The number of times you can take the TEAS for nursing is governed by a two-tiered policy structure: the test administrator's general rules and your specific nursing program's stricter admissions requirements. Understanding both is essential for planning.
The foundational rules from the assessment provider, ATI, state:
- You may take the TEAS exam a maximum of three times in a calendar year.
- A mandatory 30-day waiting period is required between the first and second attempt, and between the second and third attempt.
However, your nursing program's policy is paramount and always overrides the general rules. Most programs enforce stricter limits, such as:
- A maximum of two total attempts per application cycle.
- A longer mandatory waiting period (e.g., 60 or 90 days) between attempts.
- A stipulation that only scores from the first or second attempt are considered.
Therefore, you must proactively investigate your target school's policy before registering. Strategically, you should plan to take the TEAS for nursing only after thorough preparation, treating your first attempt as your primary opportunity. If a retake is necessary, use the required waiting period for targeted study based on your performance report. Always prioritize your program's specific limits over the general guidelines when determining how many times you can take the TEAS for nursing.