Q: What is the TEAS?
A: TEAS stands for Test of Essential Academic Skills. It was developed to measure basic essential skills in the academic content area domains of reading, mathematics, science and English and language usage.
Q: When do I need to take the TEAS?
A: For all programs, BSN, ABSN and ELMSN, the TEAS is used as part of the application review process. Therefore, all applicants must have TEAS scores on file by the application deadline date. Applications will not be reviewed without a TEAS score.
Q: How long will it take for my TEAS scores to be reported to you?
A: Your scores will be reported to SMU within 5 working days of receipt of the test booklets.
Q: How do I know the score I received on the TEAS?
A: Your scores will be posted on your atitesting.com account within 5 working days.
Q: What is the format of the TEAS?
A: The TEAS is a 170-item, multiple-choice assessment, covering the four areas of reading, mathematics, science and English and language usage.
Q: How long is the exam?
A: The exam is 3 1/2 hours in length.
Q: What time do I need to arrive for the exam?
A: Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the time the exam is scheduled to start. Students must arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the time the exam is scheduled to start. Late arrivals will not be seated for the exam.
Q: Are calculators allowed on the TEAS?
A: No.
Q: May I bring water/coffee into the exam room?
A: At SMU, you may bring water and coffee only into the exam room. No food is allowed.
Q: Where can I take the TEAS?
A: The TEAS is given every month at Samuel Merritt University's main campus in Oakland. It is given either on a Thursday evening or a Saturday morning. Please click here for a listing of upcoming dates.
Q: What if I can't come to Oakland to take the TEAS?
A: For ease of tracking and reporting TEAS scores, all applicants are strongly encouraged to take the exam at SMU. However, private proctoring of the TEAS may be arranged by contacting ATI directly.
Q: Can I take the TEAS at another college/university?
A: Yes, but for ease of tracking and reporting TEAS scores, all applicants are strongly encouraged to take the exam at SMU. If you take the TEAS at a location other than SMU, you must work with ATI to make sure your scores are reported to us.
Q. What are the minimum scores required on the TEAS?
A. The minimum scores will be adjusted each year. Your test date will determine the minimum score required.
As of September 2009, minimum scores are:
- Composite: 74.7%
- Reading: 87.5%
- Math: 68.9%
For the Summer 2010 ABSN applicant pool only the Minimum Adjusted Individual Total Score must be above 78.7%. For those applying for the Fall 2010 ABSN program and beyond the minimum individual section scores are as follows: Composite: 74.7%; Reading: 87.5%; Math: 68.9%
Q: Will you look at sub-section scores or just the composite?A: We will look at sub-section scores for Reading and Math, as well as Composite score. Please note that the minimum scores are required for the Reading and Math sub-sections as well as for the Composite score. We do not round scores.
Q: What kind of study guides are available for the TEAS?
A: Two products are available to help you as you prepare for the TEAS. The TEAS Study Manual is written specifically to address the needs of students preparing to take the TEAS or those who need additional help after testing. The TEAS Online Practice Assessment is available for students desiring additional test preparation material. Both of these study guides can be purchased at www.atitesting.com/onlinestore.
Q: How many times may I take the TEAS?
A: The TEAS may be taken twice.
Q: How long are TEAS scores valid?
A: TEAS scores are valid for only two years.
Q: Where do I find my scores?
A: Your 'Adjusted Individual Total Score' is reported on the right side of the first line in the box at the top of your printed test results.
Q: Will SMU still accept the NET?
A: SMU will no longer administer the NET after April 2009. However, we will accept NET scores (instead of the TEAS) for the last time for those applying to BSN for spring 2010, ELMSN for spring 2010 and ABSN for summer 2010. After that, the NET will no longer be an acceptable test and all applicants must take the TEAS.
Q: I am a currently enrolled student in the nursing partnership program at Mills College, Saint Mary's College or Holy Names University. Where and when do I need to take the TEAS?
A: Students currently enrolled in the nursing partnership program may take the TEAS at either Holy Names University or at SMU. Please contact the advisor at your current college/university for specific TEAS registration information. Please note that acceptable TEAS scores must be available to SMU at the time your file is forwarded to us for review. Files that do not have acceptable TEAS scores will not be reviewed.
Q: Why do you need my social security number?
A: If taking the TEAS at SMU, on the day of the exam, you will be asked to provide your social security number. This confidential information allows us to successfully match you with your TEAS score and will make sure your score is reported and tracked appropriately.