Nursing Entrance Exam

Nursing Entrance Exam

Your Guide to Nursing Entrance Exams

Pursuing nursing school and a thriving nursing career starts with acing the nursing entrance exam. These exams are pivotal in assessing your foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a successful nursing education.

To help you feel prepared, we’ll explore the key components of these popular nursing school exams: TEAS, HESI A2, NLN PAX and PSB. From structured study strategies to deep-dive insights, you’ll be able to navigate your nursing school entrance exam with confidence.

Rasmussen University does not accept every nursing entrance exam listed for entrance into a nursing program. Please read and review the School of Nursing Entrance Exam policy in the course catalog for full details.


Understanding Nursing School Entrance Exams

Preparing for a nursing school entrance exam might seem like an annoying obstacle, but it’s an essential step to becoming a nursing student and start pursuing a nursing career. They help nursing schools evaluate your critical thinking skills, communication and foundational healthcare knowledge—all crucial indicators of your academic capabilities.

The best way to start preparing for a nursing entrance test? Get familiar with the material. Knowing how these nursing entrance exams are structured, the specific requirements and the subject matters can ensure that your studying strategies are effective and efficient. You’ll feel more confident in getting a passing score and entering nursing school.

  • TEAS Exam

    About the TEAS Exam:

    The TEAS exam is a fundamental benchmark test covering important academic abilities required for nursing school. The test consists of 170 questions, including multiple choice, multiple select (select all that apply), fill in the blank, ordered response and hot spots.

    Students prepare by studying the four key areas of the nursing entrance exam:

    • Reading
    • Mathematics
    • English language use
    • Science

    Entrance Exam Fee:

    The TEAS exam varies by where you take your exam. On average, the cost of the TEAS exam is around $120.

    Exam Time Limit:

    Test takers have an allocated testing time of 209 minutes.

    The time limit not only tests your knowledge, but also endurance—both your mental capacity and familiarity with concepts taught at the high school level are challenged—an important factor for advancing into nursing school. Nursing, in general, also in stressful situations requires rigorous quick-thinking skills.

    Passing Score Requirement:

    What is considered a passing score can vary between nursing schools and specific entrance exam. At Rasmussen University, for example, there are a range of required composite scores based on the different sections of the TEAS exam.

    For questions about Rasmussen University TEAS exam passing scores, contact an admissions advisor.

    Skip the TEAS Exam at Rasmussen:

    Did you know? Potential nursing students interested in Rasmussen University Nursing programs, including our BSN, RN and LPN programs, can skip the TEAS exam if they have a conferred Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral degree with a GPA of 2.25 or higher from an accredited institution of higher learning as recognized by the US Department of Education or by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

    Learn more about our pre-licensure Nursing programs:

  • HESI A2 Exam (HESI Exam)

    About the HESI A2 Exam:

    The HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment) exam, is often referred to as the HESI exam. The 170 multiple choice questions are designed to evaluate both your academic knowledge and your critical thinking skills across various areas:

    • Grammar
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Reading Comprehension
    • Mathematics

    These subjects draw from secondary education curriculum, especially on the physical sciences and science material. 

    Entrance Exam Fee:

    The HESI exam ranges between $30 and $110 based on your location and how you take the exam.

    Exam Time Limit:

    Test takers have a time limit of three to four hours depending on the location.

    Passing Score Requirement:

    A passing score on the HESI A2 exam can vary from one nursing program or nursing school to another, but generally, scoring above 75%–85% signals competency not only in the topics, but also in a healthcare setting.

    You can use your HESI exam score to enroll these Rasmussen University programs:

    • Medical Lab Technician Associate's
    • Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s
    • Radiologic Technology Associate's
    • Surgical Technologist Associate’s

    Rasmussen University does not accept every nursing entrance exam listed for entrance into a nursing program. Please read and review the School of Nursing Entrance Exam policy in the course catalog for full details.

  • NLN PAX Exam

    About the NLN PAX Exam:

    The NLN PAX exam, conducted by the National league for Nursing, features 160 multiple-choice questions to test your aptitude as a future nursing student. You’ll demonstrate comprehension across these subjects:

    • Reading comprehension
    • Math
    • Science

    Entrance Exam Fee:

    The NLN PAX exam has a registration fee between $60 and $100.

    Exam Time Limit:

    Test takers have an exam window of 125 minutes.

    Passing Score Requirement:

    The minimum required scores can vary among health education systems and nursing schools.

    While certain questions might be trial-based and not contribute toward your cumulative score, each question is incremental in proving your capabilities within some LPN or RN programs.

