What Is a TEAS Passing Score?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), developed by ATI Nursing Education, assesses readiness for nursing and allied health programs. It covers Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English/Language Usage, with a total possible score of 0–100% (Academic Preparedness Level, or APL). There is no universal passing score requirements vary by institution.

Key Score Ranges (ATI Guidelines)

  • Developmental: 0–40.6% (needs significant improvement)
  • Basic: 40.7–58.0% (minimal proficiency)
  • Proficient: 58.1–77.3% (college-level readiness)
  • Advanced: 77.4–91.3% (strong preparation)
  • Exemplary: 91.4–100% (exceptional mastery)

ATI considers Proficient (58.7%+) the minimum for basic program eligibility, but most schools demand higher.

Typical School Requirements

  • Community colleges: Often 50–60% overall (e.g., 55% composite).
  • Competitive ADN/BSN programs: 65–75%+ overall, plus subsection minimums (e.g., ≥60% Science, ≥65% Math).
  • Top-tier universities: 80%+ (e.g., 85% composite with no section below 75%).

Some programs use percentile ranks (national vs. program-specific) or adjusted individual scores instead of raw percentages. For example, a 70% raw score might rank in the 80th percentile nationally but only 60th within a selective applicant pool.

Factors Influencing “Passing”

  1. Program selectivity: Urban/high-demand schools raise cutoffs.
  2. Subsection weights: Science/Math often carry heavier emphasis.
  3. Multiple attempts: Many allow 2–3 retakes/year; highest score may count.
  4. Holistic review: GPA, interviews, or prerequisites can offset borderline TEAS scores.

How to Verify Your Target Score

  • Check the admissions page of each school.
  • Review ATI’s program-specific score report (sent post-exam).
  • Contact the nursing advisor cutoffs can change annually.

Bottom line: A “passing” TEAS score is whatever your target program defines typically 60–75% for acceptance. Aim for Advanced (78%+) to stay competitive across multiple applications. Prepare using ATI’s official study manual, practice tests, and question banks; retake strategically if needed.

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