What is Considered a Good Score on the TEAS 7 Test

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized entrance exam designed to assess the academic readiness of students applying to nursing programs. It is widely used across the United States as a part of the nursing school admissions process. The TEAS test aims to evaluate whether students possess the foundational knowledge and skills required for success in nursing school, and ultimately, in their careers as nurses.

Nursing schools use the TEAS exam to measure the basic academic skills in several key areas: mathematics, science, English language usage, and reading comprehension. The test is typically taken by students before they are admitted to a nursing program, ensuring that they are prepared for the rigors of nursing education.

The TEAS test helps nursing schools identify students who are likely to succeed in their academic journey. Assessing areas like critical thinking, math proficiency, scientific understanding, and language skills provides an objective measure of a student’s academic preparedness. While different nursing programs may have varying criteria for admission, the TEAS test plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process.

It is important for students to understand the structure and purpose of the TEAS test. Taking the time to properly prepare for this exam can make a significant difference in whether or not an applicant is admitted to their desired nursing program. Preparation not only enhances the likelihood of scoring well but also provides a clearer understanding of the key concepts that will be tested.

TEAS Test Structure and Content Areas

The TEAS exam is divided into four main sections: Mathematics, Science, English and Language Usage, and Reading. Each of these sections is designed to assess specific academic skills that are essential for success in nursing school.

Mathematics Section

The Mathematics section tests students’ ability to perform basic arithmetic and apply mathematical concepts in practical situations. The questions focus on topics like algebra, measurement, and data interpretation. These are important for nursing students, as they will often be required to make calculations involving medication dosages, patient vital signs, and other critical aspects of patient care.

For instance, nursing students may need to convert units of measurement or calculate the appropriate dosage of medicine based on a patient’s weight. Therefore, having a solid understanding of basic math concepts is crucial. The TEAS math section helps evaluate whether students are ready to handle such tasks in a clinical environment.

Science Section

The Science section assesses knowledge in areas relevant to nursing, including biology, chemistry, and physics. This section evaluates students’ understanding of the human body, as well as the scientific principles that underpin nursing practice. The Science section includes topics like anatomy and physiology, the scientific method, and basic principles of biology and chemistry.

For nursing students, a strong foundation in the sciences is essential, as it enables them to understand the mechanisms behind diseases, treatments, and medical interventions. This knowledge is critical in making informed decisions in patient care, and the Science section of the TEAS test helps to assess whether applicants have the necessary scientific knowledge to succeed in nursing school.

English and Language Usage Section

The English and Language Usage section tests students’ proficiency in grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and spelling. Strong language skills are crucial for nurses, as they need to effectively communicate with patients, families, and colleagues. Additionally, clear and accurate documentation is an essential part of nursing practice.

In this section, students will be asked to identify and correct errors in grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation. These skills are important because nurses are required to write clear and accurate notes on patient care, as well as communicate information in a way that is easily understood by others in the healthcare setting. Therefore, this section assesses students’ readiness for the communication demands of nursing school and the nursing profession.

Reading Comprehension Section

The Reading section tests students’ ability to understand and analyze written passages. It evaluates their ability to identify key ideas, infer meaning, and analyze information in texts. For nursing students, reading comprehension is essential because much of their education involves understanding textbooks, medical literature, and patient information.

In this section, students may be asked to read a passage and answer questions related to its meaning, purpose, and details. This ability is crucial for nursing students, as they must be able to read and interpret medical charts, research articles, and patient records accurately. Reading comprehension is also vital for understanding instructions, guidelines, and procedures in clinical settings.

TEAS Test Versions and Updates

The TEAS exam is periodically updated to ensure that it remains relevant to current educational and healthcare standards. The most recent version of the test, TEAS 7, was released in June 2022. This update included changes to the content and structure of the exam to better align with the knowledge and skills required for success in modern nursing education and practice.

