When a friend of mine was preparing to enter nursing school, she shared her story about applying to her dream program. She was bright, dedicated, and had years of experience as a caregiver. However, when it came time to take the entrance exam, she was overwhelmed. Despite her efforts, she didn’t achieve the score she needed.
What went wrong? She underestimated how specific and challenging the exam could be. She hadn’t reviewed the test format or practiced key concepts, which left her at a disadvantage.
If you’re on the same path, I don’t want you to face similar hurdles. There’s a way to approach this exam with confidence, but first, you need to understand what it’s all about.
Conquer the ATI TEAS
The Assessment Technologies Institute - Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a multiple-choice test that checks your basic knowledge in subjects like reading, math, science, and English. The test covers important skills that nursing schools think are necessary to be ready for nursing programs. It’s used by nursing and health schools all over the country as part of their admissions process.
TEAS Exam Structure and Time Limits
The TEAS exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions, but not all of them count toward your score. 20 of these questions are pre-test questions, which are used to help improve the exam for future test-takers. The exam is divided into four sections, and each section has its own time limit:
- Reading – 58 minutes, 42 questions
This section tests your ability to understand and analyze written passages. You'll need to answer questions about the main idea, supporting details, and the meaning of words or phrases in context. - Mathematics – 51 minutes, 30 questions
In this section, you'll face questions on basic arithmetic, algebra, and data interpretation. You'll need to show your ability to solve math problems quickly and accurately. - Science – 66 minutes, 48 questions
This section tests your knowledge of topics like biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physics. You'll need to understand scientific concepts and be able to apply them in different situations. - English and Language Usage – 34 minutes, 30 questions
Here, you'll be tested on grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and word usage. It's important to have a strong grasp of language rules and how to apply them in writing.
Let’s Do Registration
To register for the TEAS exam, you’ll need to contact the school where you are applying. Some schools organize the exam on their campus, while others use a testing center like PSI (a third-party testing company).
Here’s how to register:
- Create an account - Go to the ATI TEAS registration website and sign up for a user account.
- Log in - Once your account is created, log in at atitesting.com with your ATI username and password.
- Choose a registration method - You can select either "Register for the TEAS" (through your school) or "Register for the TEAS with PSI" (through a testing center).
- Complete registration - Once you've selected your method, follow the prompts to register and pay for your exam. Afterward, you'll receive a confirmation email from ATI.
If you register through PSI, you will get an email from them within 24 hours of registering, giving you a link to schedule your test date and location. You will need your candidate ID number from ATI to schedule the test.
It’s a good idea to register for the exam at least two weeks before your desired test date, though many students register about four weeks ahead to give themselves plenty of time to study.
Don’t Forget to Bring
On test day, you'll need to bring a few important items to the testing center:
- Valid photo ID - This proves your identity, so make sure it’s a government-issued ID like a driver’s license or passport.
- No. 2 pencils - You’ll need pencils for filling in the answer sheet.
- Registration receipt with your ATI testing ID - This serves as proof that you've registered for the test and includes your candidate ID number.
- Leave your cell phone at home - Phones are not allowed in the exam room, so make sure to leave them behind or keep them in a secure place.
Strategies for the TEAS Exam
To do well on the TEAS exam, preparation is key. Practicing regularly will help you get used to the exam format and improve your skills. Here are some great resources to help you study:
- TEAS SmartPrep Package - This is a personalized study program designed to help you focus on the areas where you need the most improvement. It offers 65 lessons covering the key topics you need to know, and it’s tailored to the TEAS exam's blueprint. This helps you spend your study time on the most important subjects.
- ATI TEAS Basic Package - This package includes a study manual and online practice assessments that are specific to the ATI TEAS version of the exam. It’s a more streamlined option if you’re looking for a focused study approach.
- ATI TEAS Study Manual - This manual offers a detailed overview of the content on the TEAS exam. It includes 150 practice questions that mirror the actual test, so you’ll get a good sense of what to expect both in terms of content and format. The manual is a great way to familiarize yourself with the test before the big day.
Your Path to Nursing School Success
The TEAS exam is more than a hurdle; it’s your gateway to a rewarding nursing career. Think of it as your stepping stone, not a stumbling block. You’ve read the strategies and steps—now it’s your turn to put them into action. The difference between “trying” and “thriving” lies in preparation. Equip yourself with the right tools, tackle your weak spots, and pace yourself to ace the test.
This isn’t just about passing an exam; it’s about proving to yourself that you’re ready for the challenges of nursing school. Remember, success favors the prepared. Schedule your study time, register on time, and walk into that exam room with confidence. For personalized guidance and expert tips to help you succeed on the TEAS and beyond, visit ChatGPT.Education. You’ve got what it takes—now go and show it.
FAQs
How can I increase my chances of passing the TEAS exam?
Passing the TEAS exam requires consistent preparation. Focus on understanding the test format, practice key concepts, and use study resources like TEAS SmartPrep or ATI TEAS Study Manual to sharpen your skills. Regular practice will help you feel more confident and ready on exam day.
Where do you take the TEAS test?
You can take the TEAS test at the school you're applying to or at a third-party testing center like PSI. Contact your school for details about where and how to register for the test.
How hard is the TEAS test?
The TEAS test can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the format or haven’t reviewed the key concepts. However, with proper preparation and practice, you can improve your chances of success.
When do you take the TEAS test for nursing?
The best time to take the TEAS test for nursing is a few weeks before your application deadline. Register at least four weeks in advance to allow enough time for preparation and to secure your preferred test date.
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