A) HESI A2 Overview

What the HESI A2 is (and is not)

What it is

• The HESI Admission Assessment (A2) is a computer-based pre-admission exam used by nursing and allied health programs to measure academic readiness in core prerequisite-like areas (e.g., math, reading, grammar, vocabulary, and common sciences such as A&P, biology, chemistry).
• Many programs also use it to support placement and remediation planning-i.e., identifying specific gaps before a student starts the program.

What it is not

• It is not the NCLEX (licensure exam).
• It is not a "nursing knowledge" exam (it's mostly academic foundations + select sciences).
• It is not standardized to one universal school cutoff or one universal required-section set-schools choose what they require and how they interpret scores.

Why nursing/allied health programs use it

Programs use admissions exams like HESI A2 to:

• Predict academic performance and program success (as part of a multi-factor admissions process).
• Identify weak skill areas early so applicants/students can remediate intentionally.
• Potentially add insight into learning/personality style when programs include those components (this is more common as an advising/remediation tool than a scored gate, but it's school-dependent).

How schools set requirements (sections + cut scores + attempts + validity)

Key rule: HESI A2 is configured by the school/program, not universally identical everywhere. Schools may differ on:

• Which sections you take (e.g., English + math only vs. English + math + A&P + bio + chem).
• Minimum scores (overall composite and/or per-section).
• How many attempts, waiting periods, and how retakes are treated.
• Validity window (how long scores are accepted). Verification method: treat your program's admissions page/handbook as "source of truth" (details in Section N).

Common misconceptions (that cost applicants seats)

• "Everyone takes the same HESI A2." False-schools choose required sections and may deliver it via different providers/modes.
• "If I buy the exam once, I can send scores anywhere." Often false-schools may require their Dept ID/eligibility workflow and may require official transcript sending methods.
• "The proctoring rules are negotiable." False-remote proctoring violations can end sessions and invalidate outcomes.

Comparison table: HESI A2 vs TEAS

Only include other alternatives (Kaplan/NLN/etc.) if your specific school explicitly permits them.

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B) Eligibility & Requirements (School/Location-Specific)

How eligibility works (program-driven)

Most applicants become "eligible" by one of these paths:

1. School schedules/proctors you directly (campus testing center, cohort testing window).
2. Evolve + Dept ID / Eligibility workflow (you register under your school's department identifier and receive an eligibility number/ID for scheduling).
3. Third-party scheduling (commonly Prometric and/or ProctorU depending on the institution's setup).

ID requirements + name-matching rules

There is no single universal ID rule across every delivery mode. You must satisfy:

• Testing-provider rules (Prometric / ProctorU) AND
• School/program rules (often stricter about exact match to Evolve profile)

Published, high-stakes rule that consistently appears: Your Evolve profile first/last name must match your government-issued photo ID or you may be denied admission to test.

ProctorU (examples of published ID/name-match rules)

• You need one non-expired photo ID; whether student IDs are permitted depends on the sponsor/institution.
• ProctorU-published name match language (in their in-person proctoring documentation) states first/last name must match exactly and discourages nicknames; it also lists examples of permitted IDs and IDs not accepted.

Prometric / Elsevier (published scheduling pathways)

• Prometric explicitly lists Elsevier's HESI A2 as available in-person and via remote proctoring for certain A2 exam types.
• Some school Prometric workflows require you to resolve name mismatches before test day or risk forfeiting fees.

ID quick table (what's published vs what to verify)

Accommodations

Important: The accommodations authority is usually the school/test sponsor, and the delivery vendor implements what the sponsor approves. Both Prometric and ProctorU publish that sponsor rules can control what is allowed.

Types (typical in admissions testing)

• Extended time
• Additional breaks
• Separate room (in-person)
• Assistive technology (e.g., screen reader/text-to-speech if enabled)
• Permission for specific medical items

Application process (what to do, without guessing school timelines)

1. Start with the school/program's disability/accommodations office (because they define eligibility + documentation standards).
2. Confirm delivery mode (Prometric vs ProctorU vs campus) because documentation routing can differ.
3. Ask for written confirmation that the accommodation is attached to your exam appointment (for ProctorU, accommodations may appear during the pre-check flow if properly applied).

Documentation (typical)

• Recent evaluation/diagnosis documentation
• Functional limitations + rationale
• Specific accommodation requested + justification

Timelines (what is officially "knowable" here)

• Name corrections for ProctorU in-person flow: ProctorU guidance says contact your organization "as soon as possible" and references at least 10 days before appointment for name mismatch situations.
• School setup lead time (remote proctoring): Elsevier guidance for ProctorU setup recommends institutions enter exams at least two weeks before an exam window (this affects when students can successfully schedule).
• For disability accommodations, your school's policy governs the real deadline-you must verify it in writing with the program.

Approval risks (what commonly derails approvals)

• Request is too vague ("extra time" with no documentation)
• Documentation doesn't connect diagnosis -> functional impact -> requested accommodation
• You schedule before accommodations are attached (then have to reschedule/cancel)

Special cases

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C) Exam Sections & Content Blueprint (HESI-Correct)

First: what's officially published vs what varies

Officially summarized academic structure (Elsevier evidence brief): Elsevier's published evidence summary describes the HESI A2 academic component as 7 exams: Grammar, Reading, Vocabulary, Basic Math, Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, including "number of scored items" and estimated time per exam.

Other sections that may appear depending on school configuration

• Elsevier materials and products have referenced additional admission topics such as Physics and Critical Thinking (often shown as A2 with Critical Thinking, i.e., A2CT).
• Elsevier also describes the Admission Assessment as supporting insight into personality and learning styles (school use varies).

Your school's required sections are the only ones that matter for your admissions outcome. You must verify required sections from the program page/handbook (see Section N).

Blueprint table (fill "Required?" after you verify your program)

Section-by-section (skills, archetypes, traps, high-yield, time mechanics)

Timing note: Elsevier's evidence summary reports estimated time and scored item counts for the 7 academic exams below. Some schools may include additional unscored items or different total counts-your on-screen count is the operational truth.

1) Basic Math

• Skills tested: arithmetic fluency, ratios/proportions, % change, conversions, linear equations, word problems.
• Question archetypes (descriptions only): multi-step dosage-style arithmetic (without clinical context), percent discounts/increases, unit conversion chains, proportion setups.
• Trap patterns: mixing units, skipping parentheses, percent-of-what errors.
• High-yield subskills: fraction<->decimal<->percent, ratio tables, unit cancellation, estimation checks.
• Time-pressure mechanics: Elsevier lists 50 scored items / 50 minutes -> pacing target ~60 seconds per scored item.

2) Reading

• Skills tested: comprehension of short passages, locating support, inference anchored in text.
• Archetypes: main idea, author's purpose, vocabulary-in-context, detail lookup, inference.
• Trap patterns: "sounds true" choices not supported by a line; extreme wording.
• High-yield subskills: passage map (topic -> purpose -> paragraph roles), proof-first answering.
• Time mechanics: 50 scored items / 60 minutes -> ~72 seconds per scored item.

3) Vocabulary

• Skills tested: word meaning and academic language recognition.
• Archetypes: synonym/meaning, context clues.
• Trap patterns: near-synonyms with different connotation; confusing word roots.
• High-yield subskills: Greek/Latin roots, high-frequency academic terms, eliminating by tone.
• Time mechanics: 50 scored items / 50 minutes -> ~60 seconds per scored item.

4) Grammar

• Skills tested: usage, mechanics, sentence structure.
• Archetypes: choose correct sentence, fix error, punctuation/usage selection.
• Trap patterns: agreement across intervening clauses; pronoun antecedent mismatch.
• High-yield subskills: S-V agreement, tense consistency, pronouns, modifiers, commas.
• Time mechanics: 50 scored items / 50 minutes -> ~60 seconds per scored item.

5) Anatomy & Physiology

• Skills tested: structure/function and core systems knowledge.
• Archetypes: identify function of organ/system, pathway logic, terminology.
• Trap patterns: mixing similarly named hormones/structures; left/right/sequence errors.
• High-yield subskills: homeostasis loops; cardiovascular flow; respiratory exchange; renal basics; endocrine feedback; neuro basics; immune basics.
• Time mechanics: 25 scored items / 25 minutes -> ~60 seconds per scored item.

