TEAS Test Scores Explained: Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Achieving Success
Cracking the TEAS exam scores code is your first step to nursing school. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about your TEAS test scores, from understanding the scoring system to knowing what's considered a good TEAS score and the all-important TEAS score range. Understanding your score empowers you to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses for focused, effective study.
How TEAS Test Scoring Works
The ATI TEAS Test is scored on a 0–100% scale for each section and a composite. ATI uses equating so that scores are consistent across different test forms. In practice, this means a 70% on one administration equals a 70% on another. There is no penalty for guessing so answer every question. Your overall TEAS test score is a weighted average of the four sections: Reading, Math, Science, and English. Each section receives its own score, which contributes to the composite. Percentile ranks on your score report show how you compare to other test-takers.
- Equated Scoring: ATI adjusts raw scores so all versions are comparable.
- No Negative Marking: You gain nothing by skipping questions – always guess if unsure.
- Scoring Range: Each section and the composite are reported from 0% to 100%.
Take a free TEAS practice test to see how the scoring works and identify your strengths.
TEAS Score Ranges and Categories
ATI assigns Academic Preparedness Levels to score ranges, which help interpret results:
National Average: TEAS composite scores typically fall in the 65–75% range. Many students aim above this average to strengthen their application.
Benefit: Knowing your category shows how ready you are. For example, scoring in Proficient or above usually means you meet basic college readiness.
Benefit: Use these benchmarks to guide your study plan – focus extra effort if you’re in the Developmental/Basic ranges.
What Is a Good TEAS Score for Nursing?
A “good” TEAS score varies by nursing program, but generally higher is better. As a rule of thumb, aim to score about 10% above your target school’s cutoff. For example, if your program requires 70%, set a goal near 80%. Many lower-ranked programs consider ~60–70% passing, while top-tier nursing schools often look for 85–95%. Achieving an Advanced (80–91%) or Exemplary (92%+) score makes you a highly competitive applicant.
- Pro Tip: Aim for at least an Advanced score (~80%+) to maximize admission chances.
- Benefit: Scoring high (e.g. in the 80s+) can compensate for a weaker GPA or limited clinical experience when applying.
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TEAS Passing Score
There is no universal TEAS passing score – each school sets its own minimumt. Most nursing programs require at least a Proficient level (around 60–65%). However, some competitive programs expect 75% or higher. Always check with your target schools. As a safe strategy, aim about 10% above their stated minimum.
- Program Cutoff: If a program says “pass = 70%,” plan to score ~80% to be comfortable.
- No Risk in High Scores: There’s no harm in exceeding the passing score. A higher TEAS score can only improve your application.
- Benefit: Knowing your specific passing requirement helps you set clear study goals. Use our resources to meet or exceed that benchmark.
Are you ready to take your TEAS test performance to the next level and boost your chances of getting into your dream nursing program? Don't leave your future to chance. Our comprehensive TEAS Test Prep Pack is designed to give you the edge you need to excel in all areas of the exam - TEAS Reading, TEAS Math, TEAS Science, and TEAS English Language Usage.
How to Improve Your TEAS Score
Targeted practice is the key. First, identify weak areas from your score report and focus there. Use our subject-specific practice tests to strengthen each skill:
- Reading Practice: Improve comprehension and critical thinking with our TEAS Reading practice tests.
- Math Practice: Sharpen calculations and data analysis on our TEAS Math practice tests.
- Science Practice: Review anatomy, chemistry, and reasoning using our TEAS Science practice tests.
- English Practice: Master grammar and vocabulary with our TEAS English & Language Usage practice tests.
Use timed full-length exams to simulate test day. Analyze incorrect answers and review concepts you missed. Many students find watching how answers are explained especially helpful.
- Study Plan: Set a schedule to cover all content areas evenly. Use flashcards and study guides to reinforce memory.
