A Guide to the ATI TEAS Test: with Tips & Free Test Questions
Aug 21, 2023If you’re looking to enter the nursing profession, the ATI TEAS test is one of a number of exams you may be required to take throughout your academic career.
This article covers everything you need to know about the assessment and how to plan your TEAS test prep.
A List of ATI TEAS Tests Available for Practice in 2023
What Is The ATI TEAS Test?
The ATI TEAS test is a standardized assessment created and administered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), with TEAS standing for the Test of Essential Academic Skills.
It’s designed to evaluate the academic readiness of individuals applying to nursing school in the US, measuring skills in reading, mathematics, science and English language.
If you’re planning to study nursing, you’ll typically sit the TEAS exam as part of the admissions process for your chosen institution.
The ATI TEAS was initially developed in the 1990s but has been updated over the years to align with current educational standards and the changing needs of the healthcare industry.
The current version is the ATI TEAS 7, which replaced the TEAS 6 in June 2022.
The TEAS Exam Format
Like its predecessor, the ATI TEAS 7 consists of the four content areas of math, science, reading, and English and language usage. Within each of these areas sits a number of sub-content areas.
There are 170 questions across the entire TEAS exam, with a time limit of 209 minutes. Only 150 of these questions are scored items, with the remaining 20 for pre-testing purposes.
Next is a breakdown of each content area in more detail.
TEAS Exam Sections
- TEAS math – This section covers the sub-content areas of measurements and data and numbers and algebra. There are 38 questions, 34 of which are scored, with a time limit of 57 minutes.
- TEAS science – The topics covered here are biology, chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, and scientific reasoning. There are 44 scored questions and 6 pre-test questions, with a time limit of 60 minutes.
- TEAS reading – This section tests your ability to extract key ideas and details from written information, your integration of knowledge and ideas, and your grasp of craft and structure. You’ll have 55 minutes to complete 45 questions, 39 of which are scored.
- TEAS English and Language Usage – The final section tests your knowledge of the English language and its standard conventions, as well as your ability to express yourself in writing. There are 33 scored questions and four pre-test questions with a time limit of 37 minutes.
TEAS Exam Question Types
In a change from previous versions, the ATI TEAS 7 introduces a number of alternate question types alongside the standard multiple choice.
The additional question types are:
- Multiple select – These questions require you to choose multiple correct answers from a list of options. It’s important to carefully read the instructions and select all the choices that apply.
- Fill in the blank – These questions typically present a sentence or statement with one or more blank spaces, and you must provide the missing word(s) or phrase(s) to complete the sentence correctly.
- Ordered response – Here, you’re asked to arrange a set of items or steps into their correct order.
- Hot spot – Hot spot questions involve an image or diagram where you’ll need to click on a specific area or spot. These questions assess your ability to locate and identify information within visual elements.
TEAS Practice Test
Try out the following free TEAS practice test questions, then have a go at more like them on TestHQ.
TEAS Math Practice Test Question
If 12.5% of patients have already seen a doctor in the waiting room, and there are 32 people in the waiting room, how many of them have not yet seen the doctor?
a) 8
b) 16
c) 24
d) 28
The correct answer is: d) 28.
You can multiply the percentage of people who have seen the doctor to get the number of people who saw it: 32 x 0.125 = 4. Take this from the total number, and you get the people who haven’t seen the doctor yet: 32 – 4 = 28.
TEAS Science Practice Test Question
Which of these is not carried by the respiratory system?
a) Disposal of toxins
b) Gas exchange
c) Regulation of blood pH
d) Filtration of inspired air
The correct answer is: a)
The respiratory system is responsible for gas exchanges, and the CO2 concentration, in turn, can affect the blood pH. The system also filters the incoming air, but the disposal of toxins is taken care of by the liver.
After trying these, access more sample questions on TestHQ.
TEAS Reading Practice Test Question
One of the most significant environmental issues facing our planet today is deforestation. Deforestation refers to the clearing of forests or trees on a large scale, often for the purpose of agriculture, logging, or urban expansion. This widespread destruction of forests has serious consequences for our ecosystem.
Which of the following best describes the main cause of deforestation?
a) Natural disasters
b) Industrial pollution
c) Agricultural activities
d) Climate change
The correct answer is: c)
The passage states that deforestation occurs primarily for agriculture, logging, or urban expansion. Among the given options, agricultural activities align most closely with the mentioned purposes.
TEAS English Practice Test Question
Despite studying diligently, Maria still found the calculus exam ________.
a) Difficultly
b) Difficult
c) Difficulty
d) Difficulting
The correct answer is: b)
The sentence requires an adjective to describe the exam. The correct form is 'difficult', which is an adjective that accurately describes the exam as challenging despite Maria’s diligent studying.
