What is HESI?
HESI stands for Health Education Systems, Inc., and it is most commonly associated with the HESI A2 (Admission Assessment) Exam, a standardized test used by nursing schools across the United States as part of the admissions process. The HESI exam is designed to assess a student’s readiness to enter nursing programs, such as associate’s degree (ADN), bachelor’s degree (BSN), or practical nursing (LPN/LVN) programs.
HESI is developed by Elsevier, a leading provider of scientific, technical, and medical information, and it plays a vital role not only in admissions but also in benchmarking students’ knowledge throughout their nursing education and before licensing exams like the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN.
Purpose of the HESI Exam
The primary purpose of the HESI A2 is to predict a candidate’s success in nursing school. It evaluates the academic knowledge and skills that are considered essential for nursing students. By doing so, nursing programs can admit students who are most likely to succeed and graduate. In addition, many nursing programs use different versions of HESI assessments throughout the curriculum to identify academic strengths and weaknesses, guide remediation, and increase NCLEX pass rates.
Structure of the HESI A2 Exam
The HESI A2 exam typically consists of up to 10 different sections, although not all nursing schools require applicants to complete every section. The most commonly required subjects include
- Reading Comprehension
- Measures the ability to understand health-related reading passages.
- Includes topics like identifying the main idea, supporting details, concluding, and identifying tone or purpose.
- Vocabulary and General Knowledge
- Assesses knowledge of health care and general vocabulary.
- Students encounter words often used in nursing and medical contexts.
- Grammar
- Focuses on English grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and commonly confused words.
- Tests how well students can construct grammatically correct sentences.
- Mathematics
- Covers basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, percentages, and dosage calculations.
- Also includes metric conversions and solving word problems.
- Biology
- Topics include cell biology, metabolism, biological molecules, and genetics.
- Some schools require this for students without recent science coursework.
- Chemistry
- Measures knowledge in general chemistry, including chemical bonding, the periodic table, acids/bases, and reactions.
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Covers systems of the body like the muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory, and more.
- Often, one of the most challenging sections is due to its depth.
- Physics
- Not commonly required, but when included, it tests basic physical principles as they relate to health care.
- Learning Style Inventory
- Not graded; helps students understand how they learn best (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.).
- Personality Profile
- Also not graded; designed to help students and instructors better understand personality types in learning and clinical settings.
Scoring and Interpretation
HESI A2 scores range from 0% to 100% for each section. Schools set their benchmarks for acceptable scores. Some might require a minimum of 75% in math and English language sections, while others could set the bar higher.
- Cumulative Score: Some institutions look at the average across multiple sections.
- Sectional Cutoffs: Many programs have minimum scores for individual subjects, particularly in math, reading, and anatomy.
- Retake Policies: Students who do not meet the required score may be allowed to retake the test after a waiting period (usually 30–90 days).
Some programs use HESI results not only for admissions but also for placement or remediation purposes.
Test Length and Format
- The entire HESI A2 exam can take between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the number of sections.
- Most students complete between 4 to 6 sections.
- It is a computer-based test, typically administered at a campus testing center or through remote proctoring.
How to Prepare for the HESI A2
Students prepare for the HESI A2 in a variety of ways. Because it combines general education subjects and healthcare-related content, preparation should be tailored to the required sections.
- Study Guides and Practice Tests
- Many publishers offer official and unofficial HESI A2 prep books.
- Elsevier offers its own HESI study materials, which align closely with the test format.
- Online Resources
- Websites and YouTube channels provide free tutorials, flashcards, and quizzes.
- Some platforms offer full-length practice exams simulating the actual test environment.
- Tutoring and Study Groups
- Students often form study groups or work with tutors for subjects like math or anatomy.
- Time Management
- Since time pressure can be a challenge, timed practice tests help build test-taking endurance.
HESI Exit Exam
Apart from the HESI A2, there is also the HESI Exit Exam, typically taken near the end of a nursing program. Its purpose is to evaluate how ready a student is for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN licensing exam. The HESI Exit Exam is predictive, with scores often correlated with the likelihood of passing the NCLEX on the first try.
