When stepping into a nursing career, schools often require an entrance exam—not to test what you already know about nursing, but to evaluate if you have the academic skills needed to succeed. Think of these exams like the SAT or ACT for undergrad. They don’t expect you to know how to chart a patient’s vitals or administer medication. Instead, they assess foundational abilities like reading comprehension, math, science, and grammar—areas critical to nursing school success.
While nursing is a hands-on profession, it also requires an incredible amount of critical thinking, theoretical understanding, and technical precision. That’s why these entrance exams focus on gauging your ability to absorb new material, apply logic to problems, and communicate effectively—skills that all practicing nurses must master, regardless of where they eventually specialize.
Purpose of Entrance Exams
Consistency
Admission teams use scores to compare applicants fairly, no matter their background. Every nursing program receives applications from individuals with vastly different educational histories. Some may be recent high school graduates, others returning adults who’ve been out of school for years. Some students may have a background in science or healthcare, while others might have studied literature or business. The entrance exam acts as a common yardstick. It levels the playing field and gives admissions committees a measurable way to compare applicants across different schools, states, and academic experiences.
Predictability
Strong skills in English, math, and science correlate with better performance in clinical and theoretical coursework. For instance, a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology forms the cornerstone of nursing practice. Likewise, being proficient in mathematics is critical for calculating medication dosages, IV drip rates, and interpreting lab values. If a student struggles in those areas during an entrance exam, it’s a red flag that they might need extra preparation before entering a fast-paced program. Predictive value makes these exams a practical tool—not to discourage students, but to support their future success.
Readiness
Entrance exams verify if you’re prepared for rigorous studies, so programs can admit those most likely to thrive. Nursing school isn’t easy—it demands high levels of concentration, commitment, and stamina. Entrance exams are not about gatekeeping but about helping students self-assess and understand where they stand. They shine a light on potential gaps and offer a chance to address those before the start of a program, when the stakes are lower.
A First Glimpse Into the Academic Journey
Think of the entrance exam as a glimpse into what nursing school will expect of you. While the questions don’t require prior nursing experience, they do reflect the pace, pressure, and critical thinking you’ll need to use once enrolled. By requiring you to apply your skills in reading, logic, and science interpretation under timed conditions, these tests prepare your mind for what’s ahead.
Moreover, exams like these allow applicants to build test-taking endurance. Just like physical stamina matters for long shifts in a hospital, mental endurance is critical for long lectures, practical exams, and challenging clinical rotations. Learning how to manage time, stay calm under pressure, and reason through difficult questions during the entrance exam pays off in the long term—well beyond the test itself.
Benchmarking Academic Foundations
Nursing schools use entrance exams to identify students with strong academic foundations in the core subjects: reading comprehension, language usage, mathematics, and science. This isn’t just because those subjects matter in the abstract—it’s because they directly apply to patient care. Reading comprehension, for instance, is vital for accurately interpreting doctor’s notes, patient charts, or medical instructions. Language usage skills allow for clear communication, both with patients and as part of collaborative care teams.
Math proficiency affects everything from medication calculations to understanding dosage charts and converting units between the metric and imperial systems. A mistake in a decimal place can have serious consequences in a real-world healthcare setting. Science knowledge, especially in biology and anatomy, is the backbone of understanding the human body and how illness affects it.
By ensuring you’re already competent in these areas, entrance exams give you the best shot at successfully mastering nursing-specific content later in the program.
Filtering for Commitment and Discipline
Another often overlooked purpose of entrance exams is that they act as a soft filter for motivation and commitment. Preparing for and sitting through a nursing entrance exam requires planning, time management, and mental discipline. Those who complete it successfully are more likely to take the rigors of nursing school seriously. In this way, the exam isn’t just about what you know—it’s also a preview of how hard you’re willing to work for your future.
Admissions teams often use test performance as a way to spot students who demonstrate discipline. A student who takes the time to prepare, improve their score with a retake, or build a study plan for their weakest areas shows qualities that align closely with what’s expected of them in the nursing world.
