HESI vs TEAS: Understanding the Key Differences for Nursing School Admissions

When applying to nursing school programs, prospective students are often required to take an entrance exam as part of the admissions process. Two of the most common exams used by nursing schools are the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exam and the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). These tests are designed to assess the academic preparedness of students for the rigorous coursework and clinical training involved in nursing programs. While both exams serve a similar purpose, there are notable differences in their structure, content, and the way they assess a student’s readiness for nursing school.

As applicants often apply to multiple nursing programs, it is not uncommon for them to find themselves needing to take both the HESI and the TEAS exams. This can raise questions about which exam may be better suited to their strengths and what areas of study they should focus on in preparation. The differences between the HESI and TEAS are not always immediately clear, and many students are uncertain about how these exams compare in terms of content, format, and overall difficulty.

In this first part, we will explore the foundational purpose and general structure of both the HESI and TEAS exams. Understanding these exams in the context of nursing school admissions will help clarify why nursing programs require them and how they fit into the overall admissions process. By understanding the core goals of each exam, students can approach their preparation with greater confidence and focus on the specific areas of testing that will most impact their success.

Understanding the Purpose of the HESI and TEAS Exams

Both the HESI and TEAS exams are intended to assess a student’s academic readiness for nursing school. However, the exact purpose of each test differs slightly. The HESI exam is typically used by schools that wish to assess a wider range of academic and personal factors. These schools use the results of the HESI to evaluate a student’s general academic abilities in areas such as reading comprehension, mathematics, and science. The exam also provides insight into a student’s learning style and personality, which can help schools tailor their educational approach to fit the needs of incoming students. This profile information can be particularly valuable for nursing programs that aim to create a supportive and effective learning environment.

The TEAS, on the other hand, is a more streamlined exam that focuses on assessing general academic skills that are typically acquired during high school or undergraduate studies. The test is designed to give nursing schools a snapshot of a student’s ability to handle the academic demands of the program. It focuses on essential skills such as reading comprehension, mathematics, and science, and the results help nursing programs assess whether an applicant is academically prepared to succeed in their nursing coursework. The TEAS is a more straightforward exam compared to the HESI, with fewer sections and a more general focus.

General Structure and Content of the Exams

Both the HESI and TEAS exams are designed to test the academic knowledge and critical thinking skills of students, but they do so in different ways. Understanding the structure of these exams is crucial for students who want to know what to expect on test day and how to prepare effectively.

The HESI exam is often seen as a more comprehensive test. It consists of seven core academic sections: reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, mathematics, biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology. Each of these sections is designed to evaluate specific areas of knowledge that are important for nursing students. Additionally, the HESI includes a learner profile section that assesses a student’s learning style and personality traits. While the inclusion of these profile sections can provide valuable insight into a student’s strengths and weaknesses, they are not always required by every nursing program. Some schools opt to use the profile data to better align their teaching methods with the diverse learning styles of their students.

In contrast, the TEAS exam is more concise and focuses on four key areas: reading, mathematics, science, English, and language usage. These areas are meant to test foundational skills that will help students succeed in nursing programs. The TEAS exam is designed to evaluate a student’s general academic knowledge, rather than specialized medical knowledge, making it a more general test compared to the HESI.

Both exams are timed, and students must complete them within a specified period. The length of the exams varies, with the HESI typically taking about four hours to complete, while the TEAS takes around three and a half hours. The number of questions also differs significantly between the two exams, with the HESI containing roughly 350 questions and the TEAS having around 170. The difference in the number of questions reflects the broader scope of the HESI exam and its emphasis on testing a wider range of academic subjects.

Preparing for the HESI and TEAS Exams

Preparation is essential for success on both the HESI and TEAS exams. While the two exams share some similarities in terms of content areas, their structure and the way the material is presented differ. As a result, the approach to preparation will vary depending on which exam a student is taking.

For students preparing for the HESI exam, it is important to review all of the academic subjects that are covered. This may include reviewing basic grammar rules, mathematics concepts, biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. Because the HESI includes more specialized medical topics, students may need to spend additional time reviewing these subjects, especially if they do not have a strong background in the sciences. Students should also be aware that some nursing programs may require specific sections of the HESI exam, so it is crucial to check the requirements of each program before registering for the test.

For students preparing for the TEAS exam, the focus will likely be on reinforcing general knowledge in reading, mathematics, science, and English. The TEAS exam is more general, so students may not need to focus as much on specialized medical topics. However, the science section of the TEAS still covers important concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, so a basic understanding of these subjects is important for success on the test.