While the core subjects of the exam (mathematics, science, English language usage, and reading) remain the same, there are often adjustments to the way questions are phrased or to the emphasis placed on certain topics. Students preparing for the TEAS test should be aware of these updates, as they may impact the types of questions they encounter on the exam.

Many students rely on study guides and practice tests to prepare for the TEAS, and it’s essential to ensure that these resources are up-to-date with the most recent version of the test. Using outdated materials can result in missing critical content or not being fully prepared for the updated format of the exam.

Understanding the changes in TEAS 7 and using the right study materials will provide a significant advantage to students who are preparing for the test. As you move forward in your nursing school journey, having a thorough understanding of what to expect on the TEAS exam will help you approach the test with confidence.

The Importance of TEAS Scores for Nursing School Admission

The TEAS score plays a crucial role in nursing school admissions. However, the significance of the score can vary depending on the specific requirements of each nursing program. Some schools may have a minimum score threshold, while others may use the TEAS score as one of several factors to determine admission.

It’s important to note that while a high TEAS score can improve your chances of being admitted to a nursing program, it is not the only factor considered by admissions committees. Other elements of the application, such as GPA, recommendation letters, personal statements, and relevant work experience, may also be taken into account.

However, a strong TEAS score can make a difference, especially in competitive nursing programs where there may be a large number of applicants. In such cases, students with higher scores may be given preference over those with lower scores. Therefore, understanding the TEAS exam and preparing for it effectively can help you stand out in the admissions process.

While each nursing school has its unique admission criteria, achieving a good TEAS score is one of the most important steps in gaining admission to a nursing program. With the right preparation, you can achieve the score you need to move forward in your nursing career.

Understanding Your TEAS Test Score

Once you’ve completed the TEAS exam, you’ll receive a score report that provides an overview of your performance. This score report helps both you and the admissions committee gauge how well you performed in each of the subject areas. Understanding how your TEAS score is calculated and how to interpret the results can give you an advantage when preparing for future tests or when comparing your results with those of other students applying to nursing programs.

Key Components of the TEAS Score Report

Your TEAS score report includes several important components, which give a comprehensive view of your performance. These components include the total score, content area scores, sub-content area scores, and percentile rank. Each of these areas plays an important role in evaluating your readiness for nursing school.

Total Score

The total score on the TEAS test is the overall score you receive for the entire exam. It is calculated based on the number of correct answers across all sections of the test, but it is also adjusted for differences between different versions of the exam. This adjustment ensures that scores are comparable across all test versions, even though students may take slightly different versions of the exam.

The total score is the most important indicator of your overall performance on the exam. It reflects your ability to grasp key concepts in all of the subject areas, including mathematics, science, English, and reading. Your total score will typically range between 0 and 100, depending on how well you did on the test.

Content Area Scores

Each section of the TEAS test — Mathematics, Science, English, and Reading — is assigned a content area score. This score reflects how well you performed in each section. The content area scores are also adjusted for differences in test versions, providing a more accurate measure of how you performed compared to other test-takers.

Content area scores give you a clearer picture of where your strengths and weaknesses lie. For example, if your math score is lower than your science or reading score, you may choose to focus more on improving your mathematical skills before retaking the exam or applying to nursing school. On the other hand, a high content area score in reading or English can indicate that these are areas where you already have strong skills.

Sub-Content Area Scores

In addition to the overall content area scores, you will also receive scores for each sub-content area within the main test sections. For example, within the Reading section, you may see scores for sub-content areas such as key ideas and details, craft and structure, and integration of knowledge and ideas. These sub-scores give a more detailed view of your performance, breaking down the specific skills and knowledge you demonstrated during the test.

Sub-content area scores help identify areas where you may need additional practice. If you scored particularly low in one sub-area, it could be an indication that you need to spend more time focusing on that particular skill. In this way, the sub-content area scores allow for a more focused approach to studying and improving your TEAS score in the future.

Percentile Rank

Your TEAS score report will also include a percentile rank, which compares your performance to that of other test-takers. The percentile rank represents the percentage of students who scored lower than you on the exam. For example, if your percentile rank is 75, it means you scored better than 75% of the other students who took the test.

