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ATI TEAS Scores Explained: How to Interpret Your Results

Aug 01, 2025

The TEAS Test scores are categorized as follows:

  • Development: Scores between 0% and 40.7%
  • Basic: Scores between 41.3% and 58.0%
  • Proficient: Scores between 58.7% and 77.3%
  • Advanced: Scores between 78.0% and 90.0%
  • Exemplary: Scores between 90.7% and 100.00%

 

Prepare for an ATI TEAS Test with TestPrep-Online

 

What Is a TEAS Score?


The ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) test is a vital assessment.

It is used in the admissions process for nursing and allied health programs across the United States.

The TEAS exam uses a process called equating to score student results.

This means that questions have a different score value, known as a weight.

Those taking the test will not know which question has more weight over another.

Upon receiving your TEAS exam scores, you will be provided with a composite score.

However, it's essential to recognize that the specific score requirements vary from one school to another.

On average, many schools seek a composite score of around 65%.

The national average TEAS score fluctuates around 65 to 75%.

Nevertheless, meeting the bare minimum score does not guarantee acceptance into a program.

Admission requirements can fluctuate from year to year.

This means that a high-performing applicant pool might result in higher TEAS passing score expectations.

 

Prepare for an ATI TEAS Test with TestPrep-Online

 

TEAS Score Report

If you choose to take the TEAS exam electronically, you will have the advantage of receiving your score reports immediately after completing the test.

However, understanding these reports can be a bit overwhelming due to their complexity.

Your TEAS exam score report will contain several critical elements:

  • Total Score: This represents your overall performance on the TEAS exam.
  • Content Area Scores: These scores reflect your performance in various sections of the exam, including Reading, Mathematics, Science and English and Language Usage.
  • Sub-content Area Scores: These scores provide a more detailed breakdown of your performance in specific sub-content areas within each section.

 

In addition to the scores, your TEAS score report will also include an 'Academic Preparedness Level' assignment beneath the total score.

These levels help gauge your readiness for academic challenges.

The TEAS Test scores are categorized as follows:

  • Development: Scores between 0% and 40.7%
  • Basic: Scores between 41.3% and 58.0%
  • Proficient: Scores between 58.7% and 77.3%
  • Advanced: Scores between 78.0% and 90.0%
  • Exemplary: Scores between 90.7% and 100.00%

 

Understanding your TEAS scores and the corresponding academic preparedness levels is essential.

It helps you evaluate your readiness for nursing or allied health programs.

Also, it helps ensure you meet the specific admission criteria set by your chosen institution.

Why Are Some Questions Unscored in the ATI TEAS Test?


There are 20 questions throughout the test that are unscored.

This is designed to test the validity of the assessment.

Students taking the test won't be told whether the question is scored or unscored, so it is important to answer each one to the best of your ability.

 

Prepare for an ATI TEAS Test with TestPrep-Online

 

How to Get Higher TEAS Scores


Achieving high TEAS scores is crucial, as they can significantly impact a student's success.

To improve their scores, and get a good TEAS test score, students can consider the following strategies.

 

Create a Comprehensive Study Plan

Creating a well-structured study plan is paramount. Allocate at least six full weeks for preparation to cover all subjects thoroughly.

A study plan ensures organized practice and revision.

 

Avoid Last-Minute Cramming

Cramming for the TEAS test is counterproductive and increases stress. This can negatively impact your performance.

Instead, opt for short, focused study sessions spread out over time for more effective learning.

 

Invest in Preparation Materials

Investing in quality TEAS preparation materials can be highly beneficial. These resources include study guides and practice exams.

They can provide valuable insights into the test format and content.

 

Prioritize Wellbeing

Maintaining physical and mental wellbeing is vital. Ensure you get sufficient sleep, proper nutrition, and hydration during your preparation period.

Neglecting these factors can negatively impact your test performance.

 

Answer Every Question

Unlike some standardized tests, the TEAS test does not penalize students for incorrect answers.

Attempt every question, even if you are unsure of the answer, to increase your TEAS score percentile. Guessing increases the chances of getting some questions right and can positively impact your overall score.

 

Prepare for an ATI TEAS Test with TestPrep-Online

 

Frequently Asked Questions


 

What is a TEAS score?

A TEAS score is a numerical representation of a student's performance on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam.

It assesses a student's knowledge and skills in areas such as reading, mathematics, science, and English and language usage.

 

What is a passing TEAS score?

The TEAS test passing score varies from one institution to another.

Different schools and programs have different score requirements for admission. Typically, a TEAS test passing score is determined by the specific admission criteria of the nursing or allied health program you are applying to.

 

What is the TEAS test average score?

The average TEAS score can vary from year to year and among different groups of test-takers.

On average, many students aim for a composite score of around 65 to 70%.

However, the TEAS test average score can be influenced by various factors. These include the difficulty of the test and the performance of the test-taker population.

 

What is a good TEAS test score?

A good TEAS score is one that meets or exceeds the score requirements of the nursing or allied health program you are interested in.

It's essential to research the specific score expectations of your chosen institution to determine what qualifies as a good score for your application.

 

How is the TEAS score calculated?

The TEAS score is calculated based on the number of correct answers in each section.

There is no single formula to calculate the score, as the TEAS exam uses a proprietary scoring system.

Test-takers receive their scores directly from the testing organization after completing the exam.

 

How long does it take to get your TEAS test scores back?

The time it takes to receive your TEAS score can vary, but is typically relatively quick.

Students who take the TEAS exam electronically may receive their score reports immediately upon completion. For paper-and-pencil test-takers, it may take a few weeks to receive their scores.

 

What score do you need on the TEAS test to get into nursing school?

The score required to get into nursing school varies by institution and program.

It's essential to check the specific admission requirements of the nursing school you are interested in.

Generally, a competitive score is necessary to increase your chances of admission, and a score near or above the program's average is often advantageous.

 

Prepare for an ATI TEAS Test with TestPrep-Online

 

Final Thoughts


Understanding TEAS scores can initially appear challenging.

With the right knowledge and adequate preparation, anyone can decipher and make sense of these scores.

It's important to recognize that TEAS scores play a pivotal role in determining your eligibility for nursing and allied health programs.

Investing time in preparing for the exam and comprehending your scores can significantly impact your educational and career aspirations.