- Scores are reported as a percentage and predictive scale, and many schools require students to achieve a certain score (e.g., 850 or above) before being allowed to graduate or take the NCLEX.
- It covers clinical knowledge, nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, pathophysiology, pediatrics, OB/GYN, and more.
Differences Between HESI and TEAS
HESI A2 and TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) are often compared, as both are used for nursing school admissions.
Some schools prefer HESI for its customizable format and use of an exit exam, while others opt for the more standardized approach of TEAS.
Common Tips for Success
- Know your test sections: Focus only on the parts your school requires.
- Don’t underestimate grammar and vocabulary: Many students overlook these sections.
- Brush up on dosage calculations: Especially important for the math section.
- Study anatomy thoroughly: It’s one of the most detailed and challenging areas.
- Practice under test-like conditions: This improves timing and reduces anxiety.
Here is the list of the top 15 companies
Elsevier
Elsevier is the official publisher of the HESI A2 exam and offers the most direct and accurate study materials for those preparing for the exam. Their resources are designed to align closely with the structure and content of the actual HESI A2 test, making them the most reliable option for preparation.
Elsevier provides a variety of study tools, including practice exams, review courses, and study guides tailored to the HESI A2 exam’s specific sections: reading comprehension, math, science, and English. These materials are designed to provide a comprehensive review, helping students to identify and strengthen their weak areas before test day. The study materials often come with detailed answer explanations, which help to clarify concepts and ensure that students understand the rationale behind each solution.
For those who prefer a more structured approach, Elsevier offers online review courses that include practice tests and quizzes to simulate the exam experience. These courses are available in various formats, including interactive and self-paced options, allowing students to study at their convenience.
Another key feature of Elsevier’s HESI prep resources is their ability to personalize study plans. By taking an initial diagnostic test, students can identify which areas need the most attention and create a custom study plan focused on those areas. This approach helps to ensure that study time is spent efficiently, improving the chances of success.
As the creator of the HESI A2 exam, Elsevier’s materials are considered the gold standard for HESI preparation, and many students find them to be the most effective way to prepare for the test.
Mometrix Test Preparation
Mometrix is a well-established name in test preparation and offers a comprehensive range of study materials for the HESI A2 exam. Mometrix’s approach to preparing students for the HESI A2 is centered around accessibility, providing resources that cater to various learning styles.
Mometrix provides a variety of HESI prep products, including study guides, practice exams, and video tutorials. One of their standout features is their extensive library of practice questions, which closely mirror the format and difficulty of the actual exam. The practice questions come with detailed answer explanations, which help students not only learn the correct answers but also understand the reasoning behind them. This is particularly helpful for strengthening areas of weakness and boosting confidence.
The Mometrix HESI study guides are another valuable resource, offering in-depth reviews of the major test sections: mathematics, reading comprehension, science, and English. Each chapter is broken down into bite-sized sections, making it easier for students to digest the material. The guides include tips and strategies for test-taking, such as how to approach different question types and manage time effectively during the exam.
In addition to written materials, Mometrix also provides online courses and video tutorials, which can be especially helpful for visual learners. These videos cover key concepts and strategies, providing an alternative learning method to traditional study guides.
Mometrix also offers a free HESI A2 practice test on their website, which gives students a chance to experience the test format before sitting for the actual exam. This free practice test is a valuable resource for assessing readiness and pinpointing areas that may require additional study.
Study.com
Study.com is a well-known online education platform that provides an all-encompassing approach to HESI A2 exam preparation. Their HESI A2 prep materials include video lessons, practice questions, quizzes, and a study plan to guide students through each subject area in a systematic manner.
The video lessons on Study.com are among the most engaging and informative study resources available. Each video is concise yet thorough, explaining complex concepts in simple, easy-to-understand language. This is particularly beneficial for students who may struggle with certain subjects, such as biology or chemistry. The video lessons break down key concepts in a step-by-step manner, making learning more accessible and less overwhelming.
In addition to the video lessons, Study.com provides an array of practice questions and quizzes designed to mimic the HESI A2 exam format. These practice questions are broken down into categories, such as math, science, reading comprehension, and English, allowing students to focus on specific areas where they may need more practice. The quizzes are graded automatically, giving students immediate feedback on their performance and highlighting areas that need further review.
