What is the passing score for the nursing entrance exam? There is no universal passing score for “the nursing entrance exam” because multiple tests exist—HESI A2, TEAS (ATI), Kaplan, and school-specific exams—and each nursing program sets its own minimum requirements. Passing depends on the exam type, the sections required, and the individual program’s competitiveness. Most ADN and BSN programs require 70–80% composite (overall average), but top schools demand 85%+, and some evaluate per-section minimums (e.g., 75% in Science). Always check your target school’s admissions page for exact cutoffs.
What Is the Passing Score for the Nursing Entrance Exam?
1. HESI A2 Passing Scores (Most Common)
- Typical Program Minimum: 75% composite across required sections (Reading, Math, Grammar, Vocabulary, A&P).
- Competitive Programs: 80–90% (e.g., Chamberlain University: 80%; Texas Tech: 85%).
- Per-Section Rules: Many require no less than 70% in Science or Math.
- Example: Lone Star College (TX) requires 75% in Reading & Math, 70% in others.
2. TEAS (ATI) Passing Scores
- National Average (2024): 68.9% (ATI data).
- ADN Programs: 58–70% (e.g., Rasmussen: 58.7%).
- BSN Programs: 70–85% (e.g., University of Alabama: 75%; NYU: 85%).
- Scoring: Reported as percentile rank + adjusted individual score. Programs use Academic Preparedness Level:
- Proficient: 70.7–79.3%
- Advanced: 80–91.3%
- Exemplary: 92–100%
3. Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam
- Overall Score: 0–100 (percentile-based).
- Typical Cutoff: 65–75 (e.g., 68 at some community colleges).
- Sections: Reading, Math, Writing, Science—weighted equally.
4. School-Specific Exams (e.g., PAX, NET)
- PAX (NLN): Composite 100–150; passing usually 100+ (50th percentile).
- Custom Tests: Vary widely—some use 60%, others 80%.
5. How Scores Are Used
- Holistic Review: High GPA (3.5+) can offset a lower score.
- Waitlists: 1–2% difference can mean acceptance vs. denial.
- Retake Policy: Most allow 1 retake per year; highest score used.
2025 Trends & Tips
- Rising Cutoffs: Due to applicant volume, average required TEAS rose from 66% (2022) to 71% (2025).
- Prep Pays Off: Students using ATI/HESI prep courses score 8–12% higher.
- Free Resources:
- ATI TEAS Study Manual ($50)
- HESI A2 Pocket Prep app (free tier)
- Khan Academy (Math/Science)
Action Steps:
- Visit your program’s admissions page (e.g., “nursing.teas.requirements.[school].edu”).
- Confirm required sections and minimum per subject.
- Register early—HESI/TEAS fill 3–6 months ahead.
- Aim 5–10% above minimum for safety.
Bottom Line: 75%+ is a safe target for most programs, but verify your school’s exact score—a 74% may pass at one college and fail at another.