Want to be an LVN but I can't pass the TEAS

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I tried once to take and pass the TEAS and I did not do well on the math part. That is not surprising since I'm terrible at math. I'm ok at Science and good at English/Spelling, etc. Anyhow it's just very frustrating not being able to have the career I want to have. I would try again with the TEAS, but I'm so afraid of failing again. My Aunt who spent 30 plus years as an RN said that nursing is not for everyone. And I agree with her. To be honest, it was easy for me to become a CNA and pass the state boards. But I guess becoming an LVN (or LPN) is a lot harder. Thoughts? Advice?

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I thought only RN programs require the TEAS. I didn't have to take the TEAS for my LVN program

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I have yet to find an LVN program that does not require that you pass the TEAS exam. Here in San Diego, they all do. The Grossmont Health Occupations Center is where I wanted to get my LVN education since it's in the same town where I live. It's close by and not too expensive. I took the TEAS there and they said come back and try later on, which meant that I did not pass. I was so angry and frankly I felt stupid as well.

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Can you take a remedial math class or two at your local community college? Or maybe look into Khan Academy (it's free) to brush up on your math skills. It's hard to remember algebra when it's not something you use every day.

I'd try at least one more time before giving up. I think you'll wind up kicking yourself if you don't.

Good luck.

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Thanks, yeah I think I need to do that. All my life I have had problems with Math. I have always needed special tutoring for math.

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Hi, I'm sorry that you're struggling with the TEAS. I highly suggest you get a detailed outline of your test, get a TEAS book that us up to date, and study your weakest areas for awhile before taking the test again. In MASS (not sure where you are from) but there is a limit of how many times you can take the test which is twice. Next time you go in there take all the time they give you, and do not second guess your answers! You CAN do this! Yes, becoming a nurse is harder than becoming a CNA. As a student who passed the TEAS on the first try, and also a student who failed out of the LPN program, I can tell you it's difficult! However, if this is what you want you'll make it happen. Try your best and never give up! Good luck!

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

To quote...Wayne Gretsky? I think? "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." :)

Are you enrolled in a school as a pre-nursing student right now? If so, reach out to the tutoring service. At both my ADN and RN-BSN schools, tutoring was free.

My daughter took Geometry the summer before 8th grade; it was online, designed primarily for homeschooled students, but the instructor wasn't great about communication. We found out there are some great videos on YouTube! I think Khan is among them (Jen's suggestion.)

Nursing is not for everyone it's true, but if math is your one hangup I wouldn't give up without exhausting all of your resources.

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

"Terrible at math" is not a permanent condition. If you need help- GET HELP! Work at it, every single day until you are proficient to the degree you need to be to be a nurse. Maybe that will take you a month. Maybe it will take you a year. You put in the necessary work- you can succeed.

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