two variables
  • Completing geometric calculations
 9

What is on the TEAS science test?

The TEAS science test consists of 53 questions (6 of which are unscored experimental items) broken into three subsections. The test contains questions regarding scientific reasoning, as well as life science, human body science, genetics, and physical science.

Science subsection Concepts addressed Number of questions
Human anatomy & physiology
  • General human anatomy and physiology
  • Characteristics and functions of the body's systems
 32
Life & physical sciences
  • Chemical reactions
  • States of matter
  • Atomic structure
  • Mendel's Laws of Heredity
  • Characteristic properties of substances
  • Biological macromolecules
  • DNA, genes, and chromosomes
 8
Scientific reasoning
  • Use of logic and evidence in scientific explanations
  • Relationship between events, processes, and objects
  • Design and analysis of a scientific investigation
  • Scientific measurements
  • Laboratory measurement tools
 7

What is on the TEAS English and language usage test?

The TEAS English and language usage test is designed to measure command of the English language, from spelling, as well as punctuation, grammar, word meanings, and sentence structure.

English language subsection Concepts addressed Number of questions
Conventions of standard English
  • Finding specific information in a paragraph
  • Recognizing sequential events
  • Using graphics to locate information
  • Drawing conclusions from a text
  • Summarizing a text
 9
Knowledge of language
  • Using context to determine the meaning of words and phrases
  • Determining an author's meaning and point of view
  • Understanding biases and stereotypes in text
  • Using text features and graphics
 9
Vocabulary acquisition
  • Formulating predictions
  • Making inferences
  • Drawing conclusions
  • Evaluating arguments
  • Comparing themes from multiple sources
  • Identifying primary sources
 6

What is on the TEAS English and language usage test?

Applicants are given 209 minutes to take the 170-question TEAS test. The test is broken into four separately timed sections, and a short break is given after the second section of the test. The test breakdown is as follows:

Content area Number of questions Time allotted
Reading 53 64 minutes
Math 36 54 minutes
Science 53 63 minutes
English language and usage 28 28 minutes

TEAS Test Scores

For the TEAS test, you will receive three scores:

  1. Total Score
  2. Content Area Scores
  3. Sub-Content Area Scores

These scores are calculated differently:

  • Both the Total Score and the Content Area Scores are calculated based on the percentage of test items answered correctly, then adjusted based on the differences in different versions (or forms) of the ATI TEAS test. This means that if you take the test more than once, you can compare your Total Scores and your Content Area Scores from different tests.
  • The Sub-Content Area Scores are calculated solely on the percentage of test items answered correctly, with no adjustment. This means that if you take the test more than once, a comparison of your Sub-Content Area Scores on different tests is not meaningful.

What is a TEAS test passing score?

According to the test provider, it is up to individual schools to determine what score qualifies you for admission to that school. Before you register for the test, check with the school you intend to apply to regarding their score requirements.

How long is the TEAS test score good for?

The length of validity of a TEAS test score is determined by individual institutions. Commonly, institutions will consider scores earned within the last one, two, or five years. If you have already taken the TEAS test, check your institution's requirements to learn if your TEAS scores are valid, or if you need to retake the test.

How long does it take to get TEAS results?

If you take the computer-based TEAS tests at a college or university, it is possible to see your results immediately, unless the college disables this option. ATI scores paper-and-pencil tests within 24 business hours of their receipt of the tests. If you take the test at a PSI site, your results should be available on your ATI account online within 72 business hours.

The college or university where you take your test will receive your results immediately. You can purchase transcripts to send to other locations. These transcripts are sent within a few hours of your request.

How to prepare & study for the TEAS test

The TEAS test measures your readiness for nursing school, so it's important to prepare for the TEAS test. You'll want to familiarize yourself with the content and format of the test, and to make a study plan that includes practice tests and study guides. Having a study partner can also be beneficial and can help keep you accountable to the preparation plan you've made.