Empowering the Student to Self-Assess
The benefit of entrance exams goes both ways. For students, they provide a much-needed reality check. Rather than entering a nursing program blind, you get a realistic preview of your strengths and weaknesses. This knowledge empowers you to take action—perhaps brushing up on your algebra skills or spending more time reviewing life sciences. It’s an opportunity for personal growth, not a final judgment.
In fact, many programs allow students to retake the exam, giving them a chance to learn from their mistakes. And during this time, many applicants build better study habits and discover learning strategies that serve them well throughout their entire academic journey.
Establishing Academic Integrity in Health Professions
Nursing, like all health professions, holds a high standard for ethics and excellence. The use of standardized entrance exams supports that culture of integrity. Everyone takes the same exam under controlled conditions. This not only reduces bias but also sets a precedent for the kind of accountability expected in clinical practice. Just as nurses must follow procedures, respect protocols, and ensure patient safety, the entrance process models those same values—starting from day one.
Creating a Cohesive Learning Environment
When all students admitted to a nursing program meet a specific academic standard, it also creates a stronger classroom environment. Professors can teach at a faster pace without constantly reviewing basic material. Students can collaborate more effectively when they share similar foundational knowledge. And peer study groups become more productive when participants are working at the same level.
Entrance exams help maintain that baseline, ensuring that students in a cohort grow together, rather than pulling each other in different directions academically.
Encouraging a Growth Mindset
Finally, entrance exams encourage a growth mindset. While they measure current ability, they also show that success is within reach for those willing to put in the effort. Whether a student scores well on their first try or improves on a second, the process proves that progress is possible.
In the long run, this mindset will be invaluable. Nursing requires continuous learning. Medical knowledge evolves, protocols change, and new technologies emerge. A nurse who begins their career knowing how to self-assess, seek help, and grow through challenge is far better prepared for the realities of lifelong learning in healthcare.
Meet the Exams: HESI vs TEAS
When preparing for admission to a nursing program, one of the first decisions many applicants face is which entrance exam to take. For most programs, the two most common options are the HESI and the TEAS. These exams are designed to evaluate your readiness for the academic challenges of nursing school. While both serve the same purpose—to measure foundational skills necessary for nursing education—they differ in their structure, subject focus, delivery method, and degree of difficulty. Understanding the distinctions between these two assessments can help you make an informed decision and play to your strengths.
Introduction to Nursing Entrance Exams
Nursing entrance exams are not about proving you can already perform clinical procedures. They are about assessing whether you have the necessary academic skills to grasp new concepts, apply knowledge critically, and thrive in a rigorous educational setting. These tests aim to predict your potential success in a nursing program by examining key areas such as reading comprehension, science knowledge, math ability, and language usage.
Because nursing programs are academically demanding and fast-paced, entrance exams function as gatekeepers to ensure incoming students are prepared for the challenge. If a school allows you to choose between the HESI and the TEAS, it’s important to learn the structure and expectations of both to see which aligns better with your strengths and learning preferences.
Overview of the HESI Exam
The HESI, which stands for Health Education Systems, Inc., is an admissions assessment exam designed to evaluate the skills of students entering nursing and healthcare programs. The version most nursing school applicants take is commonly referred to as the HESI A2. This assessment is tailored to measure not only general academic ability but also subject-specific knowledge in scientific fields.
Many schools that use the HESI appreciate its comprehensive nature. The test is known for covering more detailed and specialized material, especially in areas directly related to human biology and health sciences. It is often chosen by programs that want to see whether applicants are prepared to enter with a baseline knowledge of core science subjects. In addition, the HESI provides individual scores for each subject area, which allows schools to evaluate where a student’s strengths and weaknesses lie.
