Key Takeaways
- There is no universal passing score—schools set their own requirements
- BSN programs typically require 65-75% minimum, with 80%+ being competitive
- Science and Math scores are especially important for nursing programs
- National percentile shows how you compare to all test-takers
- Research your target schools' specific requirements and aim 10-15% above minimum
Last updated: January 2026
TEAS Scoring and School Requirements
Understanding how the TEAS is scored—and what scores schools require—is essential for setting your study goals.
How TEAS Scores Work
Your TEAS results include several scores:
| Score Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Composite Score | Overall percentage (weighted average of all sections) |
| Section Scores | Percentage for each of the 4 content areas |
| Sub-Content Scores | Performance on specific topics within sections |
| National Percentile | How you compare to all TEAS test-takers |
| Program Percentile | How you compare to applicants for your program type |
Score Report Details
Your official score report shows:
- Adjusted Individual Score - Your percentage for each section
- National Mean - Average score for all test-takers
- Program Mean - Average for your program type (e.g., ADN, BSN)
- Topic Performance - Breakdown by sub-content area
- Recommendations - Areas to focus on if retaking
Typical School Requirements
There is no universal passing score—each school sets its own requirements:
| Program Type | Typical Minimum | Competitive Score |
|---|---|---|
| ADN (Associate) | 55-65% | 70%+ |
| BSN (Bachelor's) | 65-75% | 80%+ |
| Accelerated BSN | 70-80% | 85%+ |
| Graduate Entry | 75-85% | 90%+ |
National Score Statistics
Based on recent data:
| Percentile | Approximate Score |
|---|---|
| 25th percentile | ~55% |
| 50th percentile | ~65% |
| 75th percentile | ~75% |
| 90th percentile | ~85% |
What Schools Look For
Nursing programs evaluate:
- Composite Score - Your overall performance
- Science Score - Especially important for nursing programs
- Math Score - Important for medication calculations
- Comparison to Other Applicants - Your percentile ranking
- Improvement - Some schools value score increases on retakes
Retake Considerations
Before retaking the TEAS:
| Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| School Policies | Some accept only one score; others average or take highest |
| Wait Period | Typically 30-60 days between attempts |
| Cost | $100-150 per attempt |
| Score Focus | Target specific sections for improvement |
Setting Your Goal Score
Step 1: Research your target schools' requirements Step 2: Aim 10-15% above the minimum Step 3: Identify your weakest sections Step 4: Create a study plan targeting those areas
Test Your Knowledge
What is a competitive TEAS composite score for BSN programs?
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