HESI A2 vs TEAS is one of the most common questions nursing applicants ask. Both are entrance exams for healthcare programs, but they are different tests from different publishers. Studying for the wrong one wastes weeks.
This guide breaks down the 6 key differences in the HESI A2 vs TEAS decision so you can prepare for the right exam.
HESI A2 vs TEAS: The Short Answer
Your school decides. Most nursing programs require one exam or the other, not both. Check your program’s admissions page before you buy any study materials.
If your school accepts either, compare the differences below and choose the format that fits your strengths.
6 Key Differences in HESI A2 vs TEAS
1. Different Publishers
The HESI A2 is published by Elsevier. The TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is published by ATI. The two companies write their own questions, so the styles are not identical.
2. Flexible Sections vs Fixed Sections
The HESI A2 is customizable. Schools pick which sections you take, from math, reading, vocabulary, grammar, biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology and physics, plus optional extras. Gateway Technical College shows how one school lists its required sections.
The TEAS 7 has four fixed sections: Reading, Math, Science, and English and Language Usage.
3. Length and Timing
TEAS 7 is a single exam of about 170 questions over roughly 3.5 hours. HESI A2 testing time depends on your program’s sections, and many schools schedule about 4 to 5 hours. Confirm current details on the ATI TEAS page.
4. How Science Is Tested
On the HESI A2, science can appear as separate sections: biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology and physics. On the TEAS, science is combined into one section. That makes HESI A2 prep more subject-by-subject, and TEAS prep more blended.
5. Scoring
HESI A2 results are shown as a percentage for each section, plus a cumulative average. Many programs look for about 75–80% or higher per section. TEAS results use proficiency levels, such as Proficient, Advanced and Exemplary. Each program sets its own target on both tests.
6. Extra Components
The HESI A2 may include a personality profile and a learning style assessment. These are not pass/fail. The TEAS has no equivalent, so its content is entirely academic.
Which Is Harder: HESI A2 vs TEAS?
Neither is universally harder. If you’re strong in science and want to show it, the separate HESI A2 science sections can help. If you’d rather face one blended exam with a fixed structure, the TEAS may feel simpler.
What matters most is which one your school requires. Then match your study plan to that format.
How to Prepare for the HESI A2 vs TEAS
Use this quick process:
- Confirm which exam your program requires and its minimum score.
- Take a timed diagnostic test for that exam.
- Rank your sections from weakest to strongest.
- Study notes first, then practice questions.
- Review every mistake before test day.
Whichever route you choose, structured notes make the work easier. Our HESI A2 study bundle covers all nine sections, and our homepage also features ATI TEAS 7 study resources and free practice tests.
FAQ
Can I take both the HESI A2 and the TEAS?
You can, but most programs only require one. Taking both makes sense only if you’re applying to schools that require different exams.
Do HESI A2 vs TEAS scores transfer between schools?
Not automatically. Each school has its own rules for score type, minimums and how recent the score must be. Contact each admissions office before you test.
Choose Your Exam and Start Studying
The HESI A2 vs TEAS choice comes down to your school’s requirements and your own strengths. Confirm the exam first, then build a study plan around it.
If your school requires the HESI A2, our free practice tests and study guides are a strong place to start. You can also ask questions in our HESI A2 study group on Facebook.
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