Regardless of which exam students are taking, there are many resources available to help with preparation. Practice tests, study guides, and online courses can provide valuable tools for review and help students feel more confident on test day. It is essential to start preparing early to give yourself ample time to review the material and address any areas of weakness.

Detailed Comparison of Test Content: HESI vs TEAS

In this section, we will examine in detail the content areas tested on the HESI and TEAS exams. These two exams assess similar skills but focus on different subjects and levels of complexity. Understanding the specific topics covered in each section will help prospective nursing students prepare effectively and target their studies where they are most needed.

HESI Exam Content

The HESI exam is comprehensive, designed to evaluate both general academic skills and knowledge that is particularly relevant to the field of nursing. It consists of several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of a student’s academic preparation. Let’s break down the specific sections of the HESI exam.

1. Reading Comprehension

The reading comprehension section of the HESI exam tests the student’s ability to understand and interpret written material. This section includes passages of text followed by questions that assess the student’s ability to extract key information, make inferences, and understand the author’s intent. Nursing students need to be able to understand and analyze information quickly, as reading comprehension is a critical skill for studying medical texts, research articles, and patient charts.

2. Vocabulary and Grammar

The vocabulary and grammar section assesses a student’s command of the English language, particularly in terms of word usage, sentence structure, and grammar. This section typically tests knowledge of both commonly used vocabulary words and more specialized terms that may appear in medical settings. Understanding proper grammar and syntax is essential for nurses to communicate effectively in writing, whether in patient documentation, emails, or reports.

3. Mathematics

The mathematics section of the HESI exam is designed to assess a student’s ability to perform basic math operations and solve problems related to measurements, ratios, and conversions. This section is crucial for nursing students, as they must often calculate dosages, conversions, and other critical values in their clinical practice. Topics include basic arithmetic, fractions, percentages, and unit conversions, all of which are vital skills for a nursing career.

4. Biology

The biology section tests a student’s understanding of basic biological concepts, including cell biology, genetics, evolution, and the structure and function of living organisms. For nursing students, having a solid grasp of biology is essential, as it lays the foundation for understanding human anatomy, physiology, and disease processes. This section can be quite challenging, especially for students who have not recently studied biology.

5. Chemistry

The chemistry section of the HESI exam assesses a student’s knowledge of fundamental chemistry concepts. Topics typically covered include atomic structure, chemical reactions, bonding, acids and bases, and the periodic table. Chemistry is an important subject for nursing students, as it provides the basis for understanding pharmacology, drug interactions, and other medical treatments.

6. Anatomy and Physiology

The anatomy and physiology section is one of the most critical for nursing students, as it covers the structure and function of the human body. This section tests knowledge of body systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems, and it may also cover topics like the nervous system, the immune system, and homeostasis. Understanding anatomy and physiology is essential for nurses to assess patients and provide appropriate care.

7. Learner Profile (Optional)

In addition to the academic sections, the HESI exam includes a learner profile section, which may or may not be required by all nursing programs. This section evaluates the student’s learning style and personality traits. It typically consists of two sub-sections: the learning style inventory and the personality profile. While these sections do not directly affect the student’s academic performance, they can provide valuable information to nursing programs, helping them tailor their teaching methods and strategies to suit the needs of their incoming students.

TEAS Exam Content

In contrast to the HESI exam, the TEAS exam has a more streamlined structure, focusing on general academic skills that are foundational to success in nursing school. The TEAS is divided into four sections, each designed to test a specific skill set necessary for nursing students. Let’s break down each of these sections in detail.

1. Reading

The reading section of the TEAS exam assesses a student’s ability to understand and interpret written passages. Similar to the HESI reading comprehension section, this section tests a student’s ability to extract key ideas, identify details, and infer meaning from the text. The TEAS reading section is less specialized than the HESI version, focusing more on general reading comprehension skills rather than the ability to analyze technical or medical texts.

2. Mathematics

The mathematics section on the TEAS exam evaluates basic mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, and problem-solving. Students are tested on their ability to perform calculations, solve word problems, and work with numbers. Topics covered include basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, percentages, and algebraic expressions. While it is not as in-depth as the HESI mathematics section, the TEAS math section still plays a significant role in determining whether a student has the necessary skills for nursing school.

