Most Recommended HESI Prep Companies for Practice Questions

Understanding the HESI A2 Exam – Overview, Purpose, and Structure

The HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment) is a standardized entrance exam used by nursing and allied health programs in the United States. It serves as a reliable tool for measuring a candidate’s academic readiness for entering a healthcare education program, such as nursing school. Created and administered by Elsevier, a major name in medical and scientific publishing, the HESI A2 has become an essential benchmark in the admissions process for many institutions. In this first part, we will explore what the HESI A2 exam is, why it’s used, and how it is structured.

What is the HESI A2 Exam?

The HESI A2 (Admission Assessment) is a computer-based test that evaluates the academic knowledge and learning capabilities of prospective healthcare students. It includes a combination of academic subjects and learning personality assessments. The core intent behind the HESI A2 is to predict whether a student will be successful in a nursing or healthcare program. It provides institutions with detailed insight into each applicant’s strengths and potential academic weaknesses, helping to make informed admission decisions.

The HESI brand encompasses more than just the admissions test. Throughout a student’s nursing journey, various HESI exams may be administered, including mid-curricular assessments and the HESI Exit Exam. However, the A2 is specifically designed for program entry, making it the first step in many students’ nursing careers.

Why Do Nursing Schools Use the HESI A2?

Nursing schools are highly competitive. Programs need a fair and consistent way to compare applicants from different educational backgrounds. GPA and prior coursework are important, but they don’t always provide a full picture of a student’s capabilities. That’s where HESI A2 comes in. It offers a standardized format to assess a wide range of academic skills directly related to healthcare training.

Some key reasons institutions use the HESI A2 include:

• Predictive ability: It helps schools identify students most likely to succeed in their curriculum. 
• Objective benchmarking: It serves as a consistent tool to compare students across different schools and regions. 
• Targeted evaluation: The test provides a breakdown by subject, allowing schools to pinpoint specific strengths and areas of concern. 
• Support for remediation: Results can be used to develop individualized remediation plans for admitted students. 

Subjects Covered in the HESI A2 Exam

The HESI A2 is modular in design. Not every institution requires all sections, and schools can choose which ones to include in their admissions process. The test can include up to 10 sections, with seven focused on academics and three based on learning and personality traits.

Academic Sections

1. Reading Comprehension
   This section tests a student’s ability to read and understand health-related passages. Questions involve identifying main ideas, distinguishing between facts and opinions, finding supporting details, recognizing the author’s tone, and making logical inferences. Success in this area is vital because nurses must comprehend medical documentation and patient information accurately. 
2. Vocabulary and General Knowledge
   Here, students are assessed on commonly used terms in healthcare and general vocabulary. The section includes questions on word meanings, synonyms, and contextual usage. A strong vocabulary foundation helps nurses communicate clearly and document effectively. 
3. Grammar
   This part of the test checks for proper use of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and common grammatical errors. Topics include subject-verb agreement, correct tense usage, and commonly confused words. Nurses are often required to write concise and accurate reports, making grammar skills essential. 
4. Mathematics
   The math portion includes arithmetic, algebraic operations, ratios, percentages, fractions, decimals, conversions (metric and imperial), and dosage calculations. This is one of the most critical sections for nursing because medication dosages and fluid measurements must be precise to avoid errors. 
5. Biology
   The biology section is usually optional, but is often required if a student has not taken recent science coursework. Topics include cell function, genetics, biological molecules, metabolism, and systems of life. This provides a foundational understanding necessary for later courses in anatomy, microbiology, and physiology. 
6. Chemistry
   This section involves the basics of general chemistry, such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, the periodic table, acids and bases, and measurement systems. Chemistry is fundamental for understanding pharmacology and physiology. 
7. Anatomy and Physiology
   This is among the most difficult and in-depth sections. It covers human body systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, muscular, skeletal, reproductive, endocrine, and nervous systems. Students must understand how these systems interact, which is essential for clinical practice. 
8. Physics (less commonly required)
   When included, this section covers basic physics principles like force, motion, work, energy, and fluid dynamics. Physics may be required by more specialized programs b,ut is generally not part of standard nursing entry requirements. 

