hesi critical thinking practice test

HESI A2 Exam Guide

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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Nursing schools can use the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2) to assess an applicant’s abilities to perform successfully in nursing school. The exam tests candidates’ pre-admission knowledge of areas in their programs. It helps guide admission decisions that result in positive outcomes for nursing programs, such as student retention and graduation rates.

Many college and university nursing programs require the HESI A2 as part of the admissions process. Often, applicants must take the exam and provide scores by the application deadline date. At some schools, they must take the exam during the admissions interview.

While the HESI A2 assesses nursing school applicants , the HESI Exit Exam determines a student’s likelihood of passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

This guide offers information on what the HESI A2 covers, where to take it, how to register for the exam, and how much it costs. Keep reading for tips from a nursing professor on passing the examination and a list of study resources.

What Subjects are Covered on the HESI A2 Exam?

The table below lists the HESI A2’s components, topics, and recommended completion times. The exam’s three main academic areas consist of language, math, and science, which test prospective students’ readiness for nursing school academics.

The language section covers grammar, reading comprehension, and vocabulary and general knowledge. The math portion focuses on basic math skills including general math facts, decimals, fractions, household measures, and ratio and proportion. Science topics comprise biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology.

Personal assessment areas evaluate learning and personality styles and critical thinking abilities. Nursing programs select which examinations they require applicants to take and often list them on their admission requirements web pages. If not, candidates should contact the programs to which they plan to apply for subject matter guidance.

HESI A2 Exams

How to register for the hesi a2 exam.

Candidates can take the HESI A2 at designated testing sites and at colleges and universities. Prometric testing centers offer the exam on site or online. Test-takers create an Evolve account on the Elsevier site and register for a distance exam according to their school’s instructions. Students will need to enter a code specific to their school.

Registering for testing at a college or university requires calling the school to schedule or register online and creating an Evolve account. Test fees may vary by institution. Some schools offer online HESI A2 exams. Students take the test on their own computers or in a school’s computer lab and register according to their nursing program’s instructions.

The bottom line for HESI A2 registration and costs: check program admission requirements.

Tips for Passing the HESI A2 Exam

Phyllis Morgan, a member of the Walden University nursing school faculty and a certified family nurse practitioner, offers tips to help students prepare for and pass the HESI A2 exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a calculator on the hesi a2, how is the hesi a2 scored, how long should you study for the hesi a2 exam, can the hesi a2 be taken multiple times, how much does it cost to take the hesi a2 exam, hesi a2 study resources.

A number of resources exist to help with test preparation, including books, apps, websites, and flashcards. The list below features a sampling of the best HESI A2 study guides:

Admission Assessment Exam Review Book

This guide includes sample questions, practice tests, and step-by-step explanations. Pre-tests and post-tests enable quick identification of challenging areas to focus on.

HESI Admission Assessment Practice Test App

Users can download the app and take practice tests with 1,475 questions covering eight subjects. Students can tailor content to their study plans.

Free HESI A2 Practice Test

NurseHub offers eight free subject area tests on its website, along with answers to frequently asked questions.

HESI A2 Critical-Thinking Flashcards

Quizlets free online flashcards help prepare students for the critical thinking assessment.

HESI A2 Practice Test

Mometrix Test Preparation website offers free practice tests in five subject areas along with exam content and study tips.

Meet Our Contributors

Phyllis Morgan

Phyllis Morgan, PhD, FNP-BC, CNE, FAANP, faculty member for Walden University’s master of science in nursing (MSN) program, boasts more than 29 years of nursing experience. Dr. Morgan has been a certified family nurse practitioner (FNP) for several years, and is senior core faculty and academic coordinator for the FNP specialty at Walden. She also works as an FNP for CVS Caremark Minute Clinic in northern Virginia.

Dr. Morgan’s research focuses on African American men’s and women’s health issues. She has published several research articles, presented at national and international conferences, and written grants focused on health disparity issues among African Americans.

Reviewed by:

Theresa Granger, Ph.D., MN, NP-C

With over two decades of teaching and clinical practice as a family nurse practitioner, Dr. Granger is an expert in nursing education and clinical practice at all levels of education (associate, baccalaureate, and graduate). She has published and lectured extensively on nursing education and clinical practice-related content. Her expertise ranges from student advising and mentoring to curricular and content design (both on ground and online) to teaching and formal course delivery. Dr. Granger is one of the founding faculty members of the University of Southern California’s first ever fully online graduate family nurse practitioner program .

Feature Image: AJ_Watt / E+ / Getty Images

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

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HESI A2 Test Review

Everything you need to know to ace the test.

Are you hoping to enroll in a nursing school? If so, you may very well be required to take the HESI A2 exam as part of the application process.

