Are you considering a career in nursing? If so, there are a few essential exams you’ll need to pass before starting your journey. The two most popular exams are the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam. But which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll compare and contrast the TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam, so you can make an informed decision about which one to take.
First, let’s take a look at the TEAS Exam. This test is a comprehensive exam that covers four subjects: reading, math, science, and English language usage. The TEAS Exam is often used by nursing schools as part of their admission process, and it’s designed to test your knowledge and skills in these critical areas.
If you’re serious about pursuing a career in nursing, you’ll need to do well on the TEAS Exam, so it’s essential to be prepared. In the following paragraphs, we’ll discuss the specifics of the TEAS Exam, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.
Key Takeaways
- TEAS Exam and Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam both evaluate critical thinking and other essential skills for nursing.
- Both exams require extensive preparation and can be challenging, but there are many online resources available for TEAS Exam preparation.
- The decision of which exam to take should be based on individual circumstances and the specific requirements of nursing schools.
- Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is considered more manageable than TEAS Exam, but a prep course or study guide is recommended for preparation for both exams.
Overview of the TEAS Exam
Looking to ace the TEAS Exam? Here’s what you need to know!
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Exam is a standardized test that’s used to evaluate the academic skills of potential nursing students. The exam is administered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI). It’s designed to assess the student’s knowledge in four main areas: Reading, Math, Science, and English and Language Usage. The exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 209 minutes.
To prepare for the TEAS Exam, it’s recommended to start early and develop a study plan. There are many study tips available online, such as reviewing the exam format, taking practice tests, and setting daily study goals.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the exam format and structure. This will help you manage your time and reduce your stress levels during the actual test. By following these study tips and familiarizing yourself with the test format, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the TEAS Exam and achieve your desired score.
Overview of the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam
The Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates a student’s knowledge and understanding of fundamental nursing concepts. This exam is designed to assess the student’s readiness for nursing school by evaluating their critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
The Kaplan Exam Format consists of four sections: Reading, Math, Science, and Writing. The Reading section evaluates the student’s ability to comprehend written passages, while the Math section assesses their understanding of basic mathematical concepts such as ratios, proportions, and fractions. The Science section evaluates the student’s knowledge of biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology, while the Writing section assesses their ability to communicate effectively through written responses.
Preparing for the Kaplan Exam requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and practice. Students should start preparing for the exam well in advance by reviewing their notes, textbooks, and study guides. It’s also essential to take practice tests and quizzes to assess one’s understanding of the concepts covered in the exam.
Students can also enroll in Kaplan’s test preparation courses, which offer comprehensive study materials, expert guidance, and personalized coaching to help students succeed in the exam. By following these tips and strategies, students can improve their chances of passing the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam and achieving their dream of becoming a nurse.
Differences Between the TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam
You’ll notice distinct differences between the TEAS and Kaplan exams when it comes to scoring criteria and exam format.
The TEAS exam is scored on a scale of 0-100, with a passing score of 65 or above. The exam is made up of four sections: Reading, Math, Science, and English and Language Usage. Each section contains multiple-choice questions, and the exam is timed for a total of 209 minutes.
On the other hand, the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is also scored on a scale of 0-100, but the passing score varies depending on the school or program you are applying to. The exam is made up of five sections: Math, Reading, Writing, Science, and Critical Thinking. The exam format includes multiple-choice questions, as well as a written essay section. The exam is also timed, with a total of 180 minutes given to complete all sections.
Knowing these differences can help you prepare and tailor your study strategies for each exam accordingly.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the TEAS Exam
If you’re considering taking the TEAS exam, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages.
On the plus side, the TEAS is widely accepted by nursing schools and covers a broad range of topics essential for success in the field.
However, there are also some potential downsides to consider, such as the cost of the exam and the stress involved in preparing for it.
Pros of Taking the TEAS Exam
Opting for the TEAS exam can be a fruitful decision as it offers an extensive range of topics that are essential for nursing students. The benefits of taking the TEAS exam are immense.
Firstly, the exam covers a wide range of topics, from English and language usage to science and mathematics. This means that you’ll be tested on a variety of subjects that are necessary for a career in nursing.
Secondly, the TEAS exam is designed to test your critical thinking abilities, which is a vital skill for any nurse.
Lastly, the exam is a great way to prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is the final licensing exam for registered nurses.
Taking the TEAS exam is important because it ensures that you have a solid foundation in the basic sciences and mathematics, which are essential for a career in nursing. It also tests your ability to think critically, which is a crucial skill for nurses who need to make decisions quickly and accurately.
Moreover, the TEAS exam is widely recognized by nursing schools across the United States, making it an essential requirement for admission to most nursing programs. So, if you’re considering a career in nursing, taking the TEAS exam is a must-do step in achieving your goals.
Cons of Taking the TEAS Exam
Now that you know the benefits of taking the TEAS Exam, let’s talk about some of the drawbacks you might encounter.
One of the main TEAS Exam cons is the cost. The exam can be quite expensive, and if you don’t pass the first time, you’ll have to pay to take it again. Additionally, there are other costs associated with preparing for the exam, such as study materials and tutoring. These expenses can add up quickly, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Another potential drawback of the TEAS Exam is the level of difficulty. The exam is designed to test your knowledge of a wide range of subjects, from math and science to reading and English. This means that you’ll need to be well-prepared in order to do well on the exam. Additionally, the exam is timed, which can add extra pressure and stress. If you struggle with test-taking or have test anxiety, this could be a significant challenge for you.