Personality and Learning Style Sections

1. Learning Style Inventory
   This ungraded portion evaluates a student’s preferred learning method (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.). Understanding one’s learning style can help in developing more effective study habits. 
2. Personality Profile
   Also ungraded, this section helps both students and instructors understand personality traits that may impact performance in high-stress environments, such as clinical rotations. It looks at qualities like leadership, communication style, and adaptability. 

These two assessments are often used by programs to identify how best to support students during their education.

Scoring and Score Interpretation

Each academic section on the HESI A2 is scored separately on a scale from 0% to 100%. There is no composite score unless a school calculates its score based on the required sections. The way scores are used depends on the specific nursing program:

• Minimum scores per section: Many programs require applicants to meet a minimum threshold in key areas such as reading, math, and grammar. This minimum is often around 75%, though competitive programs may require 85% or more. 
• Cumulative average: Some programs take an average of all required sections and require a combined score above a certain threshold (e.g., 80%). 
• Holistic review: In addition to scores, some schools use HESI A2 results as one part of a broader admissions process that includes GPA, interviews, recommendation letters, and experience. 

Scores are typically available shortly after completing the exam, especially if taken on a computer. Each institution sets its policy regarding score validity (e.g., valid for one year) and retake limits. Some allow a second attempt after 30 days, while others may require a longer waiting period or even limit the number of attempts per application cycle.

How Long Is the HESI A2 Exam?

The length of the HESI A2 exam depends on the number of sections a student is required to take. On average, students complete between 4 to 6 sections. The full test (all 10 sections) may take between 4 to 5 hours. Individual sections are timed as follows:

• Reading Comprehension: 50 minutes 
• Vocabulary and Grammar: 50 minutes 
• Math: 50 minutes 
• Anatomy and Physiology: 25–30 minutes 
• Biology and Chemistry: 25–30 minutes each 
• Physics: 25–30 minutes 
• Learning Style and Personality: 15–20 minutes each 

Time limits may vary slightly depending on the testing center or remote proctoring platform. Students should confirm with their specific program which sections are required and how much time they will be given.

Where and How to Take the HESI A2 Exam

Students can take the HESI A2 exam in two main formats:

1. On-Campus Testing Centers
   Many colleges and universities administer the HESI A2 at their centers. These facilities offer a quiet, proctored environment with computer-based testing. 
2. Remote Proctoring
   With technological advancements and the increased demand for flexibility, Elsevier and testing platforms have introduced remote proctoring. This allows students to take the test from home under online supervision. Remote proctoring requires a webcam, a secure internet connection, and a distraction-free environment. 

Before registering, students should consult their prospective program’s application guidelines to understand registration procedures, required sections, fees, and retake policies.

How to Prepare for the HESI A2 Exam – Resources, Study Techniques, and Planning

Preparing for the HESI A2 exam requires more than just casual reading or last-minute cramming. Since the exam is a comprehensive assessment of various academic skills crucial for nursing and healthcare success, a focused and disciplined study strategy is essential. This part explains how to build a personalized study plan, choose the right resources, and use targeted strategies to boost your performance in each subject.

Understanding What to Study

Preparation begins with knowing what will be tested. Because nursing schools choose which sections of the HESI A2 to administer, the first step is to determine exactly which subtests are required by your target program. Once you know the required areas (such as math, reading comprehension, anatomy and physiology, or chemistry), you can build a study plan that prioritizes those sections.

Creating a list of subjects and breaking them down into smaller topics makes preparation less overwhelming. For example:

• Mathematics: Fractions, ratios, percentages, dosage calculations 
• Reading Comprehension: Main idea, inference, supporting detail 
• Grammar: Subject-verb agreement, punctuation, sentence structure 
• Vocabulary: Medical terminology, general academic words 
• Science: Cell biology, body systems, periodic table, genetics 

Once topics are identified, students can create a realistic timeline for studying them based on how many weeks remain before the exam.