If you’ve just recently heard about this test, and would like to know more about it, you’re in the right place. On this page, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this important exam.

If you’re already familiar with the test, and you’re looking for HESI test prep help, you’re also in the right place. Just below, you’ll find links to a wide variety of free review videos and practice questions that can help you get a great score on the HESI A2 test.

What is the HESI?

What’s the test all about? Well, let’s start with the name. HESI stands for Health Education Systems, Inc., and A2 stands for Admission Assessment. The test is also known by a wide variety of other names, such as the Evolve Reach, the Evolve Reach A2, and the Evolve Reach HESI. However, most people just call it the HESI test. It’s not the name that’s so important about this exam, but what it does.

As part of their application process, many nursing schools across North America use the HESI A2 as an entrance examination. It’s a diagnostic tool, but it’s also a screening tool. Nursing schools have always received far more applications every year than they can possibly approve, and the problem has been getting increasingly worse for the past few decades. Because of the steadily rising population in the United States, the demand for healthcare workers in all fields is growing, including nursing.

The other factor is the HESI exam. A set of great HESI scores, in combination with an excellent academic record in high school, gives a person an excellent shot at getting into nursing school . In fact, excellent scores can help make up for a less than stellar high school GPA. That’s because the test is specifically designed to predict which test takers have what it takes to succeed in a nursing education program.

So when you sit down and finally take the HESI, you want to make sure you’re absolutely prepared to do well, because your results truly can make or break your chances of being accepted.

Check Out Mometrix's HESI A2 Study Guide

Get practice questions, video tutorials, and detailed study lessons

HESI Exam Outline

The HESI is different from many standardized admissions exams in its format. With most college admission exams, such as the SAT or ACT, every person takes the same basic test. There are different versions, to prevent cheating and for research purposes, but with most standardized exams each test taker will see the same kinds of questions, and will have the same time constraints.

With the HESI, though, colleges and universities have a lot more flexibility. There are eight main components that make up the full exam, and schools can choose which ones they want their applicants to take. Depending on your program, you may only need to take the Mathematics, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Grammar subtests. Some schools may ask you to take the Biology and Anatomy & Physiology subtests as well, but the Chemistry and Physics subtests are rarely ever required.

The schools can also set their own time limits for each part of the test, although many nursing schools use the time limits recommended by Elsevier, the company that develops the HESI.

These are the eight HESI A2 tests:

• Mathematics
• Reading Comprehension
• Anatomy and Physiology

On each of these sections, there will be five questions that don’t count toward your score. Elsevier uses these five experimental questions for research purposes, with the goal of improving future versions of the HESI. However, you should do your best to answer each question correctly, as you will have no way of knowing which ones are experimental and which ones aren’t.

Many nursing programs require applicants to take all eight HESI sub-tests, but not all do. You’ll want to check with the nursing school you’re applying to in order to find out which tests you’ll need to prepare for. In addition, to the academic subject tests, there are two additional components of the HESI A2 that most applicants will have to take: Learning Style and Personality Profile. These last two aren’t tests of your knowledge; they measure your aptitudes in certain areas deemed important for success in nursing school. (These two are almost always required.)

Finally, although it’s not a part of the HESI A2 itself, there is a companion test that more and more nursing programs are using in addition to the HESI. It’s called the HESI Critical Thinking Exam. You’ll want to check with the schools you’re applying to in order to find out if you’ll need to take this test.

Check Out Mometrix's HESI A2 Flashcards

Get complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts

HESI Exam Registration

In most cases, the nursing school or program you’re applying to will handle the actual administration of the HESI exam. It will be up to them to determine which of the various sub-tests you’ll take, what the time limits for the various tests are, and where you’ll take the exam. They’ll also determine the fees you’ll pay to take the HESI A2. In many cases, you’ll take the test right on the college campus.

All of this information should be available on the nursing program’s website. If it isn’t, call or email the nursing department of the school to get the information.

Retaking the HESI Exam

This is another matter that is up to each school to decide for itself. Most schools allow at least one re-take if a person isn’t satisfied with their score. However, there is often a waiting period that must be satisfied before attempting the exam again. Some schools allow more than one retake, but only so many within a calendar period. Ideally, you’ll do your very best on your first attempt and won’t need to worry about retaking the HESI .

HESI Scores

There are no official passing scores or failing scores on the HESI exam. Each nursing school or program sets its own standards for ranking scores on each subtest. Generally speaking, though, any score below 75% is considered to be an indication that the applicant is not academically ready for the challenges of nursing school in that area.

A score in the range of 75% to 79% is considered to be in the bottom range of acceptable, but an applicant whose score falls in this range will probably need quite a bit of help to succeed in nursing school. Scores from 80% to 89% indicate that the applicant should be able to graduate from nursing school with only minimal academic assistance. A score of 90% or higher is a sign that the test taker is very likely to do well in nursing school without any academic assistance.