    Rasmussen University does not accept every nursing entrance exam listed for entrance into a nursing program. Please read and review the School of Nursing Entrance Exam policy in the course catalog for full details.

  • PSB Aptitude Exam

    About the PSB Aptitude Exam:

    The goal of the PSB exam, or PSB Aptitude Exam, is to capture your essential academic skills, practical capabilities, personal competencies and character strengths. This nursing entrance exam is aimed for nursing students looking into a variety of healthcare professions, including practical and vocational nursing programs.

    The Health Occupations Aptitude Exam, orchestrated by PSB, covers an array of subjects, including:

    • Reading comprehension
    • Natural sciences
    • Verbal communication skills
    • Vocational Adjustment Index

    The Vocational Adjustment Index measures suitability for work within healthcare settings.

    Entrance Exam Fee:

    The PSB Aptitude exam costs between $25 to $60.

    Exam Time Limit:

    Test takers have a time limit of at least two to two-and-a-half hours, depending on your location. Some time limits are in place knowing you are not expected to complete each section of the nursing entrance exam.

    Passing Score Requirement:

    Results are provided to test takers by section and with a raw score (correct answers) and percentile rank (percentage compared to other test takers). The minimum required score can vary among health education systems and nursing schools.

    Rasmussen University does not accept every nursing entrance exam listed for entrance into a nursing program. Please read and review the School of Nursing Entrance Exam policy in the course catalog for full details.

Tips for Nursing School Entrance Exam Success

Your passion to help others is essential in pursuing a nursing career, but being willing to prepare for a nursing school entrance exam and the rigor of nursing school is just as important. Don’t wait to start—now is the perfect time to build a regular and strategic system to ace your nursing entrance exams and prepare for your nursing program. Taking the time to take practice test questions and prepare not only helps you grasp the necessary test content, but also acts as armor against test-related stress.

Study Early and Often

Start your study routine as early as you can. Some nursing schools recommend you study at least two weeks before an exam to alleviate stress and give you enough time to thoroughly work through the extensive subject matter.

Create a Study Schedule

Map out a strategic studying agenda that’s specifically designed around your learning style and needs. For example, you may allocate time each week to focus on a different topic area. This ensures you thoroughly understand every concept.

Identify Strengths and Weaknesses

Whether you work with a tutor or analyze results from practice tests, identifying strengths and weaknesses can help you adjust your study regimen. Direct your attention toward weaker areas and consolidate your strong points to maximize your studying.

Utilize Exam Resources

Take a deep dive into the nursing entrance exam layout and understand the variety of questions. Tools such as the Learning Express Library, learning commons or science center can help you find tailored publications and study materials. You can also check out your specific entrance exam website for study materials.

Complete Practice Tests

Once you’ve studied the fundamentals, take a practice test and get a feel for what you’ll encounter on test day. This is also a great way to highlight any remaining areas of the nursing entrance exam that may require more attention. 

Review Test-Taking Strategies

Even if you think you’re calm and collected, it doesn’t hurt to practice your exam day plan and test-taking techniques. Maintain an optimistic mindset, remember how hard you’ve prepared for this day and remind yourself that you are full of potential.

Overcoming Test Anxiety

As your nursing entrance exam day nears, it’s normal to feel nervous and overwhelmed by test-related anxiety. Push that shadow of doubt away by continuing to study and utilizing these calming strategies.

Pursue Enjoyable Activities

School, work and life can be stressful—pursue activities you enjoy into your daily life, such as yoga, music or exercise (however you prefer to move). Start a relaxing sleep routine to calm your nerves and sharpen your focus.

Implement Relaxation Techniques

Regular mindfulness practice can help you cultivate a calm mental presence and focus. Start incorporating some of these techniques to enhance your performance: rhythmic breathing, mindful walks, visualization strategies or progressive muscle relaxation. Before you take your exam, take deep breaths to calm your anxieties and align your concentration.

Practice Self-Talk and Affirmations

Words have power—make sure the ones you use about yourself nurture your heart and head. Participate in constructive internal dialogue and remind yourself of the effort you’ve invested to strengthen your essential skills and future achievement as a nurse.

Seek Professional Guidance

If you sense anxiety reaching overwhelming levels, reach out for professional guidance. Asking for help takes courage, not weakness, and will help your talents and knowledge come through on test day.

woman wearing headphones with eyes closed sitting in yoga pose
Confronting test anxiety early on can help you maintain your composure and mitigate stress on test day, as well as through nursing school, your career and beyond.

Don’t Fear the TEAS Test

If you know what to expect on the TEAS exam, you have a better chance of conquering it. Take a closer look at this nursing entrance exam and prepare to pass your test without fear.

