Why Surgical Technology Programs Use the TEAS
Surgical technology is one of the fastest-growing allied health careers, and admissions have become increasingly competitive as demand for surgical technologists rises. Most associate-degree surgical technology programs at community colleges and technical schools use the TEAS as part of their admissions process, though some programs (particularly in Tennessee and parts of the Southeast) use the HESI A2 instead.
The TEAS serves two purposes in surgical tech admissions: it establishes a minimum academic readiness threshold, and it provides a standardized score for ranking applicants in points-based selection systems. Because surgical tech programs are typically small — admitting 15 to 24 students per cohort — the competition for each seat can be intense even when published minimums seem accessible.
Typical Score Requirements
Surgical technology TEAS requirements span a wide range depending on the institution. Published minimums generally fall between 48% and 70% composite, with most community college programs clustering around 58-65%.
On the lower end, Rasmussen University requires a composite score of 48.5% for its surgical technologist program, with exemptions available for students who hold existing health science degrees or have completed qualifying coursework. On the higher end, programs at competitive community colleges may effectively require scores in the high 60s or above to be ranked competitively.
Anoka Technical College in Minnesota, for example, requires a minimum adjusted individual total score of 60%. Delaware County Community College in Pennsylvania uses a scoring rubric that factors in TEAS scores alongside GPA and prerequisite grades, with candidates limited to three attempts per admissions cycle. Temple College in Texas interviews the top 24 applicants based on TEAS scores and GPA, then selects 18 for admission.
Some programs also set section-specific minimums. Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College requires applicants to take the TEAS and uses a point system for ranking, with A&P completion required before the program start date.
Not sure where your weak areas are?
Take the free 5-minute diagnostic and get a personalized study plan — no account required.
How Surgical Tech Admissions Work
Surgical technology admissions typically follow one of two models. The first is points-based ranking, where your TEAS score, prerequisite GPA, and sometimes additional factors (interview performance, healthcare experience, observation hours) are converted into points and applicants are ranked from highest to lowest. The top-ranked applicants receive offers.
The second model is threshold-based with first-come-first-served or rolling admissions. In this model, you need to meet a minimum TEAS score and GPA, and seats are filled in the order applications are received. Anoka Tech uses this approach — applications are considered first-come, first-served once minimum requirements are met.
Most programs accept applications once per year, typically for a fall start. Missing the application deadline or testing window means waiting an entire year to reapply.
Which TEAS Sections Matter Most
Science (30% of total score): Critical for surgical tech applicants. The curriculum is heavily anatomy-based — you need to understand body systems, surgical anatomy, and basic physiology. Completing Anatomy & Physiology before the TEAS gives you a significant advantage on this section.
Reading (31% of total score): The largest section by weight. Surgical technologists must interpret surgical protocols, read physician orders, and follow complex procedural documentation. Strong reading comprehension signals readiness for the clinical environment.
Math (22% of total score): Important for measurement, dosage calculations, and instrument counts. The TEAS Math section covers arithmetic, algebra, and unit conversions — all relevant to surgical tech practice.
English & Language Usage (17% of total score): The lowest-weighted section, but every point matters in a points-based system. Medical documentation and communication skills are part of the surgical tech role.
Preparation Strategy
Take a diagnostic first. Before committing to a study plan, identify your weakest TEAS section. A 15-minute diagnostic quiz can save weeks of unfocused studying by showing you exactly where to concentrate. StudyBuddy offers a free TEAS diagnostic that breaks down your performance by section — no account required.
Complete A&P before the TEAS if possible. Many surgical tech programs require Anatomy & Physiology as a prerequisite anyway. Completing it before your TEAS attempt gives you a substantial advantage on the Science section, which is 30% of your total score.
Plan for limited retakes. Most surgical tech programs allow 2-3 TEAS attempts per admissions cycle, with ATI requiring a 30-day wait between attempts. Some programs, like DCCC, only consider the first three attempts within their testing window. Prepare thoroughly before your first attempt.
Check if your program requires in-person testing. Several surgical tech programs require the TEAS to be taken on campus and will not accept remote-proctored scores. Verify your target program's policy before registering for the exam.