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The ATI TEAS Test: Guide & Tips for 2024

The ATI TEAS Test: Guide & Tips for 2024

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What Is the ATI TEAS Test

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is commissioned by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) and is a requirement for any student wanting to study nursing in the US.

The ATI TEAS may also be referred to as TEAS 6, TEAS 7, TEAS VI or the ATI Nursing Exam.

The TEAS V exam is no longer used.

What Is the Difference Between ATI TEAS 6 vs. ATI TEAS 7?

The TEAS exam has undergone several updates over the years, with the most recent versions being TEAS 6 and TEAS 7.

While both exams aim to evaluate a student's academic abilities, there are significant differences between the two versions.

One of the primary differences between TEAS 6 and TEAS 7 is the number of questions and the time allocated for each section.

TEAS 7 has more questions than TEAS 6, with 170 questions compared to 150 questions in TEAS 6.

However, the time allocated for each section in both exams is the same, with 209 minutes to complete the entire test.

Another difference is the inclusion of a new section called 'Language Use and Vocabulary' in the TEAS 7 exam.

This section evaluates a student's ability to use appropriate language and understand common medical terminology.

In terms of the content of the exam, the science section in TEAS 7 has more emphasis on human anatomy and physiology.

In contrast, the math section in TEAS 7 includes more practical, real-world examples that healthcare professionals might encounter in their work.

Moreover, the scoring system for TEAS 7 has been adjusted to give more weight to the science section than TEAS 6, which focused more on mathematics.

As a result, students need to pay closer attention to the science section and be adequately prepared to score well on the TEAS 7 exam.

Lastly, TEAS 7 is only available in a computer-based format, while TEAS 6 is offered both in paper and pencil and computer-based formats.

Is Teas 7 Harder Than Teas 6?

Comparing the difficulty level of TEAS 7 to TEAS 6 is subjective and varies for each student. While both exams assess academic readiness for nursing or allied health programs, there are differences in the number of questions, time allocation and inclusion of new sections.

TEAS 7's emphasis on human anatomy and physiology in the science section and the new 'Language Use and Vocabulary' section could pose challenges for some students.

However, students should prepare well for the science section as it holds more weight in the TEAS 7 scoring system.

How Many Questions Are On the ATI TEAS Test

The test consists of 170 multiple-choice questions that cover reading, mathematics, science and English language. The material assessed is learned in Grades 7 – 12.

The results of the test are also an indication of how successful you will be in your nursing degree.

How Hard Is the ATI TEAS Test

How hard the TEAS test is will depend on the individual taking the test. Some may find it harder than others.

You may be someone who gets nervous about taking tests, which could make it harder. You may not manage your time efficiently and end up rushing to finish.

It's important to prepare properly for the test by familiarizing yourself with the type of questions that might come up, taking practice tests, and efficiently managing your time so you can answer all the questions.

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Question Formats and Type of ATI TEAS Test in 2024

ATI TEAS Test Reading

The TEAS Reading section consists of 53 questions and accounts for 31% of the exam. You will have 64 minutes to answer all of the questions.

It is designed to assess your:

  • Comprehension skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Understanding of words
  • Ability to analyze and distinguish between sources

ATI TEAS Test Reading Example Questions

Example Question

1. S I A N T U G E

From the string of letters above, remove the vowels. Replace the letters that fall after O in the alphabet with E. Add R to the string.

Which of the words below can be made?

a) Iguana
b) Green
c) Signal
d) Train

Example Question

2. Students applying for their Ph.D. are expected to submit all entry documents and research by Friday, 14th August. Any submissions after that date will not be accepted and the student will have to wait until the next academic year to reapply.

In the text above, why is the date underlined?

a) Dates are always underlined
b) It highlights a deadline
c) Shows a title is being used
d) Clarifies relevant timeline

ATI TEAS Test Mathematics

This section consists of 32 questions and accounts for 22% of the exam. You will have 54 minutes to answer all the questions.

To pass this section, you will need to be confident with:

  • Measurements and data
  • Algebra
  • Percentages and fractions

A calculator is allowed for this section and you will be provided with scratch paper to help with the sums, should you need it.

ATI TEAS Test Mathematics Example Questions

Example Question

1. How many gallons are there in 160 fluid ounces?

a) 1.25 gallons
b) 2.50 gallons
c) 0.50 gallons
d) 0.543 gallons

Example Question

2. 0.88 is the closest decimal approximation to which of the following fractions?

a) 4/8
b) 5/8
c) 6/8
d) 7/8

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ATI TEAS Test Science

The science section consists of 53 questions and accounts for 31% of the exam**. You have 63 minutes to complete all the questions.

This section is considered the most difficult. You will be tested on your knowledge of:

  • Human anatomy
  • Scientific reasoning
  • Physics
  • The natural world

TEAS Science Example Questions

Example Question

1. Which out of the following is mostly produced within the human body?

a) Vitamin C
b) Vitamin D
c) Folic Acid
d) Zinc

Example Question

2. Trypsinogen is activated into trypsin by which enzyme in the duodenum?

a) Pepsin
b) Protese
c) Hydrochloric Acid
d) Enterokinase

If you want 12-month access to all the practice resources for this test, our partner TestPrep-Online.com offers a Family Membership.

Family Membership gives you access to all the TestPrep-Online resources for the next 12 months. You will also get two separate accounts, which can be very helpful if you have two children preparing for their tests.

Get a Family Membership with 12-month access

ATI TEAS Test English Language

The final section of the test consists of 28 questions and accounts for 16% of the exam. You have 28 minutes to answer all the questions.