6) Biology

• Skills tested: cellular biology, genetics, basic physiology.
• Archetypes: cell organelles, mitosis/meiosis, inheritance patterns, basic ecology.
• Trap patterns: confusing terms (transcription/translation), reversing meiosis outputs.
• High-yield subskills: DNA->RNA->protein, Punnett logic, basic energy (ATP), cell transport.
• Time mechanics: 25 scored items / 25 minutes -> ~60 seconds per scored item.

7) Chemistry

• Skills tested: basic chemistry concepts and simple calculations.
• Archetypes: atomic structure, bonding, pH, balancing idea-level reactions, simple molar reasoning (depends on school).
• Trap patterns: charge mistakes, confusing ionic vs covalent, unit errors.
• High-yield subskills: periodic table trends basics, acids/bases, solution concentration logic.
• Time mechanics: 25 scored items / 25 minutes -> ~60 seconds per scored item.

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D) Exam Format, Timing & Delivery

Delivery modes (and how to verify which applies to you)

HESI A2 can be delivered through different pathways depending on the institution:

Check-in process minute-by-minute (remote)

ProctorU-style remote (typical flow)

ProctorU describes a 10-15 minute startup process to verify identity, review rules, and launch the exam.

Minute-by-minute template

Prometric ProProctor-style remote (typical controls)

Prometric's ProProctor guide emphasizes that sessions are recorded/monitored and rule violations can terminate sessions; sponsor policies may supersede.

Minute-by-minute template

Tools allowed (calculator, scratch paper/whiteboard)

HESI-specific rule that is explicitly published for ProctorU workflows: Elsevier's ProctorU guidance documents state students are allowed one plain piece of scratch paper and a pencil, and the proctor inspects it front/back before the exam.

Calculator rules: ProctorU explicitly states that allowed outside resources (including calculators) are set by the instructor/institution, not ProctorU. So you must verify calculator policy in your program's exam instructions and the "allowed resources" screens shown during check-in.

Break structure (verify)

• There is no single published universal HESI A2 break policy across all schools/modes in the sources above.
• Remote vendors generally prohibit leaving the testing location without permission; Prometric ProProctor explicitly warns against changing location while testing.

Common failure points + fixes

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E) Scoring System & Interpretation

How scores are reported (overall + section scores if applicable)

Elsevier's evidence summary describes:

• A performance score for each academic exam and a composite score calculated by averaging the required exams (program-defined).
• Score interpretation bands commonly used in a Faculty Scoring Guide context (see below).

Score interpretation (published banding example)

What schools typically do with scores (school-specific)

Schools may:

• Use hard cutoffs (minimum per section and/or composite)
• Use ranking/points in a competitive applicant pool
• Use scores as one factor alongside GPA, prerequisites, interviews, etc.

Verification requirement: Your target program's admissions page/handbook is the only authoritative source for how your score is used.

Score validity window and score sending method (school-specific)

Score sending / transcripts (published pathway):

• Elsevier's student guidance references requesting HESI transcripts through Evolve's HESI Secured Exams area.

Validity window: Varies by school/program; verify from admissions policy (Section N).

Retake policy: HESI rules vs school rules (clearly separated)

HESI/Elsevier level (what's safe to say from published sources)

• Elsevier describes the exam and scoring; retake limits are not universally fixed in the published evidence summary-programs implement their own admissions rules.

Testing-provider level

• ProctorU reschedule/cancel rules exist and are platform-dependent (not the same as "retake"), including constraints on cancellation close to exam time.
• Prometric remote proctoring rules allow sponsors to set practice policies that supersede general regulations.

School/program level

• Schools set: number of attempts, required waiting periods, what counts as an attempt, and how multiple attempts are viewed.

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F) Registration & Scheduling (Step-by-Step)

Where/how candidates register (verify your school's workflow)

The most common HESI A2 pathways in published school instructions include:

• Create an Elsevier Evolve student account.
• Add/register for HESI Student Access / Results and Remediation.
• Use Distance Testing (often via a Dept ID) where applicable.
• Receive an Eligibility ID/Number (especially for Prometric scheduling) and then schedule your seat.

Step-by-step master workflow (covers the common official patterns)

Choosing a test date strategically around program deadlines

Use this rule set:

• Work backward from application deadline and add buffers for:

• Score delivery/transcript request steps (if required)

• Retake window possibility (school-defined)
• Tech issues + rescheduling constraints (platform-defined)

Rescheduling/cancellation rules (verify)

• ProctorU publishes general reschedule/cancel logic and notes some restrictions close to the appointment time.
• Prometric scheduling/rescheduling is handled through its portal for Elsevier exams. Always verify the exact deadlines inside your appointment confirmation and the sponsor rules.

How to avoid common registration errors

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G) Costs, Fees & Budgeting

Test fee structure (school/testing-site dependent-verify)

HESI A2 costs are not universal because the exam is often administered as part of a school's admissions/testing process.

• School documents commonly emphasize fees vary and may be non-refundable.

Prep costs (books/platforms/practice tests)

• Elsevier publishes official prep books (e.g., Admission Assessment Exam Review).
• Schools may also direct you to remediation resources within the HESI/Evolve ecosystem.

Hidden costs (later in the admissions pipeline)

Often not HESI-specific, but common in nursing admissions:

• Application fees
• Transcript fees
• Immunizations/titers
• Background check/drug screen (post-admission)
• CPR, uniforms, equipment

Budget template (copy/paste)

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H) Preparation Strategy (Beginner -> Elite)

Diagnostic process (by required sections)

Step 0 (non-negotiable): Determine your required sections and any minimums from the program's official page/handbook.

Step 1: Baseline diagnostic

• Take a timed mini-diagnostic for each required section.

• Record:

• Score %

• Time used
• Error types (concept vs process vs reading vs pacing)

Step 2: Remediation loop (evidence-aligned to how A2 is used) Elsevier explicitly frames Admission Assessment as a way to identify weaknesses and guide remediation. So your prep should mirror that:

1. Diagnose -> 2) Train weak subskill -> 3) Retest -> 4) Lock in pacing.

Study plans (2/4/6/8/12+ weeks)

These are "master shells." You will tailor them after you confirm required sections (Section N).

Plan table (choose based on your timeline)

Daily schedules (30/60/120 minutes)

Practice-test cadence and review methodology

Review method (high-yield)

• For each missed question, classify the miss:

1. Knowledge gap
2. Process/steps error
3. Misread
4. Time-pressure guess * Then write a one-line "fix rule" you will apply next time.

Error-log framework + remediation loop (template)

Plateau-breaking strategies (when scores stop improving)

• Switch from "more questions" -> "better questions":

• Drill your top 3 error categories only for 72 hours.

• Add constraints:

• Math: no calculator if your testing environment limits it (verify)

• Reading: force "line evidence" annotation every question.

• Fix pacing before content:

• If you're running out of time, your next 7 days should be timed sets + ruthless review, not new content.

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I) Section-by-Section High-ROI Strategies

Below are strategies for the 7 academic exams Elsevier lists in its evidence summary (commonly required across programs, but your school decides). Critical variable: some testing setups may not allow returning to skipped questions (school/vendor-dependent), so "skip-and-return" must be verified on your platform.

Universal pacing math (use this first)

From Elsevier's published estimated times and scored item counts:

• 60 seconds per scored item for: Grammar, Vocabulary, Basic Math, A&P, Biology, Chemistry
• 72 seconds per scored item for: Reading

Pacing checkpoint table (use on every timed set)

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1) Basic Math - Core rules/skills checklist

Must-master checklist

• Converting: fraction <-> decimal <-> percent
• Ratio/proportion setups
• Unit conversions (multi-step)
• Order of operations and negatives
• Solving for x in basic linear equations

Speed + accuracy drills

• Daily: 2x10-question timed sets (aim: <=12 min each)
• Weekly: 50-question timed set (or your program's exact structure)

Guessing/triage rules

• If you can't set up the equation in 10 seconds, guess strategically and move (unless backtracking is allowed).