Structure and Subjects Covered in HESI
One of the defining characteristics of the HESI is its breadth. It contains up to nine subject areas, depending on how each institution structures the exam. Typically, the most common sections include:
- Reading comprehension
- Vocabulary and general knowledge
- Grammar
- Basic math
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- Physics (in some cases)
- Learning styles and personality profiles (non-scored but included for student insight)
Each section is made up of multiple-choice questions, and the total number of questions can reach approximately 350, although this varies. For example, some programs may choose to omit certain sections, like physics or chemistry, while others may require every part.
The reading comprehension section evaluates your ability to analyze and understand written passages. Vocabulary and grammar sections assess your language skills, especially as they apply to healthcare settings. The math section includes basic arithmetic, algebra, ratios, conversions, and dosage calculations.
What sets HESI apart is its focus on science. Biology questions might cover cell structure, genetics, or microbiology. Chemistry could include atomic structure, chemical reactions, or the periodic table. Anatomy and physiology explore the structure and function of the human body in detail. These sections require preparation beyond general knowledge, as they test content you might have seen in college-level courses.
Overview of the TEAS Exam
The TEAS, which stands for Test of Essential Academic Skills, is another widely used nursing school entrance exam. Created to evaluate readiness for healthcare education programs, it is somewhat more streamlined than the HESI and focuses on broad academic areas. The TEAS test is structured to reflect general educational competencies rather than discipline-specific knowledge.
The TEAS is often viewed as a solid choice for students who may not have had advanced science coursework recently but still have a strong overall academic foundation. It is also slightly shorter in duration and includes fewer total questions compared to the HESI. As a result, some students may find it less overwhelming and more accessible, especially if they are balancing work or family responsibilities while preparing.
Structure and Subjects Covered in TEAS
The TEAS exam consists of four main content areas:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- English and language usage
These categories cover a wide range of knowledge, but the emphasis is more general. The reading section evaluates comprehension, paragraph structure, and the ability to follow written instructions. The math section includes arithmetic, algebra, ratios, and conversions relevant to nursing.
Science questions focus on human anatomy and physiology, life and physical sciences, and scientific reasoning. While the science section is important, it does not go as deeply into individual subjects like chemistry or physics. Instead, it favors a broader understanding of science concepts that relate to healthcare.
The English and language usage section assesses grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and word meaning. This helps ensure that future nursing students can write clearly and communicate effectively.
There are 170 questions on the TEAS, although only 150 count toward your score. The remaining 20 are unscored pilot questions being evaluated for future use. The full test takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete.
Comparing the Exam Format and Length
Both exams are multiple-choice, but they differ in format and time commitment. The HESI A2 typically takes up to four hours to complete, depending on how many sections the school includes. Some institutions may allow students to take sections separately on different days, offering flexibility for those with tight schedules.
The TEAS is usually administered in a single sitting and takes around 3.5 hours. While it covers fewer subjects and questions, the shorter time frame can still be challenging, especially if you’re not used to test-taking or haven’t taken an exam in a while.
The difference in time commitment may seem small, but it matters. If you are someone who becomes mentally fatigued during long assessments, the slightly shorter TEAS might feel more manageable. Conversely, if you excel with detailed questions and have the stamina to sit through a longer exam, the HESI may be the better fit.
Depth and Breadth of Knowledge Tested
One of the most significant distinctions between the two exams is the level of subject depth they require. The HESI is known for being more detailed and specific. For instance, in anatomy and physiology, you might see questions about the chemical processes behind muscle contraction or the intricacies of the endocrine system.
The TEAS, on the other hand, offers a broader look at these subjects. Rather than diving into cell respiration pathways or ion gradients, it might ask about general functions of organ systems or the basic processes of digestion and circulation. This difference can make the HESI feel more demanding for students who have not recently taken college-level science courses.
This is not to say that one test is harder than the other in every case. Instead, they challenge students in different ways. The HESI requires a deeper level of understanding, particularly in science, while the TEAS tests more generalized skills. Depending on your educational background, one may align more closely with what you’ve already learned.