3. Science

The science section of the TEAS exam focuses on essential scientific concepts, particularly in the areas of biology, chemistry, and physics. Students are expected to have a solid understanding of foundational science principles, including cell biology, the structure and function of body systems, and basic chemical and physical principles. The science section of the TEAS is less comprehensive than the biology and chemistry sections of the HESI exam, but it still requires a good understanding of basic science concepts that will support students throughout their nursing education.

4. English and Language Usage

The English and language usage section of the TEAS exam assesses a student’s understanding of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and spelling. Students are tested on their ability to identify correct grammar usage and make appropriate language choices. This section is important for nursing students because they need strong communication skills to accurately document patient information, write reports, and engage in professional communication within the healthcare setting.

Key Differences in Content Coverage

While both exams assess general academic knowledge, the HESI exam places a stronger emphasis on subjects related to the medical field, such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. These subjects are important for nursing students, as they form the foundation for understanding human health, disease processes, and medical interventions. In contrast, the TEAS exam focuses more on general academic skills, which may be more familiar to students who have recently completed high school or undergraduate studies in non-medical fields.

Another important difference is the inclusion of the learner profile section in the HESI exam, which provides insights into a student’s learning style and personality. While this section may not directly affect a student’s academic performance, it is still a unique aspect of the HESI exam that is not found in the TEAS. Additionally, the HESI exam has more sections overall, covering a wider range of academic subjects.

We will compare the structure and format of the exams, including their timing, number of questions, and the overall test-taking experience. We will also discuss strategies for effectively preparing for both the HESI and TEAS exams.

Exam Structure and Format: HESI vs TEAS

In this section, we will focus on the structure and format of the HESI and TEAS exams. While both tests are designed to assess academic readiness for nursing programs, they differ significantly in their format, length, and structure. Understanding these differences is essential for test preparation, as it will help students manage their time effectively during the exam and approach each section with the right mindset.

HESI Exam Structure and Format

The HESI exam is a comprehensive test that includes a wide variety of academic sections. Each section is designed to evaluate a specific skill set or area of knowledge, from reading comprehension to science and math. Because the HESI exam includes more sections than the TEAS, the test is longer and more detailed.

Number of Sections and Questions

The HESI exam consists of up to seven academic sections, with each section testing different areas of knowledge. The number of questions varies depending on the subject, but the total number of questions on the exam can range from 350 to 400 questions. This makes the HESI exam significantly longer than the TEAS, which has only four sections.

Students should expect to spend approximately four hours completing the HESI exam. The individual sections can vary in length, with some sections containing more questions than others. For example, the reading comprehension and vocabulary sections are typically shorter, while the anatomy and physiology sections can be more extensive due to the depth of the material covered.

Time Allotted

Each section of the HESI exam is timed, and students must complete the test within a specified period. On average, students are given about 50-60 minutes to complete each section, although the exact timing may vary slightly depending on the specific exam. Students need to manage their time wisely during the exam, as spending too much time on any one section can lead to rushing through other parts of the test.

The HESI exam also includes an optional learner profile section, which assesses a student’s learning style and personality. While this section does not affect the student’s academic performance or score, it is still an important part of the test and can provide valuable insights into a student’s learning preferences. This section does not have a time limit, but students should allocate enough time to complete it without feeling rushed.

Test Delivery and Format

The HESI exam is typically administered via computer, although some nursing schools may offer paper-based versions of the test. The computer-based format allows students to complete the test more efficiently, as it automatically calculates scores and provides immediate feedback on performance. Students will answer multiple-choice questions for most sections of the HESI exam, although some sections may also include fill-in-the-blank or short-answer questions, especially in areas like vocabulary and grammar.

The HESI exam is designed to be adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the questions may adjust based on the student’s performance. For example, if a student answers a question correctly, the next question may be slightly more difficult. This adaptive testing format is intended to provide a more accurate assessment of the student’s knowledge and abilities.

TEAS Exam Structure and Format

The TEAS exam is shorter and more straightforward than the HESI exam, with fewer sections and a more focused content scope. Although the TEAS exam assesses similar academic skills as the HESI, its structure and timing are designed to be more manageable for students who may be pressed for time.

