TEAS vs HESI: Which Nursing Exam Should You Take?
TEAS is a standardized 170-question exam covering general academic skills in 4 sections, while HESI is a customizable exam with up to 326 questions across 8+ sections that schools can choose from. TEAS costs $65-$140 and focuses on broad academic knowledge, while HESI costs around $40 and emphasizes healthcare-specific content.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 170 questions | Up to 326 questions |
| Time Limit | 3.5 hours | Up to 5+ hours |
| Cost | $65-$140 | $40-$75 |
| Sections | 4 fixed sections | 8+ customizable sections |
| Focus | General academics | Healthcare-specific |
| Retakes | School policy varies | Every 60 days, 3x/year |
Exam Structure and Format
TEAS 7 Structure
TEAS has exactly 170 questions split into 4 main areas. Every student takes the same test with the same sections. The exam uses different question types like multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and fill-in-the-blank.
| TEAS 7 Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 45 | 55 minutes |
| Math | 38 | 57 minutes |
| Science | 50 | 60 minutes |
| English & Language | 37 | 37 minutes |
| Total | 170 | 209 minutes |
HESI A2 Structure
HESI lets schools pick which sections students must take. Most schools require 4-6 sections instead of all 8. This makes the test shorter and more focused on what each school thinks is important.
| HESI A2 Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Math | 50 | 50 minutes |
| Reading | 47-55 | 60 minutes |
| Vocabulary | 50-55 | 50 minutes |
| Grammar | 50 | 50 minutes |
| Biology | 25-30 | 25 minutes |
| Chemistry | 25 | 25 minutes |
| Anatomy & Physiology | 25-30 | 25 minutes |
| Physics | 25 | 25 minutes |
Content Areas Comparison
Reading and English Skills
TEAS tests general reading skills using different types of passages. The English section covers grammar rules and writing skills. HESI focuses more on medical vocabulary and healthcare reading passages.
Math Skills
Both exams test basic math like fractions and percentages. TEAS includes more algebra and data analysis. HESI focuses on healthcare math like dosage calculations and medical measurements.
| Math Topics | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Operations | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fractions/Decimals | ✓ | ✓ |
| Algebra | ✓ | Limited |
| Dosage Calculations | Limited | ✓ |
| Medical Measurements | Limited | ✓ |
Science Content
TEAS covers four science areas equally with heavy focus on anatomy. HESI lets schools choose which science sections to include. HESI goes deeper into specific topics like cell biology and body systems.
Administration and Logistics
Where You Can Take Each Test
TEAS can be taken online at home, online at school, or in-person at testing centers. You can schedule it through ATI’s website or your school. HESI is usually taken at your school or at special testing centers called Prometric.
Scheduling Differences
TEAS is available year-round through ATI testing centers. Many schools also offer TEAS on their campus on specific dates. HESI scheduling depends completely on your school’s timeline and requirements.
| Testing Options | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Online at Home | ✓ | ✓ (ProctorU) |
| School Campus | ✓ | ✓ |
| Testing Centers | ✓ (PSI) | ✓ (Prometric) |
| Year-round Availability | ✓ | School dependent |
Scoring Systems
TEAS Scoring
TEAS uses percentage scores with five performance levels. Most schools want scores in the “Proficient” range or higher. The national average is around 65%, which falls in the “Proficient” category.
| TEAS Score Range | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| 92-100% | Exemplary |
| 80-91% | Advanced |
| 59-79% | Proficient |
| 41-58% | Basic |
| 0-40% | Developmental |
HESI Scoring
HESI uses a point system from 100 to 1000 points. Most schools require 75-85% on each section you take. Scores above 850 are considered excellent and predict success in nursing school.
| HESI Score | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 850-1000 | Excellent, predicts NCLEX success |
| 750-849 | Good, likely to succeed |
| 650-749 | Average, may need extra support |
| Below 650 | Below expectations |
Retake Policies
TEAS Retake Rules
TEAS retake policies depend on your school’s rules. Most schools allow 3 attempts per year with 30 days between tries. Some schools are stricter and only allow 1-2 attempts total.
