The TEAS test for RN programs, officially the Test of Essential Academic Skills (ATI TEAS), is a standardized entrance exam required by most Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs to assess readiness for registered nursing education. Developed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), the TEAS test for RN evaluates four core academic domains critical to RN success: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English & Language Usage.
Breakdown of the TEAS Test for RN Sections
- Reading (53 questions, 64 minutes): Tests comprehension of healthcare passages, graphs, and instructions—skills RNs use daily for patient charts and protocols.
- Mathematics (36 questions, 54 minutes): Focuses on RN-specific calculations like medication dosages, IV drip rates, and conversions, with no calculators allowed.
- Science (53 questions, 63 minutes): Emphasizes anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry, aligning with RN coursework in pathophysiology and pharmacology.
- English & Language Usage (28 questions, 28 minutes): Assesses grammar, spelling, and sentence structure for clear RN documentation and communication.
The TEAS test for RN consists of 170 total questions (150 scored), with a 209-minute time limit. Scores are reported as Adjusted Individual Total Score and section percentiles. RN programs set minimum cutoffs e.g., Hagerstown Community College requires 60% overall and 69% in Reading for RN applicants, while Sacramento City College demands 62%. Competitive RN programs often expect 75%+ to stand out.
Why RN Programs Require the TEAS Test
The TEAS test for RN predicts NCLEX-RN success and program completion. ATI data shows students scoring in the top 20% nationally are 90% more likely to pass nursing courses. Most RN programs accept only official ATI transcripts, and retake policies vary Harrisburg Area Community College allows two attempts per cycle, but only the first score counts for points at some schools.
TEAS Test for RN Registration & Cost
Register via atitesting.com ($118–$130 depending on location). The TEAS test for RN is offered online (proctored) or in-person at PSI centers or campuses. Preparation with ATI’s Smart Prep (650+ RN-focused practice questions) is recommended.
In short, the TEAS test for RN is the gold-standard gatekeeper for registered nursing education, measuring the exact skills needed to thrive as an RN.
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