Nursing is a rewarding and in-demand career that promises job stability, growth opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. However, the journey to becoming a nurse often starts with overcoming various educational and testing hurdles. One such hurdle is the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which many nursing programs use to gauge the preparedness of their applicants.
But what if you’re concerned about your TEAS score or prefer a route that doesn’t involve this particular test? Fortunately, there are nursing programs that either accept low TEAS scores or don’t require the TEAS at all.
In this blog post, we’ll explore these options and provide you with valuable insights into navigating your nursing education without the added stress of the TEAS.
What To Do With Low TEAS Score Acceptance?
Before diving into programs that don’t require the TEAS, it’s important to note that some nursing schools are more lenient with TEAS scores. If your TEAS score isn’t where you want it to be, these programs might still offer you a chance to pursue your nursing career.
Understanding TEAS Scores
The TEAS test covers four main areas:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- English & Language Usage.
The TEAS consists of multiple-choice and alternate item-type questions, aiming to assess your proficiency in four areas: math, reading, English language and usage, and science. Most nursing programs advise preparing for the test in advance—ATI suggests a 6-week preparation period—to ensure optimal performance. If you believe pre-test study is unnecessary, consider the following points:
- Schools may limit TEAS retakes. Should you score below the institution’s cut score (the minimum acceptable score, which varies by school), retaking the test is possible. However, some nursing programs only consider the score from your first attempt, while others may average all your scores. Therefore, achieving your best score on your initial attempt is crucial to surpass the program’s cut score.
- A low TEAS score can indicate potential struggles in nursing school. Research indicates that TEAS scores can predict your academic success in nursing classes. Failing to achieve a “proficient” level or higher may signal to programs that you may not perform well in nursing school. This could lead to discouragement, dropout, or program dismissal. Nursing programs aim to admit candidates with the highest likelihood of success and may be reluctant to accept applicants who do not meet or barely meet the cut score.
- Multiple TEAS attempts incur additional costs. Achieving the required score on your first attempt will save money, which can be allocated to other essential needs.
Top 5 No-Entrance-Exam Nursing Schools
Video source : Azednews
We’ve assessed nursing programs nationwide to determine the best nursing schools without entrance exams in 2024. Our evaluation criteria included admissions requirements, reputation, accreditation, and the absence of entrance exam requirements. Here are the 5 programs that maintain exceptional education standards for nursing students:
1) Oregon Health & Science (OHSU) School of Nursing
OHSU offers both traditional and accelerated BSN programs without requiring entrance exams. Key admissions requirements include:
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- 30 hours of prerequisite courses
- Admissions interview
For those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-related field, the accelerated track is an option. The traditional BSN is a three-year program for non-degree-holding students. OHSU also boasts the best CRNA school in Oregon, offering diverse and high-quality nursing education.
- Tuition:
- Residents: $418 per credit
- Non-residents: $766 per credit
- Program Length:
- Traditional BSN: 3 Years
- Accelerated BSN: 15 Months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Application Deadline: January 5th
- Contact Info:
- Phone: (866) 223-1811
- Online: OHSU Information Request Form
- Online Options Available? No
2) California State University, Fullerton
- CSU Fullerton does not require or accept the TEAS or HESI exams for its nursing programs. Applicants must meet other requirements like completing high school coursework and submitting a BSN program application. The admissions process evaluates applicants based on academic performance throughout high school, college, and prerequisite courses.
- Tuition: $3,489.61 per semester (including fees)
- Program Length: Four to five years
- Application Deadlines: November 30th
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (657) 278-3336
- Online Options Available? No
3) Western Governors University (WGU)
- WGU’s nursing school uses a competency-based education (CBE) model, evaluating students based on their mastery of specific skills or knowledge rather than credit hours. This approach allows students to progress at their own pace, primarily through online coursework, though clinical components must be completed in person.
- Tuition: $6,430
- Program Length: 4 years for prelicensure BSN
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone: (866) 225-5948
- Online: WGU Inquiry Form
- Online Options Available? Yes
4) Drexel University
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- Drexel University offers an accelerated career entry (ACE) option for its registered nurse program. The ACE option allows degree-holding students to earn a BSN quickly without an entrance exam. Requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree in another field
- 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Drexel boasts an impressive NCLEX exam pass rate of 97% to 100%.