You will be tested on your knowledge of:

  • The English language
  • Vocabulary acquisition
  • Sentence structure and grammar
  • Spelling and punctuation

ATI TEAS Test English Language Example Questions

Example Question

1. Which of the following sentences is the best example of a compound sentence?

a) Sarah went to the shopping mall, but Jessica shopped online instead.
b) Because Luke was late for his appointment, he was unable to get his medication.
c) Although Sam and Jen wanted to take a taxi, they did not have the required money.
d) Andy worked hard to finish his work on time.

Example Question

2. 'Over the course of the month, many mistakes were made by our staff.'

The above sentence uses a passive voice. Which of the following uses an active voice?

a) Many mistakes have been made throughout the month.
b) If mistakes were made, we were not aware.
c) Though mistakes were made, they are being fixed.
d) We made many mistakes this month.

Registering for the ATI TEAS Test in 2024

Before registering for your test, check the program details of the institute you wish to attend as there are several things you need to consider.

First, there are three ways to take the test:

  1. At the institute you wish to attend
  2. At PSI testing centers
  3. Online remote proctored by ATI

Some institutes require the test to be taken on campus at a specific time and date. This is usually non-negotiable so you need to make sure it is a campus you can reach. You also need to consider your ability to travel to and from a test location.

Second, consider how quickly you need the results. Online tests yield results immediately, while paper tests can take up to 72 hours to be marked.

Check what dates your chosen program needs the results submitted by. Again, some institutes, especially those that prefer to test on campus, will want your results straight away.

ATI can send your results directly to an institute of your choosing for free, but any additional transcripts carry a $27 fee. This may also take extra time, which is something you may need to consider.

Third, the test cannot be rescheduled, except for exceptional circumstances. Before setting a date, ensure that you have assigned yourself enough time to prepare and that the date doesn't clash with another event.

If you do miss your appointment, you will forfeit all the fees associated with the test and will have to book another appointment.

Ensure that on the date you book, your only commitment is to take the ATI TEAS test.

Once you have all these details double-checked and confirmed, register for your test on the ATI website.

It is advised that you book at least two weeks in advance. ATI will send out an information pack and you will want to have enough time to properly go through it all.

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ATI TEAS Test Day

On the day of the test, ensure that you leave yourself enough time to reach the test center. The test will start at the designated time, regardless of whether you are there or not.

You will need to bring with you:

  • A number 2 pencil and spares
  • Your registration receipt showing your ATI ID number
  • A valid photo ID

A calculator and scratch paper will be issued at the start of the test. Both must be returned afterward. For those taking the test online, an on-screen drop-down calculator is available.

No food, drink or additional items of clothing are allowed into the test with you. Ensure you are appropriately dressed and adequately hydrated.

ATI TEAS Test Preparation Tips for March 2024

Nursing is a popular choice and many students are rejected, despite having achieved the passing score. So remember, the higher your score, the greater your chance of getting accepted.

The pass mark varies, depending on the program you choose. Some programs accept 60 to 70%, while others look for 85 to 95%. Make sure you confirm your target score with the program leader before planning your study schedule.

To get the best result possible:

  • Give yourself as much time as possible to prepare. Six to eight weeks is an ideal amount of time, but you can assign yourself longer if you think you need it.

  • Make a detailed schedule and stick to it. An ATI TEAS test study guide will help here. It should include time for practice tests, and every topic should be thoroughly covered. It will also include study time.

  • Invest in as much preparation material as possible. Study manuals for TEAS are readily available on the internet and ATI offers study packages on their website. Using a TEAS study guide will be good practice.

  • Take as many practice tests as you can. Start by working through review questions and test questions with no time limit and your study notes around you. As you become more confident, try without aides and with a timer. These practice questions will help with the ATI TEAS exam.

  • Take the test in your first year of college so you are familiar with the process. When you retake the test at the application time, you will be more comfortable with the procedures.

  • The more practice you do, the quicker you can identify your weak areas and improve on them.

  • Do not leave anything to the last minute. The high demand for nursing programs means passing is not enough. You have to achieve the best possible result.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ATI TEAS test is used to assess candidates who are looking to start nursing school.

The ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a test that evaluates the current level of knowledge as well as academic readiness for nursing school, and passing is a basic requirement for entry.

The test covers four areas – math, science, reading, and English and language usage.

The ATI TEAS test is designed to be challenging as it is used to determine which candidates will be able to thrive in nursing school, but with practice and preparation candidates can improve their chances of passing.

Knowing what to expect and practicing well is an effective way to ensure that you can achieve a passing score.

The ATI TEAS practice tests are designed to be as accurate as possible to make sure they are relevant for the candidates.

They are created specifically to make it easier for candidates to prepare themselves, and the tests at TestPrep-Online are particularly useful.

Most candidates will take the ATI TEAS test at a specially selected test center, but it is possible to take the test online.

You will still have to book a test time for this, as the test needs to be remotely proctored to ensure fairness.

The ATI TEAS 7 replaced the ATI TEAS 6 in July 2022, and the changes involved offering some diverse types of questions – so not just multiple choice, but also blank answer spaces, drag and drop responses, and multiple selections.

They also added biology and chemistry to the science section.

The difficulty level of the assessment did not change, however – both the ATI TEAS 6 and TEAS 7 are equivalent in terms of challenge.

Final Thoughts

For those of you wanting to succeed in nursing, this is your first big challenge.

This is the test that determines your place on the program and shows your teachers how likely you are to succeed.

That being said, this test can be taken three times over an academic year. So, if you don't succeed the first time around, there are more opportunities available. Just remember to check the institute's 2nd Attempt Policy before rebooking.

There is a lot of information available on the ATI TEAS test, which can be overwhelming. Remember that everything tested is topics you have already learned. The best strategy is to take practice tests as much as possible to familiarize yourself with the test.


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