For many aspiring nursing students, the ATI TEAS test format is the first major hurdle on the journey into nursing school. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is widely used by programs across the United States to measure academic readiness. Understanding the ATI TEAS test format, what it looks like, how long it takes, and what topics it covers can help reduce test-day anxiety and build confidence.

This guide explains each section of the exam, ATI TEAS reading, ATI TEAS math, ATI TEAS science, and TEAS English, while also providing preparation strategies and exam-day tips.

Before diving into the details, let’s look at the exam structure.

🔹 Total questions: 170 (150 scored, 20 unscored pretest)

🔹 Time allowed: 209 minutes (just under 3.5 hours)

🔹 Delivery: Computer-based at a testing center or remote proctoring

🔹 Sections: Reading, Math, Science, and English & Language Usage

🔹 Scoring: Each section is scored individually, and programs set their own passing requirements

Knowing the ATI TEAS test format ensures you can create a realistic study plan and avoid surprises on test day.

The ATI TEAS reading section tests your comprehension and ability to process information quickly—skills every nurse uses when reviewing patient charts, orders, or care instructions.

🔸 Number of questions: 45 (37 scored, 8 unscored)

🔸 Time limit: 55 minutes

🔸 Skills tested:

➡ Identifying main ideas and supporting details

➡ Drawing inferences and making logical conclusions

➡ Determining the author’s purpose and tone

➡ Analyzing charts, graphs, and informational texts

Sample practice question:

A hospital policy states that patients must fast for 8 hours before surgery. If a patient’s surgery is scheduled for 3:00 PM, when should they stop eating?

👉 Correct answer: 7:00 AM

💡 Prep Tip: Practice reading passages under timed conditions. Nursing articles, clinical guidelines, or medical news can serve as useful practice material.

The ATI TEAS math portion is designed to measure practical skills that nurses use daily. From IV drip rates to medication dosages, this section ensures you’re comfortable with calculations.

🔹 Number of questions: 38 (34 scored, 4 unscored)

🔹 Time limit: 57 minutes

🔹 Skills tested:

✔️ Whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

✔️ Ratios, proportions, and percentages

✔️ Conversions between standard and metric units

✔️ Basic algebra (solving for x, inequalities)

✔️ Word problems, including dosage and data interpretation

Sample practice question:

Order: 500 mg of acetaminophen. Tablets available: 250 mg each. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

👉 Correct answer: 2 tablets

💡 Prep Tip: Use TEAS math practice workbooks and time yourself to simulate exam pressure. Focus on conversions, as these often cause mistakes.

The ATI TEAS science section is often the toughest for students because of its depth and broad content. It focuses heavily on human biology and scientific reasoning.

🔸 Number of questions: 50 (44 scored, 6 unscored)

🔸 Time limit: 60 minutes

🔸 Skills tested:

➡ Human anatomy and physiology (major systems and their functions)

➡ Life and physical sciences (DNA, genetics, chemistry basics)

➡ Scientific reasoning (designing experiments, interpreting results)

Sample practice question:

Which organelle is known as the “powerhouse of the cell”?

👉 Correct answer: Mitochondria

💡 Prep Tip: Prioritize anatomy and physiology in your study plan. Use diagrams to visualize body systems and flashcards to memorize key functions.

The TEAS English section measures grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary skills that ensure accuracy in medical documentation and communication.

🔹 Number of questions: 37 (33 scored, 4 unscored)

🔹 Time limit: 37 minutes

🔹 Skills tested:

✔️ Grammar and punctuation rules

✔️ Spelling and commonly misused words

✔️ Sentence structure and clarity

✔️ Vocabulary and context clues

Sample practice question:

Which sentence is grammatically correct?

A) The nurse checked the patients vital signs.

B) The nurse checked the patient’s vital signs.

👉 Correct answer: B

💡 Prep Tip: Review commonly confused words and practice editing sample passages.

Time management is critical because the exam is lengthy and fast-paced.

Reading: 55 minutes → ~1.2 minutes per question

Math: 57 minutes → ~1.5 minutes per question

Science: 60 minutes → ~1.2 minutes per question

English: 37 minutes → ~1 minute per question

💡 Prep Tip: Don’t get stuck on one question. Mark it, move on, and return later if time allows.

Creating a structured study plan helps keep preparation balanced. Here’s a simple 6-week TEAS study guide:

Weeks 1–2: Focus on Reading + Math (practice passages, fractions, ratios)

Weeks 3–4: Focus on Science (anatomy, physiology, chemistry basics)

Weeks 5–6: Focus on English + mixed practice tests

Each week, spend:

1–2 hours on content review

1 hour on practice problems

30 minutes reviewing mistakes and rationales

Prep Tip: Take at least two full-length practice exams before test day.

The TEAS is a mental endurance test as much as an academic one.

1. Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress
2. Bring required IDs and materials
3. Eat a balanced meal to maintain energy
4. Read each question carefully don’t rush
5. Stay calm; treat the exam as practice for your nursing career

The ATI TEAS test format may seem overwhelming, but with preparation and practice, you can walk into the exam confident. By mastering each section ATI TEAS reading, ATI TEAS math, ATI TEAS science, and TEAS English and following a structured study plan, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success. Consistency, time management, and practice with real exam-style questions are your keys to earning a competitive score.