HESI A2 Online Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers a comprehensive online HESI A2 prep course. This course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you may need while studying. The HESI A2 course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering all the Topics
• Over 3,250 HESI A2 Practice Questions
• 150+ Video Tutorials
• More than 550 Electronic Flashcards
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The HESI A2 prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their HESI A2 exam. Click below to check it out!

The Importance of a HESI Practice Test

Making great scores on the HESI A2 can make a huge difference in helping you secure admission into a nursing school program. Conversely, a poor or even so-so showing can ruin your chances of being accepted into a program. While it’s true that in most cases you’ll be able to retake the exam at least once if you do poorly, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll do any better the second or third time.

Generally, people who retake the HESI will have an entirely different version of the test on their retakes, and won’t see any questions that they’ve seen before. So trying to go home and review specific questions you’ve failed won’t work. So you’ll need to put in some serious study before taking it again, which can mean missing the start of a semester and being forced to delay the start of your nursing education by several months, or even longer.

The best plan is to review regularly and thoroughly, starting well before your HESI A2 test date, and then, with a few weeks left to go, take a practice test to find out where you stand. This way you’ll be able to discover which areas you need to brush up on while you still have time to make serious improvements. By doing so, you’ll be in excellent shape to make an outstanding score when you take the actual HESI A2.

By Kate Nockunas

Kate has been Mometrix’s Nursing and Medical Editor for over four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Vanderbilt University, a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Marymount University, and a master’s degree in Education from Johns Hopkins. Kate is a critical care registered nurse who still works occasionally in the ICU and PACU.

Nursing School Entrance Exams – Home

*HESI is a registered trademark of the Health Education Systems Inc., which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.

by Mometrix Test Preparation | This Page Last Updated: February 29, 2024

On this page:

HESI A2 Practice Test

If you need help studying for the HESI A2 test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.

Click below to take a free HESI A2 practice test!

What’s on the HESI A2?

The HESI A2 test is actually split into eight subtests, each covering a different subject. Depending on where you take the test, the time limit and number of questions in each subtest may be a little different, but there are generally around 300 questions in total across the full test.

Here’s the good news: you likely won’t be asked to take all eight subtests .

It all depends on the program, but you may only need to take the subtests that cover more basic knowledge, like math, reading comprehension, grammar, etc. Some programs will ask you to also take the biology and anatomy subtests, and others will require the chemistry and/or physics subtests as well.

Be sure to check with your program administrators so you know exactly which subjects you need to study for!

Let’s take a closer look at each HESI A2 subtest.

• Basic Addition and Subtraction
• Basic Multiplication (Whole Numbers)
• Basic Division (Whole Numbers)
• Multiplication of Fractions
• Division of Fractions
• Changing Fractions to Decimals
• Changing Decimals to Fractions
• Ratios and Proportions
• Percentages
• 12-Hour Clock versus Military Time
• Identifying the Main Idea
• Identifying Supporting Details
• Finding the Meaning of Words in Context
• Identifying a Writer’s Purpose and Tone
• Distinguishing between Fact and Opinion
• Making Logical Inferences
• Summarizing
• Verbal Ability
• Nursing-Specific Word Knowledge
• Healthcare-Specific Word Knowledge
• Eight Parts of Speech
• Nine Important Terms to Understand
• Ten Common Grammatical Mistakes
• Five Suggestions for Success
• Fifteen Troublesome Word Pairs
• Biology Basics
• Biologic Molecules
• Cellular Respiration
• Photosynthesis
• Cellular Reproduction
• Scientific Notation, the Metric System, and Temperature Scales
• Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table
• Chemical Equations
• Reaction Rates, Equilibrium, and Reversibility
• Solutions and Solution Concentrations
• Chemical Reactions
• Stoichiometry
• Oxidation and Reduction
• Acids and Bases
• Nuclear Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• General Terminology
• Mitosis and Meiosis
• Skeletal System
• Muscular System
• Nervous System
• Endocrine System
• Circulatory System
• Respiratory System
• Digestive System
• Urinary System
• Reproductive System
• Nature of Motion
• Acceleration
• Projectile Motion
• Newton’s Laws of Motion
• Uniform Circular Motion
• Kinetic Energy and Potential Energy
• Linear Momentum and Impulse
• Universal Gravitation
• Waves and Sound
• Atomic Structure
• The Nature of Electricity
• Magnetism and Electricity

How to Register

To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to contact your school/program. They will provide you with all of the information you need to get started, including which sections of the test you’ll take and what the exact time limit is.

The fee for the HESI A2 test will differ for every school/organization.

HESI A2 Study Guide and Flashcards

Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.

HESI A2 Scores

Once you have completed the test, the hard part is over!