Number of Sections and Questions

The TEAS exam consists of four main sections: reading, mathematics, science, English, and language usage. The total number of questions on the TEAS exam is 170, which is much fewer than the 350 to 400 questions found on the HESI exam. The questions are divided into each of the four sections as follows:

• Reading: 40 questions

• Mathematics: 45 questions

• Science: 50 questions

• English and Language Usage: 55 questions

This makes the TEAS exam less comprehensive than the HESI, but still challenging in terms of the breadth of content covered. Each section of the TEAS exam is timed, and students are given a set amount of time to complete each part of the test.

Time Allotted

The total time for the TEAS exam is approximately three and a half hours, which is slightly shorter than the HESI exam. Each section is timed as follows:

• Reading: 35 minutes

• Mathematics: 50 minutes

• Science: 40 minutes

• English and Language Usage: 30 minutes

These time allocations are designed to provide students with sufficient time to answer all of the questions in each section. However, because the TEAS has fewer questions overall, students may find that they can move through the test more quickly than they would on the HESI exam. It is still important to manage time effectively, especially in the science and mathematics sections, which may require more time for problem-solving and calculations.

Test Delivery and Format

Like the HESI exam, the TEAS is typically administered via computer. The computer-based format allows students to complete the exam more efficiently and receive instant feedback on their performance. The TEAS exam consists entirely of multiple-choice questions, with no short-answer or fill-in-the-blank questions. This straightforward question format makes the TEAS easier to navigate in terms of answering questions quickly.

The TEAS exam is also not adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the questions does not change based on the student’s performance. Students are presented with questions in a fixed order, and the level of difficulty remains constant throughout the exam.

Key Differences in Structure and Timing

One of the most noticeable differences between the HESI and TEAS exams is the length and number of questions. The HESI exam includes up to seven sections and can contain anywhere from 350 to 400 questions, whereas the TEAS exam consists of only four sections and 170 questions. As a result, the TEAS is generally faster to complete, with a total testing time of three and a half hours, compared to the four hours required for the HESI exam.

Another difference lies in the time allocated to each section. The HESI exam typically gives students about 50-60 minutes per section, whereas the TEAS allocates shorter time limits per section, with the reading section receiving only 35 minutes and the mathematics section 50 minutes. This reflects the different testing structures of the two exams: the HESI exam is broader in scope and requires more in-depth answers, while the TEAS exam is more focused on general academic skills and tends to involve less complex problem-solving.

Finally, the adaptive testing format of the HESI exam is another key distinction. The HESI exam adjusts the difficulty of the questions based on a student’s performance, allowing for a more personalized assessment. In contrast, the TEAS exam presents questions in a fixed order, with a constant level of difficulty throughout.

Strategies for Test Preparation

Given the differences in test structure and timing, students must tailor their study strategies for each exam. For the HESI exam, students should focus on reviewing a wide range of academic subjects, especially those related to biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. Because the HESI exam is longer and includes more questions, students need to practice time management and pacing to avoid rushing through the test.

For the TEAS exam, students should concentrate on mastering the general academic skills covered in the reading, mathematics, science, and English sections. The TEAS exam has a more fixed structure, so students should aim to improve their efficiency and accuracy in answering multiple-choice questions.

Cost, Logistics, and Final Considerations: HESI vs TEAS

As students prepare for nursing school, understanding the cost, logistics, and final considerations of the HESI and TEAS exams is crucial. While both exams are similar in purpose, they differ in terms of testing fees, registration processes, and logistical factors such as where and when you can take the exams. Additionally, students may be wondering how to decide which exam to take based on their program requirements and individual preferences. This section will provide a detailed comparison of these factors, helping students make more informed decisions.

Cost of the HESI and TEAS Exams

The cost of taking either the HESI or TEAS exam varies based on several factors, including the type of exam, the specific nursing program, and location. Both exams typically involve a registration fee, and students should be prepared to budget for the cost of taking the exam, as well as any associated preparation materials or study aids.

HESI Exam Costs

The cost of the HESI exam can vary depending on the specific exam that a student is taking and the nursing program’s requirements. The price typically ranges from $40 to $100, with the exact fee determined by the institution offering the exam. Some schools may charge additional fees for certain sections of the exam, especially if they are customized for specific nursing programs. Students need to verify the cost of the exam when registering to ensure they are prepared financially.

Additionally, students should be aware that some nursing programs may require students to pay for multiple attempts if they need to retake the exam due to an unsatisfactory score or missed sections. It’s a good idea to budget for the possibility of retaking the exam, as this can add extra costs.