- Free Resources: Download our free TEAS study guides and take practice quizzes daily. They explain question logic and test-taking strategies.
- Practice Tests: Repeated practice under timed conditions will increase accuracy and confidence.
TEAS Score Report Details
Understanding TEAS Test Scores: Comprehensive Guide
Learn how TEAS test scores are calculated and what they mean for your nursing school application.
Frequently Asked Questions About TEAS Test Scores
The ATI TEAS test uses an equating method, adjusting scores to account for differences in difficulty across various test versions. Your score report will display a total score, scores for each of the four content areas (Reading, Math, Science, and English), and sub-content area scores, all presented as percentages ranging from 0.0% to 100%. Importantly, there is no penalty for answering a question incorrectly.
While the general guideline suggests that the TEAS exam can be taken up to three times within a one-year period, it's crucial to verify the specific retake policies of the nursing schools you are applying to, as these limits can vary. Some institutions may have stricter limitations or require a waiting period between attempts.
Typically, TEAS scores are considered valid for two years from the test date. However, individual nursing programs may have their own policies regarding the acceptable timeframe for TEAS scores, so it's essential to check with each institution to ensure your scores will be considered valid at the time of application.
The ATI TEAS, Version 7, comprises a total of 170 questions, of which 150 are scored and 20 are unscored pretest questions. The exam is divided into four main sections: Reading (45 questions, 55 minutes), Mathematics (38 questions, 57 minutes), Science (50 questions, 60 minutes), and English and Language Usage (37 questions, 37 minutes), totaling a time limit of 209 minutes. The question formats include multiple-choice and alternate item types.
Yes, a four-function calculator is typically provided on-screen for the Mathematics section of the TEAS exam when taken on a computer. Personal calculators are generally not permitted in the testing environment.
You will generally be required to bring a valid, government-issued photo identification (ID) that matches the name on your registration. Additionally, it's advisable to bring your ATI account login information and any confirmation materials you received. Specific testing centers may have additional requirements, so it's always best to check the instructions provided by the testing location or remote proctoring service. For in-person exams, bringing a few No. 2 pencils with erasers might also be necessary.
Included Transcript (1 Free Submission)
When you register for the TEAS exam, one official transcript is included for free.
This must be used at the time of testing and will be automatically sent or made available based on your test format (see below).
Transcript Submission by Test Type
If You Took the TEAS Exam In-Person or Remotely at a School (Institution-Hosted):
Your score is automatically sent to the institution where you tested within 48 hours.
To apply to additional programs, you'll need to purchase additional transcripts.
If You Took the TEAS at ATI (Remote Proctoring) or at a PSI Testing Center:
You get one complimentary transcript included with your exam.
You must manually select and send it to your desired school:
Log into your ATI account: www.atitesting.com/login
Go to the “TEAS Activity” or “Results” tab.
Click “Send Transcript” below your scored exam.
Choose the school you want to send your free transcript to.
The transcript will be sent within 48 hours of submission.
Sending TEAS Scores to More Schools (Extra Transcripts)
Want to apply to more than one school? You’ll need to purchase additional transcripts (called “Transcript Credits”).
Cost:
Each additional transcript = $27
You can buy credits at the ATI Store.
Each credit = 1 school submission
Credits never expire and can be used any time after you test.
To Use Your Transcript Credits:
Log in at www.atitesting.com
Click the “Results” tab
Find your test score and click “Send Transcript”
Choose your school and use one credit to send
Always check with each school to confirm:
They accept TEAS exams taken outside their institution
They accept remote/at-home TEAS scores
Some schools only accept TEAS scores from exams taken at their campus
Maximize Your Nursing School Potential with TEAS Test Prep
With our expertly crafted study materials, you'll:
Access practice tests that mirror the actual TEAS exam format
Receive detailed explanations for each question type
Learn time-management strategies to boost your test-day performance
Remember, a higher TEAS score can significantly increase your chances of admission to top nursing schools.
