What is the HESI?
The HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment) is a test used by many nursing programs as an entrance examination. It helps various schools screen for the candidates with the highest chance of a successful nursing career.
How many versions of the HESI A2 are there?
There are two versions of the HESI A2 exam: HESI v1 and HESI v2.
Typically, institutions offer both versions. Check your school's admission requirements and schedule to see if that is the case.
Also, check if your institution accepts scores from either version before registering.
How much does the HESI cost?
The cost of the HESI exam can vary, depending on how and where you choose to take it. Expect to pay anywhere between $30 to $110.
On average, many schools set their HESI fee at about $45, with an additional $25 proctoring fee if you take the test remotely.
Some schools will allow your first attempt to be free, meaning you will only have to pay if you need/choose to retake the HESI.
Check your school's policies regarding costs and payment, as they will have the most updated and relevant information for their HESI exam sessions.
Where Can I Take the HESI A2 Nursing Exam?
Two options exist for students who want to take the in-person HESI exam.
You can take the exam at the college/university you want to apply to. Usually, the institutions that require the HESI as an entrance exam will hold exam sessions on-site.
You can also take the exam at a Prometric testing center. Before registering, research such centers and their availability in your area.
How many times can I take the HESI?
The number of times you can take the HESI depends on the institution you are applying to. There are two types of limitations set by colleges/universities:
Number of attempts per year: Some schools might only allow a certain number of attempts per set period of time. For example, you are allowed to take the HESI twice during a 12-month period, and you can try again after the 12 months have passed.
Total number of attempts: Some institutions allow students a limited number of attempts in total, usually around 2 or 3. This means that you will not be allowed to take the HESI again at that institution after your second/third attempt.
How long do individuals need to wait to retake the HESI?
The period you need to wait between attempts is set by your school. Usually, you will be asked to wait at least 30 days between attempts, with some institutions requiring up to six months.
Remember to check the admissions requirements of your institution carefully.
Is the HESI the same the second time?
The content on the HESI exam will not be the same on your second attempt. You can expect the same structure, sections, and sub-sections, but the test items (i.e., the questions themselves) will be different.
Can I reschedule my HESI A2 exam?
You can reschedule your HESI A2 exam. To do so, you must cancel your original test day at least 24 hours before you were scheduled for your attempt, then register and pay for a new exam.
Remember that this is the general rule of Evolve/Elsevier exams. However, some institutions will not allow you to cancel or reschedule if you choose to take the HESI A2 through them. Always check your school's policies before registering/canceling.
What happens if I miss my HESI exam because of an emergency?
If you miss your HESI because of an emergency, you will most likely be allowed to reschedule.
Expect to be asked to submit proof of the emergency since many schools will not allow you to reschedule under other circumstances.
How many times is the HESI A2 offered per year?
The amount of times the HESI is offered depends on where you choose to take it:
If you are taking the HESI at a college/university, you need to check their particular policy. These institutions will offer the HESI anywhere from twice a year to every week, so check their website or admissions office for the most updated information.
If you are taking the exam through Prometric, you need to check the centers' availability in your area. Usually, Prometric will offer the HESI every week, and you can schedule your exam through their website.
How far in advance do I need to schedule the HESI?
You should schedule your HESI exam at least 72 hours in advance.
However, always check with your school to see how they handle the scheduling process, as they might have different guidelines and requirements.
Is the exam refundable?
Whether you can receive a refund for your exam in the case of a cancelation depends on where you choose to take it:
At an institution: each school sets its guidelines regarding refunds. Some schools will give you a partial refund, as they require a $20 cancellation fee. Others might not offer refunds for HESI exams, no matter the circumstance.
Always check your school's policies and guidelines before registering/canceling for the most relevant information.
Through Prometric: you are allowed a refund for your cancellation if you take the exam through a testing center. To request a refund through Prometric, visit their website and complete the Request a Refund form.
Can I transfer scores from one school to another?
Whether or not you can transfer your scores depends on your institution.
Usually, schools are strict about their admissions policies and only consider exam scores received through their institution.
If you intend on transferring your scores or using them for multiple programs, you should contact each of those schools to ensure that they will accept your results.
