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Advice for Passing the HESI Exam

by Angie Reneau in Education, May 28, 2008

Advice to nursing students to pass their final exams, called HESI’s.

If you want to graduate from Nursing School, you’ll pass the test!

Whether you like it or not, many nursing schools require a specific score on a HESI exit exam in order to successfully graduate from their program. What is a passing score? Well, it’s different for each school, but most require a passing score somewhere between 830-900.

How do schools come up with their own passing score? Passing the HESI has a correlation factor that tries to predict if you will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt. Nursing schools want you to pass boards on the first try because their accreditation hinges on the pass rates. If too many students fail the NCLEX, then the state board will investigate the institution. Too many years of investigations and the state board can close the school.

There is a lot of debate between educators, students, and state boards in regards to the HESI exit exam. Some states have forbidden nursing schools from failing students based on the HESI passing score. You may want to check with the school to see what their specific graduation criteria says, or check with the state board of nursing to see what is allowed in your state.

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There are usually a couple of weeks between graduation and the date you take the NCLEX. Many hospitals have started asking for a copy of your final HESI exam results. Passing exam results will let the hospital know that you’re a strong candidate to pass state boards and they feel secure in hiring you.

Is there a secret for passing? No, but there are some tips and tricks than can help you prepare.

  1. Create a Study Group. Gather up a few classmates and plan to meet on a regular basis. By studying together, you tend to remember things better and you can support each other if you begin to feel frustrated or overwhelmed.
  2. Attend a review session. Several hospitals, universities, and private test preparation centers will hold review sessions. Some names to look for – Hurst, Kaplan, and Sylvia Rayfield. Each review session costs money, but could be worth it if it helps you graduate. Additionally, if you go with a group of friends, you can create your own study groups.
  3. Purchase an Online Review. Some organizations offer one, three, or five week review sessions that you can complete online. You will need a fast internet connection and the ability to download their software. Several, such as NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing), will give you additional study tips, relaxation techniques, and additional terminology to help you decipher tricky questions.
  4. Remediation books directly from HESI. Each book comes with a disc that contains practice exams. If you know the material, but have difficulty understanding what the questions are actually asking, then taking practice exams on your computer may be a good strategy for you. Each exam comes with question rationales for the questions you miss. The more you read the rationales, the more you can figure out what the heck the questions mean.
  5. Other study guides. Look for any books that say “NCLEX PREP.” These are usually very safe to study from. Try to complete at least ten questions per day. Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your knowledge. When you are done, read the rationales for the questions you have completed, even if you answered correctly. Some good books to look for – Saunder’s Review Book, Silvestri’s Strategy for Success, and Frye’s 3300. Everyone has their own preference, so you may want to see what your instructors recommend or what you can find at the library. Just be sure that you’re using the most current copy of each book to study from. Most are updated every year.
  6. Specific Remediation. If you’ve taken a HESI, then you’ll know exactly which areas are your weaknesses. Refer back to your class notes for certain topics, or look for the “Insanely Easy” series. For example, a lot of students are weak in Endocrine. You wouldn’t necessarily buy ten different books to view only the Endocrine topics. Try to find a specific Endocrine book or look back through your pathophysiology notes.
  7. Common Sense? Many of the questions on the HESI are common sense questions; however, the question is worded to look very complicated. The trick is to eliminate the extraneous information and really think about what the question is asking without reading into it too much. Only practice can help you do this. Test taking is a skill and like any skill, you need practice to master it.
  8. Tell your family and friends to give you some space for a couple of weeks. Family, work, relationships – they all need to realize that if they love you, they need to give you peace and quiet while you study. It can be difficult for them to understand, because I’m sure they want to help and support you. However, a friend who comes over to help you study and brings her children – that’s not going to be much help. A mother who brings meals over to your apartment and then nags that you haven’t cleaned up – that’s not going to be much help, either. You need to explain to everyone that studying is your top priority and until you pass your exams, you need some “me time.” If your support system doesn’t understand, then you need to distance yourself from everyone for a few hours each day. Go to the library, a coffee house, a quiet park – someplace that offers a peaceful place to study.
  9. Eat a good breakfast the day of the exam and bring a snack. A full stomach will help you concentrate – just don’t overdo it! Some exam proctors will let you take bathroom breaks. If your exit exam is 150 questions, then you may want to stop at 75 questions, use the rest room, eat a protein bar, and walk around for a minute – make sure you have permission to do so! Taking a quick mental break will refresh and renew your brain, allowing you to continue the exam without the questions blurring together.
  10. Realize that you’re not alone. Many nurses have come before you and have passed the HESI exams. If others can do it, so can you. You’ve made it this far in nursing, so obviously, you’re not stupid! Stay positive!

I’ve taken the HESI, but I’m not a nurse. I’m an exam proctor. I don’t get paid to recommend books. The above tips are some of the things I’ve learned as a proctor. I’ve seen straight A students fail, and I’ve seen C students pass with flying colors – your own personal motivation can determine your success. Don’t think the exam is stupid or incorrect. Negative and cynical thinking will get you nowhere!

