Getting ready for the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) can be tough, especially if you want to join nursing or allied health programs. Well, our guide can help you get ready for the TEAS test and get closer to success.
Doing well in the TEAS test is really important if you want to get into the program you like. Since the test covers a lot of stuff and you have limited time, it’s super important to study in a smart way.
In this guide, we’ll talk about ways to study that have been proven to work. We’ll give you tips that fit your style even if you like to see things, practice hands-on, or study with others.
By making a good plan and sticking to it, you can do better on the TEAS test and start your journey toward a career in healthcare with confidence.
Table of contents
- 15 TEAS Test Prep Tips to Help You Pass
- 1. Take practice tests
- 2. Peruse YouTube
- 3. Take an online course
- 4. Know What to Expect
- 5. Get a Study Buddy, or Form a Study Group
- 6. Utilize Online Test Prep Resources
- 7. Take an In-Person Test Prep Class
- 8. Get Printed Study Guides
- 9. Organize Your Study Time
- 10. Take Breaks
- 11. Take Care of Yourself
- 12. Take Your Time
- 13. Maintain Confidence
- 14. Access Reliable Study Materials
- 15: Don’t Schedule the Test Until You’re Prepared
- Bonus: Talk to a Nursing Advisor
- Understanding Your TEAS Score
- TEAS Test Dates 2023-2024
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendation
What is the Test of Essential Academic Skills
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is an assessment examination commonly used by nursing and allied health programs in the United States. Developed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), the TEAS evaluates the academic preparedness of prospective students entering healthcare-related fields.
The test measures essential skills in four main areas: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English Language Usage. It aims to assess a candidate’s knowledge and abilities in these subjects, indicating their readiness to pursue rigorous coursework in healthcare programs.
The TEAS is a standardized tool for evaluating applicants and plays a significant role in the admissions process for many nursing and allied health schools nationwide.
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15 TEAS Test Prep Tips to Help You Pass
If you know you will need to take the TEAS exam in the future, here are some things you can do to prepare:
1. Take practice tests
Utilizing practice tests is an invaluable resource when preparing for the TEAS exam. You can access a variety of free practice tests through online searches or consider purchasing study guidebooks and online courses that provide practice test options.
For instance, Smart Edition Academy offers a free TEAS practice test with significant advantages. This test replicates the timed nature of the actual exam and offers personalized feedback on areas requiring improvement. Additionally, it offers a recommended study plan based on your results.
When selecting a practice test, it is crucial to choose wisely, according to Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Melissa Wynne, also known as “Nurse Melissa,” and co-founder of Smart Edition Academy. She advises caution with free practice tests found online, as their quality may vary. Given the challenging nature of the TEAS exam, it is crucial to opt for practice tests that accurately replicate the test format, contain realistic questions, and are timed. This ensures optimal preparation for the actual test day.
Melissa emphasizes the importance of investing in your future and recommends considering a reputable online course that provides comprehensive preparation for the TEAS exam. Investing a small amount of money in a reliable online course can greatly contribute to your readiness and success on the test.
2. Peruse YouTube
YouTube can be a great study aid because you can find different channels focused on specific subjects like math or science–all for free. Videos like this one or this one can help you prep in a way that might be especially helpful for more visual learners. And of course, the Smart Edition Academy’s YouTube channel offers hundreds of free videos.
3. Take an online course
Online courses have gained significant popularity as a study option, offering several advantages over traditional print study guidebooks. One notable benefit is the interactive nature of online courses, providing a more engaging learning experience than simply reading from a book.
Additionally, most online courses incorporate practice tests that closely resemble the format of the actual TEAS exam, allowing students to simulate test conditions and evaluate their preparedness.
Smart Edition Academy’s ATI TEAS online course is an example of a comprehensive online course. It features an extensive range of resources, including 53 lesson modules, 8 practice tests, over 100 video lessons, flashcards, and a question bank containing more than 1,000 practice questions.
Nurse Melissa, from the Academy, highlights the course’s effectiveness, having aided over 100,000 students in successfully passing the TEAS exam.
She emphasizes that the online course caters to various learning styles, accommodating visual learners, those who prefer reading, and individuals who prefer audio-based lessons, ensuring comprehensive learning for every student.
With online courses’ flexibility and interactive features, learners can access many resources designed to enhance their understanding and preparation for the TEAS exam.
4. Know What to Expect
The TEAS test is a computerized exam consisting of 170 multiple-choice questions. The test taker has up to three and a half hours to complete the test, with each section broken down into specific time limits:
- Reading – 64 minutes
- Mathematics – 54 minutes
- Science – 63 minutes
- English and Language Usage – 28 minutes
The test includes a 10-minute break. If any other breaks are needed, they are deducted from the total test time. Additionally, 20 test questions are not counted towards the final grade as they are “test” questions that may be used in future TEAS exams.
