HESI A2 vs NLN PAX is a common question for nursing applicants, especially since some schools accept one, the other, or occasionally both. Studying for the wrong exam wastes valuable prep time, so it pays to know the differences early.
This guide covers 6 key differences in the HESI A2 vs NLN PAX decision, so you can prepare with confidence.
HESI A2 vs NLN PAX: The Short Answer
Your nursing program decides which exam you need. Check your school’s admissions page first, since most programs require one specific exam rather than letting you choose.
6 Key Differences in HESI A2 vs NLN PAX
1. Different Publishers
The HESI A2 is published by Elsevier. The NLN PAX (Pre-Admission Examination) is published by the National League for Nursing. Each organization writes its own questions, so question style and difficulty can differ.
2. Section Structure
The HESI A2 is customizable, and schools choose from sections including math, reading, vocabulary, grammar, biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology and physics. The NLN PAX generally covers three core areas: verbal ability, mathematics and science.
3. Content Depth
HESI A2 science sections can be tested separately, which allows for more detailed subject-specific questions. The NLN PAX combines science into one broader section, so it may cover more ground at a lighter depth per topic.
4. Scoring
HESI A2 results show a percentage score for each section plus a cumulative average, with many programs expecting around 75–80% or higher per section. The NLN PAX uses a composite score and percentile ranking compared to other test-takers nationally. Confirm your target score directly with your program either way.
5. Availability
The HESI A2 is widely used across many nursing and allied health programs nationwide. The NLN PAX is used by a smaller, though still significant, number of programs. Availability can also depend on your region and the specific schools you’re applying to.
6. Retake Policies
Retake rules differ by exam and by school. For the HESI A2, Lone Star College allows one retake every 60 days. NLN PAX retake policies vary by testing site and program, so confirm directly with your school if the PAX applies to you.
Which Should You Prepare For?
Confirm with your nursing program first, since this single step saves the most time. If your school accepts either exam, consider:
- Your comfort with separate subject-specific science sections (HESI A2) versus one combined science section (NLN PAX)
- How each exam’s scoring system aligns with your target program’s requirements
- Which study resources you already have access to
How to Prepare for the HESI A2 vs NLN PAX
- Confirm which exam your program requires and its minimum score.
- Take a timed diagnostic test for that specific exam.
- Rank your sections from weakest to strongest.
- Study structured notes paired with practice questions.
- Review every mistake before test day.
If your school requires the HESI A2, our HESI A2 study bundle covers all nine sections with step-by-step explanations, and our free practice tests help you build a baseline before you start.
FAQ
Is the HESI A2 or NLN PAX easier?
Neither is universally easier. Difficulty depends on your strengths, since the HESI A2 tests subjects separately while the NLN PAX combines science into one section. What matters most is which exam your school requires.
Can I switch from NLN PAX prep to HESI A2 prep easily?
Core subjects like math and reading overlap somewhat, but each exam has its own format and question style. Confirm your required exam early so you can prepare specifically for it.
Confirm Your Exam and Start Preparing
The HESI A2 vs NLN PAX choice comes down to your school’s requirements first, then your own strengths in subject-specific versus combined science testing. Confirm the exam, then build a focused study plan.
If your school requires the HESI A2, our free practice tests and study guides are a strong place to start. Join our HESI A2 study group on Facebook for support along the way.
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