You will have all the time in the world to think the exam was total BS…AFTER you graduate! Good luck!

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User Comments

  1. Shawn

    On June 4, 2008 at 2:27 pm


    The HESI is why I changed my major to accounting. Bad exam! Bad, bad, bad!

  2. Emily

    On June 5, 2008 at 11:02 pm


    It’s a good exam if you study. The rationales tell you exactly where your weak areas are. Sometimes, there are test questions. Like, questions the HESI people are just trying out. I hate those. I don’t know if they count if you get them wrong. Does anyone know?

  3. Angie Reneau

    On June 6, 2008 at 10:46 am


    The pilot questions do not necessarily count.

    Most HESI exams will contain at least ten pilot questions. HESI will examine these questions to see if they need to be adjusted for future exams — for example, the question may be worded wrong and therefore, no one understands what the question is asking and everyone who takes the test, gets that question wrong. In that case, HESI will throw that question out and no one gets credit for it. If the question is good, that is, if people understand the question and many testers answer the question correctly, then the question will count towards the final score.

    If you feel a question is too confusing or inappropriate, try to jot down a couple of notes about the question. You are not allowed to copy the question, but try to remember what the question was asking. Bring it up during a class discussion or talk with your instructor about the confusing question. If several people are bothered by the same question, then it could be a bad question and your instructor should contact the HESI representative to discuss the particular question.

    On the other hand, remember that ONE question will not necessarily make or break your score. I have seen people with an 848, which is frustrating, and in that case — Yes, one question would save their score. On the other hand, if you’ve achieved a 400, then let your confusing question go and hit the books!

  4. Jourdyn

    On September 21, 2008 at 10:51 pm


    Which states have forbidden nursing schools from failing students based on the HESI score?

  5. Jasmen

    On October 21, 2008 at 2:27 pm


    I made a 904 on the hesi the 2nd time i took it. my school (Valdosta Tech. College, Valdosta GA is requiring a 950 to pass is this allowed

  6. Rooabba

    On October 23, 2008 at 7:35 pm


    The HESI would not be needed If schools did their jobs and actually taught what students needed to learn. Nurses would have the proper knowledge to pass the NCLEX if the information was properly covered. The HESI is just another money-maker for schools. Think about it — if schools demand a high passing school, many students will not pass and have to retake the course; more money for schools. If schools really want students to succeed, teach them what they need to know.

  7. sws@y

    On October 28, 2008 at 11:33 am


    I found an error in a Hesi question and submitted it to the head of my department. I thought it was my imagination because how could Hesi be wrong? It turned out I was right. There was NO correct answer for the question.

  8. bink

    On November 1, 2008 at 11:36 am


    Yes, I also found several questions that Hesi provided the wrong answers in their Case studies and when I took the exam the other day I found a question that did not have the right answer and one that was not legible. Students brought it to faculty’s attention and they are skirting the issue and placing the blame on students ability.

  9. CHIKLET

    On November 17, 2008 at 7:30 pm


    My school wants us to pass hesi w/ 95% maybe 1000- above
    and would let us pay 50 dollars everytime we take the exam….is this right? pls. help!

  10. wisdom

    On November 22, 2008 at 7:08 am


    is there any thing like HESI PN EXIT EXAM VERSION 3 AND 4 for pn student. am worried i have taken hesi 1 and 2 but don’t know if the have 3 and 4, if the do chances of me passing might be low then was the point of raniadtion, after going though the remadiation the bring out different version

  11. cactus

    On December 1, 2008 at 6:24 pm


    So what are the best resources to get the highest scores for the exit HESI?

  12. weeda

    On December 1, 2008 at 7:12 pm


    i am cramming for a hesi i take in 3 hours. i’m not sure if it’s a money maker for schools, but it could be. i paid >$15,000 to repeat undergraduate nursing classes i took more than 3 yrs ago. all schools want to make money. most institutions are money makers. getting degrees from accredited institutes of higher learning is a way to establish heirarchy in society. money, brains and resources will determine your status in life. hesi is a way to weed out the incapable or procrastinators.

  13. weeda

    On December 2, 2008 at 12:56 pm


    took the test. tricky tricky.

  14. I spoke up

    On December 3, 2008 at 10:18 am


    There is no way to study for HESI. NCLEX style books are for NCLEX only. HESI is a different type of testing. Don’t waste your time with the HESI book either. I found several errors and it is not worth the paper its printed on. Ask people form your school to tell you one or two questions that came from their exam so that you can understand the type of questioning that HESI ask. Several schools have admitted they were using the exam for their own purposes and not as an evaluation tool. Students have sued these policies and won.

