When to take the TEAS, and why timing matters

When you sit for the TEAS decides whether a low score is something you can fix or something you are stuck with.

When Should You Take the TEAS?

One of the most common questions we get is, "When should I take the TEAS?"

We recommend taking the TEAS about 1 to 2 months before the nursing application opens.

That gives you time to receive your official score and, if needed, prepare for and take the exam again before application deadlines.

Before scheduling your TEAS exam, review each nursing program's requirements. Here are four things to check:

• Minimum required TEAS score
• TEAS score ranges and points awarded
• TEAS retake policy
• Deadline for submitting your official TEAS score

Every California ADN program has its own requirements. A score that earns strong points at one program may earn fewer points at another, and application deadlines and retake policies can vary.

Planning ahead gives you time to prepare, understand each program's requirements, and submit your strongest application.