What Are My Chances of Getting into Nursing School?
As interest in the nursing profession continues to grow in the United States, increasing numbers of prospective students are wondering about their chances of getting accepted into a nursing degree program. With limited program capacity nationwide and sometimes hundreds of applicants competing for just a few dozen seats, getting into nursing school can feel like an intimidating prospect.
However, by evaluating key admission criteria as outlined in this guide, you’ll gain valuable insight into your likelihood of securing a spot.
What Percentage of Students Get into Nursing School?
Each year, approximately 82% of nursing school applicants are accepted into nursing programs at colleges and universities across the United States. These acceptance rates can fluctuate based on geographic location, ratios of available nurse faculty educators to prospective students, and overall demand.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reports that the number of students in entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs decreased by 1.4% in 2022, ending a 20-year period of enrollment growth in programs designed to prepare new registered nurses (RNs).
With declines also recorded in master’s and Ph.D. programs, collective action must be taken to strengthen pathways into nursing to ensure the nation’s healthcare needs are met. Despite the decrease in enrolled students, nursing schools turned away thousands of qualified applicants due largely to a shortage of faculty and clinical training sites.
Top nursing schools like those at the University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins, and Duke accept fewer than 2% of applicants. State schools and less competitive private colleges accept applicants at higher rates, but you should confirm these percentages with admission counselors.
Is it Hard to Get into Nursing School?
Getting into nursing school is highly competitive, with exceptional academic performance usually required for admission to bachelor’s degree programs. Admissions officers want to see strong grades in prerequisite science courses like anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry. Standardized test scores, admissions essays, interviews, and prior healthcare experiences also hold weight in the application review process.
While statistical comparisons demonstrate that nursing school acceptance rates align with medical school acceptance rates, key differences exist:
- Nursing schools outnumber medical schools, providing more program options and seats nationwide
- Medical schools require prerequisite coursework completion just to apply; nursing schools feature direct entry pathways
- The typical nursing student possesses 5+ years less formal training than a medical student
So, while statistically easier than entering medical school, getting into nursing school requires exceptional academic performance and careful preparation of application materials.
Evaluating Your Chances of Getting into Nursing School
As you consider various nursing programs and formulate admissions goals, comprehensively evaluating your qualifications against key admission criteria proves crucial for determining your probability of acceptance. Critical areas admissions committees analyze include:
What is the School’s Acceptance Rate?
Compare your academic metrics like GPA and test scores against averages for enrolled students. Top nursing candidates often possess GPAs of 3.7+ and GRE scores in at least the 60th percentile.
Find out the Average GPA of Admitted Students
Candidly compare your grades in core science prerequisites to averages. Earning Cs frequently necessitates retaking courses for admission.
Ask if Standardized Tests are Required
While the NCLEX-RN licensing exam always follows graduation, many nursing schools now waive GRE/ACT requirements. But for programs still necessitating scores, meet/exceed averages.
What Was Your Class Rank When You Graduated High School?
Top programs expect candidates in the top 10%, but state schools feature more flexibility. Low ranks necessitate an explanation (i.e., ranking against 400+ students versus just 100).
Did you Take Honors Classes, and if so, Did you Pass Them?
Honors-level natural science courses predict success in rigorous nursing curriculums. Expect questions if you underperformed relative to peers.
Talk With Program Alumni
Connect with current students/graduates on informational interviews to gain insider nursing school application tips. Ask about essay approaches, interview formats, and program strengths/weaknesses.
Consider the Admission Criteria and Determine if You measure up
Every school publicizes core admissions requirements, from specific coursework to test score minimums and essay expectations. Identify any deficiencies early so you can address them.
Do you Have Relevant Extracurricular Activities and Experiences?
Admissions evaluators seek applicants who demonstrate genuine, sustained interest in healthcare through club memberships, jobs, and volunteer work. Depth beats breadth regarding activities.
Ask the Nursing Faculty What They Look for in Applicants
Set up appointments with program leadership to ask direct questions about distinguishing factors among accepted students versus waitlisted/rejected applicants. Discuss any liabilities or weaknesses in your application profile.
By benchmarking your qualifications against clear admissions criteria as outlined above, you can realistically gauge your probability of acceptance before investing time and money into applying. If certain areas of your application profile demonstrate room for improvement, purposefully addressing those deficiencies will boost your candidacy.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Nursing School
If holistically evaluating your application reveals subpar components relative to a program’s admission standards, implementing targeted enhancements represents an astute strategy, significantly boosting your probability of acceptance. Recommended actions include:
Meet All Program Requirements
Carefully confirm completion of every published prerequisite, from specific course grades to healthcare employment hours. State schools allow more pre-admission deficiencies than top-tier programs.
