About
The College of Nursing utilizes the HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2) in the application process for the Master of Science, Entry for the Profession of Nursing (MS-MEPN) professional program.
- Sections: Math, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Biology
- Minimum Score: must score 75% or higher in the combined score of all four sections
- Scores Valid: scores are valid for one year, the highest average score will be used
- Time Limit: 4 hours to take the exam
- Cost: Varies
Additionally, the following considerations should be noted for the HESI exam:
- The only sections needed are Reading, Vocabulary, Math, and Biology.
- Eligible scores requires at least those 4 sections and 1 single testing attempt.
- Score is calculated as the average amongst the 4 required sections, with a minimum score required of 75% needed (though higher is recommended).
- Additional sections, such as Chemistry or Physiology, will not be utilized in your score average for the application
- All applicants are allowed up to 2 attempts per application cycle, regardless of how close in time attempt #1 and #2 are.
- Applicants cannot take the exam more than twice per application cycle
- Applicants may utilize the highest score between all eligible attempts, rather than the most recent score.
- HESI scores expire after 1 year and must be eligible on the deadline of the application applicants are applying for.
- For example, a HESI score that was taken November 1, 2025 would expire November 1, 2026.
Preparation
We recommend that you prepare in advance for a competitive HESI score. Admitted students reported preparing through a variety of methods, and have recommended the following resources:
- Evolve has an examination preparation guide available for purchase. You may also access a preparation guide through the UA Health Sciences Libraries, which has several copies on reserve. Elsevier: Evolve also provides test remediation after a first attempt for future test attempts.
- Quizlet, particularly the vocabulary section as well as the math section for conversion ratios.
- The Pocket Prep application.
- Using internet resources, such as googling “Free HESI Practice Exams” or using resources such as YouTube.
Testing is currently available for current and prospecting students:
- UA Testing Office for in-person proctored testing.
In-person (UA Testing Office):
Applicants may test in person at the UA testing office M-F 8a-5p. Payment for both the HESI exam and proctoring will be due before scheduling. Please visit https://testing.arizona.edu/hesi for more information
Note: requested accommodations are for HESI A2 exam only; not for University of Arizona MS-MEPN Programs
HESI Admission Assessment Instructions. Applicable for Applications due for all deadlines