Top 25 Math mistakes + fixes

1. Percent of what? -> Write "% x base = part."
2. Forgetting to convert % to decimal -> Move the decimal two places.
3. Adding denominators -> Only add/subtract after common denominator.
4. Cross-multiplying wrong terms -> Use (a/b = c/d) -> ad = bc.
5. Unit mismatch -> Convert first; cancel units.
6. Rounding too early -> Round at the end unless instructed.
7. Negative sign drops -> Circle negatives; re-check final sign.
8. Misreading "increase by" vs "is" -> Increase: multiply by (1 + rate).
9. Confusing mean vs median -> Mean = sum/n; median = middle.
10. Not estimating -> Do a 2-second sanity check.
11. Decimal place errors in multiplication -> Count total decimal digits.
12. Division by fraction -> Multiply by reciprocal.
13. Order of operations ignored -> Parentheses, exponents, mult/div, add/sub.
14. Copying numbers incorrectly -> Rewrite cleanly once.
15. Using wrong conversion factor -> Use dimensional analysis.
16. Ratio vs fraction confusion -> Ratio compares; fraction is part/whole.
17. Overcomplicating simple arithmetic -> Use mental math + estimation first.
18. Solving equation but not answering what's asked -> Re-read final line.
19. Ignoring "per" language -> "Per" means division.
20. Forgetting to simplify fractions -> Simplify early to reduce errors.
21. Mismanaging mixed numbers -> Convert to improper fractions.
22. Failing at time management -> Move on after 60-75 seconds.
23. Assuming calculator allowed -> Verify in your exam rules screen.
24. Panicking after one hard item -> Reset: "next question is fresh points."
25. Leaving blanks -> Always select an answer before moving on.

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2) Reading - Core rules/skills checklist

Must-master checklist

• Main idea (not a detail)
• Inference with direct support
• Author purpose/tone
• Vocabulary in context

Speed + accuracy drills

• Passage map in 20 seconds: topic, purpose, paragraph roles.
• 10-question inference drill: every answer must have a "because line ___ says ___" note.

Guessing/triage rules

• Eliminate extremes ("always/never") unless text is absolute.
• When stuck: choose the option with direct textual support, not the "best-sounding."

Top 25 Reading mistakes + fixes

1. Answering from memory/opinion -> Anchor to a line in text.
2. Over-inferencing -> If it's not supported, it's wrong.
3. Missing main idea -> Ask: "What is the author doing overall?"
4. Confusing topic with main idea -> Main idea = claim about topic.
5. Choosing extreme wording -> Prefer moderate unless text is extreme.
6. Ignoring contrast words (however/although) -> Those signal author pivot.
7. Rereading entire passage repeatedly -> Reread only the relevant paragraph.
8. Not using paragraph purpose -> Label: intro, example, counterpoint, conclusion.
9. Vocabulary question guessing without context -> Use surrounding sentence logic.
10. Tone errors -> Look for adjectives/adverbs and stance.
11. Detail question: scanning poorly -> Search for unique nouns.
12. "Except" questions missed -> Underline EXCEPT; pre-predict the true statements.
13. Inference treated as speculation -> Inference = best supported.
14. Trap: true but irrelevant -> Must answer the question asked.
15. Misreading pronoun references -> Identify antecedent.
16. Confusing cause vs correlation -> Stick to what passage claims.
17. Not tracking who/what is being compared -> Mark A vs B.
18. Missing "most likely" phrasing -> Choose supported probability, not certainty.
19. Time drain on one passage -> Set a hard cap; move on.
20. Changing correct answers late -> Only change if you found textual proof.
21. Not noticing negative questions ("NOT supported") -> Circle NOT.
22. "Best title" errors -> Title must capture main idea + scope.
23. "Author purpose" errors -> Purpose verbs: explain, argue, compare, describe.
24. Skipping evidence step under pressure -> Evidence step is the speed tool.
25. Not practicing under timed conditions -> Reading timing is trainable (weekly sets).

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3) Vocabulary - Core rules/skills checklist

• High-frequency academic words
• Common prefixes/suffixes/roots
• Context clue types: definition, contrast, example

Speed + accuracy drills

• 10-min daily: roots + 10 context sentences.
• Weekly: 50-question timed vocab/grammar mixed set.

Guessing/triage rules

• If you recognize a root, eliminate opposite-tone choices immediately.

Top 25 Vocabulary mistakes + fixes

1. Picking "familiar-looking" word -> Demand meaning fit.
2. Ignoring context sentence -> Context overrides memory.
3. Confusing similar words (affect/effect) -> Learn pairs.
4. Missing negative prefixes (in-, un-, dis-) -> Translate prefix first.
5. Overthinking nuance -> Choose closest meaning used in context.
6. Not using elimination -> Cross out 2 fast.
7. Missing contrast markers (but/yet) -> Word meaning must flip.
8. Assuming scientific meaning in general passage -> Use passage register.
9. Roots not studied -> Build root bank (bio, cardio, hypo, hyper, etc.).
10. Guessing without checking part of speech -> Noun vs verb mismatch kills answers.
11. Mixing connotation -> Neutral vs negative vs positive.
12. Not learning "direction" words (anterior/posterior) -> Add to vocab set.
13. Over-relying on flashcards only -> Add sentence usage practice.
14. Not reviewing missed words -> Missed words must enter your spaced review.
15. Treating every unknown word equally -> Prioritize high-frequency academic vocab.
16. Missing "most nearly means" flexibility -> Choose closest, not perfect synonym.
17. Confusing homographs -> Check context.
18. Ignoring Greek/Latin patterns -> Use them to eliminate.
19. Rushing and misreading the stem word -> Re-read the tested word once.
20. Missing "general knowledge" style items (if included) -> Verify if your program includes them.
21. Choosing overly broad definition -> Prefer definition that matches scope.
22. Not tracking error types -> Are misses meaning-based or pressure-based?
23. Letting one unknown derail timing -> 30-second cap then guess.
24. Not practicing under time -> Do timed sets weekly.
25. Assuming vocabulary is "untrainable" -> It improves fastest with structured review.

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4) Grammar - Core rules/skills checklist

• Subject-verb agreement
• Pronoun-antecedent agreement
• Verb tense consistency
• Sentence boundaries (run-ons/fragments)
• Modifier placement
• Common punctuation (commas, apostrophes)

Speed + accuracy drills

• "Error sprint": 25 items in 20 minutes weekly
• Editing drill: fix one sentence in <=45 seconds

Guessing/triage rules

• Prefer the option that is grammatically complete and consistent-even if it "sounds less fancy."

Top 25 Grammar mistakes + fixes

1. Agreement errors with prepositional phrases -> Verb matches true subject.
2. "Each/every" treated as plural -> Singular verb.
3. Pronoun ambiguity -> Pronoun must clearly refer to one antecedent.
4. Pronoun case (I/me) mistakes -> Remove extra noun to test.
5. Tense shifts -> Keep timeline consistent.
6. Misplaced modifiers -> Modifier must touch what it modifies.
7. Run-on sentences missed -> Look for comma splice.
8. Fragments missed -> Ensure subject + verb complete thought.
9. Apostrophes for plurals -> Apostrophes show possession.
10. Its/it's confusion -> It's = it is; its = possessive.
11. Their/there/they're confusion -> Memorize + test substitution.
12. Comma overuse -> Use commas for lists/clauses; avoid random pauses.
13. Missing parallel structure -> Lists must match form.
14. Comparing unlike things -> Ensure logical comparison.
15. Double negatives -> Remove redundancy.
16. Subject agreement with "or/nor" -> Verb matches closest subject (often tested).
17. Wrong pronoun number (they for singular) -> Match number as tested.
18. Confusing "who" vs "whom" -> He/him test.
19. Misreading the sentence for meaning -> Grammar must preserve meaning.
20. Choosing wordy option -> Often concise correct option wins.
21. Ignoring punctuation impact -> Comma placement can change meaning.
22. Not reading whole sentence -> One-word focus misses structure.
23. Changing answer without a rule -> Only change with a rule-based reason.
24. Timing collapse from perfectionism -> Cap at 60 seconds.
25. Not building a "rules sheet" -> Maintain your top 15 rules list.

