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 | 4,255 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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