5. Get a Study Buddy, or Form a Study Group
If you’re unsure how to study for the teas test, this is a great way to start.
Participating in group study sessions with fellow test-takers can provide significant benefits. Each group member brings their strengths and weaknesses, allowing for mutual support in areas of difficulty. Additionally, participants can exchange effective learning techniques that can benefit everyone involved.
Sharing knowledge is especially valuable within academic contexts. To form a study group, it is advisable to actively seek students interested in joining by making announcements or advertising at your school or within online communities.
Embracing this proactive approach fosters collaboration and creates an environment for collective learning, ultimately enhancing overall preparation for the TEAS test.
By engaging in group study, test-takers can leverage the group’s combined knowledge, skills, and resources to improve their understanding and performance on the exam.
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6. Utilize Online Test Prep Resources
The Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) developed the TEAS test. For prospective nursing students, their website offers a variety of study materials and learning alternatives. For instance, they provide online lessons, study guides, mock exams, and learning techniques to guide students toward success.
The website of ATI, which created the TEAS test, is a fantastic place to start. However, many online resources are available for preparing for the TEAS exam. Before spending money on an online TEAS study program, one should always examine reviews and speak to friends and family.
7. Take an In-Person Test Prep Class
Some students do better with in-person teaching or revision. The interactive learning method allows them to better apply concepts to the test material and remember information.
Some colleges and private organizations may also offer test preparation courses. The student should do some research to choose a trustworthy class, look at reviews, and rely on recommendations to determine the calibre of the course.
If you’re unsure how to study for the teas test, this is a great way to start.
8. Get Printed Study Guides
Printed books and study guides offer distinct advantages that should not be overlooked. They are cost-effective and allow students to interact directly with the material. Students can annotate, highlight important concepts, write notes in the margins, and easily navigate to specific sections as needed. These physical interactions with the content can be particularly beneficial for learners who prefer writing down concepts to aid in memory retention.
Moreover, printed books can be a practical option for students on a tight budget. Studying guides or books can help reduce costs while accessing valuable study materials. However, it is important to ensure that the chosen book or guide contains up-to-date information, as exam content may evolve.
Printed books and study guides remain valuable and budget-friendly options for students who benefit from tangible resources and prefer writing and annotating. It allows for a more personalized and interactive study experience, catering to individual learning styles and preferences.
9. Organize Your Study Time
Organizing your study time is a great way to study for the TEAS test. The test-taker must schedule daily study time to be successful. Attempting the TEAS test without adequate planning and study time is not recommended. Setting out a set day and time to study is a fantastic strategy to stay organized. There are also strategies to study subjects you hate.
For instance, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Making “appointments” to study fosters accountability and increases the likelihood that one will finish reading the subject. Calendars, phone applications and alarms, and private planners can assist students in maintaining a regular study routine.
10. Take Breaks
Maintaining a balance between study time and breaks is crucial for effective learning and retention. While it is important to allocate dedicated study time, it is equally important to recognize the significance of taking breaks. Attempting to cram too much information in a single session can lead to mental fatigue and a decreased ability to absorb new information.
To avoid this, it is highly beneficial to incorporate breaks into the study routine. Engaging in enjoyable and relaxing activities during these breaks helps rejuvenate the mind and recharge before the next study session. Even a 10-minute walk or a coffee break can significantly affect mental rejuvenation.
Individuals can enhance their learning experience by incorporating regular breaks and allowing time for enjoyable activities. Balancing study and relaxation is crucial to optimizing learning, effectively retaining information, and preventing mental exhaustion.
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11. Take Care of Yourself
The test taker should be mindful of their health and well-being. Studying and preparing all day long is unhealthy on both a mental and physical level. Due to that stress, a cold or virus could be contracted immediately before the test—not fun!
It’s important to eat healthily and get plenty of exercise, water, and sleep. Do not neglect to spend time with your loved ones. Balance is the key. These behaviours will aid in maintaining focus both throughout the exam and when reviewing the information.
12. Take Your Time
Adopting a patient and deliberate approach when studying for and taking an exam is essential. Rushing through the material or test preparation can harm understanding key concepts. Therefore, it is crucial to take the time to read questions carefully and provide the best possible response. Skimming or hastily answering questions may result in overlooking important information.
However, being mindful of time constraints is also important, especially since the TEAS test is timed. While it is vital not to rush, it is equally important not to spend excessive time on a single question.
If you are unsure about a question, taking a deep breath to regain focus and composure can be helpful before proceeding with the rest of the exam. Balancing thoroughness with efficient time management is key to achieving success on the TEAS test.