- Tuition: $18,865
- Program Length: 11 months
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Application Deadline: December 1st and June 1st
- Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (267) 359-5555
- Online Options Available? No
- Drexel University offers an accelerated career entry (ACE) option for its registered nurse program. The ACE option allows degree-holding students to earn a BSN quickly without an entrance exam. Requirements include:
5) West Chester University
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- WCU offers a traditional BSN and an RN to BSN program for ADN-trained nurses. The university doesn’t require the TEAS or HESI exam for admissions. However, the program is very competitive, and the admissions office has a thorough selection process conducted on a rolling basis.
- Tuition: Approx. $7,716 per year
- Program Length: 4-5 years
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone: (888) 920-0937
- Email: [email protected]
- Online Options Available? No
- WCU offers a traditional BSN and an RN to BSN program for ADN-trained nurses. The university doesn’t require the TEAS or HESI exam for admissions. However, the program is very competitive, and the admissions office has a thorough selection process conducted on a rolling basis.
Nursing Programs That Don’t Require TEAS?
If you’d rather bypass the TEAS entirely, several nursing programs don’t use this test as part of their admissions criteria. These schools might utilize other entrance exams, interviews, or prerequisite coursework to evaluate candidates.
Direct-Entry MSN Programs
Direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs are designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and wish to transition into nursing. These programs typically don’t require the TEAS but may have other rigorous admission standards, such as the GRE or prerequisite courses.
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs are another excellent option for career changers. These programs are intensive and designed for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. While some accelerated BSN programs require the TEAS, many do not, focusing instead on previous academic performance and prerequisite coursework.
Online Nursing Programs
Online nursing programs, such as those offering RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN pathways, often cater to working professionals who are already registered nurses. These programs typically don’t require the TEAS, as they focus on advancing your existing nursing education and experience.
Do All Nursing Schools Require the TEAS?
The short answer is no, not all nursing schools require the TEAS. As highlighted above, several types of programs either accept low TEAS scores or forego the test altogether. The key is to do thorough research and find programs that align with your strengths and circumstances.
Other Types of Tests Before Nursing School
While the TEAS is a common entrance exam, it’s not the only one. Depending on the nursing program you’re interested in, you might encounter other standardized tests:
HESI A2
The Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment Exam (HESI A2) is another widely used test for nursing program admissions. It covers similar content areas to the TEAS but may be more tailored to specific nursing skills and knowledge.
NLN PAX
The National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Examination (NLN PAX) is another alternative. Like the TEAS and HESI A2, it assesses your academic readiness for nursing school through sections on verbal ability, math, and science.
How Much TEAS Test Score Needed for Nursing School?
If you decide to take the TEAS, it’s important to understand the score requirements for the programs you’re interested in. While each school sets its own criteria, here are some general guidelines:
Passing Scores
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Often requires composite scores ranging from 58% to 70%.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Typically requires higher scores, generally between 70% and 85%.
- Competitive Programs: Top-tier schools and highly competitive programs may expect scores above 85%.
Additional Considerations
- Holistic Admissions: Some schools employ a holistic admissions process, considering your TEAS score alongside other factors like GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.
- Retakes: Many schools allow you to retake the TEAS if you’re not satisfied with your initial score, often up to a certain number of times within a year.
Conclusion
While the TEAS is a common requirement for many nursing programs, it’s not a universal one. Whether you’re aiming for a program that accepts low TEAS scores or seeking an alternative pathway that doesn’t require the TEAS at all, numerous options are available to help you achieve your nursing career goals.
Aspiring nurses and career changers alike can find programs that align with their strengths, learning styles, and academic backgrounds. Remember, the journey to becoming a nurse is unique for everyone, and the right program for you is out there.
By researching and identifying the best fit, you can embark on your nursing education with confidence and clarity. Good luck, and here’s to your future success in the noble and fulfilling field of nursing.