Building an Effective Study Plan

An organized study plan reduces stress and helps maintain momentum. A good study plan should be personalized based on the student’s schedule, strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Study Plan

1. Determine the Test Date
   Find out your testing date or the application deadline. This will determine how much time you have to study and how to pace yourself. 
2. Take a Diagnostic Test
   Many study platforms offer a free or paid diagnostic HESI A2 test. Taking one at the beginning helps identify which sections need the most improvement. 
3. Prioritize Weak Areas
   Focus more time on subjects you score lower in. If you are strong in reading but weak in math and anatomy, allocate more hours per week to those problem areas. 
4. Set Weekly Goals
   Divide your available time into weekly chunks, assigning specific topics or chapters to each week. Avoid trying to cover too much in one sitting—short, focused sessions work best. 
5. Mix Subject Areas
   Don’t study just one subject for weeks at a time. Rotate through different subjects every few days to keep things fresh and build overall knowledge. 
6. Include Practice Tests
   Plan to take at least 1–2 full-length practice tests under timed conditions before your exam date. These simulate the real testing experience and help with time management. 
7. Review Mistakes
   Don’t just take tests—study your wrong answers. Understand why you got a question wrong, review the concept, and retest yourself later. 

Recommended Study Resources

The quality of study materials can significantly impact your preparation. Here are some of the top recommended platforms and resources that provide practice tests, video lessons, and study guides tailored to the HESI A2.

Elsevier (Official HESI Publisher)

As the creator of the HESI exam, Elsevier offers the most accurate and aligned study materials. Their books and online prep tools are written specifically for HESI test-takers. Key resources include:

• HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review book 
• Online course bundles with practice quizzes and review modules 
• Personalized study plans based on diagnostic assessments. 

.Mometrix Test Preparation

Mometrix provides extensive study guides, flashcards, and practice questions for all HESI sections. Their guides are known for:

• Easy-to-follow explanations 
• Detailed rationales for every answer 
• Online access to video tutorials for visual learners 

Their content is structured and focused on high-yield topics commonly seen on the actual exam.

Study.com

Study.com is a subscription-based platform offering video lessons, quizzes, and progress tracking. Their HESI prep content includes:

• Subject-specific video libraries 
• Quizzes for every topic 
• Custom study schedules after a placement quiz 

This platform is especially good for learners who prefer watching concise visual explanations.

Union Test Prep

This free platform offers practice questions, flashcards, and study guides. While not as detailed as some paid platforms, it is valuable for:

• Cost-effective access to all test sections 
• Explanation of each question 
• Flashcards for vocabulary and terminology 

Union Test Prep is ideal for students on a tight budget who need supplemental materials.

Pocket Prep

Pocket Prep offers a mobile-friendly app that allows users to study on the go. Their features include:

• Thousands of practice questions 
• Customizable quizzes by topic 
• Timed quizzes to simulate exam pressure 
• Performance analytics 

This app is ideal for students with a busy lifestyle or those who want to squeeze in short study sessions throughout the day.

Specific Study Strategies by Section

Each section of the HESI A2 requires slightly different preparation methods. Below are some practical study tips for the most commonly tested sections.

Reading Comprehension

• Practice reading health-related texts to improve familiarity with vocabulary and tone. 
• Focus on identifying the main idea, drawing inferences, and recognizing context clues. 
• Summarize each paragraph after reading to improve retention. 

Vocabulary and Grammar

• Study lists of commonly used medical and academic vocabulary. 
• Use flashcards or spaced repetition tools like Anki for memorization. 
• Review basic English grammar rules, especially sentence structure, subject-verb agreement, and punctuation. 

Mathematics

• Master basic operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages. 
• Focus on dimensional analysis for dosage calculations. 
• Practice converting between measurement systems (e.g., pounds to kilograms). 
• Use pencil and paper during practice tests to simulate real test conditions. 