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5) Anatomy & Physiology - Core rules/skills checklist

• Directional terms + planes
• Major organs and functions per system
• Homeostasis: negative feedback basics
• Cardiovascular flow sequence
• Respiratory gas exchange basics
• Renal filtration basics
• Endocrine: "what hormone does what" at a high level

Speed + accuracy drills

• System flash-recall: 10 minutes/day (rapid retrieval)
• Weekly: mixed 25-question timed set

Guessing/triage rules

• Choose function-based answers over name-only answers when unsure.

Top 25 A&P mistakes + fixes

1. Mixing endocrine hormones -> Build hormone -> gland -> effect table.
2. Confusing arteries vs veins -> Arteries away from heart; oxygen exceptions noted.
3. Flow sequence errors -> Memorize heart-lung-body loop.
4. Kidney confusion -> Filtration vs reabsorption vs secretion.
5. Lung mechanics confusion -> Ventilation vs diffusion vs perfusion.
6. CNS vs PNS mixing -> Label control functions clearly.
7. Sympathetic vs parasympathetic mixing -> Use "fight/flight vs rest/digest."
8. Skeletal muscle terminology mix-ups -> Tendon vs ligament; origin vs insertion.
9. Directional term reversals -> Drill anterior/posterior, medial/lateral, etc.
10. Using memorization without function -> Always tie structure to function.
11. Immune basics confusion -> Innate vs adaptive; antibody roles.
12. Digestive enzymes confusion -> High-level only if your school tests that depth.
13. Blood components confusion -> RBC/WBC/platelets roles.
14. pH/acid-base confusion -> Keep simple: lungs CO2, kidneys H+/HCO3-.
15. Reproductive anatomy confusion -> Map structures once.
16. Cell transport confusion (osmosis/diffusion) -> Tie to concentration gradient.
17. Assuming too much detail required -> Match your program's blueprint.
18. Not practicing timed recall -> A&P is often fast-paced.
19. Forgetting to review missed items -> Add to system notebook.
20. Over-reading questions -> Most are direct if you know the concept.
21. Diagram anxiety -> Translate diagram to words and answer.
22. Confusing similar organs (pancreas vs gallbladder) -> Function-first recall.
23. Not learning prefixes/suffixes -> Medical terms become easier with roots.
24. Skipping fundamentals (cells/tissues) -> Build base; systems rely on it.
25. Treating A&P as "memorize everything" -> Prioritize high-yield systems.

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6) Biology - Core rules/skills checklist

• Cell organelles and function
• DNA/RNA/protein flow
• Mitosis vs meiosis
• Mendelian genetics basics
• Basic ecology concepts (if included)

Speed + accuracy drills

• 15-minute concept map drills (one topic/day)
• Timed 25-question weekly set

Guessing/triage rules

• If two answers are both true, choose the one that matches the question's level (cellular vs organism).

Top 25 Biology mistakes + fixes

1. Mitosis vs meiosis confusion -> Memorize outcomes (# cells, genetic diversity).
2. Transcription vs translation confusion -> DNA->RNA, RNA->protein.
3. Organelle mix-ups -> Build organelle -> job table.
4. Osmosis vs diffusion confusion -> Water movement vs solute movement.
5. Dominant/recessive logic errors -> Use Punnett consistently.
6. Genotype vs phenotype confusion -> Genotype codes; phenotype shows.
7. Evolution misconceptions -> Focus on population change, not individuals.
8. Food web direction errors -> Energy flows from producer upward.
9. ATP role misunderstanding -> ATP is energy currency; not "stored forever."
10. Enzyme basics confusion -> Enzymes lower activation energy.
11. pH impact misunderstanding -> Affects enzyme shape/function.
12. Cell cycle stages confusion -> Learn order; don't rely on vague memory.
13. Reading graphs poorly -> Identify axes first.
14. Misreading "most likely" -> Choose best-supported.
15. Confusing respiration vs photosynthesis -> Inputs/outputs table.
16. Not learning key vocab -> Bio is vocab-heavy; integrate roots.
17. Overstudying rare topics -> Prioritize based on program blueprint.
18. Not timing practice -> Bio timing is usually tight.
19. Skipping review of wrong answers -> Biology errors repeat.
20. Assuming detail level too deep -> Match your practice to test level.
21. Confusing prokaryote vs eukaryote -> Key differences table.
22. Not understanding basic experimental design -> Control vs variable.
23. Panic when unfamiliar term appears -> Use root/context.
24. Careless mistakes from speed -> Slow down for 2 seconds on stems.
25. Not consolidating notes -> One-page per major topic.

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7) Chemistry - Core rules/skills checklist

• Atomic structure basics
• Periodic table trends (high level)
• Bond types (ionic/covalent)
• Acids/bases and pH (basic)
• Simple reactions/mixtures/solutions conceptually

Speed + accuracy drills

• 10-minute daily flash: symbols, charges, pH concepts
• Weekly: 25-question timed set

Guessing/triage rules

• If stuck: choose the answer consistent with charge conservation/basic principles.

Top 25 Chemistry mistakes + fixes

1. Proton/neutron/electron confusion -> Atom structure chart.
2. Ionic vs covalent confusion -> Metal+nonmetal vs nonmetal+nonmetal (rule of thumb).
3. Charge errors -> Write charges before choosing.
4. pH direction confusion -> Low pH acidic; high pH basic.
5. Acid/base definitions mixed -> Use simple Bronsted: acid donates H+.
6. Units ignored -> Always track units.
7. Misreading subscripts -> Subscripts change composition, not charge directly.
8. Balancing concept errors -> Conserve atoms on both sides.
9. Solution concentration confusion -> "Per" indicates division/ratio.
10. Reaction type guessing without understanding -> Learn basic categories only if required.
11. Over-memorizing without concept -> Principle-first approach.
12. Periodic trends reversed -> Make one trend chart and reuse.
13. Intermolecular forces confusion -> High-level: stronger IMFs higher boiling.
14. Temperature/pressure assumptions -> Only use what's stated.
15. Panic on math-based chem -> Reduce to unit cancellation.
16. Not learning common symbols -> Symbol fluency saves time.
17. Confusing mixture vs compound -> Definitions table.
18. Treating electrons as "floating" -> Use shell/valence logic simply.
19. Not practicing timed -> Chemistry is usually fast.
20. Skipping review -> Chem errors cluster; fix clusters.
21. Not reading stem fully -> "Most/least" matters.
22. Choosing "always" options -> Prefer conditional unless principle is universal.
23. Ignoring negative wording -> Circle NOT/EXCEPT.
24. Rounding too early -> End-round.
25. Not aligning study depth to program | Verify what your school requires.

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J) Practice Tests & Official Resources

Official or school-provided resources (verify)

How to evaluate third-party materials (avoid outdated/misleading content)

Use this rubric:

Red flags: "guaranteed exact questions," answer-dumps, rule-breaking advice

• "Exact recalled questions" sellers are a major integrity risk and can trigger score cancellation or program discipline.
• Use legitimate prep that builds transferable skill, not memorization.

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K) Test-Day Strategy & Anxiety Control

Sleep and nutrition basics

• Aim for predictable sleep the two nights before (not just the night before).
• Eat a stable-meal plan: protein + slow carbs; hydrate early.

Pacing rules

• Enter each section with your pace target (Section I).
• Use a hard cap per question (60-75 seconds typical for most A2 academic sections, based on published section timing).

Guessing strategy (safe + effective)

• Never leave blanks (unless your platform forces submission rules).

• Use elimination:

• Remove extreme/illogical answers first

• Choose the best remaining

Psychological resets (fast, practical)

• 10-second reset between questions:

• Exhale -> shoulders down -> "new points"

• If panic spike:

• Look away 2 seconds, inhale 4, exhale 6, resume.

