One of the most common questions students ask before or after taking the HESI is:
“What is a good HESI score?”
The answer depends on:
- Whether you are taking the HESI A2 (admissions)
- Or the HESI Exit Exam (nursing program completion)
- And how competitive your school is
If you haven’t reviewed the structure of the exam yet, start here: https://goodnurse.com/article/241/hesi-a2-breakdown-every-section-explained-2026-complete-guide
This guide will help you understand what counts as competitive, safe, or risky—and what to do if your score isn’t where you want it.
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What Is a Good HESI A2 Score?
The HESI A2 is used for nursing school admissions.
Each section is scored as a percentage. Schools may require:
- Minimum section scores
- A composite average
- Weighted scoring for certain sections
Here is a general competitiveness breakdown:
| Score Range | Competitiveness Level |
|---|---|
| 90%+ | Highly competitive |
| 85–89% | Strong |
| 80–84% | Competitive for many programs |
| 75–79% | Borderline for competitive schools |
| Below 75% | Often requires remediation or retake |
What Do Most Schools Require?
Common minimum thresholds:
- 75%–80% per section
- 80%+ composite average
However, selective programs may expect 85–90% averages.
Always verify requirements with your admissions department.
Section Scores Matter More Than You Think
Many programs require minimums in:
- Math
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Reading
If your math score is weak, review structured practice here: https://goodnurse.com/article/242/hesi-math-practice-guide-with-step-by-step-solutions
Improving one weak section can dramatically raise your composite score.
If one section is below 80%, focus your study time there first. Raising a 70% to an 85% has a larger impact than raising an 88% to a 92%.
What Is a Good HESI Exit Exam Score?
The HESI Exit Exam is taken during nursing school and is designed to predict NCLEX readiness.
Unlike the A2, the Exit exam often uses a score scale (not just percentages).
Many programs use a benchmark score around:
- 850–900 (varies by program)
Some schools require:
- 900+ to graduate
- Or 850+ with remediation
Higher scores generally correlate with stronger NCLEX readiness.
HESI A2 vs HESI Exit: Score Differences
| Feature | HESI A2 | HESI Exit |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Admissions | NCLEX readiness |
| Score Type | Percentage | Scaled score |
| Typical Benchmark | 80–85% | 850–900 |
| Retakes | Often allowed | Varies by program |
The intent behind each exam is different.
What If Your HESI Score Is Below 80%?
Do not panic.
Many students improve significantly on retake attempts with focused review.
Step 1: Identify your weakest section
Step 2: Use structured daily practice
Step 3: Simulate timed testing
For targeted prep tools: https://goodnurse.com/hesi-exam-prep
Students often retake the HESI without changing their study strategy. Repeating the same approach rarely produces different results.
How Much Can You Raise Your Score?
Most students can improve:
- 5–10 percentage points in 2–4 weeks
- 10–15 points with structured math and A&P focus
- Even more if timing was the primary issue
Consistency matters more than cramming.
Competitive vs Safe Scores
A “safe” score meets minimum requirements.
A “competitive” score exceeds the average applicant.
If your school’s average accepted score is 83%, aiming for 88% gives you stronger positioning.
Should You Retake the HESI?
Consider retaking if:
- Your score is below the minimum
- One section is dragging down your composite
- You have time before application deadlines
Check your school’s retake limits.
Final Takeaway
For HESI A2:
- 80% is often the minimum
- 85%+ is strong
- 90%+ is highly competitive
For HESI Exit:
- 850–900 is common benchmark
- Higher scores indicate stronger NCLEX readiness
If your score is not where you want it, improvement is possible with focused review.
You can begin structured, adaptive practice here: https://goodnurse.com/hesi-exam-prep