You should get a score notification on the screen as soon as you finish the test, and you can pick up a score report before you leave the testing center.

One of the perks of the HESI is that there is technically no way to “fail” the test!

How is that possible?

Well, because your HESI A2 scores are used by schools as an evaluation tool, there is no predetermined passing score to achieve. Different schools and programs will be looking for different HESI scores, so what counts as “passing” is totally up to them.

Retaking the Exam

If you did not get the score you wanted on your first try, that’s okay! Most schools will let you retake the test after a waiting period.

Online HESI A2 Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online HESI A2 prep course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The HESI A2 course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 3,250+ HESI A2 Practice Questions
• More than 550 Digital Flashcards
• Over 150 Instructional Videos
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The HESI A2 prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their HESI A2 exam. Click below to check it out!

Is the HESI exam hard?

Yes, this is known to be a competitive and somewhat difficult exam.

How long is the HESI exam?

The length of the exam depends on which sections you are required to take.

How many questions are on the HESI?

Each section contains roughly 25-55 questions.

Self-Assessment Modules

Math practice.

• Intermediate Math
• Advanced Mathematics
• Averages and Rounding
• Basic Algebra
• Advanced Algebra
• Estimation and Sequences
• Fractions and Square Roots
• Measurement
• Percents and Ratios

English Practice

• Basic Grammar
• Intermediate Grammar
• Advanced Grammar
• Author's Purpose
• Reading for the Main Idea
• Basic Reading Comprehension
• Advanced Reading Comprehension
• Reading Vocabulary
• Sentence Correction
• Sentence Flow
• Word Usage Test 1
• Word Usage Test 2
• Word Usage Test 3
• Writing Section 1
• Writing Section 2

HESI A2 Practice Test

Welcome to HESI A2 Practice Test. Our website features free HESI practice tests. These are full-length tests which include answers, computerized scoring, and detailed explanations. The HESI Admission Assessment Exam is used as an entrance exam for nursing schools and health-related university programs. It is often referred to as the HESI A2 exam. The best way to prepare for this test is with challenging HESI practice questions. Choose a topic from the list below to get started now!

Free HESI Practice Tests

Reading test, vocabulary test, grammar test, biology test, chemistry test, anatomy test, more resources, best hesi study guides, find nursing schools, the hesi exam.

The HESI Exam is an entrance test for nursing schools. It includes 7 academic tests along with a personality profile. The total length of the exam is 5 hours and 15 minutes. The creator and publisher of the exam is HESI Evolve. The primary areas tested are English Language, Math, and Science.

The English Language section includes Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Grammar. For the Reading Comprehension test you will read short passages and then answer a series of multiple choice questions about what you have read. The Vocabulary test will measure your knowledge of basic medical terminology. The Grammar test will evaluate your ability to use proper grammar.

The Math section just has one mathematics test, which covers addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, decimals, and fractions. Basic algebra skills are also covered.

The Science section covers Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, and Physics. Physics is new addition to this exam, and some colleges do not include it in their admissions test.

Working through practice questions is a great way to prepare for this test. Start with our free HESI practice tests. Taking these online tests will give you a good idea of which topics you need to focus on during the rest of your test prep. All of our HESI practice questions include detailed explanations as well, so be sure to review the correct answers for any questions you miss. Good luck with your exam!

HESI Practice Test

Try our free online practice tests for the HESI Admission Assessment Exam. The HESI A2 is one of the popular tests used to grant admission to nursing schools. Passing it is an important step on your path to becoming a successful healthcare professional. Our practice questions have all been updated for the 2024 version of the exam.

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HESI A2 Practice Test

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Congrats on taking our HESI Sample Quiz. Take one of our section specific exams below or use our #1 recommended prep course.

HESI Prep Course

Take A Section Specific Diagnostic Exam

1 . Question

A rectangular garden has a length of 12 meters and a width of 8 meters. If a fence is to be installed around the garden, what is the total length of the fencing needed?

• a. 32 meters
• b. 40 meters
• c. 48 meters
• d. 56 meters

2 . Question

A man’s waist measurement is 88.9 centimeters. What is his waist in inches?

• d. 22.5 in.

3 . Question

A recipe requires 3/4 cup of sugar to make 12 cookies. If you want to make only 6 cookies, how much sugar, in cups, do you need?

4 . Question

How many millimeters are in a centimeter?

5 . Question

A carpenter needs to cut a wooden board into 8 equal pieces. If the board is 4 feet long, how long will each piece be?

• b. 4 inches
• c. 6 inches

6 . Question

1 foot is how many centimeters (Note: There are 2.54 centimeters per inch)

• a. 25.4 centimeters
• b. 4.72 centimeters
• c. 30.48 centimeters
• d. 12 centimeters

7 . Question

A car dealer offers many 10 different brands of cars for sale. The average daily sales for the dealer are:

Honda – 2 models, sells 20 of each model per day Toyota – 3 models, sells 15 of each model per day Kia – 1 model, sells 7 each day Ford – 4 models, sells 6 of each model per day

How many total cars are sold per day?

