How Many Times Can I Fail HESI? You can fail the HESI A2 (Admissions Assessment) as many times as your nursing program allows—there is no universal limit from Elsevier or HESI, but most schools cap retakes at 2–3 attempts per year with a 30–60 day waiting period between tests. Failing means scoring below the program’s minimum (typically 70–80% composite or per-section). Each attempt costs $35–$120, and only your highest score is usually sent to admissions. For HESI Exit exams (taken in final semester), policies are stricter—often only 1–2 attempts before remediation or program dismissal.
HESI A2 Retake Policy: School-Specific Limits
Nursing programs set their own rules via Elsevier’s Evolve platform. Common policies include:
- 2 attempts per application cycle (e.g., Chamberlain University, Lone Star College).
- 3 attempts lifetime (e.g., Houston Community College, Mesa Community College).
- Once every 60 days (standard cooldown to prevent cramming). Example: If you score 68% (below 75% cutoff), you wait 60 days, pay again, and retake. Some schools superscore (best section from each attempt), boosting your composite 5–8%.
How Many Times Can I Fail HESI: HESI Exit Exam Failure Rules
The HESI Exit (predicting NCLEX success) is high-stakes. Most programs require 900+ conversion score (out of 1500).
- 1st fail: Mandatory remediation (HESI case studies, 20–40 hours).
- 2nd fail: Repeat course or delayed graduation.
- 3rd fail: Program dismissal (rare, <5% of schools). Data: 94% pass on first try with UWorld/Hurst prep; only 60% pass after 2+ fails.
Consequences of Multiple HESI Failures
- Admissions: 3 fails may bar you from that school—apply elsewhere with fresh attempts.
- Financial: $50–$100 per retake + prep materials = $300–$500 total.
- Timeline: Delays entry 6–12 months.
- NCLEX Risk: Low HESI A2 correlates with 20% higher NCLEX failure.
How to Avoid HESI Failure After 1 Retake
- Diagnose Weaknesses: Use Evolve’s remediation report—focus 70% of study on <70% sections (usually Science/A&P).
- Practice 500+ Questions: HESI A2 Pocket Prep or Elsevier’s official bank.
- Score 10% Above Minimum: Aim 85% if cutoff is 75%.
- Free Resources: Quizlet HESI flashcards, YouTube (RegisteredNurseRN), Khan Academy (math/science).
Can You Switch Schools After HESI Fails?
Yes—HESI scores are not shared nationally. Fail 3 times at School A? Register at School B with a new Evolve account. Over 40% of denied students gain entry elsewhere within 1 year.
How Many Times Can I Fail HESI: Fail Limit Summary
A2: 2–3 tries per school, 60-day wait.
Exit: 1–2 tries max.
Pass Strategy: Study 100–150 hours, retake once if needed—98% pass rate with targeted prep. Check your program’s nursing handbook or admissions page for exact policy.