Difficulty Levels and Perceived Challenges
Many students report that the HESI feels more difficult due to its emphasis on detailed science content. If you have a strong biology or chemistry background, this might work in your favor. However, if you’ve been out of school for a while or never took advanced science classes, the HESI may require more preparation time.
The TEAS, while shorter and more general, is not necessarily easy. Its math section can be tricky, especially if you struggle with quick calculations under time pressure. The science section includes reasoning questions that ask you to apply logic to unfamiliar scenarios, which can be difficult if you’re not confident in your critical thinking skills.
Testing Locations and Delivery Methods
Another important difference lies in how the tests are delivered. The HESI is almost always taken at an official testing center under supervision. This in-person format ensures a secure and controlled environment, which some students prefer. Being in a classroom setting can feel more official and help you focus without distractions.
The TEAS offers more flexible delivery options. It can be taken at testing centers, but it is also commonly administered online with remote proctoring. This has made the exam more accessible, especially during recent years when in-person testing options may have been limited. For students who prefer taking exams at home or who live far from a testing site, this flexibility can be a deciding factor.
Cost and Accessibility
The cost of both exams varies depending on location and the institution’s policies. In general, the TEAS may be slightly more expensive, but the difference is usually minor. What may matter more is whether you are allowed to retake the exam and whether there is an additional fee to do so. Both HESI and TEAS test providers allow multiple attempts, although individual schools may limit how often you can try.
Accessibility also includes access to preparation materials. Both exams have a wide range of prep books, courses, flashcards, and online resources available. Make sure to choose the one that fits your learning style and budget.
Which Test Do Schools Prefer?
Some nursing programs only accept one of the two exams. Others give applicants a choice. If your intended school gives you the option, it’s up to you to evaluate which test is the better match for your strengths. You may even consider taking a practice test for both and choosing based on your performance and comfort level.
Always confirm with your prospective program before preparing, as requirements can vary widely. Knowing the preferred exam ahead of time will save you effort, money, and unnecessary stress.
Choosing Based on Personal Strengths
If you’re stronger in reading, grammar, and general science but feel less confident in detailed biology or chemistry, the TEAS might be a better fit. If you’ve taken advanced science courses and feel prepared to answer technical questions, the HESI may allow you to shine.
Learning Styles and Test Compatibility
Your study habits matter too. The HESI often benefits students who enjoy deep-dive learning and can retain lots of details. The TEAS suits students who are quick learners and can grasp broader concepts quickly. Consider how you naturally study and retain information before deciding.
Know Thyself to Decide Wisely
Choosing between the HESI and the TEAS is more than just picking a test. It’s about understanding your learning strengths, your comfort level with various academic subjects, and the kind of testing environment that helps you perform your best. With a thoughtful approach and a bit of self-reflection, you can select the exam that gives you the best chance to succeed.
Choosing the Right Test for You
Selecting the right entrance exam for nursing school can be one of the most pivotal decisions an applicant makes. For many programs, students are offered a choice between two standardized options: the HESI and the TEAS. Both are designed to assess academic preparedness for the challenges of a nursing curriculum, but they diverge in focus, depth, and structure. For applicants who have the flexibility to choose, this moment becomes a crossroads—one that should be approached with strategic self-awareness, personal reflection, and a firm understanding of what each test entails.
Understanding Your Academic Strengths and Weaknesses
The first step in determining which exam to take is an honest evaluation of your academic profile. Some students bring strong math skills but are less confident in science. Others excel in reading comprehension and verbal reasoning but may need additional preparation in topics like chemistry or anatomy. Taking time to identify your strengths can guide you toward the exam that gives you the best opportunity to perform well.
The HESI, in particular, is known for its depth. Students who have a solid foundation in science subjects like biology, chemistry, and human anatomy may find that this exam plays to their strengths. It is not simply a matter of knowing the basics but also being able to engage with more detailed and technical material. If you are the type of student who has always been fascinated by how the body works, enjoys science labs, or finds satisfaction in understanding complex processes, the HESI may be a natural fit for your mind.
