In this article, we’ll examine the essential information you should be aware of about the ATI TEAS test, since this test determines your level of readiness to go to nursing school. The TEAS exam, also known as the Test of Essential Academic Skills, tests your skills in Reading, Math, Science, and English Language Usage, and helps nursing schools determine your readiness for their rigorous courses. The article will cover its structure and scoring system, the registration procedure, and expert-led study techniques to assist you in your preparation and increase your score. At the end of the course, you’ll be able to know what you need to do to learn more effectively, additionally, move with confidence into your nursing journey with the help of Testavia’s study instruments and tools.
ATI TEAS Exam Overview – What It Is, Sections & Scoring
The ATI TEST is a well-established nursing entrance test that is used by all U.S. courses to evaluate academic ability. The ATI Test is the test that administers the Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English Language Use exams.
The most recent version of TEAS Version 7 includes 170 test questions and a total of 209 minutes overall time. Results are displayed as score scales, along with percentiles, to allow for a fair comparison of candidates.
Section Timing Table
| Teas Section | Question | Time | Keys kills |
| Reading | 45 | 64 Minutes | Main idea, inference, structure, tone |
| Math | 38 | 57 Minutes | Ratios, algebra, conversions, dosage calc |
| Science | 50 | 60 Minutes | Anatomy & physiology, genetics, chem, scientific reasoning |
| English | 37 | 28 Minutes | Grammar, punctuation, sentence clarity, word usage |
| Total | 170 | 209 Minutes | Academic readiness for nursing |
Principal Takeaways
- The purpose of HTML0 is to evaluate students’ foundational readiness for nursing school.
- Scoring Raw – Scaled and converted to percentiles.
- Managed by: The ATI Testing (official authority).
TEAS English & Language Usage – Question Types + Tips
This section examines punctuation, grammar, and sentence clarity skills crucial to accurate nursing documentation. You can expect questions from ATI TEAS English regarding capitalization, as well as word selection and mechanics.
The Focus Areas
- Grammar and punctuation rules (comma use and subject-verb agreement)
- Sentence structure (run-ons, fragments, Parallelism)
- Vocabulary context and use
- Common mistakes and quick strategies
- Time management (~60 seconds per question)
Sample Item Example Item
“Before applying insulin, make sure you know the name of the patient, their date they were born, as well as their allergies.”
Take an English Test Quiz to evaluate yourself.
TEAS Reading Strategies – Speed, Inference & Main Idea
Reading comprehension predicts nursing-school success, this means the TEAS Reading section tests your ability to spot the central concepts, tone, and structure under pressure.
Core Skills Essential Skills
- Find the main idea and any details supporting it.
- Be aware of tone and the purpose
- Manage time across multiple passages (~90 seconds each)
- Use inference to make predictions about conclusions
Learn Tips
- Preview questions before reading the passage
- Highlight key words and information
- Answer the direct questions first, and then return to the inference items
TEAS Math – Formulas, Tricks & Common Pitfalls
The Math section focuses on measurements, ratios, algebra, and data interpretation. Many people search for ATI TEAS 6 math; however, TEAS 7 provides the same quantitative foundation.
What you will find:
- Arithmetic (fractions, decimals, percentages, and ratios)
- Algebra (equations, inequalities, proportions)
- Geometry (area, volume, area and unit conversions)
- Charts and tables with data
Formulas You Must Know
| Category | Formular | Example |
| Percent Change | (New − Old / Old) × 100 | (120−100)/100 ×100 = 20% |
| Fraction to Decimal | Numerator ÷ Denominator | 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75 |
| Ratio Conversion | a : b → a/b | 3:5 = 3/5 |
| Proportion | a/b = c/d | 5/10 = x/20 → x = 10 |
| Area (Rectangle) | A = l × w | 5 × 8 = 40 units² |
| Volume (Rect. prism) | V = l × w × h | 2×3×4 = 24 units³ |
| Dosage Formular | (Desired ÷ Available) × Volume | (50mg ÷25mg) ×1mL = 2mL |
Source: ATI Math Outline | Khan Academy – Algebra Basics
TEAS Science – High-Yield Topics and Examples of Questions
Science assesses scientific knowledge in physiology and anatomy, along with life science, as well as reasoning.
High-Yield Domains
- Organ systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, endocrine)
- Genetics and cells
- Experimental design and interpretation of data
Sample Questions
- What organelle creates ATP? – Mitochondrion
- The variable that researchers manipulate is the independent variable
Free ATI TEST Practice Test – Full-Length and Explanations
Participating in a free ATI Test for TEAS practice test provides a realistic exam experience to improve pacing and also your confidence.
Structure
- Four timed sections that match the official blueprints
- Instant scoring and answer explanations
- Works on desktops and mobiles.
General FAQs
- What is the duration? 209 minutes (total).
