What is the difference between ATI TEAS 7 vs. HESI A2 and How to Decide

For aspiring nursing students, entrance exams are a crucial part of the application process. Two of the most common exams are the ATI TEAS 7 (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and the HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment). Both tests measure your readiness for a nursing program, but they differ significantly in structure, content, and purpose.

Choosing the right exam is essential for aligning with your target nursing program and showcasing your strengths. This article breaks down the key differences between ATI TEAS 7 and HESI A2, helping you decide which one is the best fit for you.

ATI TEAS 7 vs. HESI A2: Key Differences and How to Decide

1. Purpose of ATI TEAS 7 and HESI A2

The ATI TEAS 7 exams and HESI A2 exams serve similar purposes but are tailored to different aspects of nursing admissions.

• ATI TEAS 7:
  Designed to assess general academic readiness for nursing programs. It evaluates foundational skills across multiple subjects, ensuring students can handle the rigors of nursing school.
• HESI A2:
  While also a nursing entrance exam, the HESI A2 delves deeper into specific subject areas. It’s often used to predict success in nursing school coursework and may include additional custom modules specific to the program.

2. Content and Sections Comparison

Understanding the subjects covered in each exam is crucial for preparation.

• ATI TEAS 7 Sections:
  1. Reading – Comprehension of passages, charts, and graphs.
  2. Mathematics – Basic arithmetic, algebra, and data interpretation.
  3. Science – Focus on human anatomy, physiology, and life sciences.
  4. English and Language Usage – Grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• HESI A2 Sections:
  1. Math – Covers basic and applied mathematical skills.
  2. Reading Comprehension – Focused on critical thinking and understanding passages.
  3. Vocabulary and General Knowledge – Broad range of vocabulary questions.
  4. Grammar – Similar to the TEAS English section.
  5. Science – Includes anatomy, physiology, and sometimes biology and chemistry.
  6. Critical Thinking – Optional but common, evaluating problem-solving skills.
  7. Custom Sections – Some programs add specific modules like learning styles or personality profiles.

3. Exam Format and Structure

The format of each test influences your strategy and preparation.

• ATI TEAS 7:
  • Total of 170 questions, with 20 being unscored.
  • Time limit: 209 minutes (about 3.5 hours).
  • Multiple-choice format with clear section breaks.
• HESI A2:
  • Typically 150–160 questions, depending on custom modules.
  • Time limit: Varies by school, but usually 4 hours.
  • Includes a mix of multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank questions.

4. Scoring Systems

Each exam uses a different scoring approach, affecting how nursing programs evaluate your performance.

• ATI TEAS 7 Scoring:
  • Scores range from 0–100%.
  • Composite scores are calculated by averaging all sections.
  • Many schools set minimum score requirements (typically 60–75%).
• HESI A2 Scoring:
  • Scores range from 0–100% for each section.
  • Schools may weigh certain sections more heavily based on their program focus.

5. Cost and Availability

Financial and logistical factors are also important when deciding which exam to take.

• ATI TEAS 7:
  • Cost: $115–$140 (varies by testing center).
  • Available both in-person and online.
  • Retake policy: Students typically wait 30 days before retesting.

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• HESI A2:
  • Cost: $60–$110 (varies by school).
  • Often administered through the nursing program itself.
  • Retake policy: Determined by the school, with limits on attempts.

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6. Study Resources for Each Exam

Preparation materials differ between the two exams due to variations in content and format.

• ATI TEAS 7 Prep Resources:
  • Official ATI study manuals and practice tests.
  • Kaplan TEAS prep books.
  • Pocket Prep and other study apps.
• HESI A2 Prep Resources:
  • HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review by Elsevier.
  • Mometrix HESI A2 flashcards and guides.
  • Free HESI A2 practice tests online.

7. Difficulty Level Comparison

The perceived difficulty of each test depends on your strengths and weaknesses.

• ATI TEAS 7:
  • Science-heavy, requiring a good grasp of anatomy and physiology.
  • Math is less complex but requires speed and accuracy.
• HESI A2:
  • Broader subject coverage, with more focus on vocabulary and critical thinking.
  • Custom modules can add extra challenges depending on the program.

8. Acceptance by Nursing Programs

Not all programs accept both exams, so it’s essential to check the requirements of your target schools.

• ATI TEAS 7: Commonly used by associate’s degree and certificate-level nursing programs.
• HESI A2: Preferred by many bachelor’s degree and advanced nursing programs.

9. Deciding Which Exam to Take

Consider these factors when choosing between the two tests:

• Program Requirements: Research whether your chosen school prefers ATI TEAS 7 or HESI A2.
• Strengths and Weaknesses: If science is your strong suit, ATI TEAS 7  might be a better fit. Strong in vocabulary? Consider HESI A2.
• Test Availability: Choose the exam that is more accessible to you in terms of location and scheduling.

10. Tips for Success on Either Exam

• Start Early: Give yourself at least 6–8 weeks of prep time.
• Use Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify weak areas.
• Stay Consistent: Study daily, even if only for short sessions.
• Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness techniques to stay calm on test day.

Conclusion

Both the ATI TEAS 7 and HESI A2 are vital tools for nursing school admissions, but they cater to different aspects of readiness. By understanding their differences and aligning them with your strengths and program requirements, you can confidently choose the exam that sets you on the path to success.

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FAQs

1. What are the main differences between ATI TEAS 7 and HESI A2?
The ATI TEAS 7 focuses more on foundational academic skills, while the HESI A2 covers broader subjects, including critical thinking and custom sections.

2. Can I take both exams for different programs?
Yes, but confirm each program’s requirements before preparing for both exams.

3. Which exam is harder: ATI TEAS 7 or HESI A2?
It depends on your strengths. The ATI TEAS 7 is more science-heavy, while the HESI A2 includes additional sections like vocabulary and critical thinking.

4. How long does it take to prepare for these exams?
Most students prepare for 6–8 weeks, studying 2–3 hours daily.

5. Are study resources for ATI TEAS 7 useful for HESI A2?
While some overlap exists in math and reading, it’s better to use exam-specific resources for targeted preparation.