Be Willing to Relocate to Nursing School
Increasingly, mobile applicants enjoy expanded program options and improved chances of entry by applying across multiple states. Attend info sessions remotely, even for faraway schools.
Choose an Accessible Program
Consider community colleges, university partnerships, and accelerated BSN programs with higher acceptance rates before reapplying to ultra-competitive colleges after gaining practical experience.
Share Your Why for Nursing
Admissions essays and interviews offer critical opportunities to compellingly explain your motivations for pursuing this demanding yet rewarding profession. Convey maturity, empathy and resiliency.
Work Proactively on the Admissions Process
Request application fee waivers if needed. Secure strong recommendation letters from science faculty and healthcare supervisors. Give recommenders plenty of time to craft impactful endorsements.
Create a Stellar Personal Statement
Your essay represents a precious chance to stand out among the exceptional applicant pool. Follow prompt directions exactly while highlighting unique talents, experiences, and motivations. Refine through multiple drafts.
Implementing even a few of the above application enhancement strategies will significantly improve your candidacy with admissions committees.
What Can Ruin Your Chances of Getting into Nursing School?
Just as purposefully addressing deficiencies can increase the probability of acceptance, failing to handle application liabilities properly or committing damaging errors will ruin your chances of getting into nursing school. Actions sabotaging candidacy include:
Trying to Hide Criminal History
Fully disclose past arrests, charges, and convictions regardless of outcome. Attempts to minimize or omit information signal untrustworthiness. Overcome past mistakes by demonstrating rehabilitation.
Academic Dishonesty
Cheating or plagiarism in any college course automatically disqualifies most applicants. With degrees demanding utmost integrity, expect no leniency.
Previous Dismissal From a Nursing Program
Failing out of another nursing school requires explaining the experience’s lessons before gaining readmission. Blaming others rather than outlining your accountability dooms applications.
Failing a Drug Test
All nursing programs require passing an initial drug test prior to enrollment, and most schools randomly screen for substance use throughout the program. Failed tests prompt immediate dismissal.
Refusing to be Immunized
Given the frequent patient exposure inherent in nursing curriculums, students must receive all recommended vaccinations for infectious diseases in order to participate in clinical training. Exemption requests are subject to very strict review.
Prospective nursing students must maintain flawless records regarding the above standards to sustain viable candidacy status. Appropriately handling any application liabilities remains essential.
Why is the Demand for Nursing Schools so High?
With over 500,000 seasoned RNs projected to retire within this decade, increasing elder care demands, and evolving models of healthcare delivery all heightening industry demand for nurses, securing acceptance into nursing school persists as a highly competitive yet rewarding prospect.
Among the key drivers fueling intense nursing school admission competition include:
- RN salaries average above $75,000 annually, with advanced practice nurses earning $120,000+ in many regions
- Far quicker educational timelines versus medical school, allowing earlier career entry
- Widespread employer-assisted BSN tuition coverage for existing RNs seeking career advancement
- Highly flexible schedule options available within most nursing positions
- Lifetime employment security, regardless of economic conditions
Given estimates that America will face a shortage of over 200,000 RNs by 2030, those accepted into nursing school this decade face exceptional job prospects upon graduation. For driven, empathetic individuals seeking vocational stability, professional mobility, and the chance to meaningfully impact patients’ lives, gaining nursing school entry promises long-term rewards well worth the demanding effort required.
Getting Into US Nursing Schools
With expanding career opportunities across nearly all healthcare settings, unprecedented numbers of prospective students now seek admission into challenging yet rewarding nursing school programs. While acceptance rates vary significantly depending on location and institutional competitiveness, exceptional academic performance, demonstrated healthcare experiences, and clearly conveyed motivations prove critical to securing available seats.
By comprehensively evaluating your qualifications against clear admissions criteria and addressing any deficiencies early, you can set yourself up for the best possible chance at getting into nursing school. Remember that passion, perseverance, and flexibility represent key attributes of successful nursing school applicants.
International Students and Nursing School in the U.S.
Nursing careers in the U.S. offer various rewarding opportunities, especially for international students interested in pursuing a nursing degree. The field is in high demand, with roles across patient care, education, and training that often lead to fulfilling career paths and the potential for continuing education.
For international students eager to earn an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) or BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), the U.S. has many nursing schools that accept international applicants. While each school has its own admission requirements, international students can find programs that meet their needs, provided they check specific criteria before applying.
