Know when you need to begin preparing for the exam. Many universities use the TEAS as a part of the application review process for admission into their nursing department. You should base the date of the test around the application deadline for the school of your choice. A month or so in advance should be a good guiding point, allowing you plenty of time to get all your application materials in order. Since the TEAS tests you on skills which have more than likely already been taught to you, you will mainly need only a few weeks of refresher study. You can never be too prepared, however.
Purchase a TEAS study guide online or at a bookstore. There are several test guides that give examples for what will be on the actual TEAS. Studying these guides will allow you to not only feel prepared for the test, but to also be familiar with the types of questions on the exam. Being comfortable with the exam will lower your anxiety and produce better performance.
Take some practice tests online for each of the test's four sections. If you cannot afford a study guide or simply find one hard to come by, these practice exams are a good alternative. Repeat them frequently; after all, they are free and are a good tool for repetitive study. Set aside an hour or so every other day to concentrate on nothing but these practice tests in the weeks leading up to the exam.
Study with other TEAS test takers. The nursing school that you wish to attend will probably offer a practice course, but there's no better way to study than with friends. Studying with others may help you realize the sections that you're weaker in or may reinforce certain answers for you. Find previous test takers and pick their brains about the test. Benefit from their experience.
Know what the exam consists of and how long it will be. The test lasts for approximately three and a half hours and consists of 170 multiple choice questions. The Samuel Merrit Universities School of Nursing in Oakland, California requires an overall composite score of 78.7 percent to be consider you for admission. Check with your school to see their minimum score qualifications and plan to do much better. If you put in the time and properly prepare for this exam, then there is no reason why you cannot score a 90 percent or better.