If tech fails or proctor issues occur (official escalation paths-verify)

Documentation rule: screenshot any error codes and record timestamps; report immediately via the published support channel.

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L) After the HESI A2: Admissions Strategy

When to apply with current score vs retake

Because schools set cutoffs and competitiveness, use this framework:

How to align score strategy with deadlines

• If your deadline is tight, prioritize:

1. Highest-weight required sections
2. Fastest-improving sections (often math/grammar with targeted drilling) * Build in buffer for:

• Scheduling limits (remote/in-person)
• Transcript/sending steps (if required)

Scholarship/seat competitiveness considerations (school-specific)

• Some programs admit "top N" applicants rather than everyone above cutoff.
• Multiple attempts may be viewed differently by different schools-verify.

Retake decision framework (copy/paste)

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N) Location/Program Guide

1. Country/state
2. Target school(s) + program (RN/BSN/LPN/allied health)
3. Application deadline date(s)
4. Which HESI sections the school requires (or paste the school's HESI requirements page)

Comprehensive HESI A2 FAQs - Fully Detailed (78)

Before the Q&As, here's the "rule map" you'll see referenced repeatedly so you always know what's fixed vs what varies.

Who controls what

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Blueprint reference you'll see used in pacing answers

Elsevier-published A2 academic exams (scored items + estimated time)

Elsevier's A2 evidence white paper describes 7 academic exams and shows number of scored items plus estimated time for each. Programs can administer all seven or customize which exams are given.

Important reality check: many schools display 55 questions for some English/Math modules (commonly explained as "50 scored + 5 pilot/unscored"). That doesn't change your strategy: treat every question as scored.

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A) Sections & what you'll be tested on

1) How many sections are on the HESI A2? Does everyone take the same sections?

No-everyone does not take the same sections. Officially, the A2 includes a set of possible academic exams; your program chooses which ones you must take. Elsevier describes the A2 as consisting of English-language exams (Reading, Grammar, Vocabulary), Math (Basic Math), and Science (A&P, Biology, Chemistry), and states programs can administer all seven or customize which exams are administered.

Also: Some programs require A2CT (A2 "with Critical Thinking") rather than A2 alone; Prometric explicitly lists both A2 and A2CT as exam types.

How to verify for your school (fast):

1. Go to the nursing/allied health admissions page -> find "HESI A2 required sections."
2. Confirm if it says A2 or A2CT.
3. Confirm if it lists only a subset (e.g., Math + Reading + A&P). (If it's not spelled out, the testing center usually publishes the required section list.)

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2) Which sections do most nursing programs require?

There is no single official "most common" requirement published by Elsevier-because programs set requirements and can customize which exams are given.

That said, programs typically choose sections that align with prerequisites and first-semester workload (often English, Math, and frequently A&P). But because this varies by program (and sometimes by track: ADN vs BSN vs LPN vs allied health), you should treat any generalized statement as non-binding.

Verification method (exact):

• Use the program's official checklist/handbook and look for:

• Required sections (by name)

• Minimum scores (composite and/or section)
• Attempt limits and waiting period
• Score validity window (Those are admissions rules, not HESI rules.)

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3) Is there a Biology section? Chemistry? A&P? Physics?

Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy & Physiology are explicitly listed by Elsevier as A2 science exams (each with its own scored items/time estimate).

Physics: Physics is not listed in Elsevier's A2 evidence white paper blueprint table. Some third-party sites and some school pages mention Physics; that may reflect older configurations, local testing-center offerings, or different HESI products. If your school mentions Physics, you must verify:

• whether it's truly a HESI A2 physics module they administer now, or
• whether they mean a different prerequisite/assessment.

What to do:

• If your school's page does not list Physics, do not spend prep time there.
• If it does list Physics, confirm with the testing center in writing (email) what module appears on your exam registration.

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4) What's the Critical Thinking section (A2CT) and is it graded?

A2CT is a distinct exam type: "HESI Admission Assessment Exam with Critical Thinking (A2CT)." Prometric lists A2CT separately from A2.

Is it graded/scored?

• If your program requires A2CT, they generally treat Critical Thinking as a scored, reported component-often with a cut score. For example, some programs publish minimum Critical Thinking thresholds (commonly shown on a 0-1000-style scale on school pages).
• Elsevier does not publicly publish a universal A2CT scoring rule on the same public blueprint table used for the 7 academic exams-so the only safe assumption is: if your school requires it, it matters.

Verification steps:

1. Confirm your requirement says A2CT (not just "HESI A2").
2. Find whether they require a minimum CT score or whether CT is used "for information only."
3. Ask whether CT is included in composite/average for admissions (program-specific).

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5) Are the Learning Style and Personality Profile sections scored?

These "learner profile" style assessments are often described by schools as diagnostic/not graded, but Elsevier's public A2 academic blueprint focuses on the 7 academic exams and does not publish a public scoring blueprint for Learning Style/Personality Profile the way it does for academic exams.

Practical implication:

• Some schools still require you to complete them (even if not used in ranking).
• Because local practice varies, treat them as required-to-finish if they appear in your test battery.

How to verify:

• Your program/testing center page usually states whether they are "not graded/diagnostic." If it's silent, assume you must complete every module that appears on screen.

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6) Can programs require a custom mix of sections?

Yes. Elsevier explicitly states programs can administer all seven A2 exams or customize which exams are administered to match what's pertinent.

What "custom" can mean in practice:

• Only Math + English exams
• Math + English + A&P
• Full academic set (English + Math + Science)
• A2CT (adds Critical Thinking)

Your action step:

• Build your study plan around required sections only (then add optional sections only if your program requires them).

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7) Is the exam computer-adaptive?

The A2 is typically computer-based, but Elsevier's public description emphasizes items being randomized within each exam and that multiple versions exist-not that the exam is adaptive in difficulty like the NCLEX.

What that means for you:

• Expect different question sets than friends/classmates.
• Don't chase "exact questions"-focus on skills.

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8) How many questions are on the HESI A2?

There is no single fixed total because programs can assign different combinations of exams. Elsevier publishes scored item counts per exam (e.g., 50 or 25 scored items depending on the exam).

Why you may see different totals (common):

• Some testing centers show 55 questions for certain sections (often interpreted as 50 scored + 5 pilot).
• Your program may assign only 4-5 exams instead of all 7.

How to calculate your likely total (quick math):

• Add the modules your school requires using the scored-item table above, then add a buffer for potential pilot/unscored items (commonly +5 in some English/Math displays).

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B) Timing, pacing, breaks

9) How long does the HESI A2 take?

Total time depends on which exams you're assigned. Elsevier publishes estimated times per exam and also shows aggregate time by academic area.

Example totals (using Elsevier estimates):

• English exams (Grammar + Reading + Vocabulary): 50 + 60 + 50 = 160 minutes
• Math: 50 minutes
• Science (A&P + Bio + Chem): 25 + 25 + 25 = 75 minutes

Your real-world session time can be longer because:

• check-in/security can take time (especially remote)
• schools may schedule a fixed testing block (e.g., 4-5.5 hours) as an administrative window.

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10) Are the sections individually timed or is the whole session timed?

This can be school/platform configuration dependent.

What we can say from published sources:

• Elsevier gives per-exam estimated times and presents the exam structure by exam/time.
• Some schools explicitly describe the session as timed across modules or describe how their center runs timing (school-specific).

How to verify (most reliable):

• In your Evolve/HESI compatibility check/mock exam, look for:

• whether each section shows its own countdown timer, and

• whether there is a global session timer.

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11) What are the time limits for Reading, Grammar, Vocabulary, and Math?

Elsevier's published blueprint table lists the following estimated times for the scored items:

• Reading Comprehension: 50 scored items / 60 minutes
• Grammar: 50 scored items / 50 minutes
• Vocabulary & General Knowledge: 50 scored items / 50 minutes
• Basic Math Skills: 50 scored items / 50 minutes

Why you might see 55 questions: Some testing centers publish 55-question versions for these sections (commonly explained as pilot/unscored items).

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12) What are the time limits for A&P, Biology, and Chemistry?