Why HESI May Align with Science-Focused Students
The HESI was developed with future healthcare professionals in mind. Its content areas reflect a deep emphasis on subjects that align with medical and nursing practice. The test includes more comprehensive science sections than the TEAS. It is not uncommon for students to encounter questions that touch on biochemical processes, neurological function, or detailed anatomical systems.
For students who have recently completed prerequisite courses in biology or anatomy, the HESI can feel like an extension of what they’ve already learned. It allows them to demonstrate their readiness for the next level of education in a way that goes beyond general academic skills. This can be particularly motivating for learners who prefer to connect their knowledge to real-world applications.
Moreover, the HESI includes a larger number of questions and sections. While this can seem daunting at first, it also gives students more opportunities to showcase their knowledge. Rather than being judged on performance in just a few broad categories, students are evaluated across multiple domains, including grammar, reading, math, and sciences. This breadth can be advantageous to well-rounded students who may perform modestly in one section but excel in others.
The inclusion of a personality profile and learning style assessment in the HESI, although not scored, also adds an interesting layer to the exam. It encourages students to reflect on their approach to learning and helps schools offer support strategies tailored to student preferences. This kind of introspection is useful in preparing for the rigorous demands of nursing school.
Exam Structure: How Format Affects Performance
The structure of an exam can heavily influence how students perform. The HESI is a longer exam, usually taking around four hours to complete. It is administered in person at a designated testing center, which means students must be comfortable with a formal, supervised setting. For those who thrive in a distraction-free environment and benefit from a traditional classroom experience, this can be a benefit rather than a drawback.
Additionally, the HESI allows schools to customize which sections are included in the test. Some programs may require all nine sections, while others may only ask students to complete a select few. This variability means that preparation strategies should be tailored to the specific version of the exam required by your intended program. It is crucial to obtain detailed information from your nursing school about what their HESI requirements include.
The TEAS, by contrast, tends to be more standardized and slightly shorter, with a testing time of around three and a half hours. It is also more likely to be offered in a remote, proctored format. This can appeal to students who are comfortable testing at home and prefer a more flexible setting. However, for those who perform better under structured conditions, the HESI’s in-person format may provide a more focused testing experience.
Navigating the Psychological Impact of Testing
An often overlooked factor in choosing the right exam is how a student manages stress, anxiety, and confidence under pressure. Entrance exams can be emotionally charged, especially when applicants feel their future depends on the outcome. The ability to manage nerves and maintain mental focus throughout the exam is critical.
The HESI, because of its length and complexity, can initially appear intimidating. However, students who enjoy a slower, more methodical approach to problem-solving may actually benefit from the extended time. The larger number of questions also means that no single question carries too much weight. One or two mistakes are less likely to dramatically affect the final score, which can be comforting.
On the other hand, students who are prone to test anxiety or who struggle to maintain concentration over long periods might find the TEAS to be less mentally taxing. The shorter exam time and fewer sections may offer relief to those who prefer a faster-paced assessment. The key is not to choose the test that seems easier, but the one that aligns with how you think, how you study, and how you manage pressure.
Using Practice Tests to Guide Your Choice
One of the most effective strategies for making an informed decision is taking full-length practice exams for both the HESI and the TEAS. These practice tests replicate the timing, structure, and content of the real exams. They give you a clear snapshot of how your current knowledge and skills align with each format.
After completing a practice test, analyze your results carefully. Look not only at your raw scores but also at the kinds of questions you struggled with. Did you have trouble with reading comprehension or scientific detail? Were you able to manage your time effectively? Did you feel mentally fatigued, or were you able to maintain focus throughout?
Many students find that their practice performance points strongly toward one exam. If your strengths lie in science, and you did well on those sections in the HESI practice test, it might be the better option. If you scored more consistently across the TEAS categories and preferred its layout, that may guide your decision.