Anatomy and Physiology

• Use diagrams and flashcards to memorize body systems and organ functions. 
• Break the content into body systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory) and study them one at a time. 
• Practice labeling diagrams to test visual recall. 

Chemistry and Biology

• Review basic chemical equations, periodic trends, and pH levels. 
• Focus on cell structure, DNA, mitosis, and basic genetics for biology. 
• Create summary sheets for each topic to condense information into bite-sized reviews. 

Practice Test Tips

Practice tests are essential for building stamina and identifying areas for improvement. When taking a practice test:

• Use a timer to simulate the exam time limits. 
• Complete the test in one sitting to mimic real conditions. 
• Analyze each question after the test to find out why you got it wrong. 
• Keep a notebook of mistakes and revisit those concepts weekly. 

Time Management and Avoiding Burnout

Studying for a high-stakes exam like the HESI A2 can be mentally exhausting. Managing your time and maintaining balance is key to long-term retention and performance.

• Use a calendar or study planner to visualize your study schedule. 
• Take short breaks every 45–60 minutes to rest and reset your brain. 
• Avoid late-night cramming sessions and prioritize sleep for better memory retention. 
• Incorporate relaxation techniques like stretching, deep breathing, or short walks. 

Setting achievable daily or weekly goals helps reduce anxiety and makes the process feel manageable.

Testing Day Preparation

What you do in the final days leading up to the test can influence your performance. Some key recommendations include:

• Avoid learning new topics the day before the test. Focus on review and confidence-building. 
• Make sure you know the testing center location or login details for remote proctoring. 
• Pack your ID and required documents the night before. 
• Sleep well, eat a light meal, and stay hydrated on the day of the exam. 

A calm and well-prepared mindset is just as important as academic readiness.

The HESI Exit Exam and Comparison with TEAS – Advanced Usage and Final Readiness

While the HESI A2 exam is a crucial first step for getting into a nursing program, the role of HESI does not end with admissions. Many nursing schools also utilize the HESI Exit Exam, which is designed to measure a student’s readiness for the NCLEX—the national licensing exam for nurses. This part of the explanation explores how the Exit Exam works, why it matters, and how it compares to other nursing admission tests like the TEAS.

What is the HESI Exit Exam?

The HESI Exit Exam is typically administered toward the end of a nursing program. Unlike the HESI A2, which focuses on general academic preparedness, the Exit Exam evaluates the clinical and professional knowledge students are expected to have after completing their coursework. It acts as a predictive tool to estimate how likely a student is to pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN on the first attempt.

This exam is often a graduation requirement. Many schools use it to assess whether a student is ready to move forward to licensure. In some cases, students must achieve a specific score to graduate or to be approved to take the NCLEX.

Structure and Content of the HESI Exit Exam

The HESI Exit Exam is comprehensive and covers a broad spectrum of nursing knowledge. It generally consists of 150 to 200 multiple-choice questions and is completed over 4 to 5 hours.

Major Content Areas

1. Nursing Fundamentals
   Topics include hygiene, patient safety, infection control, comfort, and basic care procedures. 
2. Medical-Surgical Nursing
   Focuses on disease processes, patient care, treatments, and nursing interventions for adults and geriatrics. 
3. Pharmacology
   Students are tested on medication classifications, side effects, dosage calculations, and safe administration. 
4. Maternal and Newborn Nursing
   Covers prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and newborn assessments. 
5. Pediatrics
   Involves growth and development, immunizations, common pediatric diseases, and family-centered care. 
6. Psychiatric Nursing
   Includes therapeutic communication, mental health disorders, crisis management, and pharmacologic treatments. 
7. Critical Care
   Tests the ability to respond to emergencies, prioritize care, and manage complex patient conditions. 
8. Ethical and Legal Issues
   Focuses on patient rights, informed consent, confidentiality, and nursing scope of practice. 
9. Professionalism and Leadership
   Includes delegation, management of care, and interdisciplinary teamwork. 

