TEAS Score Requirements for California Nursing Schools (2026)
180+ nursing programs reviewed • 82% average competitive score
Quick Answer for California
California nursing programs range widely — CSU campuses typically require 78–82%, while UCLA and UCSF expect 84–86%. Community college ADN programs in LA and the Bay Area start around 72–75%.
Score requirements shown reflect published program minimums. Competitive admit averages are typically 5–12 points higher than minimums.
How California Compares
Average TEAS 7 score for admitted nursing students — California vs. neighboring states and national average
Scores represent typical admitted student averages. Individual program minimums vary — always verify directly with programs you're applying to.
California Nursing Schools TEAS Requirements
Compare minimum TEAS scores for 180+ nursing programs across California
| Institution Name | Location | Program Type | Minimum TEAS Score | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCLA School of Nursing | Los Angeles, CA | BSN | 85% | 12% |
| UCSF School of Nursing | San Francisco, CA | BSN | 84% | 15% |
| Samuel Merritt University | Oakland, CA | BSN | 80% | 28% |
| Mount Saint Mary's University | Los Angeles, CA | BSN | 78% | 35% |
| California State University, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | BSN | 79% | 22% |
UCLA School of Nursing
BSNUCSF School of Nursing
BSNSamuel Merritt University
BSNMount Saint Mary's University
BSNCalifornia State University, Los Angeles
BSNNot Meeting California's Requirements?
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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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Allied Health Program Requirements in California
The TEAS 7 is required for admission to most allied health programs in California — not just nursing. Here are typical score benchmarks by program type.
Radiologic Technology
60+ programs in California
CA has one of the largest rad tech job markets nationally. Many programs are impacted — apply to multiple.
Dental Hygiene
40+ programs in California
TEAS is required at most CA dental hygiene programs. Science subsection is weighted heavily.
Respiratory Therapy
25+ programs in California
Surgical Technology
30+ programs in California
Sonography
20+ programs in California
Highly competitive in CA — sonography programs typically require strong math and science subscore.
StudyBuddy prepares you for all allied health entrance exams
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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's AI diagnostic identifies your weakest sections so you spend study time where it counts most.
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.
California rad tech programs typically require TEAS scores of 70–78%, with competitive programs expecting 74%+. Programs at Loma Linda, UCSF, and Cedars-Sinai affiliates are among the most selective. Apply early — most programs fill within the first application window.
UC campuses (UCLA, UCSF, UC Davis, UC Irvine) are significantly more competitive than CSU programs, typically requiring TEAS scores 4–8% higher and GPAs above 3.5. CSU Long Beach, CSU Fullerton, and San Jose State offer strong programs with somewhat more accessible entry points.
Spring 2026 applications — deadline March 1, 2026
California nursing programs fill quickly. Most Spring 2026 applications are due by March 1st.
How StudyBuddy Prepares You for California Programs
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TEAS 7 Study Guides
Faculty-written. Free to read.
What Is a Good TEAS 7 Score? (2026 Requirements)
6 min read →Study StrategyThe Hardest TEAS 7 Sections, Ranked
7 min read →Study SchedulesA 6-Week TEAS 7 Study Schedule That Actually Works
8 min read →Section GuidesHow to Study for TEAS 7 Science (Complete Guide)
9 min read →Exam ComparisonTEAS 7 vs HESI A2: Which Exam Does Your Program Require?
6 min read →Allied HealthTEAS Requirements for Allied Health Programs (2026)
8 min read →HSRTWhat Is the HSRT Exam? (Complete Guide)
7 min read →Ready to Ace Your California Nursing School Application?
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