This percentile rank is useful because it gives you context for your score. It allows you to see how well you performed compared to others, both nationally and within your specific nursing program. A higher percentile rank indicates that you are among the top-performing test-takers, which can improve your chances of admission to competitive nursing programs.

TEAS Scoring Scale

The TEAS exam is scored on a scale from 0% to 100%, with each section being weighted based on its importance. The entire test includes 170 questions, but only 150 of those are scored. The remaining 20 questions are unscored and are used for research purposes by the test administrators. These unscored questions are mixed in with the scored questions, so you will not know which ones do not count toward your final score.

Understanding the scoring system can help reduce anxiety on test day. Since not every question counts toward your final score, it’s important to focus on answering each question to the best of your ability. It is also important to note that you will not receive partial credit for questions, so it’s important to ensure that your answers are as accurate as possible.

Academic Preparedness Levels

In addition to the raw score, the TEAS exam also provides an academic preparedness level, which is divided into percentage ranges. These levels give you an idea of how prepared you are for nursing school based on your test performance. The preparedness levels are as follows:

• Developmental: 0% to 40% 
• Basic: 40.7% to 58% 
• Proficient: 58.7% to 79.3% 
• Advanced: 80% to 91.3% 
• Exemplary: 92% to 100% 

These preparedness levels are a reflection of how well you performed overall, and they can be used by nursing programs to help determine whether or not you are academically ready for the challenges of nursing school. Some nursing programs may require that applicants achieve a minimum score of “Proficient” (58.7% or above) before being considered for admission. However, other programs may have higher requirements and may only admit students who score in the “Advanced” or “Exemplary” ranges.

It’s important to note that the preparedness level is a general indicator of your readiness for nursing school, but it is not the only factor considered in the admissions process. Admissions committees will also take other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities, into account when making their final decision.

What is a Good TEAS Score?

What constitutes a “good” TEAS score will vary depending on the specific nursing program and its admission requirements. Many nursing programs have a minimum score requirement that applicants must meet to be considered for admission. For example, some programs may require a minimum score of 65 or 70, while others may have a more competitive score requirement of 80 or higher.

Even if your score meets the minimum requirement, it’s important to recognize that nursing programs can be highly competitive, especially at top universities. In such cases, a higher score can improve your chances of being admitted to the program. As a general rule, students who score in the “Advanced” or “Exemplary” ranges are considered to be strong candidates for admission, while those who score in the “Basic” or “Developmental” ranges may need to retake the exam or focus on improving their academic skills before applying.

In summary, a good TEAS score is one that not only meets the minimum requirements of your chosen nursing program but also reflects your preparedness for the rigors of nursing school. By understanding how the TEAS score is calculated and what each component of the score represents, you can more effectively assess your strengths and weaknesses and make a plan for improving your score if needed.

Improving Your TEAS Score

If your TEAS score doesn’t meet the minimum requirement for admission to your desired nursing program, don’t be discouraged. There are several ways to improve your score before you retake the test or apply to other programs. One of the most effective ways to boost your TEAS score is through targeted study and practice.

Make sure you focus on the areas where you scored the lowest in your initial attempt. For example, if your math score was low, consider reviewing basic math concepts or taking a refresher course in algebra and arithmetic. If your science score needs improvement, dedicate more time to studying anatomy, physiology, and other key scientific principles relevant to nursing.

In addition to studying the material, practice tests can be an invaluable tool for improving your performance. Taking practice exams allows you to familiarize yourself with the format of the test and the types of questions you’ll encounter. Regular practice can help reduce test anxiety and improve your overall test-taking skills, increasing your chances of achieving a higher score on the next attempt.

By understanding your score report, identifying areas for improvement, and dedicating time to focused study, you can enhance your performance on the TEAS exam and improve your chances of gaining admission to a nursing program.

