Many students struggle with TEAS Math because it requires both computational accuracy and the ability to apply concepts to real-world healthcare scenarios. Word problems—especially those involving dosing, conversions, and proportional reasoning—trip up students who've memorized procedures without truly understanding the underlying concepts. Additionally, time pressure during the exam can amplify math anxiety, making it harder to think clearly through multi-step problems.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify exactly where your understanding breaks down—whether it's with fractions, word problem setup, or test-taking strategy—and build your confidence from there. Rather than rushing through practice problems, tutors help you see the patterns and connections between concepts, so you can tackle unfamiliar problems with a clear strategy. This targeted approach also addresses math anxiety by building mastery at a pace that works for you.

Your first session is about understanding your specific needs. Tutors will likely review your background with math, identify which TEAS topics feel strongest and weakest, and discuss your timeline and goals. This diagnostic conversation helps tutors create a personalized study plan that targets your gaps while reinforcing what you already know—so you're building on a solid foundation.

Word problem success comes from breaking problems into steps: identifying what you're given, what you're solving for, and which operation or formula applies. Tutors teach you to translate words into mathematical language and show you how to check whether your answer makes sense in context. With practice and feedback on your problem-solving process, you'll develop strategies that work across different scenarios—from medication dosing to IV flow rates.

Preparation time varies depending on your current math skills and how much time you can dedicate to studying. Many students benefit from 4-8 weeks of consistent tutoring combined with independent practice, though some may need more or less time. Your tutor will help you create a realistic timeline based on your starting point and target test date, ensuring you have time to move beyond just knowing procedures to truly understanding the concepts.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have deep knowledge of TEAS Math content and understand the specific challenges nursing school applicants face. Tutors work with you to build both conceptual understanding and test-taking skills, whether you're just starting your prep or refining your approach close to test day. Getting matched with the right tutor means you have personalized support tailored to your learning style and goals.

Absolutely. Math anxiety often stems from past experiences or gaps in understanding that make problems feel overwhelming. Personalized tutoring builds confidence by breaking concepts into manageable pieces and celebrating progress along the way. When you understand the reasoning behind each step and see yourself solving problems successfully, anxiety naturally decreases—and your performance improves.