Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)

The TEAS is a pre-entry assessment designed to assess students' preparedness for entering into health science fields.  The TEAS is required for admission to the Traditional BSN program at CSUB.  In the past, CSUB Nursing administered the TEAS on campus. 

Prospective applicants for Fall 2024 may register for the ATI TEAS exam through the ATI Testing Website or visit www.atitesting.com.  More information can be found on TEAS registration.

See the FAQ below for more helpful information about getting started.


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How do I register for the TEAS?

You may create an account at www.atitesting.com and register for the TEAS.  You have the following options to register:

  • TEAS at ATI: an online remote proctored exam.  ATI will remote proctor your exam. This online remote proctored exam has a specific system and internet speed requirements. To view a list of requirements, visit ATI Remote Proctor Page.
  • TEAS at PSI: in-person, at a PSI Testing Center.  There are many PSI testing centers that administer the TEAS.  To view a list of PSI Testing Centers, visit the PSI Website.
  • Other sites/locations that administer the TEAS; see the ATI website for details. 

For more information, please visit the Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for the TEAS.


What is the TEAS?

It is a multiple-choice exam that covers the following material:

  • Reading – paragraph comprehension, passage comprehension, and inferences/conclusions (53 items, 64 minutes)
  • Math – whole numbers, metric conversions, fractions, decimals, algebraic equations, percentages, and ratio/proportion (36 items, 54 minutes)
  • Science – science reasoning, science knowledge, biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, basic physical principles, and general science (53 items, 63 minutes)
  • English – and language usage—punctuation, grammar, sentence structure, contextual words, and spelling (28 items, 28 minutes)


How can I prepare for the TEAS?

TEAS Study Manual and other TEAS Prep Products are available for purchase through ATI.  Visit TEAS Prep for details.  ATI recommends allowing at least 6 weeks of study and preparation prior to taking the test. 

See ATI's sample of a 6-Week Study Plan to pair with any TEAS prep products.


How will the TEAS be used as admission criterion?

CSUB Nursing requires the ATI TEAS (VII).  No other versions of TEAS will be accepted.  Students applying to CSUB’s Traditional BSN Program must have TEAS-adjusted individual total scores of 72% or better.  


Can I take the TEAS more than once?

The TEAS criteria for admissions to CSUB Nursing limits the number of repeats to the first 2 attempts overall (highest score used).  A minimum of a 14-day grace period must elapse in order for the 2nd attempt to be considered.  A third attempt or more will not be accepted. 

Only the latest version of TEAS (VII) will be accepted, previous scores will not be accepted.  Students who have taken the TEAS previously, but were not TEAS (VII) will have 2 attempts.

Many nursing programs have different TEAS requirements. It is important that students research the nursing programs of interest for specifications on admissions criteria with the TEAS.


How long will it take for me to get my TEAS scores?

Computer-based proctored exams such as the TEAS generate student scores immediately after the assessment.  Students may view their unofficial scores and Individual Performance Profile by logging into their ATI account. 


How do I submit my scores?

Please upload your unofficial scores directly to your NursingCAS application as a document upload.  At any time, if deemed appropriate, the Department of Nursing may require you to submit official TEAS scores from ATI.  Please do not submit scores below 72%.