The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) serves as a critical gateway for aspiring nursing students, particularly those pursuing highly competitive Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs. This standardized exam can make or break your admission chances, as ABSN programs typically accept only the most academically prepared candidates.
The TEAS assesses foundational knowledge in:
- reading
- mathematics
- science
- English language usage
Unlike traditional BSN programs, ABSN curricula compress four years of content into 12-18 months, requiring students to demonstrate exceptional academic readiness from day one.
This guide provides targeted strategies and insights specifically designed for prospective ABSN students. You’ll learn how to:
- maximize your TEAS performance
- understand competitive scoring benchmarks
- leverage your results to strengthen your application
ATI TEAS 7 Exam at a Glance
| Category | Current ATI TEAS 7 Format |
|---|---|
Total questions | 170 |
Scored questions | 150 |
Unscored questions | 20 |
Total testing time | 209 minutes |
Reading | 45 questions in 55 minutes |
Mathematics | 38 questions in 57 minutes |
Science | 50 questions in 60 minutes |
English and Language Usage | 37 questions in 37 minutes |
Delivery options | At a school, testing center, or remotely where available |
Calculator | On-screen four-function calculator |
Last reviewed: August 2026
Exam format and policy information was checked against current ATI guidance. Individual nursing schools may set different score, deadline, and retake requirements.
Understanding the TEAS Exam
What is the TEAS?
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized assessment administered by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI). It evaluates academic preparedness for nursing programs by testing fundamental skills in four core areas.
For ABSN programs, the TEAS serves as a predictor of success in accelerated, intensive coursework.
The exam specifically measures your ability to comprehend complex medical literature, perform accurate calculations, understand scientific concepts, and communicate effectively—all critical competencies for fast-paced nursing education.
Exam Format and Structure
The ATI TEAS 7 contains 170 questions completed in 209 minutes. The exam includes 150 scored questions and 20 unscored pretest questions. Question formats may include multiple choice, multiple select, fill-in-the-blank, ordered response, and hot-spot questions.
The test includes:
- Reading: 45 questions (55 minutes)
- Mathematics: 38 questions (57 minutes)
- Science: 50 questions (60 minutes)
- English and Language Usage: 37 questions (37 minutes)
Scoring ranges from 0-100%, with most competitive ABSN programs requiring scores of 75% or higher.
The TEAS is not an adaptive exam. All applicants receive questions based on the same test blueprint, although individual test forms may contain different questions.
Deep Dive into Each Section
Reading
Content Coverage: Key ideas and details, craft and structure, integration of knowledge and ideas
Skills Assessed: The reading section evaluates your ability to comprehend complex texts, identify main ideas, make inferences, and analyze author intent. These skills prove essential for understanding dense medical literature, research studies, and clinical protocols in ABSN programs.
Study Tips:
- Practice active reading techniques with scientific and healthcare-related passages
- Focus on identifying topic sentences and supporting details quickly
- Build vocabulary specific to healthcare and scientific contexts using resources like Khan Academy’s Reading section
- Time yourself while reading to improve speed and comprehension
Sample Questions
Passage A (Key Ideas & Details)
Telehealth services have expanded rapidly in recent years. By using secure video conferencing, patients can consult with providers from home rather than travel. This innovation reduces commute times, lowers costs, and improves access to specialists for rural populations.
1. What is the main idea of Passage A?
A. Telehealth saves money for hospitals.
B. Video conferencing is replacing all in‑person visits.
C. Telehealth improves access and convenience for patients.
D. Rural areas have fewer doctors than cities.
2. Which detail best supports the claim that telehealth improves access for rural patients?
A. It reduces commute times.
B. It uses secure video conferencing.
C. It has expanded rapidly.
D. It lowers costs.
Passage B (Craft & Structure)
The clinic’s waiting room resembled a beehive, with patients swarming around reception and buzzing with anxious energy.
3. In Passage B, the author uses the metaphor “beehive.” What does this convey about the waiting room?
A. It was quiet and orderly.
B. It was chaotic and full of activity.
C. It smelled like honey.
D. It was brightly colored.
4. What is the author’s primary purpose in Passage B?
A. To explain why the clinic needs more staff
B. To describe the busy atmosphere in the waiting room
C. To compare beehives to clinics
D. To argue for shorter appointment times
Passages C & D (Integration of Knowledge & Ideas)
Passage C: Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds removes most germs from hands.
Passage D: When soap and water aren’t available, using an alcohol‑based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) can also kill many pathogens.
5. Based on Passages C and D, which practice is most effective for hand hygiene?
A. Rinsing under running water only
B. Washing with soap and water for 20 seconds
C. Using any hand sanitizer, regardless of alcohol content
D. Skipping hand cleaning when hands look clean
6. A community health worker is teaching in a location without running water. Which recommendation best follows both passages?