8 . Question

A rental tool company has the following inventory:

25 chain saws, 14 snow blowers, 18 floor sanders, 12 leaf blowers and 19 power washers.

If 25% of the total inventory is available for rental, how many tools can be rented?

9 . Question

A patient is instructed by their doctor to cut back on diet soda by 25%…

The patient currently drink 4 12 oz. cans of diet soda per day.

How many ounces of diet soda can the patient drink if he reduces his intake by 25%?

• a. 12 ounces
• b. 24 ounces
• c. 36 ounces
• d. 40 ounces

10 . Question

On an annual basis, a hospital deliver 1,820 babies. If 55% of the babies born are boys, how many girls were born in a year?

HESI Exam Prep (100% Pass Guarantee)

All hesi practice tests.

If you know which subjects you want to focus on, take one of the HESI A2 practice tests listed below.

HESI Math Practice Test #1

HESI Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test #1

HESI Reading Practice Test #1

HESI Grammar Practice Test #1

HESI Vocab Practice Test #1

HESI Chemistry Practice Test #1

HESI Biology Practice Test #1

HESI Physics Practice Test #1

Other HESI Practice Resources

Use these resources from other providers to study for your exam.

HESI A2 Exam Overview

The HESI A2 exam is an exam given to students who are applying to nursing school. Nursing programs around the country use the exam to find the best candidates for their programs. The exam is administered by Elsevier .

The exam consists of a total of 8 different section exams. There are typically 3 different ways in which you can take the exam:

• Prometric Testing Center
• Remotely at Home
• Through Your School

Each school or program has different requirements. Some schools may require you to take 4 of the below sections, while others may require you to take all 8 sections.

Studying for the HESI A2 Exam

Studying for the HESI exam can be very stressful. The exam is very comprehensive and covers a lot of different subjects. We have listed some tips and tricks below to help you study for your exam.

Tips for Using a Practice Test

It is important to ensure that you are using a HESI practice exam the correct way. Here are some tips:

• Take a Practice Exam from Each Subject: It is important to expose yourself to the different HESI subject exams you will be taking.
• Review Each Practice Exam: Make sure to take some time to assess how you did on your practice exams. Did you struggle on certain exams?
• Determine Problem Areas: Use your practice exams to determine which areas you need to focus on. This will save you time when studying and help you pinpoint which areas are most critical for you to study.
• Take a Final Exam: Before your actual test day, take a final practice exam that includes all subjects you will be taking. This will help you truly figure out if you are ready for your exam.

Tips for Using a Study Guide

A HESI study guide is a great resource to use to prepare for your exam.

A good way to see if you need a study guide is by taking our HESI practice test above and seeing how you do. If you decide that you need a study guide, here are some tips to use:

• Research Your Options: There are many great options out there. We did some of the work for you and ranked the best HESI prep courses .
• Consider Your Learning Style: If you learn best by taking practice exams, purchase a program that comes with a lot of questions and exams.
• Narrow Down Problem Areas: Try to narrow down which subjects give you the most trouble. You can narrow down those areas by answering HESI practice questions and seeing which subjects give you the most issues.

If you decide that you need a study guide, our #1 recommended provider is BoostPrep. They have a very comprehensive  HESI prep course  and it is the best value you are going to find ($49).

Benefits of Using a HESI Practice Test

Using free HESI practice tests is a great way to prepare for the actual exam. Some of the benefits of using practice exams include:

• Narrow Down Your Struggles: You can get a better idea of where you excel and where you struggle by answering questions. This will help you determine where to focus your studies and save you time when studying.
• Nail Down Timing: One of the hardest things about the exam is the timing aspect. A practice exam will help you get more comfortable with the timing on this exam, especially for the reading comprehension section.
• Familiarity with the Exam: By taking a practice exam, you will become more familiar with the actual exam. You will see what kinds of questions you can expect to be asked on test day.
• Improved Problem-Solving: Our answer explanations will help improve your problem-solving abilities by giving you different ways to solve the questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hesi a2 exam used for.

The HESI A2 exam is used by nursing schools and programs to assess nursing school candidates.

It is similar to the ACT or SAT, but for nursing school.

What does HESI A2 stand for?

HESI A2 is short for HESI Admission Assessment Exam.

Can I use a calculator on the HESI?

Yes, you can use a calculator. However, you will be provided one and cannot bring your own.

How many questions are on the HESI exam?

There are 326 total questions. Many students are not required to take all sections of the exam.

How much is the HESI exam?

The cost will vary from school to school. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $80.

