It is important to understand what the TEAS is and what you can do to succeed. To study for the TEAS test and maximize your chances of passing the exam, you should plan ahead with study schedules, improve test-taking skills with practice tests, and manage stress by prioritizing rest.
Whether you are just starting research on nursing schools or actively pursuing admission into a nursing program, you should be aware of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and what it will take to pass the exam.
The TEAS exam tests foundational knowledge gained in high school and required general education classes. Passing the TEAS is a requirement for admission to many nursing programs, although some states require you to take the HESI exam instead.
Knowing how to study for the TEAS test can seem daunting. Maybe it has been a few years since you had a refresher on the basic subjects. We will walk you through tips for the TEAS test to prepare you for your test date.
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Plan Ahead
The first step in how to prepare for the TEAS test is creating a comprehensive plan. Planning ahead may be your key to success. This way, you can evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, practice effectively, and feel comfortable with the material when it comes to the exam. Studies show that students who create and follow study plans have significantly higher academic success rates and better focus on their goals.
Make a Study Schedule
Your first step in planning ahead is to create a study schedule. Map out where you are in the admissions process and when you hope to enroll in the nursing program. Sign up to take the TEAS and mark your calendar. Decide how often you want to study and how long your study sessions will be.
Make sure that this plan is realistic and achievable. Once you have your schedule set, it is essential to stick with it and not study sporadically. If you are consistent and realistic, you are more likely to not overlook details and have time to review.
Don’t Cram
Although cramming may have worked during high school or a previous program, it will not work in nursing school. Your goal should not be to retain enough information to just pass the test. You must commit the information to memory and understand it, as you will need it for future nursing classes and your career.
Cramming is a particularly unreliable way to study. Creating a steady study pattern will be better for you in the long run and will help improve your test results.
Practice Your Test-Taking Skills
Standardized tests tend to have their own style and question format. Learning to anticipate this style and improving your testing skills can give you a strong advantage and help you feel more comfortable taking the test.
Answer Every Question
The TEAS exam does not penalize for incorrect answers. You are only credited with correct ones, meaning there is no disadvantage to putting down an answer you are unsure about. Try to finish the test, even if you are not confident in some of your responses.
A common technique is to complete all answers you feel are correct. Then, go back and return to any remaining questions. This way, you will be awarded more points for correct answers while ensuring you answer as many questions as possible.
Learn the Question Formatting
The TEAS exam will cover English, math, science, language usage, and reading. The traditional format is 170 multiple-choice questions with four options each. However, with the implementation of the Next-Gen NCLEX-RN exam, additional question formats are included to help you prepare. These include but are not limited to multiple-choice, fill-in, ordering, and hot spots with multiple clickable areas.
Make sure your practice material is the most up-to-date you can find. Practicing with these question formats will help ensure you don’t answer a question incorrectly because you don’t understand the format.
Take a Practice Exam
Taking a practice exam is one of the best ways to prepare and evaluate areas that need strengthening. These practice exams usually cost money but are well worth it. You can find them online or through the admissions department of the nursing school.
When you take the exam, do your best to replicate a testing environment. Put away any notes and additional resources you might be tempted to use. Find a quiet room with no distractions. Set a timer to help you stay within the time constraints of the actual TEAS. The goal is to have the most accurate results possible.
Manage Your Stress
Test anxiety is very real and can be paralyzing for some. Even if you have stuck to your study schedule and feel confident in your test-taking skills, you can’t overlook the importance of stress management to your success. You have a long journey ahead beyond passing your TEAS, so forming healthy habits now is of the utmost importance.
Prioritize Rest
It may seem like there is no time in your schedule for rest, but you must prioritize resting. Whether this means going on a walk, reading a book, or relaxing to an episode of your favorite show, implement daily habits that help you unwind.
It is also worth noting the importance of sleep in your testing success. According to the National Institutes of Health, low quality of sleep has a direct causation to poor academic performance. It was also found to greatly increase stress levels overall. Ensure you get between 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night, especially when preparing for an important test like the TEAS.
If you have struggled with your GPA and are wondering if you still have a chance at nursing, you may still have options. Learn more about getting into nursing school with a low GPA.
Care for Your Life Outside of Nursing
While getting into nursing school is essential and will take a lot of work, other areas of your life also need attention. To maintain a long-lasting and happy career in nursing, you must be well-rounded with a healthy work-life balance.
Forming a study group is a great way to maintain your social life while preparing for the TEAS. If you are working on prerequisites with other students seeking nursing school admission, this is a great way to build connections with like-minded people. Don’t forget to maintain your relationships with old friends and family who have supported you in your nursing dreams.
Get Started on Your Journey to Nursing Today
Now that you have a better understanding of how to study for the TEAS test, get started by connecting with schools that fit your criteria. When you fill out our online form, you will be contacted by schools in your area. This service is free of charge, and you are under no obligation to any school that contacts you.
