A Complete Guide to TEAS Exam Day Requirements, Procedures, and Tips for Success
What to Expect on ATI TEAS Exam Day
Preparing for test day can make a significant difference in feeling confident and focused when you sit down to take the ATI TEAS exam. Here’s what to expect on the day of your test, whether you’re taking it in-person or online.
1. Arrival and Check-In Process
- In-Person Exam: Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. Check-in may involve presenting your ID, confirming your registration, and following any additional security procedures. Late arrivals may not be permitted to enter once the exam has started.
- Online Exam: If you’re taking the TEAS exam online, make sure to log in at least 30 minutes before the test starts to complete a pre-exam check. Online proctoring includes a series of technical checks to ensure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are functioning properly.
2. Required Identification
For both in-person and online exams, you’ll need to present a valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, state ID) that matches the name used during registration.
3. Test Environment and Security Measures
- Prohibited Items: All personal items, such as bags, phones, notes, food, and drinks, are prohibited in the testing room. Test centers often have lockers where you can store your belongings. For online exams, you’ll need to be in a clear, quiet room with no personal items visible or within reach.
- Calculator Use: Personal calculators are not allowed. However, an on-screen calculator will be provided for the Mathematics section, so make sure you’re comfortable using it/.
Breaks: You won’t have any scheduled breaks during the TEAS exam, which lasts 209 minutes (3 hours and 29 minutes). You may take a brief, unscheduled break if necessary once you complete the math section of the TEAS.
4. Exam Room Setup
• In-Person: Once seated, you’ll be provided with any materials you’re allowed to use, such as scratch paper and pencils. The room will be monitored, and you’ll need to follow proctor instructions carefully.
• Online: You’ll need to ensure you’re alone in a quiet room with no interruptions or distractions. The proctor will ask you to show a 360-degree view of your testing space with your camera to confirm it’s clear of prohibited items. You’ll need to remain in view of the camera for the entire duration of the exam.
5. Test Format and On-Screen Tools
The TEAS exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions across four sections (Reading, Mathematics, Science, English and Language Usage). You’ll be able to use:
• On-Screen Calculator: This is a drop-down calculator built into the exam
• On-Screen Timer: Tracks your time in each section, so manage it wisely. Note: Each section of the TEAS is timed separately!
• Navigation Tools: Typically, you can move back and forth between questions and flag questions within each section (reading, math, science and English), allowing you to review and change answers if time permits. Once the section time is done or you’ve closed the section, you cannot return to that exam section.
6. After the Exam
Scores
- Unofficial Scores: Most students receive their unofficial scores immediately after the exam. This preliminary score gives a general sense of how you performed but is not sent to schools until cleared by test security.
- Official Scores: Official TEAS scores are typically processed and available within 24-48 hours after the exam. These are accessible through your ATI account, where you can view detailed section scores and other performance metrics. If you arranged to send your scores directly to a school, ATI will send them once they’re finalized.
Reviewing Your Score Report
Your score report will include:
- Composite Score: Your overall score across all sections.
- Section Scores: Individual scores for Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English and Language Usage, each presented as a percentage.
- National and Program Percentile Ranks: This shows how your scores compare to others nationally and to students within similar programs.
- Topics to Review: This focused review will highlight areas/questions you missed on the exam. Extremely helpful for second attempts.
Many schools focus on your composite score but may weigh certain sections more heavily, especially those relevant to their program.
When taking the TEAS exam at an institution—either in-person or online with remote proctoring—your transcript will be automatically sent to that school within 48 hours, with no further action required. You cannot designate an alternate school and must purchase additional transcripts or credits for other applications.
A transcript is included with your registration for exams through ATI or PSI, which can also be sent to your chosen school within 48 hours after submission. You must log into your ATI account and select “Results” to send your transcript to your designated institution.
Final Tips for a Smooth Exam Day •
- Arrive Early or Log In Early: Being ahead of time can help reduce pre-test anxiety.
- Bring Required ID and Confirmation: Double-check your ID and have your testing confirmation readily accessible.
- Prepare Your Testing Environment: Especially for online exams, ensure your room is well-lit, quiet, and free of distractions. And make sure you have completed the Dry Run for any remote (at-home) exams.
With these steps in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate test day confidently and focus on doing your best on the TEAS exam.
