How to Prepare for the TEAS Exam: Study Tips & Strategies

Dreaming of a nursing career? Before you put on your scrubs and start making a difference, you’ll likely need to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) — a crucial entrance exam required by many nursing schools, including the newly established Westcliff University College of Nursing in Corona, California. Many prospective nursing students might feel nervous about the idea of taking the TEAS exam, but mastering its structure and developing a solid prep plan can be very manageable once you understand how to do it. A strong score not only enhances your application but also showcases your proficiency in science, math, and critical reading — key skills for effective patient care and clinical decision-making!

If you’re serious about nursing school, knowing what the TEAS exam entails and how to prepare effectively is essential. Here’s what you need to know to set yourself up for success:

Understanding the TEAS Exam

The TEAS exam, administered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), consists of 170 questions in various formats, including multiple-choice, multiple-select, fill-in-the-blank, ordered response, and hot-spot questions. You’ll typically have 209 minutes to complete the exam.

The exam evaluates essential academic skills across four primary sections:

• Reading (53 questions) – Measures your ability to comprehend written passages, analyze key ideas, and interpret data.
• Mathematics (36 questions) – Tests your proficiency in algebra, measurements, and data interpretation, all of which are critical for nursing calculations.
• Science (53 questions) – Evaluates your knowledge of human anatomy, biology, chemistry, and the scientific method.
• English and Language Usage (28 questions) – Assesses grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and vocabulary to ensure effective communication in healthcare settings.

Since the TEAS exam is designed to assess academic readiness for nursing school, a well-structured TEAS exam prep strategy is essential for success.

How to Prepare for the TEAS Exam

Scoring well on the TEAS exam takes strategy, consistent practice, and thorough preparation — cramming the night before won’t cut it. Here’s how to effectively conquer the TEAS exam:

1. Utilize Official ATI Resources

ATI offers a free online TEAS practice test comprising 60 questions with rationales, providing a realistic preview of the exam format.

2. Engage with Interactive Platforms

Websites like Quizlet offer free flashcards and practice questions specifically designed to help you master the TEAS exam. Creating a free Quizlet account gives you access to even more in-depth study resources.

3. Leverage Video Tutorials

Visual learners can take advantage of free, comprehensive video guides available on platforms like YouTube. For example, Smart Edition Academy offers a full-length TEAS exam prep video with detailed explanations to help you better understand the material.

4. Participate in Online Communities

Engaging with forums like Reddit’s r/StudentNurse – or others – can provide valuable insights, study tips and moral support from fellow nursing students who have successfully taken the TEAS test.

5. Check Your Local Library

Many public libraries offer TEAS prep books like “ATI TEAS Study Manual”, “Kaplan’s TEAS Prep Plus”, and “McGraw-Hill Education TEAS Review”, which you can borrow for free.

Check your library’s online catalog or ask a librarian for availability.

6. Paid TEAS Prep Resources

For students looking for structured guidance, ATI Testing offers an official TEAS Study Manual, full-length TEAS practice tests, and customizable study packages designed to closely mirror the actual exam.

Additional Resources

• Mometrix: Offers free TEAS practice tests with detailed answer explanations.
• Study.com: Features a TEAS test study guide with practice questions and video lessons, allowing you to study at your own pace.
• BoostPrep: Provides a free TEAS practice test with a readiness indicator to assess your preparedness.

TEAS Exam: Quick Facts

• Cost: $65–$140, depending on location.
• Retakes: Policies vary by school; some allow 1–2 attempts, others more.
• Calculator: Provided during the exam—no personal calculators allowed.
• Passing Score: No universal score; most schools require 60 percent-plus but may have section-specific requirements.
• Registration: Sign up online or in person through ATI Testing, with study materials available.

Understanding these key details will keep you ahead of the game as you prepare for the TEAS exam and your journey into nursing school!

Westcliff University College of Nursing: Your Next Step

At Westcliff University’s College of Nursing, students receive an innovative, career-focused education that prepares them for the fast-paced world of healthcare. The TEAS exam is an essential part of the admissions process for students entering the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) and Entry-Level Master’s in nursing (ELM) programs. These programs emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and leadership in nursing practice.

Located in Corona, Calif., the College of Nursing offers:

✅ State-of-the-art simulation labs that replicate real healthcare settings.
✅ Clinical placements with top healthcare providers to gain real-world experience.
✅ A student-centered approach designed to foster success at every stage of the program.

Through cutting-edge curriculum and strong faculty support, Westcliff University’s College of Nursing equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in patient care, healthcare leadership, and beyond.

From TEAS to RN: Your Journey Begins

Preparing for the TEAS exam is a crucial step in your journey toward becoming a nurse. A strong performance can set you apart from other applicants, proving that you have the academic foundation needed to thrive in nursing school. But beyond just getting into a program, your TEAS score reflects your readiness to handle the challenges of nursing education — ensuring that you’re prepared for the rigorous coursework ahead.

If you’re serious about nursing, now is the time to take action. Start your TEAS prep early, take TEAS practice tests, and develop a study plan that works for you. The effort you put in now will pay off when you step into your first nursing class — and ultimately, when you step into your future career as a nurse.

For more details on the TEAS exam, admissions, and nursing programs, visit Westcliff University’s College of Nursing.

Your nursing future starts today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the TEAS Exam

How long is the TEAS exam?

The TEAS exam lasts 209 minutes (3 hours and 29 minutes), covering four subject areas.

Which sections does the TEAS exam have?

The exam consists of four sections: Reading (53 questions), Mathematics (36 questions), Science (53 questions), and English & Language Usage (28 questions).

What is the cost of the TEAS exam?

The TEAS exam typically costs between $65 and $140, depending on the testing location and format.

Can I retake the TEAS exam?

Yes, but policies vary by school. Some allow only one or two retakes, while others may permit more. Check with your nursing program for specific retake rules.

What is a good TEAS exam score?

There is no universal passing score, but most nursing programs require 60% or higher. Some schools may have specific score requirements for different sections.

Where can I find practice test questions?

There are several great resources for free and paid TEAS practice tests, including:

• ATI Testing (official practice tests)
• Mometrix (free full-length TEAS practice test)
• NurseHub (free & premium practice tests)
• Quizlet (flashcards & practice questions)