Scoring and Interpretation

The HESI Exit Exam is scored differently from the A2 exam. Rather than simple percentages, the Exit Exam uses a predictive scoring model to estimate the probability of success on the NCLEX.

• 850 or above: Often considered the benchmark for NCLEX readiness. Many schools set this as the minimum passing score for the Exit Exam. 
• 900–950: Indicates strong readiness and a high likelihood of NCLEX success. 
• Below 850: Suggests the need for remediation or further study before attempting the licensing exam. 

Some institutions use HESI scores as a component of a student’s course grade. Others may require multiple attempts to meet a minimum score for graduation or NCLEX eligibility.

The Role of Remediation

One of the key uses of the HESI Exit Exam is to identify areas for remediation. If a student performs poorly in pharmacology or medical-surgical nursing, instructors can offer targeted review sessions or require additional coursework.

This individualized feedback is critical because it helps:

• Improve NCLEX pass rates 
• Prevent students from failing costly licensing exams.. 
• Strengthen weak areas before entering clinical practice.
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Many schools offer HESI remediation plans, which might include tutoring, online modules, or mandatory workshops. Elsevier also provides digital remediation tools connected to student scores.

TEAS vs. HESI A2: Understanding the Difference

Another commonly used exam in nursing admissions is the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), developed by ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute). Both TEAS and HESI A2 are designed for admission into nursing programs, but there are key differences in their structure, content, and how they are used by schools.

Subject Coverage ComparisonDifferences in Design and Customization

Section	HESI A2	TEAS
Reading	Yes	Yes
Math	Yes	Yes
Science	Yes (Biology, Chemistry, A&P, Physics)	Yes (Science, Human Anatomy & Physiology)
English Grammar	Yes	Yes
Vocabulary	Yes	Integrated into Reading and English
Learning Style	Yes (Optional)	No
Personality Profile	Yes (Optional)	No

• Customization: HESI A2 is modular. Schools choose which sections to administer. TEAS is standardized, and the same four subjects are always included. 
• Scoring: TEAS provides composite and sub-section scores, while HESI scores each section independently and often averages them for decision-making. 
• Difficulty: Many students report that HESI A2 can be slightly more difficult due to more challenging vocabulary and science content. 
• Purpose: HESI A2 is part of a broader suite of tools (including the Exit Exam), while TEAS is mainly an admissions test. 

Which Test Should You Take?

The test you take depends on the nursing program you’re applying to. Some programs accept either exam, while others are strict about which one they require. If both options are available, consider:

• Your strengths: If you’re stronger in vocabulary and science, HESI A2 might suit you better. If you prefer more general content, TEAS could be a better fit. 
• Resources: Availability of high-quality prep materials may influence your choice. 
• School preference: Always verify with your desired nursing program which exam is accepted. 

HESI Beyond the Exams: Academic Progress Tracking

What makes the HESI system stand out is its use beyond admissions and licensure readiness. Many nursing programs integrate mid-curricular HESI assessments throughout their academic terms. These are formative exams given after key courses like:

• Pharmacology 
• Pathophysiology 
• Adult Health 
• Pediatrics 
• Obstetrics 

These mid-course HESI tests allow faculty to:

• Identify struggling students early 
• Modify teaching strategies based on performance data.
  .
• Provide early intervention and support. 
• Align classroom instruction with NCLEX standards. 

Scores from these assessments help inform academic advising and predict future success. It also conditions students to become familiar with the HESI-style of questioning, reducing anxiety before taking the Exit Exam or NCLEX.

Benefits of the HESI System for Schools

Nursing schools that adopt the full HESI system—A2, mid-course exams, and Exit Exam—gain several benefits:

• Data-driven decision making: With detailed analytics on student performance, schools can fine-tune their curriculum and teaching methods. 
• Higher NCLEX pass rates: Programs that use HESI consistently often see improvements in first-time NCLEX pass rates. 
• Accreditation support: Regulatory bodies look favorably on schools that maintain high standards through standardized testing and remediation practices. 
• Student support: Individualized feedback allows programs to better support students at every stage of their academic journey. 