Overall, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of taking the TEAS Exam before deciding if it’s the right choice for you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam
Although the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam can be expensive, it provides comprehensive and detailed feedback for students to improve upon. The Kaplan test uses a unique scoring system that takes into account not just the number of correct answers, but also the difficulty level of the questions answered correctly. This means that students who answer more difficult questions correctly will receive a higher score than those who answer easier questions correctly. This system allows students to see which areas they need to improve upon and tailor their study plan accordingly.
In addition to the scoring system, Kaplan also offers a variety of preparation materials to help students succeed on the exam. These materials include study guides, practice tests, and online resources. The study guides provide a detailed breakdown of the topics covered on the exam and offer tips and strategies for answering different types of questions. The practice tests allow students to simulate the exam experience and identify areas where they need to improve.
With the help of these materials, students can feel confident and prepared when taking the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam. However, the cost of these resources can be a disadvantage for some students.
Which Exam is Right for You?
Deciding which nursing entrance exam to take can be a crucial step in achieving your career goals. The TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam are two popular options, but which one is better for nursing school? Here are some factors to consider:
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Content: The TEAS Exam covers a wide range of subjects including math, science, English, and reading comprehension. The Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam, on the other hand, focuses more on critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
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Difficulty: The TEAS Exam is known for being challenging, and it requires a lot of preparation to do well. The Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is also difficult but is considered to be more manageable than the TEAS Exam.
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Preparation: To do well on the TEAS Exam, you need to study and practice extensively. There are many resources available online, including study guides and practice tests. For the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam, it’s recommended to take a prep course or use a study guide to prepare.
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School requirements: Some nursing schools require one exam over the other, so it’s important to check with the schools you’re interested in to see which exam they prefer. Ultimately, the decision of which exam to take depends on your strengths and weaknesses, as well as the specific requirements of the nursing schools you’re applying to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I have to complete the TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?
When it comes to time management during the TEAS exam and the Kaplan nursing entrance exam, it’s important to have a solid test-taking strategy in place. You’ll have a limited amount of time to complete both exams, so it’s crucial to stay focused and manage your time wisely.
The TEAS exam typically gives you around 209 minutes to complete 170 questions, while the Kaplan nursing entrance exam gives you around 3 hours to complete 91 questions. To make the most of your time, it’s important to prioritize the questions that you feel most confident in answering and use any remaining time to go back and review any challenging questions.
By staying calm, focused, and using effective time management strategies, you’ll be better equipped to tackle both exams and achieve your nursing career goals.
Is there a difference in cost between the TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam?
When it comes to cost comparison between the TEAS exam and the Kaplan nursing entrance exam, there is a noticeable difference. The TEAS exam typically costs around $100, while the Kaplan nursing entrance exam can cost up to $400.
It’s important to note that the cost of each exam can vary depending on the testing location and other factors.
In terms of exam format comparison, both exams assess a student’s knowledge in various subjects, such as math, science, and English. However, the TEAS exam includes more specific nursing-related questions, while the Kaplan nursing entrance exam assesses a broader range of knowledge.
Ultimately, it’s important to research both exams and their costs before deciding which one is right for you.
Are there any accommodations available for those with disabilities or special needs during the exams?
If you have special needs or disabilities, both the TEAS exam and the Kaplan nursing entrance exam offer special accommodations and accessibility options to ensure that you have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Some of the accommodations available may include extra time, a private testing room, or the use of a reader or interpreter. These accommodations can be requested through the testing center where you plan to take the exam, but you’ll need to provide documentation of your disability or special need to qualify for them.
It’s important to contact the testing center well in advance of your exam date to ensure that all necessary arrangements can be made.
Can I retake the TEAS Exam or the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam if I don’t pass the first time?
If you don’t pass the TEAS exam or the Kaplan nursing entrance exam the first time, you’re usually eligible to retake them. However, the eligibility requirements vary depending on the institution and the exam.
You may need to wait a certain amount of time before retaking the exam or you may need to pay an additional fee. Make sure to check with the testing center or your school for specific information regarding retaking the exam.
Keep in mind that it’s important to prepare adequately for the exam before retaking it to increase your chances of passing.
How long are the results of the TEAS Exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam valid for?
The validity period of the TEAS exam and the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam varies depending on the institution. Generally, the results of the TEAS exam are valid for one year, while the validity period of the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is usually two years. It’s important to note that some schools may have different requirements, so it’s best to check with your specific institution for their validity period.
In terms of exam duration, the TEAS exam is timed for a total of 209 minutes, while the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam is timed for a total of 3 hours and 30 minutes. It’s important to prepare accordingly for both exams and take advantage of any resources available to you.
Conclusion
So, which exam should you choose: the TEAS Exam or the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and goals.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive exam that covers a wider range of subjects and has a higher level of difficulty, the TEAS Exam may be the better choice for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more focused exam that specifically tests your nursing knowledge and skills, the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam may be the better option.
Regardless of which exam you choose, it’s important to prepare thoroughly and give yourself plenty of time to study. Both exams are challenging and require a strong foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills.
With the right preparation and mindset, you can succeed on either exam and take the first step towards a rewarding career in nursing.