TEAS Test Preparation Tips and Strategies

The TEAS exam plays a crucial role in nursing school admissions, so it’s important to take your preparation seriously. A high score can significantly increase your chances of getting into the nursing program of your choice, while a lower score might require additional efforts to improve. Whether you’re taking the test for the first time or retaking it, having a solid plan and strategy in place will help you succeed. Below are some essential tips and strategies to help you prepare effectively for the TEAS test.

Develop a Consistent Study Plan

One of the most effective strategies for preparing for the TEAS test is to create a detailed study plan. Instead of cramming the night before the test, a well-structured study schedule will help you gradually improve your skills over time. Start by breaking down the content areas you need to study, and set realistic goals for each study session.

Ideally, you should begin studying for the TEAS at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance of your test date. This will give you ample time to cover all the material and identify any areas where you may need additional practice. Plan for shorter, focused study sessions (about 1 to 3 hours each) rather than marathon study sessions that may lead to burnout.

A good study plan should include:

• Daily or weekly goals: Set specific, measurable goals for each study session. For example, you may aim to cover a specific chapter in your TEAS study guide or complete a certain number of practice questions for each section. 
• Review and practice: Set aside time to review previously studied material. This will reinforce your learning and help you retain important concepts. 
• Breaks: Don’t forget to schedule regular breaks to avoid mental fatigue. A 5–10-minute break every 30–45 minutes of studying is ideal to maintain focus. 

Consistency is key to preparing for the TEAS, so stick to your study plan and adjust as necessary based on your progress. If you find that you need more time in a particular section, don’t be afraid to tweak your schedule.

Utilize Study Guides and Practice Tests

One of the best ways to prepare for the TEAS exam is by using study guides and practice tests. These resources are designed to help you familiarize yourself with the format of the exam, the types of questions you’ll encounter, and the key concepts you need to know. Below are some essential study materials to incorporate into your preparation.

TEAS Study Guides

A TEAS study guide provides a comprehensive overview of the material that will be tested on the exam. These guides typically break down each section (mathematics, science, reading, and English) and provide detailed explanations of the topics, along with sample questions. Using a study guide is an excellent way to stay organized and ensure that you cover all of the content areas on the test.

Many study guides also include practice questions at the end of each section to test your understanding of the material. They may also provide strategies for answering different types of questions. By reviewing the study guide and practicing with these questions, you can gain confidence in your ability to tackle the test.

Practice Tests

Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the TEAS exam. Practice tests help you get a feel for the timing and structure of the exam, as well as the difficulty level of the questions. By taking practice tests regularly, you can track your progress and identify any areas where you need improvement.

Practice tests also help you develop test-taking strategies, such as managing your time effectively, eliminating incorrect answer choices, and staying calm under pressure. Make sure to take the practice tests under timed conditions, just as you would for the actual exam, to simulate the experience and avoid any surprises on test day.

After completing a practice test, review your answers thoroughly. Look at the questions you answered incorrectly and understand why your answer was wrong. This analysis will help you identify areas where you need to focus more attention.

Focus on Your Weakest Areas

While it’s important to study all areas of the TEAS exam, it’s especially crucial to focus on the areas where you are weakest. Take a close look at your practice test results and identify the sections where you struggled the most. These are the areas that will benefit the most from additional review.

For example, if you had difficulty with the math section, focus on brushing up on key concepts like basic arithmetic, algebra, and measurement. If science is your weak point, consider revisiting topics like human anatomy, physiology, and biology. For the English and reading sections, if you struggled with grammar or reading comprehension, practice identifying and correcting grammatical errors and reading passages to improve your ability to interpret written information.

The goal is to build a solid foundation of knowledge in all areas, but dedicating extra time to your weak points will help you improve your overall score. Use practice questions and study materials that specifically target these weak areas to strengthen your understanding.

Master Time Management

Time management is an important skill for taking the TEAS exam, as you will need to answer a large number of questions within a limited amount of time. During your practice tests, focus on managing your time effectively to ensure that you don’t run out of time on any section.

