What Is a Passing TEAS Score?

Short answer: there is no official passing score on the ATI TEAS 7. ATI reports your results, and each nursing school decides what score it will accept. In practice, most programs want at least 58.7% (the start of the Proficient level), and competitive programs often look for 78% (Advanced) or higher.

This guide explains how the TEAS is scored, what each score level means, and how to pick a target score that actually gets you in.

How the TEAS 7 is scored

The TEAS 7 has 170 questions, but only 150 count toward your score. The other 20 are unscored pretest questions, and you will not know which ones they are, so treat every question like it counts.

Your raw score (the number of questions you got right) is converted into an adjusted total score from 0% to 100%. ATI calls this process equating. It adjusts for small differences in difficulty between test forms, so a 75% on one form means the same as a 75% on another.

Your score report shows:

• Adjusted total score. This is the number most schools use for admission.
• Content area scores for Reading, Math, Science, and English and Language Usage.
• Sub-content area scores, such as Human Anatomy and Physiology or Numbers and Algebra.
• National and program percentile ranks, which show how you compare with other test takers.
• Your academic preparedness level.

TEAS academic preparedness levels

ATI places every total score into one of five academic preparedness levels. Many schools write their cutoffs using these levels, so it helps to know where each one starts.

So what score do you need?

It depends on your program. Here is a general guide based on how schools typically set their requirements:

• Minimum to apply at many ADN and LPN programs: around 58.7% to 65% (Proficient).
• Solid score for most programs: 70% or higher.
• Competitive for BSN and high-demand programs: 78% or higher (Advanced).
• Stands out almost anywhere: 85% to 90% or higher.

Some schools also set minimum scores for individual sections, most often Reading or Science. Others rank applicants by score, so meeting the minimum does not always mean you get a seat. Always check your program's admissions page for the exact number and whether they look at section scores.

How to raise your TEAS score

1. Take a timed practice test first so you know your starting point.
2. Look at your sub-content area results, not just your total. Science and Math usually have the most room to grow.
3. Study the concept behind every question you miss, not just the answer.
4. Drill your weakest area most days, and review the rest at least once a week so nothing slips.
5. Finish with full-length timed practice tests to build speed and stamina for test day.

Frequently asked questions

Is 65% a good TEAS score?

A 65% is in the Proficient range and meets the minimum at many programs, but it may not be competitive at schools that rank applicants. Aim higher if your program is selective.

What is the highest TEAS score?

100% adjusted total score.

Is there a penalty for guessing?

No. Wrong answers do not subtract points, so never leave a question blank.

Can I retake the TEAS?

Yes, but each school sets its own rules on how many attempts it accepts and how long you must wait between them. Check with your program before you schedule a retake.

The bottom line

A passing TEAS score is whatever meets your school's cutoff. As a general target, aim for at least 70% overall, and 78% or higher if you are applying to competitive programs. Find your program's requirement first, then build your study plan around your weakest sections.

Want to see where you stand? Take a free NewGenRN TEAS 7 practice test today.