The HESI Exit Exam is more than just a test; it’s a reflection of how prepared a student is to begin a nursing career. The predictive scoring model gives students and instructors actionable feedback to close any knowledge gaps before entering the field. While it may feel like a high-pressure exam, it serves an important role in promoting safe, effective, and confident nursing practice.

HESI is designed not just to test what students know, but to guide them in learning what they still need to master. Used alongside admissions and mid-curricular exams, it forms a continuous loop of feedback and improvement that supports student success from start to finish.

Best HESI Prep Companies, Study Resource Selection, and Test-Day Strategies

With so many resources available for preparing for the HESI A2 and HESI Exit Exams, selecting the right one can be challenging. The effectiveness of your preparation often depends on how well your study tools match your learning style and needs. This part reviews some of the top prep companies in the industry, outlines how to evaluate and choose the right one for you, and ends with practical test-day advice.

Top Companies for HESI A2 Preparation

Over the years, several companies have established themselves as trusted sources of HESI prep materials. These platforms offer study guides, practice tests, video tutorials, flashcards, and more. Each provider has its unique strengths, making them suitable for different types of learners.

Elsevier

As the creator of the HESI A2 and Exit Exam, Elsevier is widely regarded as the most authoritative source for preparation. Its official study guides and online modules are designed to mirror the exact format and content of the exam.

Key features:

• Detailed study guides for every section 
• Diagnostic tests and custom study plans 
• Online practice quizzes that simulate real testing conditions 
• Rationales for answers based on NCLEX standards 

Ideal for: Students who want official content and structured, exam-aligned preparation.

Mometrix Test Preparation

Mometrix is one of the most well-rounded and affordable platforms. It offers extensive printed and digital resources, including:

• Study guides that cover reading, math, science, and English 
• Flashcards for vocabulary, medical terminology, and key formulas 
• Online video tutorials and strategies 
• Realistic practice test simulations 

Mometrix books are clear, student-friendly, and organized by section, which helps break large topics into digestible parts.

Ideal for: Students who prefer printed materials or want a balanced combination of book-based and digital tools.

Study.com

Study.com is known for its accessible video lessons and self-paced learning model. It focuses on helping students understand material through short, animated lectures followed by practice questions.

Key features:

• Over 200+ video lessons covering all HESI subjects 
• Interactive quizzes after each lesson 
• Personalized learning paths based on an initial assessment 
• Mobile-accessible content for flexible studying 

Ideal for: Visual learners or students who learn best through step-by-step video explanations.

Nursing.com (formerly NRSNG)

Nursing.com offers targeted HESI A2 and NCLEX preparation. While its main strength is in clinical education and nursing content, it also has a solid HESI prep component.

Features include:

• Realistic HESI-style questions 
• Interactive teaching videos 
• Community support and study groups 
• Mobile app with offline access 

It offers an all-in-one platform that continues to be useful even after admission, making it especially valuable for students entering their core nursing classes.

Ideal for: Students who want a long-term resource that continues to support them beyond HESI A2.

Union Test Prep

Union Test Prep is a free platform offering practice tests and flashcards for every major HESI subject.

Features:

• Zero-cost access to test-like questions 
• Simple layout and clear explanations 
• Printable PDFs and flashcard decks 

While it lacks the depth of paid programs, it’s excellent for students on a budget or those seeking quick reviews.

Ideal for: Students seeking low-cost or supplementary resources.

Pocket Prep

Pocket Prep is a mobile-focused app that delivers study materials in short, interactive bursts. It emphasizes practice-based learning and flexibility.