A. Skip hand hygiene if you’re not near a sink
B. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
C. Rinse under water for 10 seconds
D. Wash hands only after every patient
Answer Key
C (Telehealth improves access and convenience.)
A (It reduces commute times.)
B (It was chaotic and full of activity.)
B (To describe the busy atmosphere.)
B (Washing with soap and water for 20 seconds.)
B (Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.)Mathematics
Content Coverage: Numbers and operations, algebra, measurement and data interpretation
Skills Assessed: Mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and quantitative analysis form the foundation for dosage calculations, statistical interpretation, and data analysis in nursing practice. The section emphasizes practical applications over theoretical concepts.
Study Tips:
- Master unit conversions, particularly metric system calculations
- Practice percentage problems and ratio/proportion calculations using Khan Academy’s Math section
- Review basic algebra and geometry concepts
- Focus on word problems that mirror real-world healthcare scenarios
- Memorize common formulas for area, volume, and statistical measures
Sample Math Questions
Numbers & Operations
1. What is 15% of 200?
A. 15
B. 20
C. 25
D. 30
2. Which of the following fractions is equivalent to 0.75?
A. 1/2
B. 2/3
C. 3/4
D. 4/5
Algebra
3. Solve for x: 3x + 5 = 20.
A. 3
B. 5
C. 6
D. 15
4. If f(x) = 2x² − 3, what is f(2)?
A. 1
B. 5
C. 7
D. 9
Measurement & Data Interpretation
5. A recipe calls for 2.5 liters of solution. How many milliliters is this?
A. 250 mL
B. 2,500 mL
C. 25,000 mL
D. 250,000 mL
6. The following blood pressure readings (in mmHg) were recorded: 118, 125, 132, 120. What is the mean (average) blood pressure?
A. 121.25
B. 123.75
C. 124
D. 126.25
Answer Key
D (30)
C (3/4)
B (5)
B (5)
B (2,500 mL)
B (123.75 mmHg)Science
Content Coverage: Human anatomy and physiology, life and physical sciences, scientific reasoning
Skills Assessed: Understanding biological processes, basic chemistry and physics principles, and scientific methodology. This section directly correlates with prerequisite science courses and foundational knowledge needed for accelerated nursing curricula.
Study Tips:
- Prioritize human anatomy and physiology systems using resources like Visible Body or Anatomy & Physiology OpenStax
- Review basic chemistry concepts including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and pH
- Study cell biology, genetics, and basic microbiology
- Practice interpreting scientific data, graphs, and experimental results
- Focus on body system interactions and homeostasis
Sample Questions
Human Anatomy & Physiology
Which organ is primarily responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine?
A. Liver
B. Pancreas
C. Kidney
D. Spleen
The alveoli in the lungs are best described as:
A. Rigid tubes that conduct air to the bronchioles
B. Small air sacs where gas exchange occurs
C. Cartilaginous rings that prevent airway collapse
D. Mucus‑producing glands lining the trachea
In the digestive system, which structure is responsible for the majority of nutrient absorption?
A. Stomach
B. Duodenum
C. Jejunum and ileum
D. Large intestine
Life & Physical Sciences
Which of the following is a covalent compound?
A. NaCl
B. H₂O
C. CaCl₂
D. KBr
During cellular respiration, which molecule is the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain?
A. Carbon dioxide
B. Oxygen
C. Glucose
D. NADH
Which kingdom includes organisms that are multicellular, autotrophic, and possess cell walls made of cellulose?
A. Animalia
B. Fungi
C. Plantae
D. Protista
Scientific Reasoning
A researcher notices that patients taking Drug X recover 20% faster than those taking Drug Y. Before concluding that Drug X is superior, which potential confounding factor should she consider?
A. The color of the pills
B. Patients’ ages and pre‑existing conditions
C. The brand name of the drug
D. The temperature of the lab
If a data set’s values are tightly clustered around the mean, this indicates the data have:
A. High variability
B. Low variability
C. A bimodal distribution
D. A positively skewed distribution
Answers
C. Kidney
B. Small air sacs where gas exchange occurs
C. Jejunum and ileum
B. H₂O
B. Oxygen
C. Plantae
B. Patients’ ages and pre‑existing conditions
B. Low variabilityEnglish and Language Usage
Content Coverage: Conventions of standard English, knowledge of language, vocabulary acquisition
Skills Assessed: Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and word usage. Clear communication proves crucial in healthcare settings where miscommunication can have serious consequences.
