TEAS Test Scores

TEAS test scores are one of the most important factors used by nursing schools and allied health programs during the admissions process. The ATI TEAS exam measures academic readiness in Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English & Language Usage, and the resulting score report helps schools evaluate whether an applicant is prepared for nursing education.

Understanding how TEAS scores are calculated, interpreted, and used in admissions can help applicants set realistic goals and improve their chances of acceptance.

Understanding TEAS Test Scores

A TEAS test score is a standardized measurement of a student's academic readiness for nursing school admissions. After completing the ATI TEAS exam, students receive an official score report containing multiple score categories.

The most important score is the Adjusted Individual Score, which represents overall performance across the examination and is typically the score most nursing schools review during admissions.

The ATI TEAS score report includes:

These scores provide a comprehensive view of a student's strengths and weaknesses across the academic skills required for nursing school success.

Raw Score vs Adjusted Individual Score

The raw score reflects the number of questions answered correctly. ATI, however, reports an Adjusted Individual Score rather than a simple raw percentage.

The adjusted score is produced through ATI's scoring methodology and statistical processes, allowing scores to be standardized across different exam versions.

TEAS Score Calculation and Methodology

ATI TEAS scores are generated using scored questions from the examination.

The ATI TEAS contains:

• 170 total questions

• 150 scored questions

• 20 unscored pretest questions

The pretest questions are used for future exam development and validation. They are distributed throughout the exam and cannot be identified by students during testing.

The scoring process generally follows these steps:

1. Student responses are collected.

2. Scored questions are evaluated.

3. Raw performance data is calculated.

4. Statistical adjustments are applied.

5. Section scores are generated.

6. Content area scores are generated.

7. The Adjusted Individual Score is reported.

This process creates a standardized admissions assessment that can be used consistently across nursing programs.

TEAS Score Performance Levels

ATI classifies scores into performance levels to help students and admissions committees interpret results.

Exemplary

Students in the Exemplary category demonstrate exceptional academic preparedness and typically exceed the expectations of most nursing programs.

Advanced

Advanced performance indicates strong academic readiness and competitive admissions potential.

Proficient

Proficient performance demonstrates adequate preparation for nursing education and is often sufficient for many nursing programs.

Developing and Basic

Developing and Basic performance levels suggest additional preparation may be beneficial before entering a nursing program.

Good, Competitive, and Passing TEAS Scores

One of the most common questions applicants ask is, "What is a good TEAS score?"

The answer depends on the nursing program, applicant pool, and admission standards. ATI does not establish a universal passing score. Instead, individual nursing schools determine their own requirements.

General TEAS Score Benchmarks

TEAS Subject Score Benchmarks

Although most schools focus primarily on the overall score, strong section scores can strengthen an application.

Typical Nursing School Expectations

These benchmarks are general guidelines rather than official ATI requirements. Applicants should always review the specific admission standards of their target nursing programs.

TEAS Scores in Nursing School Admissions

The ATI TEAS exam serves as a standardized admissions assessment that allows nursing schools to compare applicants using a common measurement.

Admissions committees may use TEAS scores to:

• Evaluate academic readiness

• Determine admission eligibility

• Compare applicants

• Predict nursing program success

• Support admissions decisions

However, TEAS scores are rarely the only factor considered.

Many nursing schools also review:

• GPA

• Prerequisite coursework

• Science grades

• Healthcare experience

• Personal statements

• Interviews

• Recommendation letters

The importance of TEAS scores varies by institution. Some programs place significant emphasis on TEAS performance, while others evaluate scores alongside a broader set of admission criteria.

TEAS Score Reports and Score Delivery

After completing the exam, students receive an official ATI TEAS score report.

The score report typically includes:

• Adjusted Individual Score

• Reading Score

• Mathematics Score

• Science Score

• English & Language Usage Score

• Content Area Scores

• Performance Level Classification

Students can access their results through their ATI account, and scores may also be sent directly to designated nursing schools depending on the testing arrangement selected during registration.

The score report provides a detailed performance summary that helps applicants understand their academic strengths and areas requiring additional preparation.

TEAS Score Validity and Retesting

TEAS scores remain valid for a period determined by individual nursing schools.

Many programs accept scores for multiple years, although specific policies vary by institution.

Applicants should always verify score validity requirements directly with their intended nursing programs.

Retaking the ATI TEAS

Students may choose to retake the exam if:

• Their score falls below program requirements

• They want to improve competitiveness

• Their score is approaching expiration

• They believe additional preparation can improve results

Schools may evaluate:

• The highest score

• The most recent score

• Multiple attempts

Because retake policies differ, applicants should review program-specific guidelines before scheduling another exam.

Improving TEAS Test Scores

Students who want to improve their TEAS scores should begin by analyzing their score report and identifying weak subject areas.

Effective improvement strategies include:

Review Performance Data

Examine section scores and content area scores to identify specific weaknesses.

Create a Study Plan

Develop a structured study schedule that prioritizes lower-performing subjects while maintaining strengths.

Use Practice Assessments

Practice tests help students become familiar with ATI question styles, timing requirements, and testing conditions.

Focus on High-Impact Subjects

Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English & Language Usage all contribute to the overall score and should receive targeted preparation.

Prepare Strategically for a Retake

Students planning to retest should use previous score reports to guide their preparation and establish realistic target scores.

Consistent practice, targeted review, and repeated assessment are often the most effective methods for increasing TEAS scores and improving competitiveness for nursing school admissions.

Key Takeaway

TEAS test scores provide nursing schools with a standardized measure of academic readiness. While score requirements vary by institution, applicants generally become more competitive as their overall score approaches or exceeds 80%. Understanding score calculation, performance levels, admissions expectations, and subject-specific benchmarks can help students set meaningful goals and prepare effectively for nursing school admission.