  15. Tara

    On December 9, 2008 at 11:18 pm


    I took the hesi last week i needed a 900 and I got a 687 only 1 person in my class got a 900 out of 14ppl its an absolute joke! the questions try to trick you and you always end up picking the wrong answer..it is way to hard n theres really no way to study they will throw anything at you just make sure you know your lab values

  16. Re

    On December 21, 2008 at 1:17 am


    I took the Hesi on Dec 10th and we were told to make an 850. Our A students didn’t even make the passing grade. I did not pass my class because of this test. What state does not fail you in regards to the test? I am still trying to fight this! I passed my class with all my tests but not the Hesi. Anyone have any suggestions. Please help!

  17. Mott College Nursing Student

    On December 24, 2008 at 11:28 pm


    My college is asking for a 900 to pass the HESI. Even though we all passed the program, they are giving us an incomplete until we get a 900 on the HESI. Many of us have jobs waiting. We have to wait 30 days before we can take the HESI again. So two years of sacrifice for the program, finally get there and now we are stuck in limbo until we can pass this darn thing!!!

  18. nope

    On December 25, 2008 at 12:59 pm


    i got a 819 on my rn exit exam and i have a 3.5gpa i get to take it again in a couple of weeks. is it true the second time you take it, it’s harder? i’m freaking out and studying from hesi, ncsbn, ati, mosbys, saunders, lippinkot, etc. please help!!

  19. PIMP

    On December 30, 2008 at 12:38 pm


    I’ve taken the exam and have been unsuccessful getting my school’s passing score wich is a 900. On the last hesi i took i made a 845. I really think that school’s souldn’t rely on the results of the hesi score to determine if the student graduates, I believe that as long as the student is able to pass their classes in the nursing program that should be enough, and the hesi should only be used for assessment of weak and strong areas. Nursing programs are tough and not everyone passes these clases, so i believe if u are able to pass the class then u should be able to graduate. I passed my nursing courses, and was able to take two hesi exams that i did not pass, before the graduation date. I thought it was very unfair that i was not able to participate in the graduation ceremony, and the pining ceremony that i wanted to attend i did not do so because for those of us who didnt pass the hesi did not have our names in the program which i thought was very unfair, we worked hard during the year and passed the clases.It is not like if i am going to be able to get a job with just a pin. Also, i will not be able to get a job as an RN with an Assocites degree, for this u need a license. If graduation depeds on passing or failing the hesi then why doesnt everybody just take hesi rather than the course.

  20. PIMP

    On December 30, 2008 at 12:44 pm


    I would also like to know how the hesi is scored. How many points is each question worth. I think it is very weird that hesi does not tell you this. i missed 30 questions out of 180 and recieved a 845. some people miss more questions and manage to pass, I understand that point are given depending on the difficulty of the question, but what is the maximum number of points that can be earned for a queston and what is the minimum.

  21. suseptible

    On January 8, 2009 at 11:06 pm


    My school introduced the new HESI exam at the beginning of our last semester of nursing school. We also were doing 3 other classes and Precepting all at the same time with no type of preparation for the HESI. only 6 students out of 20 passed and we found out that we were not graduating, 2 days before graduation. We were given the first HESI in October and the second, 2 days before graduation. 13 or us nursing students are now out of jobs that we had obtained during precepting and the school wants us to take an 8 week remediation course with class projects, assignments, reports,quizzes, etc… How asinine that they don’t even understand anything about the HESI but insist on holding us hostage at the school until we can prove that we can pass with an 850 or above. The HESI questions don’t make sense, some of them do not have a correct answer in the choices, and after learning that priority situations are always assessed using the Airway, Breathing and circulation rule, that’s not what the HESI wants you to answer for priority questions. So it appears that we were all set up to fail. I really hate it when a school decides to throw in a new exam but doesn’t know a damn thing about the content of the questions. The damn HESI exam was never even put into our nursing handbook that we would have to take it. I think we all ought to sue the freaking HESI company and also the school for not researching this stupid test before mandating it in the curriculum.

  22. suseptible

    On January 8, 2009 at 11:13 pm


    Has anyone out there, had any success suing their school over this? or has anyone had the school overturn the decision about graduating because of the HESI flaws?

  23. happy

    On January 17, 2009 at 11:03 am


    I took the HESI exam yesterday and passed it from the first try.
    My advise is to study HESI book. The name of the book is “Comprehensive NCLEX-RN Examination” by Evolve and make sure you do questions from the CD that the book includes (and read the rationale). That’s what helped pass the HESI. Good luck to all!!!

