Wondering about the difficulty of the HESI exam? Like any assessment, its level of challenge depends on thorough preparation. The HESI or Health Education Systems, Inc. exam is known for its difficulty, with an average cumulative score of 49% among test-takers. However, the degree of difficulty varies based on individual readiness and the specific criteria of each nursing program.
Most nursing schools require a passing score between 75% and 90% on the HESI exam for admission. While some students find the exam manageable, others may struggle due to factors like test anxiety, subject matter weaknesses, and inadequate preparation.
However, With proper preparation and a positive mindset, students can overcome the challenges of the exam and take a step closer to their goal of becoming a nurse.
About the HESI Exam
What is the HESI exam for? The primary purpose of the HESI A2 is to predict a student’s potential success in nursing school and on the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) after graduation.
By assessing core competencies, the exam helps nursing programs identify candidates who are likely to excel in their studies and ultimately in their nursing careers.
Structure of the Exam
The HESI A2 consists of multiple-choice questions covering several subject areas. The exam includes:
- Reading Comprehension: 47 questions that evaluate the ability to understand and interpret written health-related texts.
- Vocabulary and General Knowledge: 50 questions focusing on healthcare terminology and general vocabulary.
- Grammar: 50 questions assessing knowledge of English grammar, including sentence structure and common grammatical errors.
- Mathematics: 50 questions that test basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, ratios, and dosage calculations.
- Anatomy and Physiology: 25 questions covering the human body’s systems, structures, and functions.
- Biology: 25 questions on fundamental biological concepts such as cells, metabolism, and photosynthesis.
- Chemistry: 25 questions that may include topics like chemical equations, bonding, and the periodic table.
- Physics: 25 questions covering basic physics concepts (this section is not commonly required by all nursing programs).
In addition to the academic sections, the HESI A2 may include optional assessments such as a Learning Style Assessment and a Personality Profile.
These sections are not scored but can provide valuable insights into a student’s learning preferences and personality traits.
The exam serves to provide you and your college with a current evaluation of your readiness to excel in their nursing program, as well as your readiness for achieving key nursing milestones like passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Learn More: Take My NCLEX for Me
Exam Format and Duration
The HESI A2 is administered in a computer-based format at designated testing centers, remotely from home or on college campuses.
The total duration of the exam is approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, although the time allocated for each section may vary.
An on-screen calculator is provided for the math and science sections, but students are not allowed to bring their own calculators.
Scoring
The HESI A2 is scored based on the percentage of correct answers, with scores typically ranging from 0 to 100%.
Each nursing program sets its own passing score, which generally falls between 75% and 90%.
The average cumulative score for test-takers is around 49%, indicating that while some students perform well, others may find the exam challenging.
HESI scores are valid for two years, after which students may need to retake the exam if they are still pursuing nursing school admission.
Cost of the HESI A2 Exam
Cost Range
The cost of taking the HESI A2 exam varies by institution but typically ranges from $35 to $75. Some schools may charge slightly more, with fees going up to $107 in certain cases, especially if administered through third-party testing centers like Prometric.
Payment Requirements
Payment for the exam must usually be made in advance, often at least one business day prior to the exam date. Accepted payment methods typically include credit or debit cards.
No Refund Policy
Most institutions have a strict no-refund policy for the exam fee, meaning that if a student decides to cancel or does not show up for the exam, they will not receive a refund.
Retake Fees
The cost for retaking the HESI A2 exam is generally the same as the initial attempt, regardless of whether a student is retaking one section or the entire exam.
Retake Policy
Number of Attempts
Most nursing programs allow students to retake the HESI A2 exam up to three times per year. However, this can vary by institution, so students should verify the specific policies of their chosen school.
Waiting Period
There is typically a minimum waiting period of 60 days between attempts. Some schools may have shorter waiting periods (such as 30 days), while others might require a longer interval (up to 6 months). This waiting period is designed to give students adequate time to prepare before retaking the exam.
Eligibility for Retake
Before retaking the exam, some institutions may require students to complete specific remediation or additional coursework, especially if they scored significantly below the passing threshold.
