What is a good TEAS score?

ATI calls anything from about 59% Proficient and 80% or more Advanced. Whether that is good enough depends on the nursing program, so check each one before you test.

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By the LifeScore Editorial Team · Updated · How we check facts

58.7%
Proficient starts
80%
Advanced starts
92%
Exemplary starts
150
scored questions

The ATI proficiency levels

Ranges as published by test-prep sites reporting ATI's levels, with small differences in the cut-offs between sources. Your score report from ATI is the authority.
LevelTotal scoreIn plain terms
DevelopmentalBelow about 41%Well below what most programs accept
BasicAbout 41% to 58%Below most programs' minimums
ProficientAbout 59% to 79%Meets many programs' minimum; the middle of the field
Advanced80% to 91%Competitive for most programs
Exemplary92% and aboveTop of the range

What nursing programs ask for

Programs set their own cut-offs, and they differ a lot. A community college might accept Proficient (around 60% to 65%), while a competitive BSN program might in practice admit only applicants at 80% and above, because it ranks every applicant and fills a limited number of places. Some programs also require minimum scores in each section, accept only the best of several attempts, or limit how many times you can test.

Treat any number you see online as a starting point. Open the admissions page of each program, find the stated TEAS minimum and any rule about retakes, and aim at least 5 to 10 points above the minimum, because admission is competitive.

Section scores matter too

Programs often look at the four section scores, not just the total. A strong science score can matter more to a nursing program than English, and a very low section can be a problem even if the total is fine. Use your section breakdown from a free TEAS practice test to see where you stand.

Where would you land?

Enter your section scores in the TEAS score calculator for a rough estimate of your total and level. Then follow how to pass the TEAS to raise it.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a good TEAS score?

Proficient (about 59% or more) meets many programs' minimum, and Advanced (80% or more) is competitive for most. The right target is the cut-off of the program you want plus a margin.

What is the lowest passing TEAS score?

There is no official passing score. ATI treats about 59% and above as Proficient, and each nursing program sets its own minimum.

Is a 70 on the TEAS good?

It is in the Proficient range, which meets many programs' minimums, but competitive programs often admit applicants at 80% or above.

Can I retake the TEAS?

Usually yes, after a waiting period set by ATI and the school. Many programs limit the number of attempts or take the best score, so check the rules of each program before you book.

Do schools look at section scores?

Many do. Some set a minimum in each section, and science and math are often weighed most for nursing.

LifeScore is not affiliated with Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI). ATI and TEAS are trademarks of ATI. Our practice tests cover the four TEAS subjects with original questions and are not the official test. Reviewed October 2026 by the LifeScore Editorial Team.