Elsevier's published blueprint table lists:

• A&P: 25 scored items / 25 minutes
• Biology: 25 scored items / 25 minutes
• Chemistry: 25 scored items / 25 minutes

Again, treat those as baseline pacing targets; your program may assign only some science sections.

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13) What is a realistic seconds-per-question pacing target?

Using Elsevier's scored-item/time estimates:

• Most sections: ~60 sec/question (50 Q in 50 min; 25 Q in 25 min)
• Reading: ~72 sec/question (50 Q in 60 min)

If your center shows 55 questions in 50 minutes:

• 50 min = 3000 sec
• 3000 / 55 ~ 54-55 sec/question So you need slightly faster execution.

Practical pacing rule (high-yield):

• Aim to be at question ~25 by the halfway time mark.
• If you're >3 questions behind pace, start using triage: answer what you can quickly, mark/skip the time-sinks (if your version allows review), and return if time permits.

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14) Can I take breaks during the exam?

Breaks depend on where/how you test:

• Prometric test center: breaks may be scheduled or unscheduled, determined by the test sponsor; you must sign out/in and complete security checks on return.
• Remote (ProctorU): exam-day rules emphasize staying in a permitted location, being alone, and not leaving the monitored environment without permission; your program's specific settings govern breaks.
• Prometric remote (ProProctor): rules generally prohibit leaving camera view; sponsor decides break structure.

Bottom line: don't assume you can freely pause-verify your delivery mode's break policy in writing.

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15) If I take it at a test center, can I leave the room?

At Prometric testing centers:

• You can leave only under the center's break procedures and sponsor rules.
• Each time you leave, you must sign out, and you'll go through security checks again on re-entry.

Critical nuance: Some exams continue timing during breaks; Prometric notes breaks are sponsor-determined. So confirm whether your break stops the clock.

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16) If I take it remotely, can I use the restroom?

Remote policies are strict:

• ProctorU states you generally may not test from a bathroom/restroom and also restricts testing in public areas; leaving the monitored setting can trigger flags.
• For Prometric remote (ProProctor), leaving camera view is typically not permitted unless the sponsor allows it.

Practical guidance:

• Treat remote exams as "no restroom unless explicitly permitted during a scheduled break."
• Hydrate earlier; stop liquids ~60-90 minutes before.

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17) What happens if I run out of time on a section?

Common outcomes (configuration-dependent):

• The system auto-submits what you answered and marks unanswered items wrong.
• You may be advanced/locked out of that section.

Elsevier's student guide notes that if allotted time expires, you may see a timeout message and be disconnected.

Strategy: never leave easy questions blank-use quick guessing if needed on the last 60-90 seconds.

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C) Navigation, question review, experimental items, tools

18) Can I skip questions and return later?

This is platform/settings dependent and is not consistently documented in a single public Elsevier policy page.

How to verify without guessing:

• Run the HESI compatibility check/mock exam and look for:

• Back button behavior

• Question navigator
• "Flag/mark" options

Test-day rule: Don't click "End Section" or "Next Section" until you are sure-many exams lock prior sections once closed (TEAS explicitly does; HESI depends on configuration).

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19) Can I mark questions for review?

Same answer as #18: depends on the HESI version/settings used by your school.

Best practice:

• If "mark/flag" exists, use it only for questions you can solve with a second look in <30 seconds.
• Don't mark a question you have no plan to resolve (that becomes wasted time and anxiety).

Use the HESI mock exam/compatibility check to confirm whether "flagging" exists in your interface.

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20) Are there experimental (unscored) questions?

What Elsevier publicly confirms:

• Elsevier publishes number of scored items per exam. That wording strongly implies there can be items that do not count toward scoring (common in standardized testing), but Elsevier does not publish a universal "you will always have X pilot items" rule in that public table.

What many schools publish:

• Some institutions explicitly describe sections as "50 scoring + 5 pilot" (varies by site).

Your strategy (always correct):

• Treat every question like it counts.

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21) Is there an on-screen calculator?

For HESI remote sessions proctored via ProctorU, the HESI proctoring guide explicitly states:

• Online calculator only; no handheld calculators; the HESI platform has a built-in calculator.

Some school testing centers also explicitly mention on-screen calculator availability for math.

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22) Can I bring my own calculator?

Depends on delivery mode + sponsor/school rules.

• ProctorU remote (HESI): the HESI proctoring guide states no handheld calculators (no graphing/scientific/handheld).
• Prometric test center: sponsor determines allowed testing aids; Prometric regulations defer to sponsor policy.
• School-run testing center: the testing center's rules govern what you can bring.

Verification method:

• Look for "allowed items" on the testing center page for your exam date.
• If ambiguous, assume no personal calculator and practice with the on-screen tool.

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23) Is scratch paper allowed?

It depends:

• ProctorU remote (HESI): the HESI proctoring guide says scratch paper is no longer allowed; you must use a whiteboard or 1 sheet in a transparency sleeve (erased at end).
• Prometric test center: Prometric regulations indicate center-issued scratch paper may be provided and must be returned; sponsor policy can override.
• Prometric remote (ProProctor): remote rules generally require a clear workspace and ban unpermitted items; sponsor decides if a substitute (like whiteboard) is allowed.

Do this: Follow the strictest rule that applies to your mode.

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24) What about a whiteboard or transparency sleeve?

For ProctorU-proctored HESI exams:

• Allowed: whiteboard or 1 sheet inside a transparency sleeve with dry-erase marker; must be erased at the end before disconnecting.

For Prometric (remote or test center), this depends on sponsor rules; do not assume.

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25) Are headphones/earplugs allowed?

• ProctorU HESI rules: no headphones/earplugs/earbuds; wearables and non-religious head coverings are restricted.
• Prometric test center: Prometric allows only soft ear plugs (no wires) and center-supplied tissues, unless sponsor says otherwise.

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26) Is a periodic table provided on Chemistry?

This is not guaranteed in a single public Elsevier rule page.

Best practice: assume you may get a limited periodic table display inside the test software, but prepare as if you won't:

• know atomic number vs mass basics,
• common ions/charges (if required),
• balancing basics.

Verification method:

• Ask your testing center if the HESI chemistry module provides a periodic table on screen.
• Use official practice from your school (if provided) and note what references appear.

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27) Are units/conversion formulas provided?

Not reliably published as a universal policy for HESI A2.

Safe approach:

• Memorize the most common healthcare-adjacent conversions (household <-> metric basics) because Math content explicitly includes "household measures, etc."
• Build a mini conversion sheet from your prerequisite coursework and drill until automatic.

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28) Are there essay questions?

HESI A2 is primarily objective format (multiple choice-style). Elsevier's public A2 academic blueprint focuses on scored items in academic content exams and does not describe an essay component.

(TEAS likewise uses objective question types and publishes the question type list; no essay. )

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29) Do I need to memorize grammar terms?

You should know key terms well enough to apply them quickly because the Grammar exam targets "important grammatical terms and uses... parts of speech... common errors."

How deep?

• Not "define every term like an English major," but:

• identify subject/verb agreement errors instantly

• spot pronoun-antecedent issues
• distinguish commonly confused words
• punctuation basics

High-yield rule: if naming the concept helps you correct the sentence faster, learn the name. If it doesn't, focus on pattern recognition with drills.

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30) Do I need nursing knowledge?

For the A2 academic exams, Elsevier frames them as readiness tests in English, Math, and Science prerequisite content-not clinical nursing judgment.

Exception: If your program requires A2CT, Critical Thinking may resemble nursing-situation judgment more than pure academics (but still not NCLEX-level).

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D) HESI A2 vs TEAS (and when choices exist)

TEAS structure (official ATI)

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31) Is the HESI A2 harder than the TEAS?

There's no universal "harder" because:

• HESI A2 content and length vary by school (which modules they require).
• TEAS is standardized into 4 sections with published timing and question counts.

Psychometrically, "harder" for you usually means:

• more of your weak subjects are included (e.g., chemistry),
• tighter time per question,
• unfamiliar question formats.

Action step: decide based on your schools' acceptance and your personal strengths.

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32) Do programs accept TEAS instead of HESI?