One of the most valuable aspects of Study.com is its personalized study plan. After students take an initial diagnostic quiz, they are given a tailored study schedule based on their results. This study plan prioritizes areas that need the most improvement, ensuring that students use their study time as efficiently as possible.
Study.com’s interactive learning platform, combined with its personalized study plans and extensive resources, makes it an excellent choice for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam.
HESI Practice Tests (by Nursing.com)
Nursing.com is a premier online resource for nursing school applicants and provides excellent tools for preparing for the HESI A2 exam. They offer practice tests, study guides, and video tutorials specifically focused on the subjects covered in the HESI A2 exam, such as math, science, reading comprehension, and English.
One of the standout features of Nursing.com is its interactive study materials. Their HESI A2 practice tests simulate the actual exam format, giving students a realistic experience of what they can expect on test day. The practice tests are followed by detailed answer explanations, allowing students to understand the reasoning behind correct and incorrect answers. This can help solidify knowledge and improve test-taking skills.
In addition to practice exams, Nursing.com provides comprehensive study guides that break down each section of the HESI A2 exam. The guides are designed to be user-friendly, with easy-to-follow explanations and tips that make complex concepts easier to grasp. For students who are preparing for multiple sections of the exam, these guides can be a lifesaver, as they cover all the necessary material in one place.
Nursing.com also offers video tutorials, which are ideal for visual learners. These videos are designed to reinforce key concepts and provide additional clarification on challenging topics. By offering a combination of practice tests, study guides, and video tutorials, Nursing.com ensures that students have a well-rounded and effective preparation experience.
For students who are looking for personalized study assistance, Nursing.com’s subscription-based services provide access to expert tutors and other helpful tools. These features make Nursing.com a comprehensive platform for HESI A2 preparation.
Union Test Prep
Union Test Prep is a free online platform that offers a wealth of resources for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam. Their offerings include practice exams, flashcards, and detailed study guides that cover each of the core sections of the HESI A2, including math, science, reading comprehension, and English.
One of the key benefits of Union Test Prep is its accessibility. All of its resources are free, which makes it a great option for students on a budget. The website is easy to navigate, and the practice exams are structured in a way that mirrors the actual HESI A2 test. This allows students to get a feel for the exam’s layout and question types, which can help reduce test anxiety and improve performance.
The practice exams offered by Union Test Prep cover a wide range of topics, and each question comes with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. This helps students learn not only what the right answer is but also why it’s correct, which is crucial for deepening understanding.
In addition to practice tests, Union Test Prep provides flashcards for quick, focused review of key concepts. These flashcards can be an excellent way to reinforce memorization and review material on the go.
Union Test Prep’s combination of free, high-quality resources makes it an excellent choice for students looking for comprehensive HESI A2 test preparation without breaking the bank.
Pocket Prep
Pocket Prep is a mobile-based study platform that offers convenient, on-the-go preparation for the HESI A2 exam. With its mobile app, students can access thousands of practice questions, quizzes, and customizable study sessions, making it a versatile option for busy individuals who need flexibility in their study schedule.
One of the key features of Pocket Prep is its user-friendly interface. The app allows students to customize their study sessions by selecting specific subjects or areas where they need the most improvement. This customization ensures that students focus their time on topics that are most relevant to their current level of understanding, maximizing the effectiveness of their study sessions. The app’s performance tracking tools provide detailed progress reports, allowing students to monitor their strengths and weaknesses over time. This data-driven approach can help students refine their study plans and improve their performance as they work toward their goal.
In addition to its practice questions and quizzes, Pocket Prep provides detailed answer explanations to help students understand the reasoning behind each correct answer. These explanations ensure that students are not just memorizing facts but also grasping the underlying concepts that will help them succeed on the actual exam. The app also includes timed quizzes that simulate the pressure of the real exam, helping students to manage their time effectively during test-taking.
With its mobile accessibility, Pocket Prep makes it easy for students to fit study sessions into their daily routine. Whether on the bus, during a lunch break, or in between classes, students can pull up their study materials and continue practicing at their own pace, making it a convenient and effective tool for HESI A2 preparation.