Read more

How to Choose Your Nursing Program

Now that you have a better understanding of the different nursing entrance exams, you can continue exploring the right nursing program for you. At Rasmussen University, we have a variety of Nursing programs to fit your needs, whether you’re just starting out as a pre-licensure Nursing student or working toward the highest level of nursing. Once you’ve picked your program, start when it works for you with eight start dates per year at most campuses (while some offer four start dates). Check out our Nursing programs and discover the nurse you’re meant to be.

Accreditation

Accreditation serves as reassurance that an educational experience adheres to the highest standards, opening doors for financial assistance, for those who qualify, and future opportunities. You can also review your state’s Board of Nursing to bolster your ability to obtain your licensure post-graduation.

Learn more about accreditation at Rasmussen University.

Classroom Dynamics

Consider the foundation of the program and the classroom experience. At Rasmussen University, you’ll work alongside other Nursing students in small class sizes. Every program features some online courses that work with your schedule. You’ll also receive practical training during labs and clinical rotations to help you transition into your nursing practice.

Learn more about our Nursing programs.

Admissions Requirements

Sometimes admissions requirements can seem like cracking a complicated code, but at Rasmussen University, our Admissions team will walk you through the process. There are also no pre-requisite coursework requirements for our pre-licensure programs. Plus, if you continue your nursing education at Rasmussen, our programs smoothly transition from one level to the next.

Request more information about the enrollment process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing School Entrance Exams

What might have once appeared as formidable obstacles are now step stones toward a thriving future in nursing. Let your confidence grow as you choose a nursing program that reflects your aspirations and keeps test-related stress at bay. You’re well on your way to positively impacting countless individuals through your dedication and care as an aspiring nurse.
  • What is the main purpose of a nursing school entrance exam?
    Nursing school entrance exams are designed to gauge and test the academic preparedness and appropriateness of candidates for nursing programs. These assessments focus on measuring a candidate’s understanding, communication abilities, critical thinking skills and fundamental knowledge in the healthcare field to ensure their potential success within the field of nursing.
  • How long should I study for the TEAS exam?
    To ensure thorough preparation and alleviate test anxiety, it is recommended to begin studying for the TEAS exam no less than two weeks prior to the date of the exam. This will allow you ample time to become acquainted with both the format of the TEAS exam and its various content areas.
  • Are practice exams and tests really beneficial for exam preparation?
    Yes, utilizing practice tests can greatly enhance your preparation for an exam. They evaluate your understanding, identify opportunities for enhancement and foster the creation of successful test-taking strategies. This approach provides a glimpse into how well you might perform on the actual test day.
  • What factors should I consider when choosing a nursing program?
    When selecting a nursing program, it’s important to evaluate the course content, required time investment, options for clinical rotations, status of accreditation by relevant bodies and the history of the NCLEX examination success rates. Taking these elements into account will help you make sure that your chosen program is in harmony with both your professional aspirations and learning style.
  • How can I manage test anxiety before and during the nursing entrance exam?
    As you prepare for the nursing entrance exam, it’s important to alleviate test anxiety by leading a balanced lifestyle, engaging in relaxation methods such as controlled breathing and mental imagery, and employing encouraging self-dialogue and affirmations to remain composed and attentive.

Don't See Your Question Here?

Our dedicated team of admissions advisors can help you answer questions related to nursing courses, tuition, financial aid, nursing information sessions, admissions and more.

Request More Information

Call: 877-308-9946

Take the Next Step—Talk to Us!

There are some errors in the form. Please correct the errors and submit again.

Request More Information

Take the next step toward applying—talk with an admissions advisor today.

Fill out the form to receive information about:

  • Program Details and Applying for Classes
  • Financial Aid (for those who qualify)
  • Customized Support Services
  • Detailed Program Plans

Step 1 of 3

What's Your Name?

Step 2 of 3

Contact Information
Employment Information (Optional)

We offer tuition savings for many employers—see if yours is one of them.

Can’t find your employer? Select "Other Employer Not In List" or "Not Employed".

Step 3 of 3

Program Preferences
Do you have potential transfer credits?

By submitting this form by clicking “Submit”, you are providing your signature and your express written consent, and hereby agree to receive information via electronic means, which may include a telephone system, an automated dialing system, a recorded message device, soundboard technology, over-the-top messaging, text or media messaging, voice messages, and/or email about upcoming courses, recruitment events, newsletters, and other resources from Rasmussen University. This consent is not a condition of enrollment or purchase.

You may withdraw your consent at any time. Please refer to our privacy policy, terms, or contact us for more details.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.