  24. 2batmanrn

    On February 3, 2009 at 12:45 am


    My school told us about the HESI exit less than two months before our graduation. My classmates families who live out of state and country purchased their tickets for what we had assumed was our graduation and pinning ceremony. Out of 37 students only 3 passed HESI. The rest did not graduate or received a pinning ceremony. It was a humilation towards my classmates and their families. The school is requiring to have the classmates repeat second year in order to re take HESI again. Thats 9000 more dollars. Although instructors have told us that the felt this was wrong, they would not support us because the vice chancellor of the city colleges refused to admit that her nursing program was at fault. After several months of debate and hiring attorneys. One classmates decided she had enough debt and humilation. She committed suicide. The pain is unbearable. The instructors stated the couldn’t defend us in fear that they would lose their job. But instead, they lost a student. A student who worked several jobs just to finish the nursing program. We finished the nursing program. Now, they want us to repeat second year over, pay for it, again, and audit the passing grade we already earned. Out of the three who did pass HESI. Only one passed NCLEX the first time. My classmate, friend, and single mother of two is gone. The humilation, lost, and feeling of betrayl and abandonement finally got to her. A few of us have lost our homes, and jobs. No money to repeat second year. If the school really cared to educate us, they would of allowed us to check our areas of weaknesses from nursing 101. NOT when we have passed all of the nursing program.
    Please pray for all of us. Our pain is unbearable. Pray that school will see to help us and hold themselves accountable for their lack of care and selfishness.

  25. 2batmanrn

    On February 3, 2009 at 12:52 am


    If their are any class action lawsuit please let us know. It was a difficult christmas for everyone. We are excellent students. The City Colleges of Chicago refuse to acknowledge their incompetencies. Instead, of reviewing their curriculum, which is what HESI really stands for. They would much rather earn more money from us. Not one of our instructors went to our classmates funeral. Please pray for us and other students who are affected by the abuse of this exam. Their are other programs out there who do utilize this exam as an assessment tool. Not as a form of punishment and not for vanity reasons. Please lets get together and help one another. If you completed the nursing program, that should show you are competent enough to take the NCLEX RN exam. If the instructors felt you were not competent or a threat to the lives of the patient you are taking care of… than you shouldn’t of passed. We need to work as a team to eliminate the vanity and the abuse of power.

  26. kindredspirit

    On February 3, 2009 at 11:03 pm


    Are you kidding me? This test is destroying people’s lives. I suggest you write a letter to your senator and your new governor. Better yet, add print this website. I am sure there are other websites out there in protest of these nursing programs who abuse HESI. The instructors know that this is an easy way out. They want to make the money, but don’t want to do the job. I am sorry about your friend. My classmates and I have experienced a similar situation. One of our classmates attempted to kill herself over this loss. Our school did not tell us about HESI. Heck, we never even heard of it. We didn’t know that we had to pass it in order to get our degree. This is so wrong in every way. We are being used as escapegoats so the crooked school can keep getting out money. I suggest that someone create some sort of site specially educating the upcoming students nurses. They need to be educated about the true story of the meaning of NCLEX pass rate and compare it to their attrition rate. Have you spoken with anyone from State Board? If I were you guys, I would gather an attorney and stick together as a team. Don’t let your school take you for granted. From what it sounds like they already have. But, don’t let them continue it.
    Get a reporter and blog about it as much as you can. I am so sorry about your classmates. Who ar taking care of her kids? Did she have a husband? I am praying for her children. The instructors don’t care about teaching, or seeing you successful. Its all about money. Just like these CEO’s from the banking and automobile industry. Greedy. But, I believe in what comes around goes around. I would post as much as I can about your school. Good Luck. Start a website!

  27. kindredspirit

    On February 3, 2009 at 11:14 pm


    RE: Nursing School, NCLEX Pass Rate, HESI Exit Exam.
    I forgot to tell you, have you spoken with a MR. Spurlock? He is very knowledgeable about how this effects the students based on phsycological, lack of confidence, embarrassment, and loss.
    Google him and see if you can find or talk with him. If I hear anything about a class action law suit. I will be back to tell you about it. Its time we stand up and protest such ridiculous agendas. If the school would do their jobs they would not hold you accountable for a probability exam. Make sense, right?
    Remember in the 1960’s when students were treated unfairly, you would see them picket their schools with banners? What ever happened to students rights? Have we feared our professors? What about our future and our children’s future? By not fighting the school, gives them the power to do this to othters after us. We are sending the wrong information. If you completed the program, you have the right to have your nursing degree and take state boards. Have we feared our instructors? What are we paying them for? How much money has the average nursing student spent for school? How many sacrifices? Jobs, children, spouse was affected.
    This hits me right in the gut. One, because the nursing programs are not being accountable for the lack of curriculum. Two, we are not fighting for what is right. Since you have lost your classmate, have you guys seeked out an attorney? If she has any family, they should file for wrongful death. I am sure their are plenty of reporters who would be interested in you stories. Keep writing to politicians and speak out, protest, get everyone affected by this involved. Keep us informed.

  28. Julie

    On March 13, 2009 at 6:21 pm


    In my school we take a series of HESIs. One every week. Med surg, Peds, Maternity, Mental Health and Pharm. THey take drop the lowest test score and you need an average of an 80 to pass this class. I have never studied so hard in my life and i still didn’t get decent scores on any of my HESIs except the last one. I changed the way i studied and I got a 99. i still got some questions wrong but i guess they weigh each one differently. Now in my next class we take a comprehensive hesi and you need an 87 to pass.
    I think the HESI is good because it prepares you for the NCLEX. Every person i have known who has taken the HESI has passed the NCLEX on the first try. They pretty much laughed while taking the test because it was so easy compared to the HESI.

