HESI A2 Requirements for 2027 Nursing Programs: Real Score Rules From Five Schools

Five real program rules, side by side

Elsevier supplies the HESI A2, but it doesn't set an admissions cutoff. Its 2022 paper describes faculty scoring bands, such as 75–79% as satisfactory preparation for associate and bachelor's applicants, but each program writes its own rule. These five pages, checked on October 26, 2026, show how different those rules are:

Three takeaways: the same 78% composite could pass one program and fail another; some programs ignore exams you still have to sit; and attempt rules range from one per period to three with long gaps. Once you know your target, find which HESI A2 exams sit below your program's minimum → before you book.

What's new for 2027 applicants

Two of these pages describe 2027 changes:

• Florida State University announced on August 26, 2026 that all applicants to its BSN program for Fall 2027 and later must take the HESI A2. As of October 26, the college said it was still finalizing the required sections, testing procedures, and minimum scores, and would post them on its website.
• Middle Tennessee State University states its Fall 2027 rule directly: no minimum composite, but 75 in both Math and Anatomy and Physiology, which it averages into the composite it uses. Its page also describes an older Prometric option with a 75 minimum in Math, Biology, Chemistry, and A&P and a 75 composite; ask the school which rule applies if you test through Prometric.

If you're applying to several programs for 2027, expect at least one rule to change before your deadline. Check each page again close to when you test.

How to read your own program's HESI A2 rules

Copy these answers from each program's current admissions page into one place before you study:

1. Which exams count? Some programs require you to sit the whole exam but only use certain scores.
2. Is there a section minimum, a composite minimum, or both? A composite can hide one low exam; a section minimum can't.
3. How is the composite calculated? Elsevier's composite averages all the exams you completed, but a program can define its own, as Middle Tennessee State does with Math and A&P.
4. How many attempts, and how long between them? This sets how early you need your first attempt.
5. How long are scores valid? One year, 18 months, and two years all appear above.
6. Where do scores go? Some programs read them in Evolve; Tarleton asks for uploads to NursingCAS.

The passing score guide explains why there's no national cutoff, and the good score guide helps you aim above the minimum. For when to test, see the 2027 application timeline.

Aim above the line

Minimums are floors, not targets. Programs that rank applicants may use your score beyond a pass or fail check, and a retake can cost you weeks or a whole application period. Build your study plan to clear each required section with room to spare, and give extra time to the sections your programs actually count.