The stakes are high for aspiring nurses. Admission committees rely on standardized metrics to ensure applicants can handle the rigorous demands of nursing school, and the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2) is one of the most trusted benchmarks. A strong performance not only boosts your application but also signals that you have the foundational skills to excel in clinical coursework and, ultimately, in patient care.
If you are preparing for the exam, you need more than good intentions—you need a structured plan, the right practice materials, and a clear understanding of test expectations. This article delivers a step-by-step roadmap to HESI success, including a detailed breakdown of the exam, high-impact study techniques, and links to essential resources.
What Is the HESI Exam?
The HESI Admission Assessment (A2), commonly known as the HESI exam, is a standardized test used by many nursing schools to assess applicants’ readiness for nursing school. It is designed to measure the skills and knowledge needed for success in healthcare programs, focusing on a variety of subjects including academic skills and foundational knowledge in areas such as math, science, reading, and English.
The HESI exam is typically required for admission to nursing schools and is used to evaluate academic potential, identify strengths and weaknesses, and determine areas for improvement before starting nursing programs. Many institutions use the HESI to make decisions regarding student admissions, so performing well on the test can be a key factor in securing your spot in the program.
How to Prepare for the HESI Exam
Effective preparation is key to performing well on the HESI exam. Here are some strategies to help you succeed:
Study the Official HESI Study Guide:
The official study guide for the HESI exam covers all the topics that will be tested. This guide is a great resource for familiarizing yourself with the structure of the exam and understanding the content areas you will be tested on.Take Practice Tests:
Taking HESI exam practice tests is one of the best ways to prepare. Practice exams allow you to gauge your understanding of the material, get used to the exam format, and identify areas where you may need to improve.Focus on Weak Areas:
Once you’ve completed practice tests, review your results to identify areas where you struggled. Focus on strengthening these areas by reviewing study materials, taking additional practice tests, or seeking help from a tutor or study group.Brush Up on Basic Math and Science:
Since the HESI exam includes math and science sections, it’s essential to review the basics of arithmetic, algebra, chemistry, and biology. Brush up on your math skills, especially in calculating drug dosages, as this is an important skill in nursing.Improve Your Reading Comprehension Skills:
Read widely and practice answering questions about what you read. Focus on improving your ability to comprehend complex passages and answer questions based on the material.Time Management:
The HESI exam is timed, so practice answering questions quickly and efficiently. Familiarize yourself with the timing of each section to avoid running out of time on the exam.
Why is the HESI Exam Important?
The HESI exam is important for several reasons, especially for those pursuing careers in nursing or allied health:
Admission to Nursing Programs:
The HESI is often a key component in the application process for nursing programs. A strong score can improve your chances of being admitted to a program, especially in competitive schools.Comprehensive Assessment:
The exam assesses your preparedness in core academic areas such as reading, math, and science, all of which are fundamental for success in nursing school.Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses:
The HESI test not only helps schools evaluate your qualifications but also provides you with valuable insight into your own strengths and areas where you may need additional preparation.Predicting Success in Nursing School:
The HESI exam is considered a predictor of your ability to succeed in nursing programs. It provides an indication of how well you will handle the academic rigor of nursing school and helps you identify areas to improve upon.
HESI Exam Structure
The HESI admission assessment is divided into multiple sections that test a wide range of skills. The main areas covered in the exam include:
Math:
This section tests your ability to perform basic arithmetic, algebra, and understanding of ratios and proportions. It is essential to have a good understanding of math concepts as they are frequently used in nursing for calculations related to dosages and measurements.Reading Comprehension:
The reading comprehension section evaluates your ability to read and understand passages. You will be asked to answer questions related to the passage, assessing your critical thinking and interpretation skills.Vocabulary and General Knowledge:
This section tests your vocabulary, spelling, and knowledge of word meanings. It is important for understanding medical terminology and communication in healthcare settings.Science:
The science section focuses on general biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and other subjects that form the foundation of healthcare. Understanding the basics of human biology and body systems is essential for nursing students.English Language and Grammar:
This section assesses your ability to use proper grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Effective communication is critical in healthcare, and this section ensures that candidates have the basic English skills needed to excel in nursing.Critical Thinking:
Some versions of the HESI exam may include questions on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are important for making quick, accurate decisions in healthcare environments.
Each section of the HESI exam is designed to assess a key area of knowledge or skill that is relevant to the success of nursing students. The questions are generally multiple-choice, and you will need to score well across all sections to succeed.
Resources to Boost Your HESI A2 Preparation
CHES Test – If you’re looking for more health education-related certifications, this exam is ideal for those who want to pursue health education roles.
NHA Test – For healthcare professionals who want to advance in their career and pursue certification through the National Healthcareer Association.
These resources, along with your regular study plan, will enhance your preparation and ensure you’re ready to take the exam with confidence.
Interpreting Your Scores
After completing the HESI A2, you’ll receive your scores, which will be used by your nursing school for admission purposes. It’s important to understand what your score means:
90% or Above – Excellent performance, highly competitive for most programs.
80-89% – Good score, competitive for many programs but may need improvement for highly competitive schools.
70-79% – Minimum score for many nursing programs, but may require retaking the test for top-tier schools.
Below 70% – Consider retaking the test after additional preparation.
Review your individual section scores to determine which areas need more focus if you decide to retake the exam.
HESI A2 Exam Requirements and Registration
Before registering for the HESI A2, it’s important to check with your desired nursing school for specific exam requirements. Each school may have different sections they require for admission, so be sure to follow their guidelines.
Here’s how to register for the exam:
Create an Account – Start by creating an account on the HESI website to access the registration portal.
Review School Requirements – Ensure that you are aware of which sections of the exam your nursing program requires.
Schedule Your Exam – Choose a test date and location that works for you. Some schools offer on-site testing, while other students may need to test at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Prepare and Pay Fees – After registering, make sure to pay any required exam fees. These fees typically range between $50 and $100, depending on the program and the testing center.
Conclusion
Achieving a strong score on the HESI A2 is a pivotal step toward securing your place in nursing school and advancing in your healthcare career. By using structured study methods, reliable prep tools, and focusing on key exam areas, you’ll increase your chances of success and set yourself up for a rewarding career in nursing. Stay focused, follow your study plan, and keep your goals in sight—success is within your reach.