Access Practice Material With TestHQ
How did you do with the example questions? If you were stronger at some sections over others, focus your practice on where you need it most.
For a huge range of practice material, take advantage of the TestHQ practice tests to access more than 800 questions and answers.
The package includes full solutions and explanations, so you can understand how to get to the correct answer and avoid those dreaded point deductions.
How to Register for TEAS Exam?
In some cases, you can register for the TEAS exam through the nursing school you wish to attend. You’ll pay it directly, and it will schedule and administer your test.
If you’ve been asked to register yourself, you’ll need to do so through the ATI registration site.
You have a couple of options on how to take your test - either online or at an official testing center.
In both cases, you’ll need to find a suitable test date and make a payment to confirm your attendance. It’s advisable to do so well in advance, as popular test dates can fill up quickly.
Tests taken directly through ATI currently cost $115. If you’re taking your TEAS exam, though, your school costs may vary, so contact the admissions office for exact payment details.
ATI TEAS Scoring System
TEAS exam scores are based on equating, which means that scores are adjusted to account for differences in difficulty across different versions of the test.
Your scores will be presented in different categories:
- Total score – Your total Score reflects your overall performance on the exam and will range from 0.0 to 100%.
- Content area scores – Content area scores assess performance in each of the four sections and also range from 0.0 to 100%.
- Sub-content area scores – Sub-content area scores measure performance in the different subsections of each content area. These are calculated as the percentage of questions answered correctly.
The TEAS exam does not have a pass/fail state. Instead, your scores serve as a measure of proficiency in the tested areas.
Different schools may have different score requirements for admission, so it’s important to check with your chosen institution regarding its expectations.
If you’re not satisfied with your score or need to improve, it is possible to retake the TEAS exam.
However, it’s essential to review the policies and guidelines set by the testing organization or institution. Keep in mind that there may be limitations on how frequently you can retake the exam.
TEAS Test Prep
While the TEAS exam is a measure of core academic skills, it differs from any type of academic test you’re likely to have taken before.
Its unfamiliar content and format, along with its time constraints, can make the test challenging, so proper preparation is essential.
Use the following tips to help with your TEAS test prep.
TEAS Test Study Guide
Familiarize Yourself With the Test Format
Before diving into your study routine, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the format of the TEAS exam, including the topics covered in each section, the specific number of questions and time limits.
Understanding the structure of the test will help you plan your study schedule and allocate sufficient time to each section.
Practice Similar Tests Online
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the TEAS exam is to practice similar tests online. This will not only help you master test content and question types but will also help to improve your time management skills.
TestHQ offers a variety of TEAS practice tests that can be a valuable resource for your preparation. These tests are specifically designed to help you assess your knowledge, identify your strengths and weaknesses and improve your overall performance.
Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
As you progress through your TEAS test study guide, it’s crucial to identify your strengths and weaknesses in each section of the TEAS exam.
Analyze your performance on practice tests and pay attention to the areas where you struggle or excel. This self-assessment will help you allocate your study time more effectively and focus on improving weaker areas.
Cover the Basic Concepts for Each Section
To succeed on the TEAS exam, you must have a solid understanding of the basic concepts covered in each section, so allocate dedicated study time to review the fundamental principles and skills required for each content area.
Use online resources to reinforce your knowledge and ensure you’re well-prepared for the specific content that will be assessed.
For example, numerical reasoning tests will help you prepare for the math section, whilst verbal reasoning tests will prepare you for questions in the reading section.
Take practice numerical and verbal reasoning tests.
Read Plenty of Different Materials
The TEAS exam requires strong reading comprehension ability, so it’s a good idea to enhance your reading skills by exposing yourself to a variety of different materials.
Read articles, scientific papers, news reports and literary works to broaden your vocabulary, improve your understanding of complex texts, and develop critical thinking skills.
Rest Well Before the Test
In the days leading up to your TEAS exam, prioritize adequate rest and relaxation. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and ensure you’re well-rested on the day of the exam.
Avoid cramming the night before the test, as this can lead to increased stress and hinder your performance. Instead, use the final day to review key concepts briefly and engage in calming activities to reduce anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ATI TEAS test?
The ATI TEAS test is a standardized entrance exam used by a number of nursing schools across the US.
It’s a measure of the academic skills seen as essential for success in the profession, in the core areas of math, science, reading and English language.
The ATI TEAS test has been in use since the late 1990s, having undergone a number of revisions over the years.
The current version is the TEAS 7, which has been used since 2022.
What does ATI TEAS stand for?
ATI stands for Assessment Technologies Institute, an organization that specializes in providing educational tools, resources and assessments for healthcare professionals.
TEAS is the ATI’s Test of Essential Academic Skills.
This assessment measures the fundamental academic knowledge and skills essential for success in the nursing profession and is widely used as an admissions test for nursing programs across the US.