Features:

• Over 1000+ practice questions 
• Timed quizzes and daily drills 
• Performance tracking by category 
• Study reminders and goal-setting 

Ideal for: Busy students who need to study in short, mobile-friendly sessions during daily commutes or breaks.

Test-Guide.com

Test-Guide.com provides free access to online practice exams and basic study guides for HESI A2. It covers the core subjects and allows students to practice under timed conditions.

Features:

• Practice exams with feedback 
• Flashcards and downloadable PDFs 
• Review tips and strategies. 

Ideal for: Students who want to sample test questions before buying a study program.

Kaplan Test Prep

Kaplan offers structured HESI and NCLEX prep courses, typically more expensive but also more comprehensive. Their programs include live and on-demand instruction, as well as textbooks and online practice.

Features:

• Live online courses with expert instructors 
• Question banks and full-length practice exams 
• Strategy-focused teaching style 
• Peer discussion and instructor Q&A 

Ideal for: Students who need a guided experience or struggle with independent study.

Princeton Review

Princeton Review is best known for other standardized tests but has added nursing-specific courses over time. Their programs emphasize test-taking strategies and often include personal coaching options.

Ideal for: Students who benefit from instructor-led study and structured schedules.

How to Choose the Right HESI Prep Resource

Not every student benefits from the same approach. Choosing the right platform depends on your individual learning preferences, time availability, and test requirements.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Learning Style 
   • Visual learners do best with platforms like Study.com or Nursing.com. 
   • Auditory learners may prefer video tutorials or narrated lessons. 
   • Kinesthetic learners might benefit from hands-on practice with flashcards and physical books. 
2. Budget 
   • Free platforms: Union Test Prep, Test-Guide 
   • Mid-range: Mometrix, Pocket Prep 
   • Premium: Kaplan, Elsevier, Study.com 
3. Scope of Content 
   • Make sure the platform covers all the sections your school requires. 
   • Some platforms focus only on the main four (math, reading, grammar, vocabulary), while others include science sections like A&P and chemistry. 
4. Testing Format 
   • Use a tool that mimics the test interface and timing as closely as possible. 
   • Platforms with adaptive learning tools and timed practice exams are better for real-world simulation. 
5. Review and Feedback 
   • Select tools that provide detailed rationales for answers, not just whether your answer was right or wrong. 
6. Progress Tracking 
   • Choose platforms that allow you to track performance over time and adjust your study plan based on your results. 

Practical Test-Day Strategies

Even with strong preparation, performance on test day can suffer due to anxiety or poor planning. Here are key strategies to maximize your success:

The Night Before

• Do not study new material. Focus on light review or flashcards. 
• Pack required items: valid ID, confirmation email, login credentials (if remote), and any allowed materials. 
• Ensure your device is ready if testing at home (fully charged, webcam working, stable internet). 
• Get 7–8 hours of sleep to support mental clarity and focus. 

The Morning of the Test

• Eat a light, balanced meal. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that can cause fatigue. 
• Arrive early or log in at least 30 minutes ahead of time to resolve any technical issues. 
• Bring water and take deep breaths to stay relaxed. 

During the Exam

• Read instructions and questions carefully. Do not rush. 
• Use the process of elimination when unsure of an answer. 
• Monitor your time, but do not obsess over the clock. 
• Use scratch paper if allowed to work through math problems or diagram ideas. 
• Flag difficult questions to revisit if time permits. 

After the Test

• Reflect on how you felt about each section. This will help in the case of a retake. 
• Check your email or exam portal for official scores. 
• Use your performance report to target weak areas if additional attempts or further study are needed. 

Final Thoughts: Success Is in the System

Passing the HESI A2 or Exit Exam is not about memorizing every fact, but about understanding how to study, using the right tools, and managing your time and stress wisely. The right prep company, aligned with your learning style and goals, will support you from start to finish.

Creating a personal study plan, leveraging high-quality materials, and practicing with purpose will make your preparation more efficient and effective. When combined with smart test-day strategies, these efforts will position you for success, both on the HESI and in your future healthcare education.