Here are some time management tips for the TEAS exam:

• Know the time limits: The TEAS exam consists of four sections: Mathematics (54 minutes), Science (63 minutes), English and Language Usage (28 minutes), and Reading (35 minutes). Knowing the time limits for each section will help you pace yourself during the exam. 
• Don’t dwell on difficult questions: If you come across a question that you find particularly difficult, don’t spend too much time on it. Skip it and move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if you have time. 
• Answer all questions: Since there’s no penalty for guessing on the TEAS exam, make sure to answer every question, even if you’re unsure of the answer. If you have time at the end, you can review and change your answers. 

The more you practice managing your time during your study sessions, the more confident you will be on test day. Effective time management will ensure that you can complete each section within the time limit.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Preparing for the TEAS exam can be intense, but it’s important to take care of your physical and mental health throughout the process. Good nutrition, exercise, and sleep are essential for maintaining focus, reducing stress, and optimizing brain function.

Nutrition

Fuel your brain with nutritious foods that support cognitive function, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary snacks and caffeine, which can lead to energy crashes and hinder your ability to concentrate.

Sleep

Getting adequate sleep is critical for memory retention and focus. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, especially during the weeks leading up to the exam. Lack of sleep can impair your cognitive function and negatively impact your performance on the test.

Exercise

Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Even light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can boost circulation and provide mental clarity.

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle during your TEAS preparation, you will feel more energized, focused, and prepared for the test.

Stay Positive and Manage Test Anxiety

Test anxiety is a common experience for many students, but it can negatively impact your performance on the TEAS exam. To manage anxiety, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and visualization. Visualizing yourself taking the test confidently can help calm your nerves and improve your mindset.

Remember that preparation is key to success. The more you study and practice, the more confident you will feel on test day. Stay positive and remind yourself that you can succeed.

By developing a consistent study plan, utilizing study guides and practice tests, focusing on your weak areas, managing your time effectively, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying positive, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score on the TEAS exam. With dedication and the right strategies, you’ll be well on your way to entering nursing school and starting your healthcare career.

Navigating the TEAS Retake Process and Final Tips

While it’s ideal to score well on your first attempt at the TEAS exam, not everyone will achieve their desired score right away. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry. Many students successfully retake the TEAS exam after reviewing and improving their weak areas. Understanding how the retake process works, as well as following a few key strategies for success, will help you boost your score and increase your chances of being admitted to the nursing program of your choice.

Understanding the TEAS Retake Process

If you don’t achieve the score you need on your first attempt, you may have the opportunity to retake the exam. However, there are usually specific policies in place regarding how many times you can take the TEAS exam and when you are allowed to retake it. These policies can vary depending on the nursing program you are applying to, so it’s important to check with the admissions office for the specific rules at your institution.

Most nursing programs allow students to retake the TEAS exam if needed, but there is typically a waiting period between attempts. This waiting period could range from 30 to 60 days, giving you time to review and improve your study methods before trying again. Some programs may limit the number of times you can take the exam within a specific time frame, while others may consider your highest score for admission purposes.

Before retaking the exam, take the time to analyze your performance and pinpoint areas that need improvement. Use the results of your first test as a valuable guide to determine where your focus should be in preparation for your second attempt. By taking the time to review your weak areas and strengthen your knowledge, you will be better prepared for your next test.

How to Approach Retaking the TEAS Exam

If you need to retake the TEAS exam, it’s essential to approach the process with a clear strategy. Here are some tips for improving your score on a retake:

Review Your Test Results

Your first step after your initial TEAS attempt is to review your score report carefully. Look at the areas where you performed poorly and pay attention to the sub-content scores. This detailed feedback will give you valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses. For example, if your performance in the science section was below your expectations, focus on reviewing the key scientific concepts, such as anatomy, physiology, and biology, before your retake.

By reviewing your test results, you can create a more targeted study plan that addresses specific gaps in your knowledge.

