EXAMS FOR NURSING SCHOOLWhen applying to nursing schools, keep in mind that some schools may require different exams. And some nursing schools may not even require any exam! No nursing school will ever require you to take the MCAT because you're not applying to medical school; you're applying to nursing school. Therefore you'll be taking pre-nursing school examinations.
There are two exams taken prior to the application process; these are the TEAS and GRE. Another exam, called the N-CLEX is taken by individuals who are already nursing students or have recently completed nursing school. Read below for the specifics of each test. Take in mind that at these times many nursing schools have made these examinations optional however check in with the schools to verify with them. |
TEAS
|
TEAS is a standardized test used by many nursing schools to evaluate potential candidates for admission. It was developed by ATI, and is intended to be a predictor of a student's success in nursing school.
TEAS V, the most recent recent version, is a 170 question multiple choice assessment of basic knowledge of reading, mathematics, science, and English and language usage. The four sections are timed for a total of 209 minutes. Those who want to apply to ABSN programs can plan on taking the TEAS. The best time to take this exam would be 3-6 months before you start applying to nursing school; therefore if you are unsatisfied with your first score you will have time to retake it. Nursing schools that require the TEAS accept scores that lie 70 or above in all four sections. Typically a score of 85 or above in each section makes you a strong candidate. |
GRE
|
The GRE is a broad assessment of your critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills. The purpose of this test is to help graduate schools decide if you are prepared for their program.
The GRE is divided into three main sections. The Analytical Writing section, the Verbal section, and the Quantitative section. Those who plan on taking the GRE it is recommended that you take the GRE one year prior to your expected entrance into graduate school. |
NCLEX
|
NCLEX is a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine whether or not a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice.
The NCLEX examination is a multiple choice exam which uses an interactive system called Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) to gauge your level of competence. You will answer a minimum of 75 questions. After you have answered the minimum number of questions, the computer will attempt to access your level of understanding and provide additional questions if necessary. NCLEX is taken by nursing students who are either close to finishing or have recently completed either a BSN or MEPN program. As an undergraduate at Cal you are not responsible for taking this test prior to nursing school application, but it is important that you are aware that this is the national board exam you will be taking to officially become a licensed nurse! |