The TEAS® is a proctored exam that was developed by ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute, LLC).
A proctored exam is one that is overseen by an impartial individual who monitors and supervises the students while taking the exam. The proctor ensures the security and integrity of the exam process. In other words, it is a fair evaluation of your knowledge and skills.
Before taking the test you must create an ATI account.
What is covered in the exam?
The Test of Essential Academic Skills measures basic but essential skills in following academic content areas:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- English and language usage
How does it work?
This is a multiple-choice examination with four options for each question.
Some places still offer a paper and pencil version but the computer format is getting more popular because it offers faster results. The use of a calculator is not permitted.
There are 170 questions and the time limit is 209 minutes ( 3 hours and 29 minutes). Each section has a different number of questions and a separate time limit.
| Content area | Number of questions | Time limit |
| Reading | 48 | 58 min |
| Mathematics | 34 | 51 min |
| Science | 54 | 66 min |
| English and Language Usage | 34 | 34 min |
| Total | 170 | 209 min |
In reality only 150 questions are scored. The other 20 questions serve as a testbed for future versions of the test. You cannot tell them apart so you have to treat each and every questions as important!
| Content area | Number of questions |
| Reading | 42 |
| Mathematics | 30 |
| Science | 48 |
| English and Language Usage | 30 |
| Total | 150 |
How do you get your results?
Scores are sent at no cost to the school where you took the test. TEAS® results can be sent to additional schools you select for $22.00 per results report.
What if you fail the first attempt?
The TEAS® (version V) sets objectives based on highschool study topics from grades 7 to 12. The selection of questions allows them to map out your content knowledge in the different areas.
Your score report will advise you what subjects you will need to spend some more time on.
Most nursing schools will let you take the test twice during an academic year. Usually you must wait a minimum of 45 days before retesting. You should get the exact details from the school you are applying for.