Date Published: October 31, 2018
The TEAS Exam can be a big component of getting into nursing and allied health programs. Because of this, it’s no wonder students have question after question about the test. What are the most common questions that we hear, as the writers of the ATI TEAS Exam? We’re breaking them down, paired with the answers, below.
Why do I have to take the ATI TEAS Exam?
The main reason students are asked to take the ATI TEAS Exam is because it is a component of getting into your nursing or allied health program. For many programs, this is just a part of the admissions requirements. Be sure that you understand all of the criteria required to get into your school of choice, and be aware of the deadlines that they have set.
Schools require the TEAS Exam because it measures your preparedness in four main categories – Mathematics, Science, English and Language Usage and Reading. Students who are prepared in these areas are more likely to be successful in their schooling.
What will I be tested on?
As we mentioned above, there are four main areas that the ATI TEAS Exam will test students on – Reading, Mathematics, Science and English and Language Usage. Here’s the full breakdown.
Reading: 53 questions, 64 minutes
- Key ideas and details
- Craft and structure
- Integration of knowledge and ideas
Mathematics: 36 questions, 54 minutes
- Numbers and algebra
- Measurement and data
Science: 53 questions, 63 minutes
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Life and physical sciences
- Scientific reasoning
English and Language Usage: 28 questions, 28 minutes
- Conventions of standard English
- Knowledge of language
- Vocabulary acquisition
Can I return to a question?
The short answer to this is yes however, there’s a catch. You can only return to a question that you have completed or skipped if you are still in the same section.
For example, if you are taking the Mathematics section then you are able to return to any question in the Mathematics section. Once you are finished with the Mathematics section or time has ran out, you can no longer revisit questions in this section.
Can I use a calculator?
Yes, you will be provided with a four-function calculator. Do not bring your own to the exam.
If you are taking the paper pencil format of the exam, this calculator will be handheld. If you are taking the online format of the exam, this calculator will be computerized. Both have the same functionality.
Many students at this point are curious to know which format they are registered to take. Reach out to your school or testing center to confirm!
Will I be allowed to use the bathroom?
Of course! When you are testing, if you need a restroom break simply raise your hand. The exam is in a proctored setting, so someone will come and dismiss you at that time.
What is the hardest part of the TEAS?
This, as you would guess, varies from student to student. To help you out, we interviewed students as they left the exam. Here’s what they had to say about the test, the content and their studying.
Long story short? The majority wish that they would have prepared more and shared that it was more difficult than they were expecting.
How many times can I take the exam?
This number is set by the school that you are apply to. Be sure to check with them, as each school’s policy varies!
Remember earlier when we said to pay attention to admissions deadlines, this is a big one! You will want to be sure that you give yourself plenty of time to take the exam once or even twice before submitting your final application – and plenty of time to study as well!
Will I see my score right after the test?
This is another situation that is specific to the school that you are applying to. Be sure to check with them!
When you do receive your score, you will be able to access your score report. This is a very valuable document, as it allows you to see which areas you did poorly in and which areas you did awesome in. Here’s an example of a score report.
How can I do better on a certain section of the test?
The simple answer to this is to practice! We recommend giving yourself six weeks to fully prepare for the exam. If you know the areas that you are weak in, focus more of your time there. After all, confidence is part of the battle of successful testing.
We interviewed tutor, Ana Novicic-Anchi, where she shared her tips for focusing on the areas that you need added practice. You can see the full interview here.
What else do TEAS test takers want to know? Head over to the ATI website for more FAQs, tips from the writers of the exam and prep products available to you.
