Step 4: Take the TEAS

Many California programs ask for an entrance exam score. The most common is the ATI TEAS. Some programs use the HESI A2 instead, and some use no exam. Check which one each program wants before you register.

What to do

• Confirm the exam, the minimum score and the retake rules with each program.
• Take ATI’s free practice test to see where you stand.
• Study your weakest section first.
• Register with ATI, at PSI, or through a school that gives the exam.
• Send your score to each program that needs it.

What the exam looks like

The ATI TEAS, Version 7, has 170 questions and 209 minutes of testing time, in four sections:

ATI says there’s no universal passing score. Each school sets its own minimum.

What SEAPHE’s data shows

Most programs in SEAPHE’s verified data name the TEAS. Of the 139 programs with verified requirements, 91 publish a numeric overall TEAS minimum we can compare. Those minimums run from 58% to 84%, and 62% is the most common (school pages, checked Oct 9–12, 2026). A few programs accept the TEAS or the HESI A2, a few use the HESI A2 only, and a few list no entrance exam.

Many programs also use the score for more than a minimum. Some award ranking points for it, and some limit attempts or count only certain attempts.

Two school examples

These are the first ADN and BSN programs, alphabetically, in SEAPHE’s verified data with a numeric TEAS minimum.

• American River College (ADN). Uses the TEAS 7 with a minimum of 62.0. It uses your highest passing score and awards 10, 20 or 30 points by score band. A retake within 365 days needs 90 days and remediation or retest approval (ARC application instructions, checked Oct 9, 2026).
• CSU San Marcos (BSN). Sets a minimum of 71.0 (Version 7) and awards up to 12 ranking points. It allows up to three attempts and uses the highest (CSUSM supplemental criteria, checked Oct 9, 2026).

Both count the highest score, but their attempt rules differ. That’s why it pays to read each program’s rules before your first attempt.

How long it takes

The exam itself is 209 minutes of testing time. Study time varies by person.

Typical costs

• TEAS at ATI (remote) or at PSI: $120, plus applicable sales tax.
• TEAS at a school or testing center: set by that location. Varies; check with the school.
• Each retake is a new registration at full price. ATI doesn’t require a waiting period between attempts; any limits come from the school.

Common mistakes

• Testing before reading the school’s rules. Some programs count every attempt or limit attempts. Check first.
• Aiming only for the minimum. At programs that award points for the TEAS, a higher score can add points.
• Taking the wrong exam. A few programs use the HESI A2. Confirm before you register.
• Forgetting to send scores. Sending a transcript to each school is a separate step. ATI includes one transcript with the TEAS at ATI or at PSI, and each additional school needs another.
• Booking too close to a deadline. Leave time for a retake and for scores to reach the school.

Your SEAPHE tools

• TEAS score checker: compare your score with each program’s published minimum.
• TEAS vs. HESI A2

Next step: Step 5, Know your deadlines.