Why Minnesota Programs Use the HSRT
Minnesota community colleges and technical programs adopted the HSRT because it directly measures the clinical reasoning ability that nursing programs prioritize — not prior academic performance in science courses. This makes admission more equitable for students coming from non-traditional academic backgrounds.
The Minnesota State system includes several campuses that use the HSRT as a primary or supplementary admissions screen. Requirements, minimum scores, and retake policies vary by campus — always verify directly with the admissions office of your target program.
Minnesota Programs Using the HSRT
The following programs have used the HSRT as part of their admissions process. Requirements change — verify with each program before applying.
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Coon Rapids / Cambridge
HSRT required; minimum score set by admissions
Inver Hills Community College
Inver Grove Heights
HSRT used in admissions evaluation
Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC)
Minneapolis
HSRT required for nursing applicants
Normandale Community College
Bloomington
HSRT used in competitive admissions process
Rochester Community and Technical College
Rochester
HSRT required; verify current threshold
Saint Paul College
Saint Paul
HSRT part of admissions packet
Hennepin Technical College
Brooklyn Park / Eden Prairie
HSRT required for LPN and selected allied health programs
Dakota County Technical College
Rosemount
HSRT used in LPN admissions
* Requirements change. Always verify with the program's admissions office before applying.
How to Apply to Minnesota HSRT Programs
1. Confirm your program's current exam requirement. Call the nursing admissions office directly — requirements sometimes change between academic years and the admissions office has the authoritative answer.
2. Register for the HSRT through your program or through Insight Assessment. Some schools administer the exam on campus; others direct you to an approved testing center.
3. Prepare for 4–6 weeks before testing. Minnesota programs are often competitive with multiple qualified applicants per seat. A score in the 70–75%+ range strengthens most applications significantly.
4. Know the retake policy before your first attempt. Most Minnesota programs follow Insight Assessment's recommended 14-day waiting period, with limited attempts per application cycle.
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