HESI A2 vs TEAS 7
HESI A2 vs TEAS 7 side-by-side
| Feature | HESI A2 | TEAS 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | Elsevier | ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute) |
| Full name | Health Education Systems Inc. Admission Assessment | Test of Essential Academic Skills, Version 7 |
| Questions | Varies by sections tested (each section 25–55 questions; total ~300) | 170 total (150 scored, 20 unscored) |
| Time limit | ~5.25 hours if all sections scored; typically 3.5–4.5 hours | 209 minutes (3 hr 29 min) |
| Sections | Up to 8 scored: Math, Reading, Grammar, Vocabulary, Biology, Chemistry, A&P, Physics | Science, Reading, Math, English (all four required) |
| Science depth | Separate Biology, Chemistry, and A&P sections, more depth per topic | Combined Science section covering A&P, Biology, Chemistry, and reasoning |
| Scoring | Per-section score (0–100%). No single composite. | Composite % (0–100) plus section scores. Five preparedness levels. |
| Typical passing score | 75–80% per scored section; 85%+ for competitive programs | Program-dependent composite; most require 65–75, competitive programs 80+ |
| Who uses it | University-based nursing programs, especially in Texas, Florida, and the Southeast | Most nationwide ADN and BSN nursing programs |
| StudyBuddy coverage | 1,650+ HESI-specific questions, 34 video lectures, 3 practice exams | 850+ questions, 133 videos, 5 practice exams |
Who should take the HESI
The HESI is the right exam if your target nursing program requires it, and because most programs accept only one of the two, that is the dominant factor. If your program accepts either, weigh the HESI if:
- You have a strong science background. The HESI\'s separate Biology, Chemistry, and A&P sections reward depth. Students coming off recent science coursework often score higher on the HESI than on the broader TEAS Science section.
- You prefer per-section scoring. The HESI reports each section independently. A strong section will not be dragged down by a weak one on a composite, useful if your academic profile has clear strengths.
- You are applying to Texas, Florida, or Southeast programs. The HESI is common in these regions, particularly Houston, DFW, and university-based programs nationwide.
Consider the TEAS instead if your science background is weaker, if you want a shorter exam (3.5 hours vs. 5+), or if you are applying to programs predominantly in states and institutions that use the TEAS.
Content overlap vs. content difference
Where they overlap: Both exams test arithmetic, proportions, measurement conversions, basic algebra, reading comprehension, grammar, cellular biology, and core A&P systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, nervous). A student well-prepared in these areas will perform competently on either exam.
Where they differ: The HESI tests Chemistry and Physics as separate sections, neither appears as a standalone section on the TEAS. The TEAS has a dedicated Scientific Reasoning component (experimental design, interpreting graphs, identifying variables) that the HESI does not test explicitly. The TEAS uses a single Science section that covers Biology, Chemistry, A&P, and scientific reasoning together; the HESI splits these apart.
What this means for your preparation: Study for the exam your program actually requires. Cross-prep materials help with overlap, but each exam rewards specific question formats and section pacing strategies that generic "nursing entrance exam" prep misses.
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