What is the passing score for the HESI exam?

Every school will have their own requirements. Most schools typically have a minimum passing score of 75%.

For more information on scores, read our HESI scores guide.

Where can I register for the HESI exam?

You can register for the HESI on the  official website .

How long should I study for the HESI exam?

We recommend that you spend 5-6 weeks when studying for the HESI exam. That will give you ample time to study without having to cram before the exam.

• Authored By: Jan Olson
• Last Updated: April 5, 2024

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Hesi a2 Exam, 3000 Questions and Rationales

Get ready to conquer the HESI A2 exam with our comprehensive collection of 3000 practice tests. Designed to help you excel in every aspect of the HESI A2, this resource is packed with a wide range of practice questions covering all the vital subjects you need to master. Whether it’s math, vocabulary, grammar, anatomy, physiology, or any other section of the HESI A2, our extensive practice tests will provide you with the practice and confidence you need to succeed on this critical exam. Prepare with us, and take a significant step toward achieving your nursing career goals

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Mastering the HESI A2 Exam: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Nurses

Introduction.

Embarking on a nursing career begins with a crucial step: the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) A2 exam. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the HESI A2, offering aspiring nurses the insights and strategies needed to excel in this pivotal assessment.

Understanding the HESI A2 Exam

What is the hesi a2.

The HESI A2, or the Evolve Reach Admissions Assessment, is a standardized test widely used by nursing schools as part of their admissions process. It serves as a predictor of a student’s ability to succeed in nursing programs and, ultimately, in their nursing careers.

Importance in Nursing Education

Nursing schools utilize the HESI A2 to evaluate the academic readiness of applicants. It covers a range of subjects foundational to nursing education, ensuring that entrants possess the necessary skills and knowledge.

Exam Structure and Content

Comprehensive coverage.

The HESI A2 spans up to 326 questions across nine content areas, including:

• Reading Comprehension (47 questions)
• Vocabulary (50 questions)
• Grammar (50 questions)
• Mathematics (50 questions)
• Biology (25 questions)
• Anatomy and Physiology (25 questions)
• Physics (25 questions)
• Chemistry (25 questions)

Each section assesses specific skills, from understanding medical terminology to basic math abilities essential in healthcare settings.

Duration and Format

The  hesi exam  typically lasts for about 4 hours and is structured in a multiple-choice format, with a few math problems requiring fill-in-the-blank answers. This format challenges students to not only know the content but also to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Preparing for the HESI A2

The role of practice tests.

Effective preparation is key to succeeding on the HESI A2. Practice tests are invaluable tools, offering insights into the exam format and helping identify areas needing more focus. Platforms like NurseHub and Mometrix offer comprehensive practice resources, including full-length tests and thousands of practice questions.

Study Strategies

• Focused Review:  Concentrate on areas where you are weakest. If you struggle with math, spend more time reviewing basic calculations and dosage equations.
• Regular Practice:  Consistently working through practice questions can build familiarity and confidence.
• Understand, Don’t Memorize:  Grasp the concepts behind the questions, especially in sections like biology and chemistry.
• Utilize Resources:  Online courses, video tutorials, and flashcards are excellent resources for comprehensive preparation.

Time Management

Developing time management skills is crucial. Practice under timed conditions to get a feel for the pace needed during the actual exam.

Exam Logistics

Cost and locations.

The cost of the HESI A2 varies, typically ranging from $40 to $100, depending on the institution. The exam is conducted at designated testing centers, offering a controlled, proctored environment.

Retake Policy

Candidates can retake the HESI A2 once every 60 days, with a maximum of three attempts in a year. This policy underscores the importance of thorough preparation before each attempt.

Scoring and Passing Criteria

Individual section scores.

Each section of the HESI A2 is scored separately, with most nursing programs requiring a minimum of 75%-80% in each area to pass. These scores provide valuable feedback on specific areas of strength and improvement.

Importance of the Passing Score

Achieving the required score is not just about passing the test; it’s about demonstrating readiness for the rigorous demands of nursing education and the healthcare profession.

Conclusion: A Gateway to Nursing Success

The HESI A2 exam is more than just a hurdle to nursing school admission; it’s a foundational step in building a successful nursing career. By understanding the exam’s structure, rigorously preparing, and utilizing the available resources and strategies, aspiring nurses can approach the HESI A2 with confidence, setting the stage for academic and professional success in the dynamic and rewarding field of nursing.

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The HESI Exam will test student's on the following categories:

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HESI NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN

The HESI Exit Exam is usually given in the final quarter or semester of a nursing program at a school. The Exam is designed to mimic the NCLEX Exams.