Some do, some don't. ATI explicitly notes the TEAS can be proctored by ATI or institutions, and schools set policies for admission use.

You must verify on each target program's admissions page whether they accept:

• HESI A2 only,
• TEAS only,
• either/or.

Never assume a substitute is accepted.

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33) If both are accepted, which should I choose?

Use a decision framework:

Step 1 (hard constraint): choose the exam your program weights most or recommends (some schools quietly prefer one even if both are allowed).

Step 2 (content fit):

• If you're stronger in Science reasoning + reading across broader topics, TEAS may fit.
• If you're stronger in basic math + grammar + A&P, and your HESI requirement is limited to those modules, HESI may be more efficient.

Step 3 (logistics fit):

• Consider test availability, retake timing, and transcript sending (ATI has defined transcript workflows; schools may restrict cross-site acceptance).

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34) Can I take both and submit the higher?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no:

• Some schools accept only one exam type and will not consider the other.
• Others allow either and will take the one you submit.

Verification method: the admissions page should state whether you may submit one test type and whether multiple test types are allowed.

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35) Are scores comparable between HESI and TEAS?

Not directly.

• TEAS total and content-area scores are equated (adjusted across forms), meaning you cannot compute them from raw correct counts and they are comparable across TEAS versions/forms.
• HESI A2 reports exam scores by exam and a composite average across completed exams (per Elsevier's A2 overview).

So you should compare to your program's cutoffs, not "85 on TEAS equals 85 on HESI."

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E) Scoring, reports, validity, sending scores

36) How is the HESI A2 scored?

Elsevier describes:

• Each A2 exam yields a percentile performance score representing academic knowledge/skill.
• A composite percentage score is provided by averaging results of all exams completed.

Important admissions nuance: Schools may focus on specific exams (e.g., A&P) rather than composite.

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37) What is the "composite" score?

Per Elsevier, the composite is an average of the results of all exams completed.

Critical implication: If your school only requires 4 sections, your composite reflects only those sections (unless your configuration forces more).

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38) Do schools look at section scores or composite?

School-specific.

• Some publish a composite minimum.
• Others require minimums per section (common when they want to ensure A&P readiness).

Your rule: Follow the strictest published requirement (if they list both, you must meet both).

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39) What is a competitive score for RN/BSN?

There is no universal number because competition and scoring rules vary by program and cohort.

Elsevier's A2 evidence paper references interpretive "bands" (e.g., 90-100 as excellent; 80-89 very good), but admissions competitiveness is set locally.

How to get a real answer:

• Look for published "minimum required" and "competitive applicant averages" (some schools post them).
• If not published, ask admissions what the last admitted cohort averaged (some will tell you).

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40) What score is required to "pass"?

HESI A2 does not have a single global passing score published for admissions; programs set cut scores.

Elsevier's interpretive bands provide context, but they are not the same thing as your program's pass/fail admissions threshold.

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41) Is there a national passing score?

No national admissions passing score is enforced across all programs; requirements vary by institution.

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42) How soon do I get my results?

It depends on your school's reporting configuration.

Elsevier's student guide indicates that, depending on exam settings, PDFs of scores may be available soon after each module, and your Exam History area contains reports where you can view scores and remediation.

Some schools publish "available within X hours/days," but that is local policy.

Your best move: plan as if it could take 48-72 hours to be safe for deadlines unless your school guarantees faster.

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43) Do I get a printed score report?

This depends on test site.

• Many centers do not print automatically; instead you access the report in Evolve/HESI Exam History.
• Some schools instruct you to download/print a PDF.

Action step: bring a plan B: know how to log into Evolve immediately after testing if you need proof.

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44) How do I send scores to my school?

HESI score distribution is school/workflow dependent.

What Elsevier confirms publicly:

• You must register for HESI Student Access to access reports/remediation and related exam workflows.
• Transcripts are requested through the HESI transcripts process in Evolve/HESI Student Access.

Verify with your program:

• Do they pull scores automatically from your Evolve account link?
• Do you need to order a transcript?
• Do they require testing at their site for "official" acceptance?

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45) How long are scores valid?

Entirely school-specific. Programs set the validity window (commonly 1-2 years, but do not assume).

Verification method:

• Find the program handbook line that says "HESI scores must be dated within ___ months of application deadline."

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46) Will schools accept scores from another campus/testing center?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

A parallel example from ATI TEAS: ATI explicitly warns that some schools will not accept transcripts from exams taken at other locations, and applicants must check each school's policy. HESI policies can be similarly restrictive at the program level.

Rule of thumb: If a program says "must test at our campus" or "we only accept scores from X provider," follow that.

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F) Retakes, attempt limits, and admissions strategy

47) How many times can I take the HESI A2?

There is no single universal number publicly imposed across all programs; attempt limits are typically set by the school/program and/or the testing site's policies.

What you must check:

• Max attempts per application cycle
• Required wait period
• Whether they take highest vs average
• Whether they cap attempts lifetime

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48) Is there an official HESI waiting period between retakes?

Not reliably published as one universal rule in the public Elsevier A2 blueprint materials.

Many programs publish their own waiting periods (e.g., 30-60 days) on their admissions/testing pages, but those are school rules, not Elsevier's universal rule.

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49) Can schools set stricter retake limits?

Yes. Since programs set admissions requirements, they can:

• limit attempts,
• impose longer wait periods,
• restrict attempts to one per cycle,
• require remediation before retesting.

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50) Will schools average attempts or take the highest?

School-specific.

• Some take the highest attempt.
• Some average.
• Some take the most recent.
• Some require meeting minimums on one attempt.

Verification: it should be stated explicitly on the program's testing/admissions policy page.

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51) Do multiple attempts hurt my application?

Depends on how the program evaluates:

• If they only take the highest score, multiple attempts may not hurt (but can still delay you).
• If they average scores or consider number of attempts, then yes, it can hurt.

Practical admissions reality: even when "highest counts," repeated attempts can signal weak readiness if the program does holistic review-so retake only when you can show a meaningful jump.

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52) When should I retake vs apply now?

Use this decision tree:

Retake decision tree

How to estimate improvement odds:

• If your errors are mostly content gaps, improvement is likely.
• If errors are mostly rushing/time, fix pacing first using timed sets based on Elsevier's item/time estimates.

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G) Registration, scheduling, rescheduling, costs, ID

53) How do I register for the HESI A2?

Your pathway depends on where you're testing.

What Elsevier publishes:

• Registering for HESI Student Access is required to take an exam, access reports/remediation, and handle some testing workflows.

Common real-world paths:

1. School testing center (they control scheduling/payment + give access code).
2. Prometric (test center or remote via ProProctor) for A2/A2CT.
3. ProctorU (remote proctoring) if your program offers it.

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54) Where do I schedule (Evolve vs Prometric vs ProctorU)?

Scheduling map

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55) What fees should I expect?

Fees are site- and school-dependent (not globally fixed by Elsevier in a single public admissions policy page).

Common fee components:

• exam fee charged by school/testing center or Prometric site
• remote proctoring fee (if remote)
• prep materials (optional)

Best way to verify: your school's testing center page will list the exact fee for the required version (A2 vs A2CT).

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56) Can I reschedule or cancel?

Rescheduling/cancellation depends on the testing provider and the sponsor's rules.

• Prometric: you typically reschedule/cancel through Prometric, but sponsor rules apply; Prometric support notes you must use the scheduling links for changes.
• ATI TEAS comparison: ATI explicitly states not all exam types allow rescheduling and directs candidates to rescheduling policies.
• School testing center: often has its own deadlines (24-72 hours etc).

Rule: treat your exam appointment as "nonrefundable unless stated otherwise."

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57) What ID do I need?

It depends on provider:

• Prometric test center: requires original, valid (unexpired), government-issued photo + signature ID; acceptable IDs and number required are predetermined by the sponsor.
• ProctorU (HESI remote): requires a government-issued photo ID in the HESI proctoring guide.

Do this: Use a passport or driver's license/state ID whenever possible.

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58) Does the name on my account have to match my ID exactly?