    Don’t get me wrong. I have cried over the HESI and have been extremely stressed out beyond anything I could ever imagine but hey that’s nursing school. You gotta keep going.
    make flash cards of stuff you don’t understand. why would you study stuff you already know? exactly, you wouldn’t.

    DON’T DESPAIR!!!

  29. Liz

    On April 10, 2009 at 7:52 pm


    This is scaring me…i take the HESI on april 29th..I bought 2 books and flashcards..and it is still kicking my butt….

  30. aaahh

    On April 11, 2009 at 10:41 am


    I received a 1083 on the HESI I did study long and hard but I missed about 20 questions. I don’t understand how they’re weighted but I reviewed things I knew that I was unfamiliar with. If you understand the concepts of each system and major diseases/medications I imagine you will do fine.

  31. sunny

    On April 14, 2009 at 2:36 pm


    I came on here looking for HESI test taking tips and am sad to see that there are so many others being treated the way our nursing program is treated. Where I am the HESI is just weeding out the proverbial ‘weak’ so the school can claim it has a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX. I took a practice HESI when I started the program which we were required to do so we ‘could see what it was like’. My instructor talked through the whole test to one person or another. I don’t tolerate noise during exams very well at all. I scored a 680 so I have no idea how I might really do when I take it this month. I feel like our entire program has been self taught. They throw powerpoints at us and say ‘read pages blah blah blah’ and make us do stupid group presentations that we all feel wastes valuable lecture time. I have also found several HESI questions that had no correct answer offered in the choices and the director of our program agreed with me, but tells me not to worry about it. What if it happens on the HESI and it counts my answer wrong just as it did on the practice exam? The schools don’t care. All mine seems to care about is that 100% NCLEX pass rate. I have made myself a nervous wreck over the HESI. I actually have a graduate degree with a 3.92 gpa and still made a 680 on the HESI and have my doubts about passing it this time. My biggest question since my degree is law related – How can a school require an exam for you to graduate when the state doesn’t even require it? I am baffled. My sympathies to those of you who lost a friend, and I understand her and your frustration. There are a bunch of us where I am too and we all feel the same.

  32. Stressed

    On April 16, 2009 at 1:51 am


    I came on here looking for test taking tips for the HESI as well and I am even more stressed after reading all of these responses. My school requires us to take a hesi exam for each course; so I’ve been taking them all along. It’s my senior year and I haven’t scored above a 650 on any of them. This is so unfair and it’s killing my grades becuase I’m normally an A to B student and these hesi exams are worth 20% of our grade for the class. I have had A’s in a class and end up barely passing b/c of my low hesi score. If you make a 900, you are exempt from the final exam in the class, which is great but usually in a class of abour 40 people maybe 2 score high enough to be exempt. As far as our exit hesi, an 850 is required and if you don’t pass you don’t graduate and you have to come back the next semester and pay to take a remedial course and you have a chance to take the hesi again. I’m not sure how many times we can take it (I think 3 times) but I’m so stressed out thinking about it since I graduate soon and I’m wondering how in the world am I going to pass the exit if I can’t pass the individual course hesi. I am in a BSN program and for people to spend 4 yrs in school and when graduation time comes they can’t walk b/c of a stupid exam. I know people that have taken the state boards and say that the hesi did nothing to help them. All this exam seems to do is ruin a lot of lives. Also, I’m worried b/c I’ve been passing my classes so far b/c I do well on everything except the hesi but if in the more advanced classes in the future if I make low B’s or C’s and then fail the hesi (20% of my grade), I will probably fail the class. Anyway, my hesi for psychiatric/mental health is tomorrow so I am hoping to pass for the first time. I’m sorry about the loss of your friend and for everyones’ frustrations but I’m going through the same thing, just stay strong. So many people before us have done this and we can too.

  33. stressed out student

    On April 21, 2009 at 1:47 pm


    Does anyone know which states prohibit failing a nursing student who has met all other criteria besides the Hesi. My school offer’s it 3 time and we have 40 student’s including myself who have not passed.. So we are suppose to have graduation and pinning on May 16th and half the class may not be able to graduate.

  34. phil

    On April 26, 2009 at 7:43 pm


    this hesi exam is useless and nonsense exam

  35. Sad

    On April 30, 2009 at 6:49 pm


    All the HESI test does is makes nursing student scared of the NCLEX it take their confidence away. I feel that the HESI should be taking out of the Nursing programs. If the school wants to give the HESI just let it be used to show us were we need to study not hold our lives up.

