All About the HESI Exam and Resources to Help Pass
Understanding the HESI Exam and Study Aids to Succeed
If you're pursuing a nursing education, you've likely encountered the HESI exam. This test is widely utilized by nursing programs across the U.S., serving as an admissions criterion or a graduation requirement.
This guide will clarify the HESI exam's components and offer preparation advice for your nursing path.
What does the HESI exam entail? Is it obligatory?
How much time does the HESI take?
HESI A2 in comparison to the HESI exit exam
HESI versus TEAS
What content should I expect on the HESI exam?
How can I effectively study for the HESI?
Study materials
Future actions
Find job opportunities in your area and get answers to your nursing career inquiries
Exploring the HESI exam HESI, short for Health Education Systems Incorporated, is a test that assists schools in evaluating and enhancing student outcomes.
Numerous institutions employ the HESI exam in their admissions process and to prepare students for the NCLEX. Research indicates a strong correlation between high HESI scores and NCLEX success.
Is the HESI compulsory?
While not mandatory for becoming a registered nurse, some schools require the HESI. It often features in the application process and is necessary for graduation at many schools.
Knowing your institution's exam requirements and timing is crucial.
Your school will specify when the HESI exam should be taken. Completing the HESI Exit Exam might be necessary for graduation.
How lengthy is the HESI?
The HESI Admissions Exam features 326 questions over four hours, while the HESI Exit Exam has 150 questions.
Schools might only require specific exam sections, so consult with your institution to determine your focus areas.
HESI A2 versus HESI exit exam
The HESI A2 includes nine sections:
Reading Comprehension Grammar Vocabulary Basic Math Skills Biology Anatomy and Physiology Physics Chemistry
Each section has 25-50 questions. Additionally, a learning style inventory helps schools gauge your learning preferences. This exam provides a comprehensive assessment of your foundational knowledge and learning approach.
At your nursing program's conclusion, the HESI Exit Exam identifies areas of strength and improvement before the NCLEX. Focused on nursing content and critical thinking, it comprises 150 questions, using NCLEX-style formats such as multiple-choice, select all that apply, fill in the blank, and drag/drop.
Some institutions may stipulate a minimum passing score on the HESI Exit Exam for graduation eligibility.
HESI versus TEAS
The TEAS exam (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is another standardized test schools might use. It's broader than the HESI A2, also applicable to non-medical programs.
The primary distinction between HESI and TEAS exams lies in their content. The TEAS exam comprises four sections:
Reading Math Language Usage Science
The TEAS exam involves 170 questions over 3.5 hours, compared to the HESI A2's 326 questions in four hours.
What should I anticipate on the HESI exam?
The HESI Exit Exam includes three sections totaling 150 questions:
Nursing Process: assessment, analysis, planning, implementation, evaluation Client Needs: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, physiological adaptation Nursing Specialties: dosage calculation, fundamentals, health assessment, nutrition, pathophysiology and pharmacology, community health, critical care, gerontology, maternity, pediatrics, medical-surgical, psychiatric/mental health
Remember, personal calculators are prohibited; only the exam computer's calculator is allowed.
Expect results within two weeks post-exam.
How can I prepare for the HESI exam?
Familiarize yourself with your school's focus areas, as you might only need to concentrate on specific subjects.
Develop study strategies aligning with your learning style. Options include study groups, flashcards, practice tests, and guides.
HESI offers numerous study tools and practice tests accessible here.
Practice tests help pinpoint weak areas and estimate your likely score.
A passing score for the HESI A2 varies by school. Check your institution's admission criteria for score requirements.
HESI Exit Exam scores reflect NCLEX pass likelihood:
Above 950: outstanding pass likelihood 900-949: excellent pass likelihood 850-899: average 800-849: below average 750-799: more preparation needed 700-749: significant preparation needed 650-699: fail likelihood Below 649: low performance expected
Schools may require a specific passing score for graduation eligibility. Typically, two attempts are allowed to pass.
The HESI A2 can be taken every 60 days. If your score falls short, three additional attempts are permitted over 12 months.
HESI exam costs depend on the school but typically range from $40-100 per test. Some institutions incorporate exam fees into tuition. Contact your school for payment information.
Study resources
To start preparing for the HESI exam, various practice tests, guides, and resources are available here.
You might also consider starting NCLEX preparation. Many schools offer free or discounted NCLEX test prep.
Several test prep companies provide NCLEX practice tests and study resources. Kaplan and UWorld are excellent sources for diverse study tools.
Choosing the right test prep can be daunting. Hearing firsthand experiences can help. Explore nurse forums for advice tailored to your queries, and connect with other nurses and students.
Future actions
After learning about the HESI exams, what are your next steps?
First, determine your school's requirements and when to take the HESI exam. This information is available on your school's application site or by consulting your academic advisor.
Exams might seem intimidating initially. However, they serve as practice for the NCLEX, helping you advance your registered nursing career.
With thorough preparation, you can confidently pass the HESI exam.
Many tools are available to support your exam preparation, and your hard work will pay off as you embark on your nursing career!
