HESI A2 Admission Assessment

What to expect and how to prepare for the HESI A2 exam

If you’re applying to Chamberlain’s BSN program, you may be required to take the HESI A2. This page breaks down what it is and how to get ready.

Your Guide to the HESI A2 Admission Assessment

Getting ready for the HESI A2 is an important step toward nursing school. Here’s what to expect, what’s covered, and how to prepare with confidence.

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Reading Comprehension

Understanding passages and answering questions

Vocabulary & General Knowledge

Common words used in healthcare settings

Biology

Basic biological concepts and processes

Anatomy & Physiology

Structure and function of the human body

Prepare for the HESI A2 with a Free Readiness Course

Build confidence in the subjects you’ll see on the HESI A2

Our complimentary BSN Readiness Course helps you review key HESI A2 subjects, including reading, math, vocabulary, biology, and anatomy & physiology. Work through lessons at your own pace to strengthen your understanding before test day.

How to Prepare for the HESI A2

Preparing for the HESI A2 is easier when you focus on the subjects you’ll be tested on and practice consistently. Start with a study plan, review key topics, and use resources designed to help you build confidence before test day.

Start with a Complimentary HESI Prep Course

Our BSN Readiness Course is designed to help you review the same subjects covered on the HESI A2. Work through lessons at your own pace to strengthen your understanding before test day.

What is the HESI A2?

The HESI A2 is an admissions assessment used in the BSN application process at Chamberlain. It evaluates your readiness in key subject areas like reading, math, vocabulary, biology, and anatomy & physiology.

Can I take the HESI A2 before applying?

You’ll need to submit an application before scheduling your HESI A2 through Chamberlain. Once your application is processed, you can select a testing time.

Do I need to take the HESI A2 if I’ve already taken the ACT, SAT, HESI, or TEAS at another school?

All applicants must have a valid qualifying test score on file. If you’ve taken the ACT, SAT, TEAS, or HESI within the past five years, those scores may be considered.

If you don’t have a qualifying score, you may take the HESI A2 through Chamberlain. Your enrollment representative can help you understand your options and next steps.

When should I take the HESI A2?

We recommend scheduling your test within 3–5 days after applying. The HESI A2 is completed through a proctored online session.

How is the HESI A2 scored?

You’ll receive a score for each subject area, along with combined sub-scores. All required sections must be completed for your results to be considered.

Will I need to take chemistry or physics on the HESI A2?

English Language

Reading Comprehension: Understanding passages, identifying main ideas, and making logical inferences
Vocabulary & General Knowledge: Common English and healthcare-related terms

Science

Biology: Basic concepts such as cells, metabolism, and biological processes
Anatomy & Physiology: Body systems, structures, and functions

How long does the HESI A2 take?

You’ll have three hours to complete the HESI A2. This time includes any breaks you choose to take.

Where is the HESI A2 given? Can I take it online?

Yes. The HESI A2 is completed in a remote proctored environment, allowing you to take the exam online.
You can review the Online Remote Proctoring FAQ for details on system requirements and test-day expectations.

How many HESI A2 attempts can I take?

You’re allowed one attempt at the HESI A2 as part of the admissions process.

I still have questions. Who can I contact?

Our admissions team is here to help. Call 855.294.7205 or email us to get personalized guidance on your next steps.

What is the HESI Admission Assessment (A2)?

All applicants of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program are required to complete the HESI A2 prior to admission. The HESI A2 consists of four required academic exams.

Can I complete the HESI A2 before applying to Chamberlain?

Only applicants with paid and approved applications can schedule and take the HESI Admission Assessment through Chamberlain. They must also have a Chamberlain student ID number.

I’ve already taken the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam. Do I still need to take the HESI A2?

All students applying for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Chamberlain University must complete the HESI A2. ACT or SAT scores may be used in lieu of the A2 if high school graduation date is within one year from the start date.

When should I schedule a time to take the HESI A2?

We recommend that applicants schedule and test within three to five days of applying to Chamberlain University. The HESI A2 is taken in a proctored online session.

How is the HESI A2 scored?

You must complete all four required academic exams per attempt. Individual scores are provided for each exam, and the scores are combined to provide sub-scores in the academic areas listed above. If any of the four academic exams result in a zero, the incomplete exam will count as an attempt, but the results will not be considered acceptable.

HESI Admission Assessment (A2) Review Preparation

The HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review guide has sections on mathematics, chemistry and physics. Will I have to take those exams?

No, you’ll only take the following four required exams:

English Language

Exam 1 — Reading Comprehension: includes identifying main ideas, understanding word context, passage comprehension, and making logical inferences. (55 items)
Exam 2 — Vocabulary & General Knowledge: includes vocabulary terms used frequently in English and healthcare. (55 items)

Science

Exam 3 — Biology: includes cells, molecules, water, cellular respiration, metabolism, and other basics of biology. (30 items)
Exam 4 — Anatomy & Physiology: includes general terminology and anatomical structures and systems. (30 items)

How long does it take to complete the HESI A2?

Your total time allotted is three hours, including short breaks. Once time has expired, the exam will automatically end. Applicants testing via remote proctoring must complete their attempt within two business days of accessing the exam. After two business days, if the HESI A2 is not completed, the exam will be submitted as -is.

Where is the HESI A2 given? Is there a remote option?

You can complete the exam via remote proctoring. Please refer to the Online Remote Proctoring FAQ for information on test preparation. for information on test preparation.

What if I don’t pass the HESI A2 the first time? Can I retake it?

Applicants have the option to retake the test one time before the admission committee review.

What if I don’t qualify after my second attempt?

Applicants denied academic eligibility by the Chamberlain admission committee will be allowed to complete a third attempt within one year of test validity for consideration in a future session.

I still have questions about the HESI A2. Who can I contact?

Our admission representatives are happy to help. Call us at 855.294.7205 or email us today.