Test-Guide.com
Test-Guide.com is a free online resource offering a variety of study materials for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam. This platform provides practice tests, study guides, and other valuable resources, making it a great option for students seeking a no-cost, comprehensive preparation experience.
One of the standout features of Test-Guide.com is its wide selection of free practice exams. These exams are designed to closely mimic the actual HESI A2 test, allowing students to become familiar with the format and types of questions they will encounter on test day. Each practice test is followed by detailed answer explanations, which provide insight into the correct responses and help students understand the rationale behind each answer. This feature is invaluable for reinforcing learning and improving test-taking strategies.
In addition to practice exams, Test-Guide.com offers study guides for each section of the HESI A2 exam. These guides break down the material into manageable sections, focusing on the specific content areas that are most important for test success. Whether students need to brush up on math, science, reading comprehension, or English, Test-Guide.com provides targeted resources to help them prepare effectively.
Test-Guide.com also features flashcards and tips for test-taking strategies. The flashcards are useful for quick, focused reviews of key concepts, while the tips offer practical advice on how to approach the exam with confidence. Overall, Test-Guide.com is an excellent option for students looking for free, high-quality materials to help them succeed on the HESI A2 exam.
HESI A2 Exam Prep (by NRSNG)
NRSNG, a well-known online resource for nursing school candidates, offers a comprehensive HESI A2 exam prep course that includes practice tests, video tutorials, and study guides. NRSNG’s approach to HESI A2 preparation is designed to be engaging, interactive, and tailored to the needs of nursing students.
The HESI A2 exam prep course by NRSNG includes practice tests that simulate the actual exam format, allowing students to get a feel for the types of questions they will encounter. These practice tests are followed by detailed answer explanations that help students understand why certain answers are correct, which is essential for long-term retention and conceptual understanding.
In addition to practice tests, NRSNG offers video tutorials that cover the key concepts in each subject area, including math, science, reading comprehension, and English. The video lessons are designed to be clear, concise, and easy to follow, with practical examples and tips for mastering difficult concepts. This makes NRSNG a great choice for visual learners who prefer video content over written materials.
NRSNG’s study guides are another valuable resource for students. These guides break down the material into bite-sized sections, with easy-to-follow explanations and study tips that are specifically tailored to the HESI A2 exam. The guides also provide strategies for approaching each section of the exam, ensuring that students know exactly what to focus on during their studies.
NRSNG’s interactive, comprehensive, and personalized approach to exam prep makes it an excellent choice for students who want to ensure they are fully prepared for the HESI A2 exam.
Princeton Review
The Princeton Review is one of the most trusted names in test preparation, and their HESI A2 prep course is no exception. Offering a range of study options, including online courses, practice tests, and tutoring services, Princeton Review provides a well-rounded approach to HESI A2 preparation.
One of the key features of Princeton Review’s HESI A2 prep course is its structured, guided learning. Students can choose between live online courses, self-paced courses, or personalized tutoring, depending on their preferences and schedule. The live courses are taught by experienced instructors who guide students through key concepts and help them develop strategies for tackling the test. For students who prefer to study independently, the self-paced courses provide access to a wealth of study materials, including practice questions, review guides, and interactive lessons.
Princeton Review’s practice tests are designed to simulate the actual HESI A2 exam, giving students a realistic experience before they sit for the real test. The tests are followed by detailed explanations of the correct answers, which help students learn from their mistakes and improve their performance. In addition, Princeton Review’s study guides cover every section of the HESI A2, ensuring that students are fully prepared for the test.
Princeton Review also offers performance tracking tools that allow students to monitor their progress over time. These tools help students identify areas of strength and weakness, enabling them to adjust their study plan accordingly.
Overall, Princeton Review’s structured courses, expert instruction, and personalized study options make it a top choice for HESI A2 exam preparation.
Kaplan Test Prep
Kaplan is a leading provider of test prep resources, and its HESI A2 prep program is known for its thoroughness and effectiveness. Kaplan offers a range of study materials, including practice exams, video lessons, study guides, and live classes. Kaplan’s comprehensive approach to HESI A2 preparation makes it an excellent choice for students who want a well-rounded and structured study plan.
