The HESI exam is a crucial stepping stone for aspiring nurses, assessing a student s readiness to enter and succeed in nursing programs. With different sections covering a wide array of topics, it helps schools evaluate applicants and ensure they’re prepared for the demands of a nursing career. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the HESI exam, including types, sections, scoring, and preparation tips.
What Is the HESI Exam?
The HESI (Health Education Systems Incorporated) exam is designed to measure a nursing student’s readiness for both academic programs and eventual licensure exams, such as the NCLEX. Used by many nursing schools, the HESI exam is typically a required part of either admission or graduation and serves as a predictor for nursing school success.
There are two main types of HESI exams:
HESI A2 (Admission Assessment) Exam: Taken before admission to a nursing program, this exam tests foundational skills across a range of subjects.
HESI Exit Exam: Typically taken in the final year of a nursing program, this exam assesses a student s readiness for the NCLEX.
Understanding the HESI A2 Exam
The HESI A2 exam is often required by nursing programs as part of the application process. It evaluates skills across various subjects to help schools determine whether candidates have the foundational knowledge required to succeed. The HESI A2 is customizable, allowing schools to choose which sections to include based on their specific criteria. It typically takes around four hours to complete and covers nine primary sections:
Reading Comprehension (47 questions)
Vocabulary (50 questions)
Grammar (50 questions)
Math (50 questions)
Biology (25 questions)
Anatomy & Physiology (25 questions)
Physics (25 questions)
Chemistry (25 questions)
Each section tests essential concepts within the subject, and schools often include an additional learning style assessment to understand how each student learns best.
HESI Exit Exam Overview
The HESI Exit Exam is taken near the end of a nursing program and helps students prepare for the NCLEX. Nursing schools use it to determine a students readiness for licensure exams, often requiring a minimum passing score as a graduation requirement. The HESI Exit Exam is tailored for both HESI RN exit exam and LPN students and features:
150 Questions (Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and drag-and-drop)
Nursing Process Areas:
Assessment, Nursing Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation
These areas test critical thinking and clinical reasoning, and the score predicts NCLEX success rates with over 99% accuracy.
How Is the HESI Exam Scored
Each nursing program sets its scoring requirements Scores generally range from 100 to 1000, with higher scores indicating stronger performance. For instance:
950+: High likelihood of passing the NCLEX
850-899:Fair chance of passing, but improvement needed
650-699:Indicates substantial improvement needed
While many nursing schools require a minimum score of 850, it’s always best to check specific program requirements. HESI scores help students identify areas for improvement, guiding their preparation for the NCLEX.
Preparing for the HESI Exam: Top Tips for Success
Identify Key Subjects: Confirm with your nursing program which sections you’ll be tested on. This helps you focus your study efforts on the most relevant subjects.
Know the Format: Each section has a different number of questions and time limits. Familiarize yourself with the format to manage your time efficiently during the test.
Use Study Guides: HESI study guides are valuable resources, covering each topic in detail to help you understand what to expect.
Leverage Flashcards: Flashcards can reinforce critical concepts, especially for vocabulary, anatomy, and physiology.
Practice Tests: Practicing under exam conditions helps build confidence and pinpoint areas that may require additional focus.
Online Certification Prep Courses: Platforms like Elsevier’s Evolve offer comprehensive quizzes and mock exams tailored to the HESI format, helping you review content thoroughly.
Registering for the HESI Exam
To register, go to Elsevier’s Evolve website and create an account. Follow these steps:
Choose “I’m a student.”
Click on “Register for Distance Testing.
Pay the exam fee (usually between $40 to $100).
Be sure to confirm any additional requirements with your nursing program, as some schools may have specific guidelines for registration.
FAQs: Common Questions About the HESI Exam
How Many Questions Are on the HESI A2 Exam?
The HESI A2 exam has 326 questions covering nine sections. It usually takes about four hours to complete, though some students might finish faster. Since schools can choose the sections they want, it’s best to ask your school what parts you’ll be tested on to make sure you’re studying the right material.
How Often Can You Take the HESI Exam?
You can take the HESI admission exam up to three times a year, with a 60-day break between each try. This break gives you time to study any areas where you didn’t score as high. Some schools may have slightly different rules, so check with them if you need more details.
Can You Use a Calculator During the HESI Exam?
You can’t bring your own calculator, but there’s a digital calculator on the screen during the exam. It works just like a regular calculator, so it’s good to get familiar with using one on a computer screen.
What Scores Do You Need to Pass the HESI A2 and HESI Exit Exams?
Passing scores for the HESI A2 vary by program, so ask your school what they expect. For the HESI Exit Exam, a score of 850 or higher is often needed to show that you’re ready for the NCLEX. Scoring above 850 means you’re likely prepared, but if your score is lower, some extra studying could be helpful.
What Do HESI Exit Exam Scores Mean?
The HESI Exit Exam scores tell you how likely you are to pass the NCLEX. Here’s a simple guide:
• 950 or above: Strong chance of passing
• 850-899: Good chance, but review may help
• 800-849: Needs some improvement
• Below 800: More study needed
• These ranges can help you see where you need to focus to improve your readiness.
How Much Does the HESI Exam Cost?
HESI exam fees vary, usually between $40 to $100. Some schools might include the cost in your tuition or offer a discount, so check with them to find out what you’ll pay.
What If I Don’t Pass the HESI Exam?
If you don’t pass, you’ll likely be allowed to take it again after a waiting period. Many schools give you up to three tries a year. Use the time to focus on weak areas with study guides, flashcards, or online prep courses. Failing isn’t the end—it’s just a chance to review and prepare better.
How Long Does It Take to Get HESI Exam Results?
You’ll usually get your results within two weeks after the test. Along with your score, you’ll receive a plan that points out areas where you might need more study. This helps you know where to focus if you need to retake the exam.
Can I Use Online Resources to Prepare for the HESI Exam?
Yes, plenty of online resources, like Elsevier’s Evolve, provide quizzes, practice tests, and study modules. These tools give you extra practice and can help you track your progress so you feel more confident on exam day.
Do All Nursing Programs require the HESI Exam?
Not all nursing schools require the HESI A2 exam for admission, but many do because it helps them see if you’re ready for their program. The HESI Exit Exam, however, is commonly required to check if you’re prepared for the NCLEX and your career in nursing. Check with your school to see if the HESI is required and which scores they consider acceptable.
Why Do Some Schools Require Both the HESI A2 and Exit Exams?
The HESI A2 checks if you have the basic skills for nursing school, while the Exit Exam assesses whether you’re ready for the NCLEX. Schools that require both want to make sure you’re prepared to start and finish nursing school strong. They also use these exams to find areas where students might need extra support to success.
What is HESI RN Exit Exam?
The HESI RN Exit Exam is a test that nursing students take near the end of their program to see if they’re ready for the NCLEX-RN, which is the licensing exam required to become a registered nurse. Created by Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI), this exam covers important nursing topics like patient care, medications, and different medical conditions. Scoring well on the HESI Exit Exam, usually 850 or higher, suggests a good chance of passing the NCLEX. Many nursing schools use this test to identify areas where students might need extra help before taking the official licensing exam..
Following Up After the HESI A2
After completing the HESI A2, results are usually available within two weeks. These scores give you insight into areas needing improvement. Programs may require a retake if the score does not meet their standards, and targeted study plans or prep courses can aid in boosting scores.
Your Path to Success
Preparing for the HESI exam may seem overwhelming, but with the right tools and strategies, you can navigate it successfully. Use study guides, practice exams, and a steady study schedule to build a strong foundation and maximize your potential. Your hard work on the HESI exam is a significant step toward a rewarding nursing career.