Can international students study nursing in the US?
Yes, international students can study nursing in the U.S., with many nursing schools offering programs like ADN and BSN degrees specifically for them. However, they should verify each school’s admission requirements, such as English proficiency, prerequisite courses, and visa documentation, as not all schools accept international applicants.
Admission Requirements for International Students
One of the primary challenges international students face is meeting specific admission requirements for U.S. nursing schools. Requirements can vary widely between programs, so it’s essential to review each school’s criteria carefully. Common requirements include:
- English proficiency: Many programs require standardized English tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
- Prerequisite coursework: Certain science and math courses might be required before admission.
- Visa and financial documentation: Schools may need proof of funds or visa eligibility to ensure students can complete their studies.
Additionally, it’s important for international applicants to confirm that the nursing school they’re interested in accepts students from their country, as some institutions have specific limitations.
Challenges in Nursing School Applications
Applying to nursing school can be challenging, with many programs requiring a statement of intent, personal statement, and resume or curriculum vitae to highlight life experience and qualifications. Common hurdles include understanding specific admission criteria, meeting the application deadline (or priority deadline for early consideration), and preparing for the admissions interview to demonstrate a strong commitment to the profession.
Additionally, applicants may need to gather official transcripts, supplemental documentation, and any relevant licenses or certifications as part of the process. Working with a nurse educator or mentor can provide guidance on navigating these requirements effectively, ensuring a complete and competitive application.
Top Nursing Schools in the U.S.
When evaluating top nursing schools in the U.S., several institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, rigorous programs, and competitive acceptance rates. Here’s an overview of some leading nursing schools and the factors that distinguish them:
| Nursing School | Programs Offered | Reputation | Acceptance Rate | Accreditation |
| Duke University School of Nursing | BSN, MSN, DNP | Highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report | 6% | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing | BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD | Known for research and leadership in nursing | 11% | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing | BSN, MSN, Doctoral | Ivy League, strong academics, clinical experience | 7% | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing | BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD | Focus on clinical partnerships, global health | 11% | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing | MSN, Doctoral | Research excellence, contributions to healthcare | Selective | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
For prospective students, it’s crucial to consider factors such as program accreditation, curriculum offerings, clinical experiences, and the school’s overall reputation in the healthcare community. Additionally, understanding the specific admission criteria, including acceptance rates and average GPA requirements, can aid in preparing a strong application.
What Is the Average GPA Of Students Who Get into Nursing School?
Students accepted into nursing school programs typically hold undergraduate GPAs between 3.5 and 3.8 on a traditional 4.0 scale. Prerequisite science courses like A&P I/II, microbiology, and chemistry should feature As and Bs for competitive applicants.
What Are My Chances of Getting into Nursing School with a GPA Of 2.5?
With an undergraduate GPA below 3.0, gaining nursing school acceptance becomes unlikely in four-year programs unless strong standardized test scores, elite recommendations, and compelling essays help compensate for weaker grades. Consider retaking science prerequisites for As and applying to community college ADN pathways as potential options.
Do Males Have a Better Chance of Getting into Nursing School?
No definitive evidence suggests nursing schools possess a preference for either male or female applicants, with admission predicated on meeting published academic and experience qualifications. However, male students enjoy heightened encouragement to join the profession, given the goal of achieving greater gender balance in the nurse workforce.
What Are My Chances of Getting into Nursing School Right After High School Without Having Any Work Experience?
Lacking both higher education coursework and authentic healthcare employment/volunteer background greatly reduces early nursing school entry probability unless exceptional high school grades, test scores, and enthusiastic recommendations help compensate. Consider exploring EMT, medical assistant, and certified nursing assistant roles to demonstrate genuine interest.
What Are My Chances of Getting into Nursing School with a Criminal Record?
Individuals possessing nonviolent, low-level offense records from five-plus years ago still retain potential (albeit reduced) nursing school entry prospects after demonstrating comprehensive rehabilitation efforts. However, applicants with recent or violent convictions face extremely slim admission chances regardless of academic metrics due to patient safety concerns.
What To Do If I Have Already Ruined My Chances of Getting into Nursing School?
If unethical decisions like cheating or hidden criminal records have already sabotaged your candidacy everywhere presently, dedicate yourself wholeheartedly towards rehabilitation for 12-24 months through counseling, ethical coursework, exemplary employment, and extensive service work. Then, reapproach preferred nursing schools, conveying lessons learned after re-establishing your integrity.