HESI Retake Rules
HESI has standard retake rules that apply everywhere. You can retake it once every 60 days. You’re limited to 3 attempts per year, then must wait until the next year.
| Retake Policy | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | School decides | Every 60 days |
| Yearly Limit | Usually 3 | Maximum 3 |
| Waiting Period | Usually 30 days | 60 days |
| After Max Attempts | School policy | Wait 1 year |
Cost Comparison
TEAS Costs
TEAS costs more because it includes additional fees for score reporting. Taking it at ATI testing centers costs $65-$75. Taking it through your school can cost up to $140.
HESI Costs
HESI is generally cheaper with most schools charging $40-$75. The cost includes everything you need. Schools often handle the administrative parts, so you don’t pay extra fees.
| Cost Factor | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Exam Fee | $65-$140 | $40-$75 |
| Score Reports | $27 each additional | Usually included |
| Study Materials | Extra cost | Often included |
| Total Estimated | $150-$300+ | $75-$150 |
Preparation Time and Difficulty
TEAS Preparation
ATI recommends at least 6 weeks of study time for TEAS. The test covers many different subjects, so you need time to review everything. Most students find the science section the hardest part.
HESI Preparation
HESI preparation time depends on which sections your school requires. If you only take 4 sections, you might need 4-6 weeks. The healthcare focus can make it easier if you already know medical terms.
| Preparation Factor | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended Study Time | 6+ weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Hardest Section | Science | Varies by student |
| Content Breadth | Very broad | More focused |
| Medical Knowledge Needed | Basic | Helpful |
School Preferences and Usage
Which Schools Use TEAS
Major Universities:
- University of Arizona (College of Nursing)
- Arizona State University (Edson College of Nursing)
- University of Texas at Austin (School of Nursing)
- Texas A&M University (College of Nursing)
- University of Florida (College of Nursing)
- Florida International University (Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing)
- University of California, Los Angeles (School of Nursing)
- San Diego State University (School of Nursing)
- University of Illinois Chicago (College of Nursing)
- Michigan State University (College of Nursing)
Community Colleges:
- Northern Virginia Community College
- Miami Dade College (Nursing Program)
- Austin Community College (Nursing Department)
- Broward College (Health Sciences Division)
- Valencia College (School of Health Sciences)
Private Nursing Schools:
- Chamberlain University (College of Nursing)
- Rasmussen University (School of Nursing)
- Herzing University (Nursing Programs)
- South University (School of Nursing)
Which Schools Use HESI
Major Universities:
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (School of Nursing)
- Auburn University (School of Nursing)
- Georgia Southern University (Waters College of Health Professions)
- University of South Carolina (College of Nursing)
- Clemson University (School of Nursing)
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (School of Nursing)
- Duke University (School of Nursing)
- Vanderbilt University (School of Nursing)
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- Louisiana State University (School of Nursing)
State Universities:
- Georgia State University (Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing)
- University of Georgia (College of Public Health – Nursing)
- West Virginia University (School of Nursing)
- Marshall University (College of Health Professions)
- Eastern Kentucky University (Baccalaureate and Graduate Nursing)
Private Institutions:
- Emory University (Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing)
- Samford University (Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing)
- Belmont University (School of Nursing)
- Lipscomb University (College of Nursing)
| Usage Pattern | TEAS 7 | HESI A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption Rate | Growing rapidly | Steady, established |
| School Type | All nursing programs | Healthcare-focused programs |
| Customization | None – standardized | High – schools choose sections |
| NCLEX Prediction | General academic readiness | Specifically designed for this |
Final Thoughts
Both exams can help you get into nursing school, but your target schools will decide which one you need.
TEAS gives a complete picture of your academic skills, while HESI focuses more on healthcare knowledge.
Choose based on your strengths and school requirements. Either way, solid preparation and practice tests will help you succeed on whichever exam you take.