HESI EXIT EXAM TOPICS: 

The Nursing Process: Assessment, Nursing Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation

Client Needs: Safe and effective environment, Management of care, Safety, Infection control, Health promotion, Psychosocial integrity, Basic Care and comfort, and Pharmaceutical and parenteral treatments

Specialties: Nursing fundamentals, Geriatrics, OBGYN, Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics, Critical Care, Community health, and Mental Health

The NCLEX-RN/PN Exams test students on the following categories with subcategories:

• Safe and effective care environment: Subcategories = Management of care and Safety and infection control
• Health promotion and maintenance
• Psychosocial Integrity
• Physiological Integrity: Subcategories = Basic care and comfort, pharmacological and parenteral therapies, reduction of risk potential, and physiological adaption

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What is the HESI Exam and How Do You Prepare for it?

What is the hesi exam, hesi a2 vs. hesi exit exam, hesi exam faqs, how to register for the hesi exam, how to prepare for the hesi exam, hesi prep courses & practice tests, what to do after the hesi exam.

The HESI exam is an entrance exam required for many nursing programs. It's a predictor of nursing student success, and many schools use the exam as a part of the admissions criteria for acceptance. Not all colleges and universities use HESI. However, it is becoming more common to help students study and pass their licensure exams. 

There are two main HESI exams - the HESI Admissions (A2) and the HESI Exit Exam.

What Does HESI Stand For?

Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) is a company in the United States that helps nurses prepare for and pass their licensure exams. 

The HESI A2 is a 4-hour exam that some schools give to prospective nursing candidates. Schools may use this test to determine if the applicant qualifies for acceptance into their program. 

Schools may also customize the tests for their program and determine what a passing score is. If you are taking the HESI exam, contact your nursing program for more exam details. 

Sections of the HESI A2 Exam

There are 326 questions of the HESI A2. The test includes nine different sections in the following subjects:

• Measures the student’s ability to read about medical and health situations and make conclusions
• Comprehension: 47 questions
• Basic health-care vocabulary
• Grammar: 50 questions
• The HESI A2 covers many areas, including addition, subtraction, fractions, ratios, decimals, multiplication, household measures, and dosage calculations
• This section tests biology basics such as terminology, metabolism, cellular respiration, photosynthesis
• Questions on anatomical structures, body systems, and terminology
• Physics: 25 questions
• May include questions on chemical equations, reactions, bonding, and the periodic table

Keep in mind that schools can change the test by excluding some information. The HESI A2 exam also aims to discover candidates' learning styles, giving schools more information about the student.

HESI Exit Exam

The HESI Exit Exam is a test given by nursing schools that helps determine if a student is prepared to pass the NCLEX exam as they approach graduation. Some schools even use the exam to determine if students will be allowed to graduate.

The company states that the HESI Exit exam predicts whether or not a student will pass the NCLEX exam with 98% accuracy.

HESI RN and LPN Exit Exams

There are 150 questions on the HESI RN EXIT exam. The HESI LPN Exit Exam has either 150 or 75 questions. Both exams aim to assess critical thinking and mimic the respective NCLEX Exams.

As a similar test to the NCLEX, the HESI Exit Exam includes the following types of questions:

• Multiple choice
• Multiple responses
• Fill in the blank

Nursing school graduates must take and pass the NCLEX to become certified and practice as a nurse. For this reason, schools want to make sure that students can pass their licensure exam following graduation. The subjects on the HESI Exit Exam are all subjects that are studied extensively in nursing schools.

HESI Exit Exam Topics 

The Nursing Process

• Nursing Diagnosis
• Implementation

Client Needs

• Safe and effective environment
• Management of care
• Infection control
• Health promotion 
• Psychosocial integrity
• Basic Care and comfort
• Pharmaceutical and parenteral treatments

Specialties

• Nursing fundamentals
• Medical-Surgical
• Critical Care
• Community health
• Mental Health

How Many Questions Are on the HESI?

There are 326 questions on the HESI A2. Students may have up to 4 hours to complete the exam depending on the nursing program.

The HESI RN Exit Exam has 150 questions, and the HESI LPN Exit Exam has either 150 or 75 questions.

How Many Times Can You Take the HESI Exam?

Students may take the HESI admission exam once every 60 days. However, there is a limit of 3 times per 12 months. Scores are valid for two years.

Can You Use a Calculator for the HESI Exam?

You may not bring your own calculator. You are only allowed to use the calculator provided on your computer screen at exam time. 

What is a Passing Score for the HESI Exam?

Passing scores for the HESI A2 are dependent on your nursing school program. Check with your program to see what passing requirements are. 

HESI Exit Exam scores provide the test taker with a prediction of how they will perform on the NCLEX. Nursing schools may also have their own passing score that students must achieve before graduation. In addition, some schools may only allow students to take the test a certain number of times, most commonly twice.