Yes-assume strict matching.

• Testing providers require ID verification, and name mismatches are a common preventable cancellation issue.
• Prometric requires government ID; sponsor sets specifics.
• ProctorU workflows include identity verification and ID capture during pre-checks.

Best practice (works everywhere):

• Use your legal name exactly as on ID in Evolve/registration.
• Avoid nicknames.
• Ensure spacing/hyphenation matches if possible.

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59) What if I have two last names/hyphen/suffix?

Name formatting issues are common.

What to do (low-risk approach):

• Enter the name exactly as your government ID shows it.

• If the registration system won't accept special characters:

• Use the closest plain-text match (e.g., omit hyphen) only if the provider says that's acceptable

• Contact support/school ahead of time for documented guidance

Do not wait until test day-providers can refuse admission for mismatches.

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60) What if my ID is expired?

You are very likely to be turned away.

• Prometric requires unexpired government ID.
• Remote proctoring requires valid government photo ID capture.

Fix: renew ID or use an unexpired passport.

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61) What if I'm an international student without a U.S. driver's license?

Use a passport (best universal option). Prometric requires government-issued photo/signature ID; a passport is commonly accepted under sponsor rules.

Verification: your sponsor (school) may specify acceptable IDs for that exam-follow that list if published.

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62) What if I recently changed my name?

You need alignment across:

• your government ID,
• your Evolve account name,
• your testing appointment name.

Best practice:

• If you don't yet have updated ID, register using the name on your current valid ID.
• If you do have updated ID, update your account/registration early and keep documentation.

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63) Can I use a student ID?

Sometimes, but often not for high-security proctoring.

• Prometric requires government-issued photo/signature ID; sponsor decides acceptable IDs.
• ProctorU HESI guide specifies government-issued photo ID.

Assume "no" unless your testing center explicitly states "student ID accepted."

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H) Accommodations (ADA/Disability services)

64) What accommodations are available?

Accommodations vary by sponsor but commonly include:

• extended time
• extra breaks
• screen magnification / assistive technology
• separate room (in person)
• reader/scribe (where appropriate)

Prometric provides an accommodations framework and notes accommodations vary by sponsor/exam. ProctorU notes accommodation requests typically route through your institution/exam administrator. ATI TEAS also offers accommodations pathways (ATI-proctored vs institution-proctored differ).

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65) How do I request accommodations?

Standard process (works for most schools)

1. Contact your school's Disability/Accessibility Services office.
2. Submit documentation and request accommodations for HESI A2 (or A2CT).
3. The school submits/coordinates with the testing provider (Prometric/ProctorU) as needed.

Key detail: For ProctorU, the institution/testing organization is responsible for reviewing/approving and submitting requests.

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66) How long does accommodations approval take?

Often weeks, not days.

• Many processes recommend submitting 30+ days in advance (ATI accommodations guidance uses at least 30 days for ATI-proctored TEAS, for example).
• Some HESI distance testing accommodation processes referenced by schools cite up to ~6 weeks (school-published procedural docs).

Plan: If deadlines are tight, start accommodations paperwork before you even begin studying.

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67) What are common reasons accommodations get delayed or denied?

Most common:

• incomplete documentation
• request submitted too close to the test date
• requested accommodation not "reasonable" for the exam format
• mismatch between what school approves and what provider can deliver

Prometric and ProctorU both emphasize sponsor variability and formal request processes.

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I) Remote testing: equipment, environment, rule violations, tech failures

68) If I test remotely, what equipment do I need?

ProctorU (HESI remote) minimums

You generally need:

• Windows or Mac computer
• high-speed internet
• webcam + microphone
• Guardian secure browser and proctor chat applet during launch

Prometric remote (ProProctor)

• You must pass a compatibility check and use Prometric's ProProctor application.

Always do both system checks (provider + HESI/Evolve) 24-48 hours before.

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69) What internet speed is required?

Exact Mbps thresholds can vary and are typically provided in the provider's system check tools rather than as one universal number.

What matters most in practice:

• stability (no drops)
• low latency
• minimal competing bandwidth use (no streaming in your home)

ProctorU explicitly recommends testing your equipment and ensuring others aren't consuming bandwidth.

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70) Can I test on an iPad/Chromebook?

For ProctorU remote, the HESI proctoring guide specifies Windows or Mac computers (and secure browser requirements).

For HESI itself, Elsevier's student guide notes some devices are not supported (e.g., Chromebook; certain iPad models) and instructs you to run the compatibility check and system requirements.

Rule: If remote-proctored, assume you need a supported laptop/desktop unless the provider explicitly supports tablets for that exam.

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71) Can I test in a library or coffee shop?

Typically no. ProctorU states public areas like coffee shops are generally not permitted testing locations. You also must be alone and in a controlled environment for HESI remote proctoring.

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72) What should my desk/workspace look like?

For HESI via ProctorU, the rules include:

• clean desk policy (no notes/books/snacks)
• be alone
• one monitor
• permitted hard-surface location (desk/table, not bed/couch/floor)

Set up like this:

• desk facing blank wall if possible
• door behind you or visible
• remove/cover extra monitors
• remove posters/notes in view
• only allowed whiteboard/sleeve if applicable

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73) What are common remote-proctoring "rule violations"?

High-frequency violations include:

• phone in reach / notifications
• talking or reading aloud
• looking off-screen repeatedly
• someone entering room
• using unapproved paper instead of allowed whiteboard/sleeve
• headphones/wearables

These are explicitly addressed in HESI's ProctorU rule list (clean desk, no wearables, no extra monitors, don't speak, close apps).

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74) What should I do if the proctor interrupts or accuses me?

Stay calm and do a "compliance-first" response:

1. Stop what you're doing.
2. Ask for the specific concern and what they want changed.
3. Narrate your compliance briefly ("I'm placing my hands on the desk; I'm moving the whiteboard away.").
4. Do not argue content-focus on resolving the security issue.

Escalation path:

• Use the provider's support channel (ProctorU has live chat/support).
• For Prometric, use their exam support process.
• Immediately email your school/testing coordinator documenting what happened.

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75) What if my internet disconnects or my computer crashes?

Elsevier's student guide warns that exiting the secure browser may prevent re-entry without proctor assistance and that timeouts can disconnect you.

What to do (immediately):

1. Reconnect internet (restart router only if necessary).
2. Reopen the secure browser/proctoring app.
3. Use the proctoring platform's support chat to document the outage.
4. If you cannot re-enter, contact your school/testing center and the provider support the same day with timestamps.

Prevention checklist:

• Ethernet if possible
• disable updates
• close background apps
• restart device 30-60 minutes before exam

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J) Prep resources, spotting scams, and ethics

76) What study resources are actually "official"?

"Official" generally means produced by Elsevier/HESI or provided directly by your school.

Examples of official Elsevier/HESI resources and workflows:

• HESI Student Access registration (for results/remediation/exam workflows)
• Elsevier/HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review (official book from HESI experts; sold by Elsevier)
• Your school's own practice materials (if provided)

Practical rule: prioritize official + school-provided materials first; use third-party only to increase volume of practice after you've aligned to required sections.

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77) How do I spot bad / outdated prep materials?

Red flags:

• Claims of "exact questions from the test" or "guaranteed word-for-word repeats"
• Wrong/unsupported section list (e.g., insists everyone must take Physics even if your school doesn't offer it)
• Outdated timing/question counts presented as universal without acknowledging program variation
• Encourages prohibited behaviors (recording, copying, discussing items)

How to validate a prep resource quickly:

1. Does it match Elsevier's published academic exam set and skills?
2. Does it acknowledge that programs choose sections?
3. Does it avoid promising "exact questions"?

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78) Is it allowed to use "real questions" or answer dumps?

No-this is risky and can violate:

• test center confidentiality rules (Prometric explicitly treats exam content as confidential and prohibits reproducing/transmitting any part of an exam).
• remote proctoring rules and sponsor policies.

What you should do instead (safe + effective):

• Use legitimate practice questions from official prep books/platforms.
• Build an error log and drill weak subskills.
• Use timed sets that match the official timing math.

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