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How long does it take to complete the HESI?

The time allotted to complete the HESI varies from program to program. Depending on which sections you are required to take, your school will let you know the exact time window in which you are expected to finish your exam. 

 

Expect anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, divided between the number of modules you will be tested on. 

How many questions are on the HESI?

In total, the HESI is made up of 381 questions, divided between the 11 sections. 

 

You will likely not be required to take all 11 modules of the HESI for admission, so your exam will not contain all 381 test items. 

What subjects are on the HESI?

The HESI is comprised of 8 academic subjects and three aptitude assessments. 

 

Academic subjects: Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, Grammar, Mathematics, Physics, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary. 

 

Aptitude Assessments: Learning Style, Personality Style, Critical Thinking.

What is the time limit for the HESI?

The time limit for the HESI will vary depending on the number of modules you are required to take. 

 

You can check this detailed breakdown to see how much time is allotted for each module.

How long are the sections on the HESI?

Each section of the HESI is allotted a different time limit, ranging from 25 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of questions in the section.  

What is the hardest part of the HESI A2?

The hardest part of the HESI is generally considered to be the Anatomy & Physiology section. It requires knowledge of histology, the muscular and circulatory systems, and a good grasp of general medical terminology. 

Can I retake one section of the HESI A2?

Whether or not you can retake only one section of the exam is up to each institution. Some will allow you to reattempt only the section you want to improve, while others will require you to retake the entire exam. 

 

Always check your institution's policies and requirements before registering.

Can you pause during the HESI?

There is no pause button on the HESI. You can only select the' Submit and Pause' option. This means that after you have answered a question, you need to submit the answer, then you can pause your test. 

Can I skip questions on the HESI?

You can't skip questions during your HESI. Once you begin a module, you must answer each question in the order it appears. 

 

You also can't return to questions once you have submitted your answer. 

What type of math is on the HESI?

The maths section of the HESI covers basic knowledge about addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions. 

Is there physics on the HESI?

The HESI contains a physics section. It is comprised of 25 questions and focuses on motion, gravitation, optics, and electricity. 

How hard is it to pass the HESI?

To determine the difficulty of passing the HESI, you must consider two factors:

 

Admissions score - the minimum score you need to be considered for admission in your chosen program can be considered your passing score. This varies from program to program, with most falling in the 70-80% range. 

 

Preparation time - the time you spend preparing for the HESI will also determine how difficult it will be to receive your desired score. If you are confident in your knowledge base, you shouldn't find the HESI to be significantly harder than any similar exam.

Do I need to take all sections of the HESI?

Most likely, you will not be asked to take all sections of the HESI. 

 

Each program determines which modules comprise their admission exam, with most programs choosing Mathematics, Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, and Anatomy & Physiology. 

Is the HESI harder the second time?

Generally, the HESI will not be harder the second time. By your second attempt, you should already be familiar with the structure and types of questions, as well as exam conditions. 

 

These factors can contribute to an easier testing experience. 

 

However, the content, as in the testing items themselves, will be different. 

Do I have to take the modules in the order they are listed?

No, you do not have to take the modules in the order they appear on your home screen. 

 

You can begin with whichever section you choose.

What science is on the HESI?

On the HESI, the sections that pertain to science are biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. 

 

You are asked to master basic knowledge in each of these modules. 

How is the HESI A2 exam structured?

The structure of the HESI A2 is made up of 8 graded modules and 2 nongraded assessments. 

 

Graded modules: 

  • Mathematics (55 questions) 

  • Reading Comprehension (50 questions) 

  • Vocabulary (50 questions) 

  • Grammar (50 questions) 

  • Biology (30 questions) 

  • Chemistry (30 questions) 

  • Anatomy & Physiology (30 questions) 

  • Physics (25 questions) 

 

Nongraded modules: 

  • Learning style (14 questions) 

  • Personality Style (15 questions) 

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