Health Education Systems A2 Test

The Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) A2 test is administered to prospective registered nurses. It is a computer-based nursing entrance exam. It is often taken multiple times throughout a nurse’s schooling: first, to be admitted to a nursing program; secondly, midway through the nursing program; and sometimes again in preparation for the registered nurse certification exam, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX).

To take the HESI A2 test, you must first register for it. Registration may be completed in person or through the mail. You cannot register online or on the telephone. The application asks for personal information, such as your name, address, contact information, social security number, and the exam date of your choice. The HESI A2 test is given several times a year, and seating is limited, so it’s best that you sign up as early as possible. You will submit a completed application, along with the test fee of $45. Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation via e-mail or telephone. Prior to test day, you will need to create an online account with Evolve, the HESI testing company.

On the day you take the HESI A2 test, you will need to arrive at least 15 minutes early to the testing center. You will need to bring your user name and password to the testing center, as well as a valid photo ID. Pencils and scratch paper will be provided. You will not be allowed to bring cell phones into the testing center.

There are five sections on the HESI A2 test: basic math skills, grammar, reading comprehension, general knowledge and vocabulary, and sciences including anatomy, chemistry, and biology. Each section contains 50 questions, except for anatomy, chemistry, and biology which each have 25 questions. The HESI A2 test covers many topics, including analogies, prepositions, positive and negative numbers, improper fractions, decimals, ratios, shapes, measurement, and angles. You will also need to know about scientific concepts such as nerve tissue, connective tissues, entropy, osmosis, molecules, fungi, viruses, liquids, gases, hydrogen bonding, chemistry, and bonding.

• The math portion of the HESI A2 test requires 50 questions to be answered in 50 minutes. It tests basic math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, fractions, and decimals. You will also need to know how to convert measurements and calculate drug dosages.
• The reading comprehension test requires you to read passages and answer questions about them. You are given 60 minutes to answer 47 questions.
• The grammar and general knowledge and vocabulary portions each contain 50 questions that must be answered in 50 minutes. Some versions of the HESI A2 test may test your learning and personality styles. It may also test your critical thinking skills.

You are given four hours to complete the entire HESI A2 test, but most people complete it within three hours. Most people have to take the test several times until they reaching the passing score of 80 percent. If you fail one section of the test, you must retake the entire test, but you must wait 60 days before retaking it. The HESI A2 test may only be taken twice in an academic year.