TEAS Exam Costs

The TEAS exam generally costs around $70, although the price can vary slightly depending on location and the testing center. This fee typically covers the cost of registering for the exam and receiving an official score report. As with the HESI exam, some students may be required to pay additional fees for retaking the exam if they do not achieve the desired score on their first attempt.

The TEAS fee is generally considered more straightforward, as it covers all four sections of the test, and there are no separate costs for different parts of the exam. However, like the HESI exam, students may want to set aside extra funds in case they need to retake the test.

Registration and Testing Logistics

Both the HESI and TEAS exams are administered by testing centers, and students must register in advance to take the exams. The registration process for each exam is straightforward, but there are some logistical considerations that students need to be aware of, including exam dates, locations, and the availability of test centers.

HESI Exam Registration and Logistics

To register for the HESI exam, students must first check with the nursing programs they are applying to to understand the specific requirements for the exam. Some schools require students to take all sections of the HESI exam, while others may only require a subset of the sections based on their program’s focus. It is crucial to verify these requirements before registering to ensure that the exam is tailored to the program’s needs.

Once students have identified the required sections, they can register for the exam through the testing provider or directly with the nursing program. Registration is typically done online, and students must choose a testing date and location that works for them. Many nursing schools have partnerships with specific testing centers, which may offer special exam dates for their applicants.

The HESI exam is usually administered on specific dates, and availability may vary based on the testing center. Students should plan and register early to secure their preferred testing dates. It’s also important to note that some schools may have specific deadlines for completing the HESI exam as part of the admissions process, so students must be mindful of these deadlines when planning their testing schedules.

TEAS Exam Registration and Logistics

Similar to the HESI exam, students must register for the TEAS exam through the official testing provider. The registration process is typically done online, and students must select a testing center and date that works for their schedule. The TEAS exam is administered at a wide range of testing centers, including Pearson VUE centers, which are available in many locations across the country. This makes the TEAS exam relatively accessible in terms of testing locations.

TEAS exams are offered regularly, but availability may vary depending on location and demand. Students should check the availability of test dates and locations to ensure they can take the exam at a convenient time. Some students may find that they need to plan and register several weeks in advance to secure a spot at their preferred testing center.

Just as with the HESI exam, students should verify any specific requirements set by the nursing programs to which they are applying. For instance, some programs may have deadlines for TEAS scores or may require a minimum score for acceptance into the program.

Which Exam to Take: HESI or TEAS?

For many nursing school applicants, deciding which exam to take can be one of the most challenging aspects of the admissions process. There are a variety of factors that can influence the decision to choose one exam over the other, including program requirements, personal strengths, and exam format preferences.

Program Requirements

The most important factor in deciding whether to take the HESI or TEAS exam is the nursing program to which you are applying. Each program may have its requirements regarding which exams it accepts. Some programs exclusively accept one exam, while others may accept both the HESI and TEAS. Additionally, some schools may have specific score requirements or may only require certain sections of the exams.

It is essential for students to check the admission guidelines of the nursing programs they are interested in to determine which exam is required. If a student is applying to multiple programs, they may need to take both exams, so it’s important to understand the specifics of each program’s requirements to avoid confusion.

Personal Strengths and Preferences

When choosing between the HESI and TEAS, students should consider their academic strengths and preferences. The HESI exam is broader in scope and includes specialized topics like anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and biology. If you have a strong background in science and prefer a more comprehensive test, the HESI exam may be a better fit. On the other hand, the TEAS exam is shorter and more focused on general academic skills, so students who excel in reading, English, and mathematics may find it easier to prepare for and take.

Preparation Time

Students should also take into account how much time they can devote to preparation. The HESI exam requires more extensive preparation due to its broader content and larger number of sections. If you are not familiar with certain subjects like anatomy and physiology or chemistry, it may take additional time to prepare for the HESI. The TEAS exam, with its more focused content, may require less preparation time for students who are already comfortable with the general subjects it covers.

Final Thoughts

Both the HESI and TEAS exams serve as important components of the nursing school admissions process, providing a measure of a student’s academic preparedness. While the two exams have similar goals, they differ in their structure, content, and logistics. By understanding the differences between the exams, students can make more informed decisions about which test to take, based on their academic strengths, program requirements, and personal preferences.

Ultimately, the key to success on either exam is preparation. Regardless of whether you are taking the HESI or TEAS, a solid study plan and dedicated preparation are essential for performing well. Take the time to understand the content and structure of the exam, practice with sample questions, and review key subjects to maximize your chances of success.