  36. HESI Passer

    On May 2, 2009 at 2:07 am


    I just took the HESI on 4/24/09. I passed with a score of 1000, my school required 850 to pass. Schools have gone to using it as a punitive tool. The exam was designed to help both students and eduactors identify student and cirriculum weaknesses. Yes there have been lawsuits in CA and some of the northeastern states, some have won and some have lost. Although I think the exam is unfair I think it is here to stay. I do have to say shame on the nurse who founded the HESI and created this Monster of an exam. I did ask my faculty is they were going to utilize the HESI were they going to teach with that in mind and the response I got was no. talk about setting people up for failure. I did notice that there were items on my exam that were not covered in any of my classes. Ad fro studying, my best suggestion is to use a comprehensive review book, there are several out there.

  37. Karma

    On May 5, 2009 at 11:55 am


    The person that invented the HESI should burn in hell for all the suffering they have caused nursing students around the country.

  38. JJ

    On May 5, 2009 at 12:38 pm


    I just finished my HESI on the first of May and made a 950. I didn’t study at all and decided to just wing it. It is one of the most retarded tests ever devised. Here is a tip that I believe helped me pass. For any of the side effects of any drugs, just pick the worse one. For questions that give a bunch of different scenarios or symptoms, just pick the worse one… Oh here is my last tip, don’t bother studying your ass of, there is no point. I truly believe if I would have studied as much as some of my classmates, it would have been a waste of time and probably would have scored the same.

  39. dumb asses

    On May 5, 2009 at 6:46 pm


    study before the night before

  40. lucky

    On May 28, 2009 at 2:50 pm


    our class took hesi last 4/24 and almost everyone passed. out of 44 students only 7 failed.those who failed got 810-845 scores – very close to passing score of 850. everyone used the hesi book by evolve. most of us studied really hard because we were told that if we don’t pass we won’t graduate and will have to repeat the last semester.

  41. massin

    On June 9, 2009 at 3:02 pm


    i am so confused aobut hesi
    i took this test on may 10 09 and i didnt passed
    i have just one more chance any idea how can i pass it

  42. Shana

    On June 19, 2009 at 4:37 pm


    We took our Hesi this past May and only 6 out of 18 students passed with a 850 or better. Doesn’t this say something about the content covered on the Hesi or lack of content from the school. Hands on is where it should really matter. I had a 3.5gpa in nursing and only received a 658 on my Hesi. The answers were a joke. This is not going to put only the best nurses out in the work field. This is only going to put the lucky one’s out there.

  43. STORMYMEMPHIS

    On June 27, 2009 at 1:20 pm


    I had to make a 950 on my exit hesi in order to get my final grade changed my incomplete. The first time we tested only the people who had struggled throughout the entire program passed it…some even blew it out of the water! I was like “what is going on here!?” I graduated with honors and couldn’t pass this on the first try. I was devastated. My first attempt I made an 870. My second attempt I made a 938, and a 1020 my third and final time. After each HESI, I printed off my report from the Evolve website and looked to see how I did with each topic. I highlighted anything I did not make at least an 850 on, and brushed up on those areas for the retest. I used the HESI book and the Saunder’s NCLEX to prepare. I know it’s frustrating and seems as though you’ll never pass it. EVENTUALLY…you will. I honestly think it comes down to getting the version of the test meant for YOU to take. Some people got lucky the first time…good for them. It took version 3 for me and that’s even after the computers crashed twice while taking it! Good luck everyone!

  44. Angry in Tennessee

    On July 7, 2009 at 2:42 pm


    This HESI exam is ruining my life. I currently have passed every single one of my classes, but because I can’t pass this freaking test, I can’t get my diploma. It is 100% ruining my life because I can’t get a job, don’t have the money to live in the city that my school is in to re-take the stupid class that has it listed as a requirement, and I have to redo all of my clinical hours. This is absolute CRAP to me. In my opinion, if I have passed the classes, I’ve earned my degree. My advice to anyone wanting to be a nurse is to NOT go to a school that requires this HESI exit exam. I agree that they are good practice for the NCLEX bc they are HARDER than the NCLEX, but they should NOT be the deciding factor on if you are allowed to graduate or not.

  45. stc

    On July 11, 2009 at 4:05 pm


    This hesi exam has been a nightmare for me. I pass all my classes with A n B and did not pass hesi (all 3) attemps and now i cant graduate and have to start all over again. The school just want money for all of us. We are a group of 12students that were unsuccessful on Hesi. I dont know what to do anymore? does anyone have suggestion on sueing the school??please help..

  46. Diane

    On July 19, 2009 at 1:11 pm


    I attend ACC I passed every term with no problem, and now I have taken this Exit Hesi 3times and failed. I have to pay $500.00 to take it the 4th time. I was told that would be it, and terminated from the program. My school was $30,0000, my family sacriced alot for me.
    We have to pass with an 850, taking this test is so different from the term end hesi’s. The answer you would least expect is the correct one. My term 4 teacher never prepared us for this exit hesi, she never new what it was, she came to us teaching for the very first time and when we would ask her to review the exit hesi, she never knew what to do. we were a class of 29 and still 7 of us havent passed. I have one more try left.
    Wish me luck!!!

