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Test of Essential Academic Skills

All students making application for admission to the Southwest Mississippi Community College Associate Degree Nursing Program (SMCC ADN) must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) prior to application deadline as part of the admission process. The SMCC Proctor Center will offer the TEAS test.  There are limited seats available for each date so it is recommended students register early. For students who cannot come to the SMCC campus, they can schedule to take the TEAS at a PSI Testing Center. 

Applicants are restricted to 3 attempts at taking the TEAS per 12-month span, starting from when the applicant takes the first TEAS exam and the accepted TEAS score must be within 2 years of application deadline.  Any TEAS scores submitted outside these guidelines will be invalid. 

 

Visit the link below for a list of dates the test will be administered:

  • TEAS Testing Dates
  • To register for TEAS testing at SMCC, go to atitesting.com and scroll down on the right side of the page to click on "Register for TEAS."  You will need to bring a photo ID.
  • To register for TEAS testing at a PSI Test Center, go to atitesting.com and scroll down on the right side of the page and click on “Register for TEAS with PSI.”

 

What is the TEAS Test?

TEAS is comprised of 170 questions set up in a multiple-choice format with four-option answers.  Questions are designed to tests the basic academic skills you will need to perform in class in the areas of Reading, Mathematics, Science, English and Language usage.  

 

Why do I need to take the TEAS Test?

The TEAS test was developed by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) specifically for nursing programs to measure essential skills that are the foundation for nursing programs. The test identifies entry level skills deemed important by a panel of nursing program curriculum experts. The student has an opportunity to take steps to improve academic skills if needed before applying to nursing school. 

 

What should I score in order to be considered academically ready?

A score of 60% or greater in each of these areas is recommended. The higher the score, the greater amount of admission criteria points awarded. 

 

If I score greater than 60% in all 4 subjects, does that guarantee I will get in the program?

No, the TEAS test is just one part of the admission criteria.

 

When should I take the TEAS?

The TEAS test should be taken prior to submitting the nursing application.  The applicant is responsible for printing the scores and attaching to the application.

  

How many times can I take the TEAS?

The TEAS can be taken 3 times per calendar year. To retake the TEAS test, the student will need to repeat the scheduling process. Students are responsible for attaching the TEAS score they want reviewed for admission to their ADN application. 

 

How should I prepare for the TEAS test?

ATI (www.atitesting.com or 1.800.667.7531) has an online store that offers a study package or just online practice tests that you can purchase with a credit or debit card. 

 

Do I have to take the TEAS at SMCC?

TEAS score do not have to be taken at SMCC. You will need to print your TEAS score and submit it with your application. 

 

I've registered for the TEAS test, what do I need to know about the testing day?

On the day of the test:

  1. Bring a valid picture ID in order to be allowed to test.
  2. Arrive at testing site 15 minutes before test is scheduled to begin. Students will not be allowed to enter once the test has started.
  3. Students will see their test results before they leave the test.
  4. Calculators are not permitted for use during the test.
  5. Paper and pencils will be provided and collected at the completion of the test.
  6. Electronic devices are prohibited during the test.
  7. The use of study guide material is prohibited during the test.
  8. When necessary, test dates are subject to change due to bad weather, power outages, or other emergencies. SMCC ADN reserves the right to cancel or reschedule testing days in these situations. In the event of cancelled or rescheduled dates, registration will be honored.
  9. The test takes up to 3 ½ hours.

What should I do if there is bad weather, ice storm, disaster, etc. occurring on the day I’m scheduled for TEAS?

As part of the ATI registration process, you will be required to enter a phone number and email address. The faculty at the SMCC ADN Program will have this information and will make every effort to call the number you’ve listed, as well as, sending you an email telling you the plans for the testing day. The faculty will alert you as soon as the SMCC Administration announces a decision regarding opening or closing the campus for classes and testing.