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TEAS Score Requirements for California Nursing Schools (2026)

180+ nursing programs reviewed • 82% average competitive score

Quick Answer for California

California nursing programs typically require TEAS 7 scores between 78% and 85%, with top-tier institutions like UCLA and UCSF expecting scores above 82%.

vs. National Average

7% higher than national average (75%)

82%
State Average
180+
Nursing Programs

California Nursing Schools TEAS Requirements

Compare minimum TEAS scores for 180+ nursing programs across California

UCLA School of Nursing

BSN
Los Angeles, CA
Minimum TEAS Score85%
Acceptance Rate12%

UCSF School of Nursing

BSN
San Francisco, CA
Minimum TEAS Score84%
Acceptance Rate15%

Samuel Merritt University

BSN
Oakland, CA
Minimum TEAS Score80%
Acceptance Rate28%

Mount Saint Mary's University

BSN
Los Angeles, CA
Minimum TEAS Score78%
Acceptance Rate35%

California State University, Los Angeles

BSN
Los Angeles, CA
Minimum TEAS Score79%
Acceptance Rate22%

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Note on TEAS Requirements

Minimum TEAS scores are the baseline requirements for California nursing programs. Competitive applicants typically score 80-87% higher than minimums. Programs also consider GPA, prerequisite courses, healthcare experience, and essays in admissions decisions. Requirements are updated annually, so verify with specific programs before applying.

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Real results from nursing students in California who used StudyBuddy to ace the TEAS

1,240+
California Students
Trusted by nursing students statewide
18-point
Average Score Increase
From first practice test to final exam
94%
Success Rate
Students meeting their target score
"StudyBuddy's AI tutor identified exactly where I was weak in math and science. I went from a 68% practice score to 87% in just 6 weeks."
Maria Rodriguez
UCLA School of Nursing
TEAS Score: 87%
"The personalized study plan was a game-changer. I work full-time and could only study 1-2 hours daily, but the AI adapted perfectly to my schedule."
Jennifer Chen
UCSF School of Nursing
TEAS Score: 85%
"I failed my first TEAS attempt with a 71%. StudyBuddy helped me understand my mistakes and I scored 82% on my second try."
David Park
Samuel Merritt University
TEAS Score: 82%
Trusted by 500+ nursing programs
25,000+ students nationwide
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California TEAS FAQs

Common questions about nursing school requirements in California

Most California nursing programs require minimum TEAS scores of 78-80%, though competitive programs like UCLA and UCSF typically admit students with scores of 82% or higher. The state average for admitted students is 82%.

California nursing students typically study 6-8 weeks for the TEAS exam. StudyBuddy students in California average 7 weeks of preparation with our AI-powered study plans, achieving an 18-point score increase.

UCLA School of Nursing (85% minimum) and UCSF School of Nursing (84% minimum) have the highest TEAS requirements in California. These competitive programs also consider GPA, healthcare experience, and essays.

Yes, you can retake the TEAS in California. Most schools accept your highest score, though some average multiple attempts. ATI allows three attempts per 12-month period, with a 30-day waiting period between attempts.

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