  47. one try left

    On July 19, 2009 at 1:17 pm


    I attend ACC I passed every term with no problem, and now I have taken this Exit Hesi 3times and failed. I have to pay $500.00 to take it the 4th time. I was told that would be it, and terminated from the program. My school was $30,0000, my family sacrificed alot for me.
    We have to pass with an 850, taking this test is so different from the term end hesi’s. The answer you would least expect is, the correct one. My term 4 teacher never prepared us for this exit hesi, she never new what it was, she came to us teaching for the very first time and when we would ask her to review the exit hesi, she never knew what to do. we were a class of 29 and still 7 of us havent passed. I have one more try left.
    Wish me luck!!!

  48. hillofbeans

    On July 20, 2009 at 11:55 pm


    I failed HESI the first time and I was devastated because I am a solid A student. Like a lot of schools, my school did nothing to prepare us for this stinky test. They told us, “use NCLEX books.” I used the Saunders NCLEX-RN CD and on the practice tests I was scoring well so I felt confident, but I still failed the HESI. I hate to advertise for Evolve because I think their test is just another money-maker, but I think the reason I did so well (over 1000) the second time is because I bought the Evolve NCLEX book and CD and did all the practice tests. It made me familiar with their reasoning so that I would know what type of answers they wanted with certain questions. It doesn’t make sense unless you use their CD, because their thinking is not the same as NCLEX (even though their book says NCLEX on it). If you failed HESI the first time, you must get this book, because Evolve is the company that makes the HESI. You can get it used on Amazon or share with classmates; read each section and then take the test for that section and you will get better. And also, the CD is harder than the actual HESI! I scored in the 60s on the practice tests and still did well on the HESI the 2nd try. I just hope that all states will pass laws against requiring HESI to graduate; if you pass all your classes then you deserve your degree. It is the school’s responsibility to prepare students. Good luck to all taking HESI.

  49. Rani

    On July 22, 2009 at 9:52 am


    I took the Hesi exam for the third time and passed with a 941, I think that the test gets harder each time you fail. My advise to those who have not passed the hesi, is to take the HURST REVIEW, you can take it on-line, or in person, it helped me alot because it teaches you how to answer the quetions. Good Luck to ALL!!!!!!!!!

  50. Insider

    On July 22, 2009 at 11:41 am


    I have also heard good things about the HURST review. For those who think the money for the Hesi exam is going to the school is wrong. The test really cost that much and the school/nursing program does not make one cent off the test. Matter of fact our program was losing money everytime a student took the test. our program currently has a 100% NCLEX pass rate because of the Hesi exam.

  51. mostafa

    On August 13, 2009 at 1:33 pm


    this is bowle sheet stuff , do you know what are you talking about , hesi make our life just sheet, do you know a lot of students committed suicide for hesi
    this test is jut bowel sheet , it has to be banded by state or whatever sheet is that
    at truman most of the people failed b/c instructor gave questions to the students who liked them , i am so sorry to tell you but we have law sue against truman college in chicago

  52. Girl

    On September 25, 2009 at 12:31 am


    I need advice for Psychiatric mental health nsg HESI!!!

  53. Albert

    On November 18, 2009 at 8:42 pm


    My class just took the HESI exit test we need 900 to pass it. Only 5 passed it the first time I got 841 on the first try. I will help to use HESI review book and use remediation program from EVOLVE after you get your score. I am hoping to pass it with 900 or better the second time.

  54. Jennifer Chase

    On December 11, 2009 at 7:16 pm


    yes hesi is awful, I can\\\’t believe that after passing all course exam the hesi is the determining factor for passing or failing. I hope these greedy instructors will have their conscions kick in. Stop thiniking about filling your pockets, greedy instructors.

  55. Dimples

    On January 20, 2010 at 7:59 pm


    _Just Waiting_

    The University that I attend requires a score of 850 to pass the HESI. I finished my nursing classes in May 2007, but I have not yet passed my HESI exam. Therefore, I am not able to take my boards until I score 850 or better. I just want to move on to my RN position. Are there any good suggestions from anyone? I have to pass in order to move on.

  56. Nurse Lucy

    On January 21, 2010 at 10:59 am


    First off, the school does NOT make money on the HESI exam. The instructors don’t pocket the money, either, so it’s not fair to blame them — I’m a student teacher and the nursing board has determined a passing HESI score is required for graduation. It really does cost that much to take the exam.

    Second, the HURST review is fabulous and I would highly recommend it.

    Third, your motivation determines how well you’re going to do on this exam. If you want it badly enough, fight for it. Communicate with your instructors and professors. Form study groups with your classmates. Buy the HESI book. Everyone learns differently so know yourself and know how you learn and that will help you pass.