Time Management: Preparing Strategically for the HESI
Preparing for the HESI requires a structured and disciplined study plan. Because the exam covers more subjects and includes detailed science content, students often need several weeks or months to prepare thoroughly. It is essential to allocate time each week for different subjects, rather than trying to study everything all at once.
Focus on reviewing core topics in anatomy, biology, chemistry, and vocabulary. Use study guides and question banks to become familiar with the phrasing and complexity of HESI questions. Take advantage of timed practice exams to improve your pacing and build stamina.
Another strategic approach is to start studying your weakest areas first. This gives you time to improve without sacrificing the areas where you already feel confident. Consider joining a study group or working with a tutor if you find yourself struggling to understand key concepts.
Cost, Convenience, and Institutional Expectations
While cost is not usually the deciding factor, it is still worth considering. The price for taking the HESI varies by location and institution, and some schools include the cost as part of their application process. It’s important to check whether you can retake the exam and if additional fees apply. Planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Convenience also matters. While the HESI is offered at physical testing centers, it may not be available as frequently or in as many locations as the TEAS. If transportation or scheduling is a challenge, be sure to factor that into your decision.
Institutional preferences should also carry significant weight. Some nursing programs explicitly prefer the HESI or require it as their sole entrance exam. In that case, the choice is made for you. However, if your school accepts either test, you are free to select the one that highlights your abilities most effectively.
When TEAS Might Be the Better Fit Instead
Despite the many benefits of the HESI, it is not the right fit for every applicant. Students who have not taken a science class in several years, or those who find technical subjects overwhelming, might perform better on the TEAS. Its broader scope allows you to demonstrate competence without requiring deep subject-specific mastery.
Additionally, students with scheduling constraints or who are uncomfortable testing in unfamiliar environments may find the flexibility of the TEAS more appealing. It offers a viable alternative that still meets the academic requirements of most nursing programs.
Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing
Some applicants choose a test based solely on what they’ve heard from peers or online forums. Others assume one test is easier without researching the content. Perhaps the most common mistake is underestimating the preparation required for either exam.
Avoid choosing a test just because it has fewer questions or a shorter time limit. Consider how your learning style, educational background, and test-taking skills intersect with the structure of each exam. A thoughtful, informed decision will serve you much better than a rushed or reactive one.
Tips from Nursing Students Who Took the HESI
Students who have taken the HESI often report that preparation was the key to their success. Many recommend starting with science sections early and practicing dosage calculations frequently. They also emphasize the importance of taking full-length practice tests, not just reviewing content.
Some students noted that reading comprehension and vocabulary were harder than expected and encouraged others not to overlook those areas during prep. Others mentioned that managing test-day nerves was just as important as knowing the material, and suggested relaxation techniques and visualization exercises to stay calm.
Making a Confident, Informed Decision
Choosing the right nursing entrance exam is more than a procedural step—it’s a chance to align your natural strengths with your career goals. The HESI is an excellent option for students who are confident in their science knowledge and prefer a deeper, more detailed assessment. Its structure rewards those who prepare thoroughly and who can maintain focus over a longer test.
By contrast, the TEAS suits those who prefer a broader overview of skills and want a shorter, more flexible test experience. Each exam has its advantages, and the best choice is the one that reflects your unique academic profile and personal preferences.
Take the time to evaluate, practice, and prepare. With intention and awareness, you will not only choose the exam that gives you the best shot at success, but you’ll also be laying the groundwork for a confident and successful start to your nursing journey.
Preparation, Mindset, and Long-Term Strategy for HESI and TEAS Success
Choosing between the HESI and TEAS is only the beginning of your journey. Once you’ve selected your exam, the real work begins. Success on either test is not determined by natural talent or prior knowledge alone. It comes down to preparation, consistency, and your mindset. Many students underestimate how much their habits, thought patterns, and emotional discipline affect their test performance. Beyond passing an entrance exam, you are developing the learning strategies and mental resilience that will carry you through nursing school and into your professional life.
