Registration & Test Day Preparation

Unlike many standardized exams, the HESI A2 registration process goes through your nursing program rather than directly through the testing company. Understanding the process helps avoid delays and surprises.

Registration Steps

Step 1: Identify Your Program's Requirements

• Contact your nursing program or visit their admissions page
• Determine which HESI A2 sections are required
• Note the minimum score requirements for each section
• Check if there is a specific testing window or deadline

Step 2: Register Through Your Institution

• Registration is coordinated by your nursing school
• You may register through the school's testing center or admissions office
• Some programs use the Evolve online platform for registration
• Create an Evolve account at evolve.elsevier.com if required

Step 3: Pay the Exam Fee

• The standard exam fee is approximately $58
• Some institutions charge additional proctoring or administrative fees ($20-$75)
• Payment is typically non-refundable
• Some programs include the HESI A2 fee in their application costs

Step 4: Schedule Your Exam

• Schedule through the designated testing provider (Prometric, PSI, or on-campus)
• Choose a date that allows adequate preparation time
• Confirm the location, date, and reporting time

What to Bring on Test Day

NOT Allowed:

• Personal calculators (an on-screen calculator is provided for math)
• Cell phones, smartwatches, or electronic devices
• Notes, textbooks, or reference materials
• Food or drinks in the testing area
• Scratch paper (some centers provide dry-erase boards)

Retake Policy

Retake policies vary by institution, but general guidelines include:

Understanding Your Score Report

After completing the HESI A2, you will receive a detailed score report. Understanding each component helps you know where to improve:

Score interpretation guidelines:

Tips after receiving your scores:

1. Identify sections where you scored below your target
2. Create a focused study plan for weak areas before retaking
3. Contact the nursing program to confirm which scores they use (composite vs. individual)
4. Keep your score report — some programs accept scores for up to 2 years

Study Resources

Test-Day Tips

1. Arrive 15-30 minutes early to allow time for check-in procedures
2. Get a good night's sleep — the exam is long and requires sustained concentration
3. Eat a balanced meal before the exam; you may not have access to food during testing
4. Manage your time — each section is individually timed, so pace yourself within each section
5. Answer every question — there is no penalty for guessing on the HESI A2
6. Read questions carefully — many wrong answers come from misreading, not lack of knowledge
7. Use the on-screen calculator for math — it is available only during the Mathematics section
8. Stay calm — if you struggle with one section, it does not affect your score on other sections

Understanding Your Score Report

After completing the HESI A2, your score report includes:

Interpreting your scores:

• 90-100%: Excellent — highly competitive for admission
• 80-89%: Very good — meets requirements at most programs
• 75-79%: Adequate — meets minimum at many programs (but may not be competitive)
• Below 75%: Below typical minimum — may need to retake

Scores are typically available within 24-48 hours through the Evolve platform or your institution's testing office. Some programs have scores available immediately after testing.