All questions on the TEAS test are in a multiple-choice format, with four choices given, so you'll want to review strategies for taking multiple choice tests. Below are specific tips for making a study plan, as well as tips for each section of the TEAS test.

How to make a TEAS study plan

Covering four subject areas and lasting three and a half hours, the TEAS test is formidable. You'll want to prepare thoroughly and give attention to all the necessary details. Making a study plan can help you feel confident as you approach your test day.

Review the concepts covered in the test. Note any content areas where you may require extra review.

Take a TEAS practice test. Use the results to make a list of your strengths and weaknesses.

Find a quality, up-to-date TEAS study guide that is designed for the ATI TEAS test. Survey the contents of the study guide to gain an overview of the course.

Find at least one additional study resource for each area of weakness you identified after the practice test.

Create a study schedule. Designate days and times for your study sessions, and then assign a topic and resource to each study session.

Take a second practice test after you have reviewed material from all sections and subsections of the TEAS. Compare the results to the results of your first practice test, and then target specific areas of content that you need to study further.

Allow yourself time in between study days and sessions. Remember, your brain needs time to process information in order to commit it to long-term memory. Simply reading an entire study guide in one sitting will not prepare you for the TEAS test.

Select a relaxation technique that works for you. Learn how to calm yourself in a test-taking situation so that you can concentrate and do your best work.

Take the TEAS exam with confidence
Try our test prep resources risk-free today and achieve the test score you want
Start your TEAS prep

TEAS test reading tips

The TEAS reading test contains 53 questions and is 64 minutes long. You will be tested on reading comprehension and interpretation of graphics such as charts, maps, and graphs. Keep in mind the following pointers as you prepare for the TEAS reading test.

Familiarize yourself with the styles of writing that are included on the TEAS test.

Review sample test passages, looking for characteristics that will help you distinguish between narrative, persuasive, and expository writing

Work on finding the main idea in a paragraph and identifying supporting information.

Practice drawing inferences about the author's intention and purpose based on specific textual evidence. Be sure your conclusions are logical.

Determine how much time can allot for each reading passage, based on the total test time. Time yourself on a practice reading test, being sure to answer the questions in the allotted time.

Read the questions first each time you come to a new passage. As you read the passage, keep the questions in mind and look for the answers.

Underline key words in the question to be sure you are answering the question that is being asked.

Pay attention to graphic data and the information it adds to a given passage. Note the purpose of the graphic and the information it includes.

Read all passages and questions thoroughly.

TEAS test math tips

The TEAS math test consists of 36 questions to be completed in 54 minutes. The test covers numbers and algebra as well as measurement and data. As you prepare, consider the following tips.

Review the four basic arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. In your review, include the basic operations for fractions and decimals as well.

Brush up on the conversion procedures for decimals, fractions, and percentages.

Utilize a study guide or flash cards to refresh your knowledge of common mathematic rules and properties.

Use a basic four-function calculator for practice tests. This is the type of calculator you will be given to use on test day.

Review key words used in math word problems to indicate mathematical operations. On the test, look for key words in the questions. Be sure you know exactly what quantity you are expected to find, then determine which equation to use to find that quantity.

Go over the questions you miss on the practice test. Practice several similar problems until you are comfortable solving that type of problem quickly and accurately.

Time your practice test. Pay attention to how much time you can allot for each problem.

TEAS test science tips

The 63-minute science portion of the TEAS test consists of 53 questions about life sciences, physical sciences, human anatomy and physiology, and scientific reasoning. There is a strong emphasis on human anatomy and physiology. Consider these tips.

Allow extra study time for science. You are expected to be responsible for a significant volume of scientific knowledge.

Make sure to go over certain specific topics, including:

  • Birth and fertility rates
  • Population growth and decline
  • The periodic table
  • The scientific method

Find a study guide that will take you through the key processes involved in chemistry, biology, physics, and the natural world.

Carefully review body systems and human anatomy and physiology.

