HSRT Requirements for Portland Community College
Portland Community College uses the Health Sciences Reasoning Test (HSRT) for Nursing admissions. Here is exactly what you need to know — and how to prepare.
PCC does not publish a minimum HSRT score. Given PCC’s size and the competitiveness of Portland-area nursing programs, the applicant pool is large. Scoring 70+ gives you a strong competitive position.
What the HSRT Tests
The HSRT measures six critical thinking skills. There is no science content to memorize — your score depends entirely on how you reason through arguments, data, and logical problems.
Why Your Score Matters Beyond the Minimum
Portland Community College is one of the largest community colleges in Oregon and one of only two Oregon institutions confirmed to use the HSRT for nursing admissions.
At most programs using the HSRT, meeting the minimum puts you in the applicant pool — it does not guarantee a seat. Programs with limited enrollment rank applicants competitively. Every additional point improves your position.
How to Prepare for the HSRT
Most students make the mistake of reviewing science content for an exam that does not test science. The HSRT tests how you reason, not what you know.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HSRT minimum score for PCC?
The HSRT requirement for PCC’s Nursing program: Not publicly published — contact admissions. PCC does not publish a minimum HSRT score. Given PCC’s size and the competitiveness of Portland-area nursing programs, the applicant pool is large. Scoring 70+ gives you a strong competitive position.
Does PCC require the HSRT for Nursing?
Yes. PCC uses the Health Sciences Reasoning Test (HSRT) as part of its Nursing admissions process. The HSRT measures critical thinking and reasoning skills — not content knowledge.
How should I prepare for the HSRT for PCC?
Because PCC uses the HSRT as a competitive ranking factor, your goal is to score as high as possible. The most effective preparation focuses on reasoning skills: argument analysis, data interpretation, and logical inference. StudyBuddy is the only dedicated HSRT prep course, with 463 practice questions, 10 timed mock exams, and an AI diagnostic.
What is the HSRT exam?
The Health Sciences Reasoning Test (HSRT) is a critical thinking assessment used by nursing and allied health programs for admissions. It measures six reasoning skills: analysis, inference, evaluation, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and numeracy. Unlike the TEAS or HESI, it does not test science content — it tests how you think.
How is the HSRT scored?
The HSRT consists of 75 multiple-choice items with a 45-minute time limit. Scores range from 0–75. The national mean for health sciences students is approximately 17 out of 75. Programs typically set minimums between 60–74 depending on their cohort competitiveness.
What is a good HSRT score?
A score of 70 or above is competitive at most programs. Scores above 74 are strong at programs like Anoka-Ramsey CC. Because the exam is normed against healthcare students nationally, a 70 places you well above the national mean.