Kaplan’s HESI A2 prep courses are designed to cater to a variety of learning styles. Students can choose between self-paced courses, live online courses, or one-on-one tutoring sessions. The live online courses are taught by experienced instructors who provide personalized guidance and answer students’ questions in real time. For students who prefer a more independent study experience, Kaplan’s self-paced courses allow for flexible studying and include practice tests, video lessons, and study materials.
Kaplan’s practice tests are one of the key features of its prep program. These tests are designed to closely mimic the actual HESI A2 exam and provide students with a realistic test-taking experience. After completing a practice test, students receive detailed feedback on their performance, including explanations of correct and incorrect answers. This feedback helps students understand where they need to improve and adjust their study plan accordingly.
Kaplan’s HESI A2 prep resources are known for their quality and effectiveness, and their combination of live instruction, practice exams, and performance tracking tools makes Kaplan a top choice for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam.
Real-Exams
Real-Exams is a well-known provider of practice materials for various standardized exams, including the HESI A2. Their platform offers high-quality, realistic practice tests designed to help students assess their knowledge and boost their confidence before taking the exam. The focus of Real-Exams is on providing authentic test simulations, ensuring that students can experience the pressure and format of the actual HESI A2 test.
One of the standout features of Real-Exams is its comprehensive test bank, which includes practice questions across all sections of the HESI A2, such as English, math, science, and reading comprehension. These practice exams are designed to mimic the structure and difficulty of the real test, providing students with a realistic preview of what to expect. The detailed answer explanations help students understand not only the correct answer but also the reasoning behind it, making it easier to grasp complex concepts.
In addition to practice exams, Real-Exams also offers study materials such as flashcards and study guides. These resources are designed to break down the content into manageable sections, enabling students to review each topic thoroughly and efficiently. The platform’s performance tracking feature allows students to monitor their progress and pinpoint areas of weakness that need more attention.
Real-Exams is a great choice for students who want to practice in an exam-like environment, as its realistic practice exams, comprehensive content, and performance tracking tools help students prepare effectively for the HESI A2.
RealTests
RealTests is another trusted online resource that provides practice tests and study materials for a variety of exams, including the HESI A2. Known for its detailed and extensive collection of practice questions, RealTests helps students prepare for the HESI A2 by offering realistic simulations of the actual exam. This makes it an excellent choice for students who want to familiarize themselves with the test format and test-taking strategies.
RealTests stands out for its variety of practice exams, which cover all sections of the HESI A2 exam. Whether students need to work on math, science, reading comprehension, or English, RealTests offers questions that mirror those found on the actual test. The practice exams are designed to be challenging, giving students a true sense of what they can expect in terms of difficulty.
Each practice question is followed by a detailed explanation, helping students understand why certain answers are correct. These explanations go beyond just providing the right answer; they offer insights into the underlying concepts that can help students develop a deeper understanding of the material. This feature is especially helpful for reinforcing learning and addressing common areas of difficulty.
RealTests also offers a performance tracking feature, which allows students to monitor their progress over time. By analyzing their results, students can identify patterns in their mistakes and adjust their study plans to focus on weaker areas. With its realistic practice exams and in-depth answer explanations, RealTests is an excellent tool for anyone preparing for the HESI A2 exam.
Prep4Sure
Prep4Sure is a popular online study resource that offers a wide range of practice exams, study materials, and test preparation tools for the HESI A2. Known for its high-quality content and user-friendly platform, Prep4Sure provides students with everything they need to prepare for the HESI A2 exam effectively and efficiently.
One of the key features of Prep4Sure is its extensive collection of practice tests, which are designed to closely resemble the structure and difficulty level of the actual HESI A2 exam. These practice tests cover all major subject areas, including math, science, reading comprehension, and English, ensuring that students can focus on all the essential topics. Prep4Sure also includes detailed answer explanations for each question, helping students understand the rationale behind the correct answers.
In addition to practice tests, Prep4Sure offers study guides and flashcards that provide targeted learning in specific areas. These resources break down complex topics into more digestible sections, allowing students to study at their own pace and gain a deeper understanding of key concepts. The platform’s flexible study plan makes it easy for students to set up their study schedule and work through materials based on their personal preferences and strengths.
