TEAS vs HESI A2: Nursing School Entrance Exams Compared

Category	ATI TEAS	HESI A2
Administered by	ATI	Elsevier
Who takes it	Applicants to nursing and allied health programs that require it	Applicants to nursing and health programs that require it
Format	170 questions (150 scored) in 209 minutes	—
Focus	Reading 45, Math 38, Science 50, English and Language Usage 37	English (reading, vocabulary, grammar), math and science subjects; programs set which sections and scores they require

Key differences

compare_arrowsYou don't choose: each program requires one exam (or accepts either). Check its admissions page first.
compare_arrowsThe TEAS is a fixed format: 170 questions, 20 of them unscored, in 209 minutes.
compare_arrowsThe TEAS science section (50 questions) is the largest; the HESI A2 splits science into separate subjects such as biology, chemistry and anatomy and physiology.
compare_arrowsScore expectations are program-specific for both exams, so the target score you need comes from the school.

error Common mistakes

× Preparing for the wrong exam. Confirm which one your program accepts before you buy materials.
× Skipping science review. On the TEAS, science is the biggest section.
× Ignoring timing. The TEAS gives 37 minutes for 37 English questions.

quiz Test yourself

Quick check

1. Which TEAS section has the most questions?

Frequently asked questions

Is the TEAS or HESI A2 easier?expand_more

It depends on your strengths and the sections your program requires. The TEAS is one fixed exam; the HESI A2 is made of subject sections, and programs choose which ones count. Study for the exam your program names.

How long is the TEAS?expand_more

ATI lists 170 questions and 209 minutes: Reading 45 questions in 55 minutes, Math 38 in 57, Science 50 in 60, and English and Language Usage 37 in 37.

Can I take the TEAS online?expand_more

ATI offers the TEAS in person at a school or testing center and remotely with an online proctor. Your program may require one or the other.

The bottom line

Take whichever exam your program requires. If it accepts either, choose by format: the TEAS is one fixed 209-minute exam, while the HESI A2 is sections your program selects.

Sources

Exam formats and product features change. Check the official pages above before you register or buy.

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