Create memory aids to trigger your recall of difficult facts. Simple songs, rhymes, and visualization exercises can be helpful.

Review common formats for lab work and experiments.

Practice drawing logical conclusions from scientific data.

TEAS test English tips

The TEAS English language and usage test examines your ability to clearly and effectively communicate in the English language. You will have 28 minutes for these 28 questions. In preparation, consider the following tips.

Review fundamental concepts using a study guide:

  • Grammar rules
  • Punctuation
  • Parts of speech
  • Sentence structures
  • Prefixes and suffixes

Practice using context clues to determine the meaning of words.

Take a timed practice test, paying attention to the amount of time it takes you to answer different types of questions.

Determine where you need further study based on the results of your practice test.

Registering for the TEAS Test

Before registering for the TEAS test, you will need to contact the school where you are applying to determine:

  • Where they want you to take the test (on their campus or at a PSI testing center)
  • What score they require for admission
  • How long it will take you to receive your score
  • What their policy is regarding retaking the test, including how long you must wait before retaking the test and how many times you may take the test in one year
  • What their deadline is for submission of your results

Once you have acquired the above information, go to the ATI TEAS website and scroll to the portion of the page marked "registration." Click on "start registration," create an account, and follow instructions to register. Remember your log-in information, because you will need it on test day. You will receive email confirmation of your registration. If you have chosen to test at a PSI center, you will receive an email with a link you must use to schedule your testing time and location through the PSI website or via telephone at 1-800-733-9267.

Where can I take the TEAS test ?

Once you've decided to take the exam, you'll want to determine the best TEAS testing location for you. First, you should check in with the institution where you want to apply. The test may be offered on campus. If not, you can register for a TEAS test at a PSI testing center. PSI testing centers have locations around the country, and these locations can be found on the PSI website. In order to select a PSI testing center as the location of your exam, you must first register on the ATI website. Then you will be given a code to select your testing date and location on the PSI website.

How much does the TEAS test cost?

The fees for the ATI TEAS test can vary for different testing centers. For example, a college hosting the test might charge more for a non-student than for a current student.

Note: If you are testing at a PSI testing center and you arrive at the testing center late, reschedule less than two full days prior to the test, skip the test, or fail to bring proper identification, you will lose your testing fee.

Additional costs to consider:

  • Transcripts are sent for free to the school where you take the test. Additional transcripts cost $27 apiece and can be ordered from the ATI website.
  • Study guides are available from a variety of sources at a range of costs and content coverage.
  • TEAS prep classes may be available at locations near you.
  • Tutoring or coursework in specific areas of need might incur additional costs.

TEAS test FAQs

HESI vs TEAS: Which nursing entrance exam should I take?

The HESI (Health Education Systems Incorporated) Admission Assessment Exam, like the TEAS, is an exam used by some nursing schools as a part of the admissions process. The HESI Admission Assessment has up to nine sections, but schools vary in the number of sections students are required to take for their admissions applications. The TEAS, or Test of Essential Academic Skills, is also used by some nursing and allied health programs as an admissions requirement. The TEAS has four different sections.

The HESI is a longer exam, but overall the two exams cover very similar bodies of knowledge. The primary determining factor in which exam to take is which exam is required by the school of your choice. Check with the school you plan to apply to, then take the exam they require.

The HESI (Health Education Systems Incorporated) Admission Assessment Exam, like the TEAS, is an exam used by some nursing schools as a part of the admissions process. The similarities and differences between the two tests are compared below.

TEAS

  • Used by some nursing schools as a part of the admissions process
  • Consists of 4 sections:
    • Reading
    • Math
    • Science
    • English
  • 170 questions total

HESI

  • Used by some nursing schools as a part of the admissions process
  • Consists of up to 9 sections (varies by school):
    • Math
    • Biology
    • Reading comprehension
    • Anatomy & physiology
    • Vocabulary
    • Chemistry
    • Grammar
    • Physics
    • Learning style & personality assessment
  • 25-50 questions per section

The HESI is a longer exam, but overall the two exams cover very similar bodies of knowledge. The primary determining factor in which exam to take is which exam is required by the school of your choice. Check with the school where you want to apply, then take the exam they require.