Prep4Sure’s comprehensive approach to test preparation makes it a great choice for students who want an all-in-one resource to help them succeed on the HESI A2 exam. The combination of practice tests, study guides, and user-friendly features provides a well-rounded study experience.
PrepAway
PrepAway is an online platform that offers a wide variety of study materials, including practice exams, study guides, and video tutorials, for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam. The platform is known for its high-quality content and its ability to help students improve their test-taking skills and knowledge across multiple subject areas.
One of the standout features of PrepAway is its extensive collection of practice tests, which cover all sections of the HESI A2, such as reading comprehension, math, science, and English. The practice tests are designed to closely simulate the actual exam, providing students with an authentic test-taking experience. After completing a practice test, students receive detailed explanations of the correct answers, which help them understand where they went wrong and how to improve.
In addition to practice exams, PrepAway offers a variety of study materials, including detailed study guides that break down complex topics into more manageable sections. These guides provide a clear roadmap for students to follow, ensuring that they cover all the necessary material before test day. The platform also offers video tutorials, which are ideal for students who prefer visual learning. These videos break down key concepts and offer tips and tricks for mastering difficult topics.
PrepAway’s study materials are known for their quality and thoroughness, making it a solid choice for students who want to ensure they are well-prepared for the HESI A2 exam.
TestKing
TestKing is a comprehensive test preparation platform that offers a wide range of practice exams, study guides, and other resources for students preparing for the HESI A2 exam. The platform is well-known for its extensive database of practice questions, which are designed to help students practice and refine their knowledge before the actual exam.
TestKing’s practice exams are one of its most popular features. These exams closely mirror the structure and content of the real HESI A2 exam, giving students a realistic experience of what to expect on test day. Each question is followed by a detailed explanation, ensuring that students can learn from their mistakes and improve their performance in future practice sessions. The platform also offers performance tracking tools, which allow students to monitor their progress and focus on areas that need improvement.
In addition to practice exams, TestKing provides study guides and materials for all major sections of the HESI A2, including English, math, science, and reading comprehension. These resources are designed to break down complex topics into easy-to-understand sections, helping students build a solid foundation of knowledge.
TestKing’s combination of realistic practice exams, study guides, and performance tracking features makes it an excellent choice for students who want to be fully prepared for the HESI A2 exam.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right platform to prepare for the HESI A2 exam can significantly impact your test performance and overall success. With a wide range of study platforms available, each offering unique advantages, it’s essential to find one that aligns with your learning preferences and goals. Platforms like TestKing, PrepAway, Prep4Sure, RealTests, and Real-Exams all offer tailored resources that cater to different study needs, from comprehensive study guides to realistic practice exams and additional study tools such as flashcards and video tutorials. These platforms are designed to help you succeed by providing the necessary materials and support throughout your preparation.
It is crucial to evaluate the specific features each platform offers, such as the quality of their practice tests, answer explanations, performance tracking tools, and any additional study resources. For example, some platforms may offer in-depth answer explanations that help you understand the reasoning behind correct and incorrect answers, while others might focus on providing realistic test simulations. By considering these features, you can select the platform that best meets your needs and offers the most value based on your study style. Many of these platforms also provide free trials or demo versions, allowing you to explore their materials before committing fully. This allows you to assess whether the platform matches your learning habits and goals.
When preparing for the HESI A2, consistency is key. Regular practice with mock exams, targeted study on areas of weakness, and in-depth review of your answers can all help you improve your understanding of the material. Additionally, combining these resources with a solid study routine and time management strategies can increase your chances of success. Utilizing different types of study materials, such as practice tests, detailed explanations, and flashcards, will help reinforce the content and keep you engaged throughout your preparation.
Ultimately, the right combination of resources and strategies will help you feel well-prepared and confident on test day. A solid study plan will not only reduce test anxiety but also improve your chances of scoring well on the HESI A2 exam. With careful selection of study tools and consistent effort, you will be on the path to success, allowing you to enter your desired nursing or healthcare program with confidence and readiness.