Building a Solid Foundation for Test Prep
One of the most crucial parts of preparing for the HESI or TEAS is building a reliable study foundation. This means not only gathering study materials and scheduling time, but also forming productive habits and attitudes toward the learning process. Start by creating a realistic timeline. Ideally, allow yourself at least six to eight weeks of focused preparation time. More time may be necessary if you are returning to school after a long gap or if you struggled with certain subjects in the past.
Your foundation should include structured study sessions, diversified resources, and regular self-assessments. Establish a quiet, comfortable study space where you can concentrate. Use tools such as flashcards, prep books, online quizzes, and mobile apps to reinforce learning through repetition. Practice active recall and spaced repetition techniques, both of which are proven to enhance memory retention.
Consistency is more important than intensity. Studying for 90 minutes a day over several weeks is more effective than cramming for five hours the night before a practice test. Remember, you are not just trying to memorize facts. You are developing long-term skills in reading comprehension, math logic, scientific reasoning, and grammar usage—all of which are fundamental for your future role as a nurse.
Choosing the Right Study Materials
Not all test prep materials are created equal. Some resources emphasize breadth, while others go deep into subject content. For the HESI, look for materials that offer detailed explanations of scientific topics such as anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry. The HESI is known for its specificity, so choose guides that challenge you with realistic and complex questions. Avoid overly simplified resources, as they may leave you unprepared for the depth of the exam.
For TEAS preparation, you should focus on mastering a broad academic base. Choose resources that combine science, reading, and math instruction with strategy-based test-taking skills. The TEAS favors fast processing, so time management and pattern recognition are especially important.
Many students benefit from video tutorials, especially when reviewing math or science topics. Hearing an instructor explain a concept while watching visual examples can improve understanding and retention. Others prefer interactive tools like apps or online quizzes that provide instant feedback and explanations. Consider combining passive materials like reading with active methods like teaching someone else, drawing diagrams, or talking out loud while solving problems.
Making the Most of Practice Tests
Practice tests are one of the most effective ways to prepare for any standardized exam. They not only help you measure your progress but also simulate the mental endurance needed for test day. Take at least three full-length practice exams under real conditions. That means using a timer, sitting at a desk, and eliminating distractions. This helps train your brain to stay focused and manage stress across the full duration of the exam.
After each practice test, spend time reviewing every single question—especially the ones you got wrong. Understanding why you missed a question is more valuable than getting it right the first time. Track your progress across subjects. Are you consistently scoring lower in reading comprehension? Do you tend to make small math mistakes under pressure? This information will guide your next study sessions.
Treat practice tests not just as assessments but as learning tools. They reveal patterns in your thinking, show you where you rush or hesitate, and teach you how to pace yourself. By the time you sit for the official exam, you should feel confident in the format and familiar with the pressure.
Managing Test Anxiety and Emotional Barriers
Even the best-prepared students can be thrown off by nerves, anxiety, or self-doubt. Managing your mindset is just as important as reviewing content. It begins with accepting that some degree of stress is normal and even helpful. A bit of nervous energy can sharpen focus and increase alertness. The key is learning how to control and channel that energy effectively.
Start practicing mindfulness during your study sessions. This can be as simple as taking five deep breaths before opening your textbook or spending a few minutes reflecting on your goals before a practice test. Grounding techniques—such as focusing on your feet on the floor or counting your breaths—can calm your nervous system and increase clarity.
Use visualization techniques to prepare your mind for success. Picture yourself entering the exam room calmly, answering questions confidently, and completing the test with clarity. Repeat affirmations that reinforce your belief in your preparation, such as I am prepared, I am focused, I will succeed.
Avoid negative self-talk. If you catch yourself thinking I’m terrible at math or I’m going to fail, immediately counter that thought with evidence of your progress. Remind yourself that you’ve put in the work, reviewed your weak areas, and practiced effectively.
