HESI A2 Scores by School: 75 vs 85 vs 90 Cutoffs + What to Retake

The HESI A2 score your nursing program requires isn't just a single number — it's a customized benchmark that varies by school, program type, and sometimes even application cycle. While a 75% might secure admission at one ADN program, top BSN candidates often need 85-90%+ composite scores with strict section minimums. Start with a HESI A2 practice test to gauge your baseline, then target 5-10 points above your school's published minimum for competitive positioning.

How Nursing Programs Set HESI A2 Score Requirements

Unlike standardized tests with universal cutoffs, HESI thresholds reflect a program's selectivity and curriculum rigor. Three scoring models dominate:

• Composite-only minimums (e.g., "75% average across all sections")
• Section-specific floors (e.g., "80% in A&P, 70% in Math, 75% composite")
• Holistic scoring (common at Texas BSN programs — no hard cutoff but top applicants average 85%+)

Score Goal	Program Type	Competitive Position
58-70%	Open-enrollment ADN	Meets minimum requirements
75-80%	Standard ADN/BSN	Above cutoff but not standout
85%+	Selective BSN	Competitive range (UT Austin admits average 89%)

HESI A2 Score Requirements by School Type

These 2026 verified benchmarks show why one-size-fits-all prep fails:

Community College ADN Programs

• Published minimums: 60-75% composite
• Competitive admitted average: 73-78%
• Section traps: 65% Math minimum at 40% of programs

Public University BSN Programs

• Published minimums: 75-80%
• Competitive range: 82-87% (Texas A&M holistic review averages 84%)
• Section traps: 80%+ A&P at 68% of programs

Private/Accelerated BSN

• Published minimums: 78-85%
• Competitive range: 88-92%
• Section traps: English composite (Reading+Grammar+Vocab) often 85%+

When to Retake: The 5-Point Rule

Most programs use your most recent attempt, not your highest score. Retake only if:

1. Your current score is <5 points below program minimum
2. One weak section (<65%) drags down an otherwise strong composite
3. You've addressed knowledge gaps (retaking without study lowers scores 22% of time)

FAQs: HESI A2 Score Requirements by School

Do all schools accept HESI A2 scores?

No — 34% of BSN programs now require the TEAS. Always verify test preference before registering. ADN programs are more likely to accept HESI (72% as of 2026).

How long are HESI scores valid?

Score validity ranges from 1-5 years by program. Texas schools average 2 years; California ADN programs often accept scores up to 3 years old.

Can I combine scores from multiple attempts?

Only 12% of programs allow section superscoring. Most use your full last attempt — plan prep accordingly.

Do schools see all my HESI attempts?

22% of programs require submission of all scores. Others only request your most recent — check policies to avoid surprises.

Is the HESI A2 curved?

No. Your percentage reflects correct answers, not peer comparison. A 90% means you scored higher than 90% of the possible points.

For targeted prep, see our free HESI A2 practice test with section diagnostics. Compare more programs in LSW by State or strategize with 60-Day Study Plan.