Study Tips:
- Review grammar rules, particularly subject-verb agreement and pronoun usage
- Practice identifying and correcting common writing errors
- Expand healthcare and scientific vocabulary
- Study sentence structure and paragraph organization
- Focus on formal writing conventions used in professional healthcare communication
Sample Questions
Conventions of Standard English
Which sentence is punctuated correctly?
A. After the meeting we went to lunch, and then returned to our desks.
B. After the meeting, we went to lunch and then returned to our desks.
C. After the meeting we went to lunch and, then returned to our desks.
D. After the meeting; we went to lunch, and then returned to our desks.
Choose the sentence that shows correct subject–verb agreement.
A. The group of students are studying in the library.
B. The group of students is studying in the library.
C. The group of students were studying in the library.
D. The group of students have been studying in the library.
Which revision corrects this run‑on? “She finished her exam early she decided to review her answers.”
A. She finished her exam early, she decided to review her answers.
B. She finished her exam early; she decided to review her answers.
C. She finished her exam early she decided; to review her answers.
D. She finished her exam early she decided to review her answers.
Knowledge of Language
Which revision makes this sentence more formal? “We’ll get back to you ASAP once we’ve checked the records.”
A. We’ll contact you as soon as possible once we’ve checked the records.
B. We’ll reply to you ASAP once records are checked.
C. We’ll get back to you quickly once we’ve checked the records.
D. We’ll get back to you in a jiff once we’ve checked the records.
Which sentence uses active voice?
A. The final report was written by the committee.
B. The committee wrote the final report.
C. The final report had been written by the committee.
D. The final report is being written by the committee.
Which pair of phrases demonstrates correct parallel structure?
A. She likes hiking, to swim, and biking.
B. She likes hiking, swimming, and biking.
C. She likes to hike, swimming, and to bike.
D. She likes hiking, to swim, and to biking.
Vocabulary Acquisition
In “His explanation was so __________ that no one could follow his reasoning,” which word best completes the sentence?
A. lucid
B. nebulous
C. concise
D. accurate
In the sentence below, what does “mitigate” most nearly mean? “The new policy will help mitigate the company’s financial losses.”
A. increase
B. analyze
C. alleviate
D. predict
The phrase “beneath the surface” in “Her calm exterior hid passions that lay far beneath the surface” most nearly means:
A. more deeply felt
B. less interesting
C. physically below
D. unrelated to
Answers
B
B
B
A
B
B
B
C
AEffective TEAS Study Strategies for ABSN Applicants
Create a Targeted Study Plan
Begin by taking a diagnostic practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses. ABSN applicants often come from diverse academic backgrounds, so tailor your preparation accordingly. If you have a non-science degree, allocate extra time to the science section.
Establish a 6-8 week study timeline with specific daily and weekly goals. Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to focused study, emphasizing your weakest areas while maintaining strengths. Create a schedule that allows for multiple review cycles before your test date.
Utilize Official ATI Resources
The ATI TEAS Study Manual provides the most accurate representation of exam content and difficulty. This official resource includes detailed explanations, practice questions, and scoring rubrics aligned with actual test parameters.
Access ATI’s online practice assessments to simulate real exam conditions. These computer-based practice tests help familiarize you with the interface, timing, and question formats you’ll encounter on test day.
Practice Tests are Key
Complete an initial diagnostic exam, one or two section-based assessments each week, and two to four full-length timed exams during your preparation period. Spend more time reviewing missed questions than repeatedly taking new tests.
At least once before your exam, take a full-length TEAS practice test under timed conditions. Simulating the actual testing experience helps build endurance for the 209-minute exam while revealing pacing issues and knowledge gaps. Afterward, carefully review every missed question and focus your remaining study time on your weakest subjects.
Focus on question types that challenge you most. If you struggle with reading comprehension passages about scientific topics, seek out similar materials for additional practice. Track your progress using a spreadsheet to monitor improvement over time.
Here are some high‑quality free TEAS practice resources you can use right now.
| Resource | Best use | Free access |
|---|---|---|
Official format and sample material | Limited | |
Refreshing math and science concepts | Yes | |
Section-based practice | Some free material | |
Sample questions and explanations | Some free material | |
TEAS-style practice | Limited free material | |
Anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry review | Yes |
If you need to strengthen your science score, the free OpenStax Anatomy & Physiology 2e textbook is one of the best comprehensive resources available.
Review and Reinforce
Implement spaced repetition techniques to retain information long-term.
- Review challenging topics every few days rather than cramming before the exam.
- Create concept maps linking related ideas, particularly for complex science topics like body systems.
Consider forming study groups with other ABSN applicants or hiring a tutor if you’re transitioning from a non-science background. Explaining concepts to others reinforces your own understanding while exposing knowledge gaps.
Test-Taking Strategies
Develop systematic approaches for different question types.
- For reading passages, scan questions first to guide your reading focus.
