Nursing Entrance Exams: NLN NEX vs HESI A2 vs TEAS 7

NLN NEX vs HESI A2 vs TEAS 7: Which Nursing Entrance Exam Does Your School Require?

Nursing entrance exams are one of the biggest hurdles aspiring nurses face before they can begin their program. Whether your school requires the ATI TEAS 7, HESI A2, or the NLN NEX, understanding the differences between these nursing entrance exams can help you choose the right preparation strategy and improve your chances of admission
Choosing a nursing program is exciting, but before you can begin your journey, there's one important question you have to answer:

Which nursing entrance exam does your school require?

Many prospective nursing students are surprised to learn that not every nursing school uses the same admission test. Depending on the institution, you may be required to take the NLN Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX), the HESI A2, or the ATI TEAS 7.

If you've been searching for "NLN NEX vs HESI A2 vs TEAS 7," you're not alone.

Understanding the differences between these exams can help you prepare more effectively, avoid unnecessary stress, and improve your chances of getting accepted into your dream nursing program.

In this guide, we'll compare each exam, explain what schools typically require, discuss which exam students often find most challenging, and show you how to prepare with confidence using The Exam Hive.

What Are Nursing Entrance Exams?

Nursing entrance exams are standardized assessments used by colleges and universities to evaluate whether applicants are academically prepared for nursing school.

These exams measure the foundational skills you'll need throughout your nursing education, including reading comprehension, mathematics, science, English language usage, and critical thinking.

The three most common entrance exams are:

• ATI TEAS 7
• HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2)
• NLN Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX)

Although they all serve a similar purpose, their content, scoring systems, and testing formats differ.

NLN NEX vs HESI A2 vs TEAS 7: Quick Comparison

ATI TEAS 7 Nursing Entrance Exam?

The ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS 7) is one of the most widely used nursing entrance exams in the United States.

It evaluates a student's readiness for nursing school through four main sections:

• Reading
• Mathematics
• Science
• English & Language Usage

The science section often receives the most attention because it covers anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and scientific reasoning.

Many students also find the reading section challenging because it emphasizes interpretation rather than memorization.

Preparing for the ATI TEAS 7

Success on the TEAS comes from consistent practice, not cramming the week before your exam.

The Exam Hive helps students prepare with:

• Full-length TEAS 7 practice exams
• Timed exam simulations
• Diagnostic assessments to identify weak subjects
• Performance analytics
• Downloadable study resources for Premium members

These tools are designed to help you study strategically and become familiar with the format and pacing of the exam.

HESI A2 Nursing Entrance Exam?

The Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2) is another popular nursing entrance exam used by many nursing schools.

Unlike the TEAS, schools can choose which subject sections to administer.

Common HESI A2 sections include:

• Reading Comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Grammar
• Mathematics
• Anatomy & Physiology
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics (less common)

Because every school has different requirements, it's important to confirm which sections you'll actually be tested on.

Why Students Find the HESI A2 Challenging

Many students report that the HESI A2 requires strong vocabulary, reading comprehension, and science knowledge.

Success often depends on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts.

The Exam Hive's HESI preparation includes realistic practice exams, timed assessments, and diagnostics that help you focus your study time where it matters most.

What Is the NLN Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX)?

The National League for Nursing Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX) is designed to evaluate whether applicants possess the academic skills necessary for success in nursing education.

While it assesses many of the same foundational subjects as the TEAS and HESI A2, schools that use the NLN NEX may place additional emphasis on reasoning, verbal ability, and academic readiness.

Because the NLN NEX is used by fewer schools than the TEAS or HESI A2, prospective students should verify admission requirements directly with their chosen program.

Which Nursing Entrance Exam Is Harder?

There isn't a single answer because difficulty depends on your strengths.

Students who excel in science often prefer the TEAS.

Students with strong vocabulary and reading comprehension may perform well on the HESI A2.

The NLN NEX may appeal to students with solid reasoning and general academic skills.

The best approach isn't to worry about which exam is "hardest"; it's to prepare specifically for the exam your school requires.

How Do You Find Out Which Nursing Entrance Exam Your School Requires?

The easiest way is to visit your nursing program's admissions page.

Most schools clearly list:

• Required entrance exam
• Minimum score requirements
• Accepted testing providers
• Retake policies
• Application deadlines

If the information isn't available online, contact the admissions office directly.

Preparing for the wrong exam can cost valuable time and money.

How to Prepare for the TEAS, HESI A2, or NLN NEX

No matter which exam your school requires, effective preparation follows the same principles:

• Create a realistic study schedule.
• Take a diagnostic test to identify weak areas.
• Focus extra time on subjects where you score lowest.
• Complete full-length timed practice exams.
• Review explanations, not just correct answers.
• Monitor your progress weekly.

The Exam Hive brings all of these steps together in one platform, helping students prepare efficiently rather than guessing what to study next.

Common Mistakes Nursing School Applicants Make

Many students unintentionally hurt their chances by:

• Waiting until the last minute to study.
• Focusing only on memorization.
• Skipping full-length practice exams.
• Ignoring weaker subject areas.
• Studying without tracking progress.

Consistent, targeted practice is usually more effective than marathon study sessions.

Why Students Choose The Exam Hive

Preparing for nursing entrance exams doesn't have to feel overwhelming.

Thousands of aspiring nursing students use The Exam Hive to strengthen their knowledge, identify weak areas, and build confidence before exam day.

Premium members receive:

• Diagnostic assessments
• Full-length practice exams
• Timed testing simulations
• Detailed answer explanations
• Progress tracking
• Downloadable study resources

Whether you're preparing for the ATI TEAS 7, HESI A2, or researching nursing entrance exams, our goal is to help you study smarter,not harder.

Final Thoughts

The question isn't whether the NLN NEX, HESI A2, or ATI TEAS 7 is the "best" exam.

The important question is which one your nursing school requires and how well you prepare for it.

Understanding the structure, content, and expectations of your required exam allows you to create an effective study plan and approach test day with confidence.

If you're serious about earning a competitive score, realistic practice and consistent preparation can make a significant difference.

The Exam Hive is designed to support you every step of the way with diagnostic assessments, timed practice exams, full-length exam simulations, and resources tailored to today's nursing entrance exams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the HESI A2 harder than the ATI TEAS 7?

It depends on your strengths. Many students find the HESI A2 vocabulary more demanding, while others find the TEAS science section more challenging.

Do all nursing schools require the same entrance exam?

No. Requirements vary by institution. Always check with your school's admissions office.

Can I prepare for all three exams using one study plan?

The exams overlap in several subjects, but your preparation should focus on the specific exam your school requires.

How long should I study before taking a nursing entrance exam?

Most students benefit from a structured study plan lasting 6–8 weeks, though the ideal timeline depends on your background and schedule.

Where can I find realistic HESI A2 and ATI TEAS 7 practice exams?

The Exam Hive offers diagnostic assessments, timed practice exams, and full-length exam simulations designed to help students prepare confidently for nursing entrance exams.