Search Reddit for the ATI TEAS and the same handful of questions come up again and again. Here are plain, honest answers to the ones applicants ask most — and a short drill so you can see where you stand.
For most people it is a fair test of high-school-level academics, not a trick exam. The pressure comes from breadth and timing: 170 questions across reading, math, science, and English in one sitting, each section separately timed. Applicants who prepare across all four sections — rather than leaning on their strong ones — tend to find it manageable. Science is the section to respect most.
There is no universal passing score; each program sets its own. Many nursing programs look for a solid overall percentage and a proficiency level like Proficient or higher, and competitive programs expect more. The only number that matters is your program's — confirm it before you build a plan around a target.
Yes — the Math section provides a basic on-screen four-function calculator, and a physical one is not needed. Practise with a simple calculator so the tool is familiar. The challenge in Math is setting up the problem, not the keystrokes.
Retakes are allowed, but the rules — how long you must wait and how many attempts you get in a window — are set by your program, not a single national policy. Check your school's retake policy before your first attempt so you know what a second try would involve.
Most applicants spread preparation over a few weeks rather than cramming. The honest answer depends on your starting point: take a short diagnostic across all four sections, then spend the most time on whatever is furthest from your target — usually Science. Steady practice beats one long session.
Tap an answer to check it instantly. All 4 questions are free.
1. Read the passage: "Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps the body regulate blood sugar. Even a brisk daily walk can lower the risk of several chronic diseases." Which statement best expresses the main idea?
Answer: A. The passage lists several benefits of physical activity, so the main idea is that it provides broad health benefits. The other choices overstate, contradict, or are unsupported by the text.
2. Choose the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.
Answer: C. The subject is 'list' (singular); 'of supplies' is a prepositional phrase that does not change the verb. The singular verb 'is' agrees with 'list.'
3. Evaluate: 24 - 6 × (8 - 5) + 2
Answer: C. Using order of operations: 8 - 5 = 3, then 6 × 3 = 18, then 24 - 18 + 2 = 8.
4. What is the primary function of red blood cells?
Answer: A. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which binds and transports oxygen to tissues. Fighting infection and producing antibodies are roles of white blood cells; clotting involves platelets.
Nice work. Practise every section →
The common consensus is that it is a fair high-school-level academic test, and the difficulty comes from breadth and timing rather than depth. Applicants who prepare across all four sections — respecting Science most — generally find it manageable.
There is no universal passing score — each program sets its own. Many programs look for a solid overall percentage and a proficiency level such as Proficient or higher. Confirm your own program's requirement.
Yes. The Math section provides a basic on-screen four-function calculator. The hard part is setting up each problem correctly, not the arithmetic itself.
Retakes are allowed, but the waiting period and attempt limits are set by your nursing program rather than a single national rule. Check your school's retake policy.