13. Maintain Confidence
Building confidence and self-assurance is crucial when preparing for the TEAS test. Students pursuing enrollment in a nursing program have typically acquired a strong academic foundation, covering much of the content tested in the exam.
By diligently preparing for the TEAS test using the aforementioned tips and strategies, individuals can enhance their readiness and increase their chances of success.
Proper preparation strengthens subject knowledge and instils confidence, empowering test-takers to approach the exam positively. With a solid foundation and a confident attitude, students can significantly improve their likelihood of achieving their desired outcomes on the TEAS test.
14. Access Reliable Study Materials
It’s crucial to use reliable resources when preparing for the TEAS exam. Make that the content you are reviewing is appropriate for the test. that academic experts with the skills to effectively organize knowledge have created study guides.
TEAS Test Study Guide
Using the TEAS Test Study Guide, you can review all of the material covered on the TEAS exam whenever it’s most convenient for you. You can finish your coursework anywhere with a smartphone and internet access, whether during lunch or on the school bus. A total of 204 lessons are used to cover all of the material on the 4 subtests.
ATI Testing Resources
The ATI Testing website offers study guides and practice tests, which are valuable resources for studying for the TEAS exam. Since ATI created the TEAS test, utilizing their materials provides confidence that you are reviewing the correct content.
Taking advantage of their online practice tests also serves as an effective method to assess your knowledge and understanding of the test material. By leveraging these resources from the organization behind the TEAS test, you can ensure that you are adequately prepared and equipped for success on the exam.
College Study Materials
Some postsecondary institutions that require the TEAS for admission further offer study guides. You can access practice test questions, a list of test objectives, and other resources to aid in your preparation for the big day. Checking college websites when assembling study materials is a smart idea.
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15: Don’t Schedule the Test Until You’re Prepared
High TEAS test performance is crucial because certain colleges implement waiting periods before allowing test retakes. Additionally, colleges may restrict the number of times an individual can attempt the TEAS within a calendar year.
For instance, some schools permit only two attempts per year, while others allow up to three but enforce a 30-day waiting period before another test can be taken. Since test policies differ across colleges, you should check the specific policies of the college(s) you are applying to.
Being well-informed about these policies ensures you can plan your test attempts accordingly and avoid potential conflicts or delays.
Bonus: Talk to a Nursing Advisor
Talking to the proper staff at the postsecondary institution you want to attend is also a smart idea and a good way to study for the TEAS test. You might be able to get additional study resources and advice from a nursing advisor or another faculty member at your institution while you get ready for the TEAS exam.
Understanding Your TEAS Score
Receiving TEAS test scores varies by test format: online or paper-and-pencil. Online test-takers can view their scores immediately, while those taking the paper version may wait up to 48 hours for scores to appear in their ATI online account. The score report highlights areas where questions were missed, accessible via the test maker’s website.
TEAS score requirements differ among schools. Some specify a minimum composite score or scores for admission, while others mandate minimum scores in specific content areas. However, some schools lack strict cutoff scores. It’s crucial to check the requirements of the program(s) you’re applying to.
Keep in mind that schools with cutoff scores may limit test attempts. For instance, two attempts might be allowed, and a third score, even if above the cutoff, may not meet the admission criteria.
Meeting minimum TEAS scores doesn’t guarantee acceptance, as other application aspects are also considered. Schools without specific score requirements may still prioritize high-scoring applicants. Researching each school’s preferences provides valuable insight into what they seek in candidates.
TEAS Test Dates 2023-2024
If a student needs accommodations, they must submit a request to ATI at least 30 days before the exam date. If ATI is not notified of the request, accommodations might not be provided.
Below is the TEAS test timetable:
DATE | TEST TIME | PROCTORED REMOTELY |
---|---|---|
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, November 7, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, November 9, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, November 14, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, November 16, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, November 30, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday December 5, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday December 7, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday December 12, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday December 14, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday December 19, 2023 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, January 4, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, January 9, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, January 11, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, January 16, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, January 18, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Thursday, January 25, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 | 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | YES – Using Proctorio |
Conclusion
Mastering the art of studying for the TEAS test is a crucial step toward achieving your academic goals in the healthcare field. This comprehensive guide outlines expert tips, strategies, and effective study techniques that can enhance your preparation and confidence.
Remember to focus on key subject areas, utilize valuable resources, and practice diligently with sample questions. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a challenging examination. Still, with dedication and perseverance, you can maximize your score and embark on a successful journey toward a rewarding healthcare career.
References
- nurse.org/articles – how to study for the teas test
- www.registerednursing.org – how to study for the teas test
- study.com – how to study for the teas test
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