The HESI website states they can predict NCLEX passing scores with the following exam scoring:

• Above 950 - Outstanding pass probability 
• 900-940 - Excellent pass probability
• 850-899 - Average pass probability
• 800-849 - Below average pass probability
• 750-799 - Additional prep needed
• 700-749 - Serious prep needed
• 650-699 - Probability of failing
• Below 649 - Expected poor performance

How Much Does the HESI Exam Cost?

HESI exam costs depend on the institution offering the exam. However, they usually range between $40 to $100 or more.

Why Do You Need to Take the HESI Exam?

Many schools require applicants to take the HESI A2 exam as part of their admissions process. As students near graduation, the HESI Exit exam is a way to predict success on the NCLEX exam. The HESI exam also helps students find the areas where they need to improve before taking the NCLEX exam.

You must register to take any HESI exam, receive test results, register for distance exams, and make payments. To do this, you will also need to create a student account.

• Step 1: Set up an account at https://evolve.elsevier.com/cs/ 
• Step 2: Select “I’m a student.”
• Step 3: On the next screen, select “Register for Distance Testing” 
• Step 4: On the next screen, click “Register” and make the payment or provide a promotion code.

Keep in mind that your institution may have other instructions for you regarding making an Elsevier account registering for a HESI exam. Check with your instructors to see if they have any additional requirements for registration.

Studying for the HESI exam might seem like a monumental process now, but if you plan ahead and understand the details about the test, you can succeed! You will likely need to prepare for a HESI exam before being accepted to a nursing program again as you approach graduation.

Here are a few helpful HESI exam tips:

• Know what subjects will be on your exam. Each nursing program can decide which parts of the HESI exam they will give students. It is essential to know what they are so that you can focus on areas of importance.
• Know how many questions there will be on the test and how long you have to take it.
• Understand that you will not receive a traditional letter grade score, but a score from 100-1000. The higher the score, the better; however, each nursing program may have its own criteria for passing the test. Talk to administrators in your program for more details.
• Use a HESI study guide.
• Use HESI flashcards or make your own.
• Have a study schedule.
• If you are already in your nursing program, use the HESI practice tests as a way to find your weak spots. 

HESI offers its own “assignable and gradable” quizzes for self-practice. Self-quizzing throughout your nursing program will best prepare you for answering questions on your licensure exam. It also provides you with details into the subject areas you are underperforming in. 

Several other companies also offer HESI prep courses online. Some of the most popular courses include:

• Nursing.com *
• Pocket Prep

Prep courses are an excellent way to prepare yourself for the NCLEX throughout your program. You can also focus your energy on taking practice tests that align with the coursework you are currently studying.

Prep courses allow you to answer thousands of potential test questions in the same topics you will be tested on during HESI and NCLEX exams.

How Long Does it Take to Get Results?

You will receive your HESI score shortly after your exam. Your score and a remediation plan are sent to you within two weeks of completing the exam. 

What Happens if You Fail the HESI Exam? 

The HESI exam is not a traditional pass/fail exam. It gives you a numerical score between 100-1000. The higher the number, the better you performed on the exam. 

Your nursing institution may have a score that you must meet for program acceptance. You need to speak with your administrators to see what the minimum accepted score is. 

Most nursing schools require that students take the HESI before graduation to ensure they are ready to take the NCLEX. Many nursing programs require a score of 850 or higher because that indicates you will most likely pass the NCLEX.

If your score is too low, you will need to retake the exam. Before you do, make sure that you study with HESI prep courses that will help you perform better the next time. 

No matter what nursing program you go to, you will need to study to pass your courses and licensure exams. The HESI exams are a great tool to ensure that you have the necessary knowledge to earn licensure and perform as a nurse. The testing may seem daunting, but you will succeed if you study hard, focus, and use preparation courses.

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

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The Nursing Admissions Assessment Test (HESI) is a computer-based test consisting of seven modules: Math Skills, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary and General Knowledge, Learning Styles, Personality Styles and Critical Thinking. The HESI examination poses significant challenges, yet our commitment to supporting your success remains unwavering. Our comprehensive app addresses all subjects slated for testing, boasting a minimum of 1000 practice questions for each. Following the completion of each quiz, a personalized study plan tailored to your exam performance will be crafted exclusively for you. Moreover, every practice question is accompanied by a thorough explanation, facilitating your comprehension and mastery of the subject matter. Key Features 1.Meticulously curated subjects by seasoned experts. 2.Tailor your study schedule to fit your needs. 3.Extensive reservoir of question banks available. We eagerly anticipate your presence and are fully committed to providing our utmost assistance. Achieving success in the exam is attainable through consistent daily dedication to your studies. Therefore, seize this rare opportunity without hesitation. Come and download it now. Privacy Policy ：https://sites.google.com/view/likny Terms of Use: https://sites.google.com/view/termlikny

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