- In mathematics, work backwards from answer choices when appropriate.
- For science questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers to improve your odds.
Manage your time carefully during each section. Don’t spend more than 1-2 minutes per question initially. Mark difficult questions for review and return to them if time permits. Practice these timing strategies during all practice sessions.
Registration and What to Expect on Test Day
Registration Process
Register through the ATI website at least 2-3 weeks before your desired test date. Popular testing dates fill quickly, especially during peak application seasons. Choose between in-person testing at approved centers or remote proctored exams from home.
Testing fees typically range from $70-100 depending on your location and testing method. Some nursing programs offer discounted testing through institutional partnerships, so check with your target schools first.
Preparing for Test Day
Gather required identification documents 24 hours before your exam.
- Acceptable IDs include driver’s licenses, passports, or state-issued identification cards.
- Ensure your ID name matches your registration exactly.
For remote testing:
- Verify your computer meets technical requirements and test your internet connection.
- Remove potential distractions from your testing area and ensure adequate lighting.
- Plan to arrive at testing centers 30 minutes early for check-in procedures.
During the Exam
Follow all instructions carefully and ask proctors for clarification if needed. Use breaks strategically to rest and refocus, but avoid overthinking previous sections. Stay hydrated and maintain steady energy levels throughout the lengthy exam.
Maintain confidence even if you encounter difficult questions. The adaptive nature of the test means challenging questions may indicate you’re performing well. Focus on each question individually rather than worrying about overall performance.
Scoring and Your ABSN Application
Understanding Your Score Report
TEAS scores are reported as percentages for each section and overall. You’ll receive national percentile rankings showing how you performed compared to all test-takers. More importantly for ABSN applicants, program-specific benchmarks indicate competitiveness for your target schools.
What Is a Good TEAS Score for an ABSN Program?
There is no single TEAS score that guarantees admission to an ABSN program. Each school sets its own minimum score and admissions formula. Some programs require only a minimum qualifying score, while others award more application points for higher results.
| Score question | What applicants should check |
|---|---|
Minimum composite score | The lowest total score accepted |
Section minimums | Whether math, science, reading, or English has a separate cutoff |
Competitive score | The score commonly earned by admitted students |
Attempt policy | Whether the school uses the highest, latest, or first score |
Score expiration | How long the school considers scores valid |
Submission deadline | The final date ATI transcripts must arrive |
Sending Scores to Nursing Schools
ATI automatically sends score reports to schools you designate during registration. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee after completing the exam. Most programs receive scores within 48 hours of testing.
Consider retaking the exam if your scores fall below program requirements. Retake rules depend on where you take the exam and the policies of your nursing program. ATI requires at least 14 days between TEAS-at-ATI attempts. Many schools require a 30-day waiting period or limit the number of attempts accepted each year. Confirm the rules with every program before scheduling a retake.
The TEAS and Your ABSN Journey: A Holistic View
Why the TEAS Matters for ABSN Programs
ABSN programs compress traditional nursing education into an accelerated format, requiring exceptional academic preparation. The TEAS serves as a standardized predictor of success in this intensive environment, helping admissions committees identify candidates capable of thriving under pressure.
Strong TEAS performance demonstrates mastery of foundational concepts essential for advanced nursing topics. It also indicates your ability to perform well on standardized exams—a skill you’ll need for NCLEX-RN licensure after graduation.
Integrating Your TEAS Score with Your Application
View your TEAS score as one component of a comprehensive application portfolio. A high score can offset weaknesses in prerequisite GPA or compensate for a non-traditional academic background. Conversely, exceptional prior academic performance may help balance a moderate TEAS score.
Address any application weaknesses through strategic TEAS preparation. If your prerequisite GPA is below average, aim for the highest possible TEAS score to demonstrate current academic capabilities. Use your personal statement to explain how TEAS preparation reinforced your commitment to nursing education.
Conclusion
Success on the TEAS exam requires comprehensive preparation, strategic planning, and consistent effort. For ABSN applicants, this investment pays dividends by opening doors to competitive programs and demonstrating readiness for accelerated learning.
Your dedication to mastering the TEAS reflects the same commitment you’ll need throughout your nursing career. Approach preparation systematically, utilize available resources effectively, and maintain confidence in your abilities.
Strong TEAS performance represents just the beginning of your nursing journey. It validates your academic foundation while preparing you for the rigorous challenges ahead in ABSN education and professional practice.
Next Steps
After completing the TEAS, continue strengthening your application through volunteer work, healthcare experience, and compelling personal statements. Research your target programs thoroughly using resources like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) program directory and prepare for interviews that may follow strong TEAS performance. Your success on this exam opens the door to an accelerated path toward your nursing career goals.