TEAS Test Registration: Cost, How to Sign Up, and What to Know Before You Register
Everything you need to know about TEAS test registration in 2026: costs, how to sign up through ATI or your school, scheduling tips, ID requirements, and what to bring on test day.
Ready to take the TEAS exam? Before you can start showing nursing schools what you're made of, you need to navigate the registration process. While it's straightforward once you know the steps, there are important details about costs, scheduling, ID requirements, and testing options that can trip up first-time test-takers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about TEAS test registration in 2026—from how much it costs to what happens after you sign up.
How Much Does the TEAS Exam Cost?
The cost of the TEAS exam varies depending on where and how you take it:
- ATI Testing Center or PSI Center: Typically $60-$100 for in-person testing
- Nursing School Testing Center: Prices set by the school, usually $60-$140. Some schools include the fee in application costs
- Remote/Online Proctored: Available through ATI for approximately $115, allowing you to take the exam from home
- Score Reports: Your first score report is included. Each additional transcript sent to another school costs approximately $27
Contact your nursing school's admissions office before registering—some schools offer the TEAS at a discounted rate or include it in their application fee. This can save you $30-$50.
Where to Register for the TEAS
There are two main ways to register for the TEAS exam:
Option 1: Register Through ATI's Website
- Go to atitesting.com and create a free ATI account if you don't have one
- Navigate to the TEAS registration section under 'Online Store' or 'TEAS'
- Select your preferred testing option: in-person at a PSI testing center or remote proctored
- Choose your test date and location (for in-person) or schedule your remote session
- Complete payment with a credit or debit card
- You'll receive a confirmation email with your testing details
Option 2: Register Through Your Nursing School
- Many nursing programs administer the TEAS directly on campus
- Check your school's admissions page or contact the nursing department for test dates
- Registration is often handled through the school's testing center or student portal
- Payment may be made directly to the school, sometimes at a reduced rate
If your target nursing school offers the TEAS on campus, this is often the most convenient and affordable option. You'll test in a familiar environment, and your scores are typically sent directly to that program.
In-Person vs Remote Testing
The TEAS can be taken in-person or remotely. Here's what to consider:
- In-Person (Testing Center): Controlled environment with provided materials. Calculator and scratch paper provided. No technical requirements on your end. Available at PSI centers and many nursing schools
- Remote/Online (ATI Proctored): Take the exam from home using your computer, webcam, and microphone. Requires a stable internet connection, private room, and clear desk. An online proctor monitors you throughout the exam. Slightly more expensive but offers maximum scheduling flexibility
If you choose remote testing, do a system check at least 48 hours before your exam date. Technical issues during the test can be stressful and may void your attempt.
What ID Do You Need?
You must bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo identification to your TEAS exam. Accepted forms include:
- Driver's license or state-issued ID card
- US passport or passport card
- Military ID (active duty or veteran)
- The name on your ID must exactly match the name on your TEAS registration
Student IDs, credit cards, and expired IDs are NOT accepted. If your name has changed since registration, contact ATI or your testing center before test day to update your information.
When Should You Schedule Your TEAS?
Timing your TEAS exam strategically can impact your application success:
- Schedule your test at least 6-8 weeks after starting focused study to allow adequate preparation time
- Take the exam at least 2-4 weeks before your nursing school's application deadline to allow time for score processing and potential retakes
- If your school has rolling admissions, earlier test dates may give you a competitive advantage
- Avoid scheduling during finals week or other high-stress periods
- Consider taking the exam when you're finishing relevant prerequisite courses (anatomy, chemistry) so the material is fresh
What Can You Bring to the Test?
- Allowed: Government-issued photo ID, confirmation email or appointment number
- Provided at the center: Four-function calculator (built-in for online), scratch paper, pencils
- NOT allowed: Personal calculators, cell phones, smartwatches, notes, textbooks, food/drinks (in testing room), bags or purses (stored in a locker)
Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies
Life happens, and you may need to reschedule or cancel your TEAS appointment:
- Most testing centers allow rescheduling with 24-48 hours advance notice
- Late cancellations or no-shows may forfeit your exam fee
- Rescheduling fees vary—some centers charge $25-$50 while others allow free changes with sufficient notice
- Remote exams through ATI may have different rescheduling policies—check ATI's website for current terms
After You Register: Preparing for Success
Once you're registered, it's time to focus on preparation. Here's what to do next:
- Take a diagnostic practice test immediately to identify your starting point and weak areas
- Create a study schedule working backward from your test date, allocating more time to weaker sections
- Gather your study materials: practice exams, flashcards, content review guides
- Set up a consistent daily study routine of 2-3 hours
- Plan a lighter study day before the exam—rest is more valuable than last-minute cramming
Sending Your Scores to Nursing Schools
After completing the TEAS, your scores are typically available within 48-72 hours (often immediately for computer-based tests). Your first score transcript is included with registration. To send scores to additional schools, log into your ATI account and request transcripts for approximately $27 each.
Scores are generally valid for 2 years, though some programs may require scores from within the past 12 months. Always verify your target school's score validity requirements before registering.
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