HESI or ATI TEAS? Which test should you take for nursing school?

Introduction

Imagine you're standing at a crossroads, each path leading to your dream of becoming a nurse. In one direction, the HESI A2 looms, a test known for its comprehensive coverage of academic subjects and critical thinking. In the other, the ATI TEAS beckons, a gateway test renowned for its focus on basic academic skills necessary for health science fields. Your choice at this crossroads is crucial, as it sets the tone for your journey into nursing school. This article aims to guide aspiring nursing students like you in making an informed decision between these two pivotal tests.

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Differences between the HESI and ATI TEAS tests

The Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) Admission Assessment (A2) Exam and the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), administered by the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI), are standardized tests used by nursing schools to evaluate potential students' readiness for nursing education.

HESI A2:

• Topics: Math, Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading, and Physics
• Purpose: Assesses both academic readiness and personality traits suited for nursing.
• Format: 325 multiple-choice questions, with varying numbers of questions belonging to each section.
• Difficulty: Difficult to score high but similar to the ACT/SAT if you want to score high.
• Time Given: 6 hours

ATI TEAS:

• Topics: Almost all the same topics as the HESI except no physics questions are asked on the TEAS which physics is a difficult subject.
• Purpose: Specifically designed to gauge preparedness for health science fields.
• Format: 170 mostly multiple-choice questions with a few fill-in-the-blank or point to the right spot questions.
• Difficulty: Difficult to score high but similar to the ACT/SAT if you want to score high.
• Time Given: 3 hours and 29 minutes

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Is the HESI or the ATI TEAS test more difficult?

Both tests are difficult if you aren't prepared but we think the HESI is a bit more challenging than the TEAS for three factors:

1. HESI test has almost twice as many questions as the TEAS.
2. HESI includes questions on physics which is a notoriously one of the more difficult subjects in science. It is often considered more difficult than just plain math.
3. HESI test takes more time to complete. You will be a bit tired towards the end of the test, which could compromise your performance in answering the last questions of the HESI test.

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Should you take the TEAS or the HESI test for nursing school?

The choice between HESI and TEAS often depends on the specific requirements of the nursing schools you are targeting. Some schools prefer one test over the other, while others accept both.

• Research Your Target Schools: Understanding the prerequisites of your preferred nursing programs is crucial. Some nursing schools require the TEAS, some require the HESI, and some require either of.
• Consider Your Strengths: If you have strong academic skills, particularly in science and math, the TEAS might be more suitable. Conversely, if you excel in a broader range of subjects and have strong personality traits for nursing, the HESI could be your test of choice. If you happen to be good at physics, take advantage of your skills and capitalize on that skill with the HESI.
• Have The Other Test as a Plan B: You might find yourself in a situation where you did poorly twice on the TEAS. Many schools only allow you to take the TEAS no more than 2-3 times. After performing poorly on the TEAS that many times, you might have burned that bridge with nursing schools that use the TEAS as part of their admissions process. However, you could give yourself a second chance and start with a clean slate. Take the HESI and now apply to schools that ask for the HESI and not the TEAS.

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Preparing for the ATI TEAS with TestBeach.com

For those leaning towards the ATI TEAS, a robust preparation strategy is key. TestBeach.com offers comprehensive resources tailored for the TEAS test. With a focus on the specific content and format of the TEAS, TestBeach.com can help elevate your preparation, ensuring that you walk into the test with confidence.

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Conclusion

The decision between the HESI and ATI TEAS is more than just a choice of tests; it's about aligning your strengths and goals with the requirements of your desired nursing program. Remember, the right preparation can make all the difference. As you embark on this journey, ask yourself: Are my test preparation strategies aligned with my ultimate goal of becoming a nurse?

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