How long is the ATI TEAS test?
The ATI TEAS exam is timed with a 209-minute limit for the entire test.
Each of the four sections of the exam has its own individual time limit.
These are:
- Math – 57 minutes
- Science – 60 minutes
- Reading – 55 minutes
- English and language usage – 37 minutes
It’s essential to manage your time effectively during the test to ensure you can complete all the questions within the given time constraints.
How hard is the ATI TEAS test?
The ATI TEAS test is designed to assess academic skills necessary for success in nursing across math, science, reading and English language usage.
For individuals who have a solid foundation in these areas and have completed adequate TEAS test prep, the exam should be manageable.
However, it may present challenges for those unfamiliar with the test content or who need to brush up on certain subjects.
Preparation is key to a strong performance, so be sure to reference a TEAS test study guide and take plenty of practice tests.
Where can I get ATI TEAS practice tests?
There are multiple resources you can turn to to help with your TEAS test prep.
To start, you can access an official ATI TEAS practice test through the ATI testing website. The tests offered here are designed to introduce test takers to the format, types of questions and content covered in the actual TEAS exam.
Additionally, there are various third-party sources, like TestHQ, that offer practice aptitude tests to help build your confidence, time management and critical thinking skills.
What is a good ATI TEAS score?
A good ATI TEAS score depends on the specific nursing program you’re applying to, as each institution will have its own score requirements and criteria for admission.
Some programs may provide score benchmarks or average scores of admitted students, which can give you an idea of what score range you should aim for.
Generally, a good score on the ATI TEAS test is one that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements set by the program you’re interested in.
What is on the ATI TEAS test?
The ATI TEAS test covers essential academic skills in the four main areas of math, science, reading, and English and language use.
Across these content areas, you’ll be tested on topics including chemistry, biology, scientific reasoning, algebra, measurements and data interpretation.
You’ll also be tested on your ability to interpret written information and your general command of the English language.
Taking plenty of practice verbal reasoning tests will help with these sections of the TEAS exam.
How to pass the ATI TEAS exam?
Passing the ATI TEAS test is all about good preparation.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the test format, content and timing. You can use the free TEAS practice test questions in this article to help you.
Next, develop a study plan and allocate sufficient time to each section. Use a combination of official study materials and practice aptitude tests to improve your performance.
On the day, approach your TEAS exam with confidence and focus, and be sure to manage your time effectively.
How many questions are on the ATI TEAS test?
In total, there are 209 questions on the TEAS exam, some of which are scored and some of which are pre-testing questions with no impact on your final result.
These are split across the four content areas as follows:
- Math – 34 scored questions, four pre-test questions
- Science – 44 scored questions, six pre-test questions
- Reading – 39 scored questions, six pre-test questions
- English and language usage – 33 scored questions, 4 pre-test questions
Remember that the ATI TEAS test is timed, and you’ll need to use effective time management skills to complete all questions in the given timeframe.
How many versions of the ATI TEAS are there?
There have been multiple versions of the ATI TEAS test released over the years, with the most recent versions being the TEAS 6 and TEAS 7.
TEAS 6 was used for a significant period of time before being replaced by the ATI TEAS 7 in 2022.
The TEAS 7 is an updated version that reflects the skill set now required in the nursing profession. It includes fewer questions on anatomy and physiology and more questions on chemistry and has introduced a range of new question types.
It’s important to note that the ATI TEAS test is revised every four to six years, and you should always check the version currently in use before starting your TEAS test prep.
How is the ATI TEAS test score calculated?
The scoring system for the ATI TEAS test involves calculating different types of scores: total scores, content area scores and sub-content area scores.
The total and content area scores are equated, meaning they’re adjusted to account for differences in difficulty across different versions of the test.
Sub-content area scores, on the other hand, are calculated based on the percentage of questions answered correctly within each sub-section.
The score report provides a comprehensive breakdown of performance in each area, aiding in identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Where can I get a complete guide for the ATI TEAS exam?
For a comprehensive TEAS test study guide, consider a variety of sources.
These should include at least one TEAS practice test, as well as multiple practice assessments that cover core skills like numerical and verbal reasoning – you’ll find plenty of these available on TestHQ.
You can also reference textbooks and websites that detail the test content and offer practice questions and test-taking strategies.
Final Thoughts
The ATI TEAS test is a required exam for many aspiring nursing students, used to determine their capacity for advanced study in the nursing profession.
If you’re asked to take the ATI TEAS test, remember that the key to success is solid preparation.
Be sure to follow the tips outlined in this TEAS test study guide and take advantage of the practice tests available through TestHQ.
In doing so, you’ll gain valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses, improve your test-taking skills, and give yourself the very best chance of achieving a competitive score.