On the day before the exam, stop studying. Give your mind a break. Get plenty of sleep, eat balanced meals, and avoid last-minute cramming. Trust the work you’ve done. The goal is to walk into the testing center or log into the exam platform feeling centered, rested, and alert.
Strategic Scheduling and Study Discipline
Creating and sticking to a personalized study schedule can transform your results. Begin by assessing how many weeks you have before your exam and block out weekly goals. For example, week one could focus on reviewing math basics, week two on anatomy, and so on. Be sure to mix subjects throughout the week to keep your brain active and prevent fatigue.
Your schedule should include practice quizzes, reading time, problem-solving, flashcard review, and note summarizing. Use a digital planner or a wall calendar to track your progress. Cross off completed tasks to create a visual sense of momentum.
If you’re balancing work or family commitments, try the time-blocking method. This means assigning specific tasks to specific times—such as science review from 7 to 8 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday. Consistency matters more than long hours. Even twenty minutes of daily review adds up over time.
Stay disciplined by setting micro-goals and rewards. For example, after completing three study sessions, treat yourself to a break, a walk, or a favorite snack. The brain thrives on reward-based learning. Make your study environment comfortable and inspiring, with good lighting, minimal distractions, and access to all your materials.
Creating a Long-Term Learning Strategy
Your preparation for the HESI or TEAS should not end when the test is over. In fact, these exams mark the beginning of your academic journey. Nursing school will demand even greater discipline, faster learning, and higher stakes. Developing a long-term learning strategy now will serve you for years to come.
Start keeping a study journal or log. Document what strategies work best for you, what subjects challenge you, and how you handle mental blocks. This journal becomes a roadmap for future semesters. It also reinforces a growth mindset, where challenges are opportunities for development rather than evidence of failure.
Consider building a support network. Join online forums, local study groups, or peer review sessions. Teaching others what you’ve learned is one of the best ways to solidify your knowledge. Collaborative learning also builds confidence and introduces new perspectives.
Revisit your study habits after the exam. Did your flashcard method work? Were your test-day rituals effective? Did you schedule enough time for science? Adjust and evolve your strategy to match future coursework.
Learning to Learn: The Core Skill Behind Success
At the heart of your preparation is the skill of learning itself. Nursing education is not static. You will be asked to absorb new information constantly, adapt to changes, and apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Developing strong learning habits now prepares you for this reality.
Train yourself to ask good questions. When reviewing anatomy, do you just memorize terms, or do you also ask why a system functions a certain way? When practicing math, do you understand the logic behind each formula or just follow steps? Deep learning begins with curiosity.
Use multiple learning channels. Combine reading with listening, watching, writing, and teaching. This activates different parts of the brain and strengthens recall. Revisit difficult topics after a day or two to enhance retention through spaced repetition.
Recognize when you need help. There is no shame in seeking guidance from tutors, peers, or instructors. Part of being a good nurse is knowing when to ask questions. Practicing this humility as a student builds character and resilience.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Despite careful planning, life is unpredictable. You might get sick the week of the exam. You might feel overwhelmed or miss a study milestone. Preparing for the unexpected is part of strategic thinking.
Build in buffer time for your study plan. Have a backup plan for your test date if possible. Mentally rehearse how you will respond to a technical glitch, a difficult section, or a time crunch. Visualizing your response ahead of time reduces panic in the moment.
Have a list of encouraging phrases to remind yourself that a single exam does not define your future. Think long-term. One test is part of a larger journey toward becoming a competent, compassionate healthcare provider.
From Test-Taker to Nurse-in-Training
The mindset and skills you develop through this process are transferable to every aspect of nursing school. Discipline, time management, emotional regulation, and curiosity are what will carry you through late-night clinical rotations, complex patient scenarios, and collaborative care environments.
Approach the HESI or TEAS not just as a test, but as training ground for the mental and emotional strength nursing requires. By preparing intentionally, developing learning agility, and cultivating self-belief, you are setting the stage for long-term success—not just on exam day, but for the career that follows.