- Are the scores correct? Yes–mirrors ATI domains closely.
- Can I stop or return? Yes.
Is the ATI TEAS Exam Difficult? What to expect?
The difficulty of the test is determined by background, pace, and the level of familiarity. Students say they find reading the Reading and Math sections most stressful, and that Science is the most comprehensive subject.
Average Competitive Scores
| Score Range | Competitiveness | Notes |
| 90%+ | Highly Competitive | Top programs, BSN programs |
| 80–89% | Competitive | Strong chance of admission |
| 65–79% | Moderately Competitive | Meets requirements for many ADN/community programs |
| < 65% | Needs Improvement | Consider retake prep plan |
The most important thing to remember is that the most common question must be answered within 90 seconds to be completed on time. You can practice using timers to develop real exam endurance.
To learn more, check out our article to know if the ATI TEAS Exam is Difficult?
4-Week TEAS Study Plan (TEAS 7)
A well-structured plan will help you master your skills rather than memorize everything: this four-week prep plan balances review, testing, and rest days.
First week: Diagnosis and The English Foundations
- Start with an ATI TEAS free practice test to identify weak spots.
- Grammar, punctuation, and sentence structures.
- Daily 60 minutes in total, 30 minutes for Reading plus 30 minutes for English.
Second week – Math and Core Science
- Learn fractions, ratios, and conversions.
- Study A&P systems Cardiovascular * respiratory * renal.
- Run two multi-domain tests, then analyze the missed subjects.
Third Week – Timed Practice & Reading Strategy
- Different Reading and Math set-timed.
- Make sure to include science-based reasoning exercises.
- Finalize with a full-length mock test.
Fourth week: Full Simulator and Review
- Do two mocks in full with real-time timing.
- Examine formulas, error logs, and key science concepts.
- Relax and think lightly about the last day.
Nursing Entrance Exam – TEAS vs HESI (Which Do I need?)
Both measure nurses’ readiness to enter nursing programs differ in structure and administration.
| Feature | TEAS | HESI |
| Focus | General academic readiness | Nursing/science-heavy detail |
| Sections | Reading, Math, Science, English | Reading, Math, Science, Vocabulary, Grammar, Anatomy/Physiology + others |
| Total Questions | ~170 | ~326 (varies by school) |
| Time | 209 minutes | ~4–5 hours |
| Used by | Most U.S. nursing programs | Selected nursing programs |
| Difficulty for Students | Reading & Science hardest | A&P & vocabulary hardest |
Learn more by comparing TEAS vs HESI Exams.
TEST Scores Requirements by School (Cut Scores and Policy)
Each institution sets its own cut-off score to determine admission.
| Program Type | Typical TEAS Cut Score | Notes |
| ADN (Community College) | 58–70% | Some allow retakes + prep workshops |
| BSN Programs | 70–85% | More competitive entry |
| Accelerated BSN (ABSN) | 80–90% | Very competitive programs |
| Practical Nursing (LPN/LVN) | 50–60% | Passing varies widely |
Always check each school’s admissions page for current requirements.
We have written an article about Nursing School’s Exam Cut-Off points. Check it out to fully equip yourself.
From the TEAS Reading into NCLEX Case Studies to Creating Exam Strategy Early
Early preparation for the TEAS builds the same reasoning muscles you’ll need in nursing school as well as the NCLEX exam.
Skill Bridge Table (TEAS → NCLEX)
| TEAS Skill | Nursing School Skill | NCLEX Skill |
| Reading comprehension | Understanding clinical notes & orders | Interpreting critical patient data |
| Math calculations | Dosage & IV calculations | Safe medication administration |
| Scientific reasoning | A&P & pathophysiology | Clinical decision-making |
| Grammar & clarity | Charting & documentation | Legal & safe communication |
Bridge Example:
A student who scored 85 percent in TEAS Reading and 80 percent in Math later passed the NCLEX-RN on the first try with minimal remediation. Early exposure to comprehension reading and dosage calculation problems helped them develop more rapid critical thinking habits, n this case demonstrating that TEAS-related skills are directly applicable to clinical judgement tasks.
To know more, check out the NCLEX Preparation Guide.
Registration, Retakes, and Accessibility
- You can sign up for the test through the ATI Testing Portal.
- Check your school’s requirements for proctoring and ID policy.
- The majority of programs allow 2-3 attempts and 14-45 days between tests.
- Request accommodations for special tests early through the TEAS accessibility pages.
practice on Testavia for free.
Conclusion – Begin Your TEAS Prep Journey Now!
The TEAS exam is a way to enter nursing school and pursue a career in nursing.
Testavia Nursing helps you learn better by offering personalized study plans, analysis, and realistic mock tests based on the official ATI format.
Many students have improved their scores with systematic practice, and this means you can do the same. Join to receive a free trial Today and Pass Your TEAS Exam with confidence.