RNs: Complete Your BSN Online
RNs: Complete Your BSN Online

Hesi Admission
Assessment (A2) Review Faqs

The HESI Admission Assessment (A2) is an admission requirement for all applicants of Chamberlain University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program. Find the answers to some frequently asked questions about the HESI A2 below:

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 if I have not yet applied to Chamberlain?

Only applicants with paid and approved applications are permitted to schedule and take the HESI A2. All applicants taking the HESI A2 through Chamberlain are also required to have a Chamberlain student ID number.

How much time do I have to complete the HESI Admission Assessment (A2)?

Total time allotted to complete the HESI A2 at a Chamberlain campus, an approved location, or via remote proctoring is 3 hours, including short breaks. Once time has expired, the HESI A2 will automatically end with no option to re-enter. Applicants testing via remote proctoring must complete their HESI A2 attempt within two business days of accessing the exam. After two business days, if the HESI A2 is not completed, the exam will be force completed. Applicants should schedule and test within 3 to 5 days of applying to Chamberlain University.*

What is tested?

English Language

  • Exam 1 — Reading Comprehension: Provides reading scenarios in order to measure reading comprehension, identifying the main idea, finding meaning of words in context, passage comprehension, making logical inferences, etc.
    • 55 items
  • Exam 2 — Vocabulary & General Knowledge: Contains vocabulary terms that are used commonly in both general English speaking and in the healthcare fields.
    • 55 items

Science

  • Exam 3 — Biology: Covers biology basics, water, biological molecules, metabolism, cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, etc.
    • 30 items
  • Exam 4 — Anatomy & Physiology: Provides coverage of general terminology and anatomical structures and systems.
    • 30 items
How is the HESI A2 scored?

Applicants 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

How should I prepare?

A study booklet, Admission Assessment Exam Review (Elsevier Health Services), can be ordered online. You can also find exam review materials on page 2 of the HESI A2 Information Flyer. Chapter 1: Mathematics, Chapter 4: Grammar, Chapter 6: Chemistry and Chapter 8: Physics will not be included in testing.

What should I bring with me if I'm testing onsite at a campus?

Bring only a valid government issued photo ID and your Chamberlain Student ID to testing. Testing supplies will be issued, including paper, a pencil and calculator. Do not bring any personal items to testing.

What steps can I take to prepare for my remote proctored HESI A2?

Please refer to the HESI A2 Online Remote Proctoring FAQ for information on test preparation.

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

The HESI A2 is not pass/fail. Applicants have the option to retake the test one time prior to Admission Committee review.

How long are my HESI A2 scores valid for if I delay my session start?

Applicants who are not accepted or do not start within six consecutive sessions of their original intended start date will be required to retake the HESI A2. HESI A2 results are valid for one year from the completed test date and will be reviewed for academic eligibility by the Admission Committee within that one-year time frame. 

What if I am denied by the Admission Committee?

Applicants denied academic eligibility by the Chamberlain Admission Committee will be allowed to complete a third HESI A2 attempt within one year of test validity for consideration in a future session start.

* Availability varies by campus location.

Do you have more questions about the HESI A2? Our Chamberlain admission representatives are happy to help! You can reach out to your admission representative directly or call us at 855-294-7205.