Yes, you can retake the TEAS after failing—ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute) permits unlimited retakes of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). However, nursing schools impose strict retake policies that control timing, frequency, and eligibility. Failing the TEAS once does not permanently bar you from nursing programs, but repeated failures can delay or derail your application.
Official ATI Retake Rules
- ATI requires a minimum 14-day waiting period between TEAS attempts (some versions enforce 30 days).
- You must register and pay the full exam fee ($70–$115, depending on location) for each retake.
- All TEAS scores remain on your permanent ATI transcript—schools see every attempt, including the failing TEAS score.
Nursing School Retake Policies (Most Common)
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| 1–2 Retakes/Year | 70% of ADN/BSN programs cap TEAS attempts at 2–3 per 12 months. |
| 30-Day Wait | Schools like Chamberlain, Rasmussen, and many community colleges mandate 30 days between failing the TEAS and retaking. |
| Highest Score Used | 80% of programs consider your highest composite score, but all attempts are reviewed. |
| 3+ Fails = Lockout | After 3 failed TEAS attempts, some schools require a 1-year wait or proof of remediation (e.g., ATI TEAS SmartPrep completion). |
Strategic Retake Tips to Pass After Failing the TEAS
- Diagnose Your Fail: ATI’s score report shows sectional weaknesses (Reading, Math, Science, English). Focus prep on sections below 60%.
- Use ATI Official Resources: The TEAS Study Manual (7th Ed.) + 2 Online Practice Tests (Form A/B) mirror real questions—students using both improve 12–18 points.
- Enroll in ATI TEAS SmartPrep: 60-day targeted tutoring if you failed the TEAS by >10%.
- Retake Within 21–45 Days: Memory retention peaks; avoid rushing before the mandatory wait.
What If You Keep Failing the TEAS?
- Switch Programs: LPN, CNA, or associate programs at schools like Carrington College or no-TEAS community colleges (search “[state] nursing programs no TEAS”).
- Bridge Pathway: CNA → LPN → RN avoids high TEAS cutoffs.
Bottom Line: Failing the TEAS is common—87% pass on retake with ATI prep. Check your target school’s exact retake policy before scheduling.