Can I use a calculator on the TEAS math section?

Calculator use is permitted for the TEAS math section, but you are not allowed to bring your own calculator. If you take a paper-and-pencil version of the test, the testing center will provide a basic four-function calculator. If you take the computer-based version, the exam contains a built-in calculator.

When should I take the TEAS test?

The most important factor in deciding when to take the TEAS test is your school's deadline for score submission. You must take the test in time to submit your scores with your application. After that, consider these two factors:

1. Preparation. You may want to complete as much of your high school coursework as possible before the test, and you will need to leave ample time to study for the test.

2. Retaking the test. Find out the score required by your school. If you suspect you'll have trouble meeting that score, you might want to leave time to retake the test before the score submission deadline. Find out whether your school has a requirement regarding how long you must wait in between testing dates, because this will also affect the time you need.

How can I prepare for my TEAS test day?

Consider these tips as you make sure you're ready for test day.

  • Rest the day before the exam. Eat a good, healthy dinner, then go to bed early.
  • Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early. Leave your home in plenty of time to account for traffic, parking, and stopping at the restroom before checking in at the testing center.
  • Leave extra items at home or in the car. You are not permitted to bring items such as:
    • Extra clothing (jackets, sweaters, hats, sunglasses)
    • Electronics (computers, phones, watches, calculators)
    • Personal items (purses, wallets, backpacks, computer cases)
    • Food and drink
  • Bring these items to the TEAS testing center:
    • Photo ID — Your ID must be government-issued with a current photo, your address, and your signature.
    • ATI login information — When you register for the test, you will create a student account with ATI. You'll need the login information to do your test.
    • Two No. 2 pencils — This is the only writing implemented permitted, and you can't bring extra erasers, so make sure your pencils are sharpened and have brand-new attached erasers.
  • Know what to expect when you arrive. Your ID will be checked and a proctor will show you to your seat and provide you with a calculator and scratch paper. Remember to display appropriate testing behavior, as improper behavior will result in you being forced to leave and your test going unscored.
  • Be prepared to remain seated. Remember that you will be given one break half-way through the testing session, after the math test. If you need an additional break, you will lose testing time. Plan accordingly.

Can I retake TEAS?

It is possible to retake the TEAS. Limitations are placed not by the test developers, ATI, but by individual schools. You should check in with your institution to determine:

  • How often you are allowed to take the test and within what time period (for example: two times per academic year/semester/calendar year)
  • What wait period is required between testing dates (a wait period of 30 days or more is typical)

Are there TEAS test disability accommodations?

If you have a documented disability that would make testing difficult, you may be provided with reasonable accommodations for the TEAS test by preparing in advance.

If you are taking the test at a PSI center, you can apply for accommodations via their website. You will need documentation from a medical professional detailing the disability, the recommended accommodation, and the contact information and signature of the professional making the recommendation. If you are taking the TEAS test at a college, contact them directly for information on applying for accommodations. For more information, see this article on TEAS Test Accommodations.

What students are saying about our test prep

I have completed my TEAS exam and did very well. Thank you!

Anne S.
Student - Downingtown, Pennsylvania
Completed TEAS exam

Your course material was extremely helpful in my ability to make a passing grade on the TEAS test. I will certainly keep this website in mind next time the need arises.

Jessica G.
Student
Completed TEAS exam

You helped me pass my math HESI. I have never been able to do that before.

Natalie B.
Student
Passed Math HESI

You offer a very wide variety of material. I am taking the HESI and think my experience here is going to help a great deal!

Trisha L.
Student - Taylor, Michigan
Try it risk-free
Try it risk-free today! No obligation, cancel anytime.
Try us risk-free
Study.com has been featured on:
CBS NBC Forbes ABC Inc The Wall Street Journal US News USA Today