Different Versions
When retaking the HESI A2, students will generally receive a different version of the exam, which means they will not encounter the same questions as in their previous attempt. This can help ensure that students are tested on their knowledge rather than memorization of questions.
What Makes the HESI Exam Difficult?
Individual Preparedness
The most significant factor affecting how hard students find the HESI exam is their level of preparation. Students who have a solid understanding of the subjects tested—such as math, reading comprehension, anatomy, and physiology—tend to find the exam more manageable.
Conversely, those who have not reviewed the material or who struggle with specific subjects may find the exam challenging.
Length of the Exam
Many students report that the length of the HESI exam contributes to its perceived difficulty. The exam can take 4-5 hours to complete, which can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration.
Taking breaks between sections can help alleviate some of this fatigue, allowing students to maintain focus throughout the test.
Subject Matter
The HESI exam encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, and Science. Different students may encounter varying levels of difficulty across these sections, depending on their academic backgrounds and strengths.
For instance, a student proficient in science might excel in the anatomy and physiology segment but face challenges in the grammar section. Effective preparation entails identifying and concentrating on weaker areas to enhance overall performance on the exam.
Test Anxiety
Many students experience anxiety when preparing for and taking standardized tests. This anxiety can hinder performance, making the exam feel more difficult than it might otherwise be. Learning strategies to better manage test anxiety is crucial.
Strategies for Passing the HESI Exam
Daily Practice
Engage in daily practice by answering one question a day. This consistent exposure helps reinforce your knowledge and improves retention over time.
Utilize Practice Tests
Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare. Use free online resources to simulate the exam experience and familiarize yourself with the question formats and timing.
Join Study Groups
Participate in study groups, such as those found on social media platforms like Facebook. Connecting with peers can provide support, motivation, and shared resources, making your study sessions more effective.
Leverage Online Resources
Subscribe to YouTube channels that focus on HESI A2 review questions. These videos can help you understand complex topics and provide insights into common question types.
Consider Premium Study Memberships
Invest in a premium HESI A2 review membership, which often includes access to extensive practice questions, video courses, and study materials tailored to the exam.
Focus on Weak Areas
After taking practice tests, identify your weak areas and dedicate extra study time to those subjects. This targeted approach can significantly improve your overall score.
Use Study Guides and Textbooks
Utilize comprehensive study guides and textbooks that cover all the subjects tested in the HESI A2. Reviewing high school-level content in math, science, and English can be particularly beneficial.
Can I Pass the HESI Exam Without Studying?
Yes! You can pass the HESI exam without studying by using the “pay someone to do my HESI exam” service. This option assigns an expert to take your HESI exam on your behalf, freeing you from the need to study.
This service is particularly beneficial for individuals with busy schedules, offering efficiency and convenience. With this service, there is a guaranteed pass, ensuring success without the risk of failure.
FAQS
How Long Do I Need To Study for the HESI Exam?
The amount of time needed to study for the HESI exam varies by person, but a general recommendation is to dedicate 4 to 6 weeks of focused preparation.
This involves studying for about 10 to 15 hours per week, depending on your current knowledge and comfort level with the material. Tailor your study plan to your strengths and weaknesses for the best results.
Is the HESI Entrance Exam Hard?
The difficulty of the HESI entrance exam varies among students, largely depending on individual preparedness and the specific nursing program’s standards. Many find it manageable, especially if they study adequately.
While some students report feeling challenged, others achieve high scores with focused preparation and by seeking HESI online exam help.
Is the HESI Harder Than the TEAS?
The difficulty of the HESI compared to the TEAS is subjective, as it depends on individual strengths and weaknesses. However, many students find the HESI more challenging due to its increased length, specialized content, and shorter time allotted per question.
Preparing thoroughly for both exams is recommended to maximize chances of success, as they assess similar nursing knowledge and skills.
Is the HESI Harder Than NCLEX?
The HESI exam is generally considered harder than the NCLEX for many students, primarily due to its focus on factual knowledge and content-based questions. In contrast, the NCLEX emphasizes situational judgment and application of nursing concepts.
However, perceptions of difficulty can vary; some students find the NCLEX easier, especially if they score well on the HESI, indicating a strong grasp of the material.