Identify the Areas for Improvement

After reviewing your score report, make a list of the specific topics or concepts that you struggled with. For example, if you struggled with algebra or measurement in the math section, dedicate extra time to practicing those areas. If the science section was challenging, focus on studying human anatomy, biology, and basic chemistry principles that are essential for nursing.

Targeting your weakest areas will help you make the most of your study time and improve your performance in these specific sections. It’s important to focus on understanding the underlying principles, not just memorizing facts. A deeper understanding of the material will help you perform better on the exam.

Use Different Study Resources

If your initial study resources didn’t fully prepare you for the exam, consider changing your approach for the retake. Seek out different study materials or practice questions to help reinforce the material in new ways. You may find that a different study guide or practice test better suits your learning style.

In addition to study guides, consider using online resources, flashcards, or video lessons to gain different perspectives on the material. Practice tests are particularly valuable, as they simulate the actual test environment and help you develop time management skills while reinforcing your knowledge.

Focus on Test-Taking Strategies

In addition to studying the material, improving your test-taking strategies can have a significant impact on your performance. Time management is one of the most important skills to develop before taking the test. Ensure that you can complete all sections within the time limit. Practice answering questions quickly, but carefully, and avoid getting stuck on difficult questions for too long.

Additionally, work on developing strategies for eliminating incorrect answer choices and making educated guesses when necessary. This approach can improve your chances of answering more questions correctly, even if you’re unsure of the answer.

Don’t Cram – Prepare Gradually

Cramming the night before the exam may seem tempting, especially if you’re feeling anxious about the retake, but it’s not an effective study method. The brain retains information much better when it is studied consistently over time. Make sure to follow a gradual, well-planned study schedule that allows you to revisit topics regularly, reinforcing your understanding.

Instead of cramming all at once, spread your studying over the days or weeks leading up to the test. This will help prevent burnout and allow your brain to process and retain the information more effectively.

Stay Calm and Confident

When preparing for a retake, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the pressure to do better. However, it’s important to stay calm, stay positive, and remind yourself that improvement is possible. Trust in your preparation, and approach the test with confidence.

Keep in mind that the TEAS exam is just one part of the nursing school admissions process. Even if you don’t achieve the perfect score on your first attempt, you still have the opportunity to retake the exam, learn from your mistakes, and show your determination and resilience. Your persistence and commitment will pay off in the long run.

Final Tips for Success on the TEAS Exam

Regardless of whether you’re preparing for your first attempt or a retake, the following tips can help ensure that you are fully prepared for success:

Take Care of Yourself

In the weeks leading up to the exam, make sure to prioritize your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat well-balanced meals, and exercise regularly to maintain energy levels and reduce stress. A healthy body and mind will allow you to stay focused during your study sessions and perform better on the test.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Test anxiety is a common experience, but you can manage it with relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, and positive visualization are excellent ways to calm your nerves before and during the exam. Take a few moments to relax and center yourself before sitting down for the test.

Simulate Test Conditions

To prepare for the actual test experience, take practice exams under timed conditions. This will help you get used to the pacing of the test and improve your ability to manage time. Simulating the testing environment will also help reduce anxiety on test day, as you will already be familiar with the structure and timing.

Review Test-Day Strategies

Before the test, make sure to review your test-taking strategies. Arrive early at the test site, stay calm, and ensure that you have all the necessary materials (such as identification and any required documents). Take a few deep breaths before starting and focus on answering each question carefully.

Conclusion: Your Path to Nursing School

Preparing for the TEAS exam is a significant step toward your nursing career. By understanding the test format, creating a study plan, focusing on your weak areas, and utilizing effective study tools, you can achieve the score you need to gain admission to nursing school. If you don’t achieve your desired score on the first attempt, take the time to review, adjust your preparation, and approach the retake with a clear strategy.

By staying persistent, positive, and proactive, you’ll be well on your way to succeeding on the TEAS and embarking on a fulfilling nursing career. The right preparation and mindset will set you up for success and, ultimately, a rewarding future in healthcare.