  57. Bright

    On January 29, 2010 at 2:11 am


    bbjn Brookline,
    I took the hesi today for second time and I did pass. At first time I only got 713. I was’t scarry be/cos when I check the rationale after exam I realize why they got the ans they got. I am not a very bright student, infact, I struggle with everything I do in life. So, if I which english is my second language and a father of three can pass hesi any one can. Advise, practices as much NCLEX question as you can.
    Phx, AZ Brookline college

  58. Mariam K

    On March 31, 2010 at 4:00 am


    Good post!

    I have recently taken the Hesi Exit Exam, and was quite successful.

    I really think that practice was my key to success though, and I sorta don’t see it on your list! I practiced every day, and used the Saunders Comprehensive Review Book and NCLEX Review 3500 to take as many questions as possible. I also used the HesiPractice.com coaching program which was just as helpful.

    Overall, a strong post, but I would add and really advice other students to practice for this exam with similar questions as to get used to the Hesi format. Its the key to passing the Hesi!

  59. Jarred

    On March 31, 2010 at 1:07 pm


    Horrible exam!

  60. anna

    On May 12, 2010 at 2:07 am


    Hesi protest Friday 14th 2010
    for more information email me anklask@yahoo.com

  61. FUTURERN

    On May 19, 2010 at 9:36 am


    WE NEED SIGNATURES:
    PLEASE GO ON TO THE WEBSITE. AND SIGN YOUR NAME FOR PETITIONING AGAINST HESI. FOWARD IT TO YOUR FAMILY/FRIENDS!!!!!! LET’S HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE!!!!
    http://www.gopetition.com/online/36362.html

  62. Lilian

    On June 4, 2010 at 5:33 pm


    OMG. Is that exam so difficult?? I think I have to chang my major.

  63. Steve

    On June 4, 2010 at 9:03 pm


    Wow… it’s simply AMAZING to know that I am NOT alone. I didn’t know so many students were having this problem throughout the U.S. Out of 50 students, only about 13 have passed the HESI at my school. This test is HORRID. I wish the instructors would take this damn test along side the students! I’ve spoken to people who got through HESI and they all have told me that they studied HESI content to pass HESI then studied different to pass boards. In order to pass HESI, you must study FOR HESI. If that’s the case, then how does this crap-test prepare you for boards?!? I am very well aware that schools have to have some sort of student readiness method for NCLEX, but HESI is NOT it.

  64. Steve

    On June 4, 2010 at 9:05 pm


    Oh yeah, and might I add, their questions are craptastic!

  65. Ekene

    On March 9, 2011 at 11:05 pm


    I just took the HESI exam 3 weeks ago and I got a 94%. this is what i did that helped me, it might or might not help you as we are different individuals. 1 month before the exam i studied the HESI book from page 1 to the end. this book covers majority about 90% of what is on the exam. I practiced some NCLEX questions but i was more interested in the rationals because i was not getting them right. my purpose was not to get the questions right but to know why i was write (the rationals).
    Good luck

  66. darlene

    On October 22, 2011 at 12:57 am


    I took the hesi exam 3 times before i finally passed with a 983. Only 9 out of 21 students have passed. I studied the review book the night before the test. I also studied dosage calculations. Those questions are worth a lot of points. I missed 40 out of 160 questions and still passed. It is a hard test. I got a 726 the first time. And an 848 the second time. Our school requires and 850.do the remediation on evolve. it really helps

  67. Reggie

    On November 20, 2011 at 1:04 am


    I took the Hesi exam 5 times. Finally, after the 5th try; I passed. It took me 4 1/2 years of studying, paying for the review course (The university made us take everytime we did not pass after the third try), and taking outside review courses, to finally pass this exam. This exam has costed me not only 4 years of my social life, but 4 yrs of stress and potential income. Out of 21 students in my class, only 6 passed. This test is a beast. The passing score at my university is an 850; I made a 939. I am going to pay the graduation fee and tell the university to kiss my a@#! This test is ridiculous! The university that I attended has changed their rules. If a student does not pass the exam after the 3rd try they are dismissed from the program, and if they want to re-enter, they have to re-apply and do the program all over from the beginning. Total cost of attending the nursing program $25,000, total lost of potential income $200,000+, total amount of energy it will take for me to tell the university to “go to hell”; PRICELESS!

  68. rfmanni1

    On November 20, 2011 at 1:44 am


    I took the Hesi exam 5 times. Finally, after the 5th try; I passed. It took me 4 1/2 years of studying, paying for the review course (The university made us take everytime we did not pass after the third try), and taking outside review courses, to finally pass this exam. This exam has costed me not only 4 years of my social life, but 4 yrs of stress and potential income. Out of 21 students in my class, only 6 passed. This test is a beast. The passing score at my university is an 850; I made a 939. I am going to pay the graduation fee and tell the university to kiss my a@#! This test is ridiculous! The university that I attended has changed their rules. If a student does not pass the exam after the 3rd try they are dismissed from the program, and if they want to re-enter, they have to re-apply and do the program all over from the beginning. Total cost of attending the nursing program $25,000, total lost of potential income $200,000 , total amount of energy it will take for me to tell the university to \”go to hell\”; PRICELESS!

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