Are you aspiring to pursue a career in nursing and wondering which schools offer a smoother path to acceptance? Look no further!
In this comprehensive guide, we bring you the latest update on the 20 Easiest Nursing Schools to Get Into in 2024.
Navigating the complexities of nursing school admissions can be challenging, but our carefully curated list sheds light on institutions known as nursing schools with high acceptance rates.
20 easiest nursing schools to get into
1- Rasmussen University Nursing School
Rasmussen University offers a 100% acceptance rate for students who meet the required application and education requirements and is one of the easiest nursing schools to get into.
The program requires attending a nursing information session, completing an online application, taking an entrance placement exam or TEAS exam, completing a background check, and submitting previous college transcripts.
There are no waitlists or prerequisite courses at most of their 23 campus locations.
2- Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Oklahoma Wesleyan University's acceptance rate is 83% for students who meet admission requirements. Students must complete prerequisite courses with a "C" or better grade, and if positions are limited, additional test scores like ACT, SAT, GPA, and TEAS exam scores are considered. They have three attempts to achieve 70%.
3- Aspen University
One of the easiest nursing schools to get into is Aspen University's Nursing program which offers a 100% acceptance rate for students who complete the required application and education requirements. Students must provide high school transcripts, official transcripts for previous college credits, and prerequisite courses.
GED applicants can enroll as continuing education students and complete prerequisite courses before reapplying for the BSN Pre-Licensure program. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required for all previous high school or college credits, and a fingerprint clearance card is required.
4- Regis University
Regis University's acceptance rate is 100% (for students who meet admission requirements). First-year students at Regis University have the opportunity for guaranteed admission into the BSN program if they meet specific requirements by the end of their sophomore year. Those who fulfill these criteria, including maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, can secure a spot in the BSN option.
For students who do not meet the guaranteed admission policy requirements, there is still a chance to apply to the traditional BSN program. In this case, applications will undergo a competitive review process.
This school has one of the easiest BSN programs to get into and the admission requirements are as follows:
Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above.
Prerequisite coursework with a grade of C- or better in Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology.
Grade of "C" or better in all Regis University coursework.
Recommendation from a pre-professional advisor.
TEAS and HESI exams are not required.
5- Western Governors University
One of the easiest nursing schools to get into is Western Governors University and the acceptance rate is 100%. WGU's RN to BSN online bridge program requires an associate's degree in nursing, a current RN license, a resume, active RN work, and a $65 application fee.
Students can waive the fee by signing up online or speaking to an admission counselor. Upon completing the online BSN program, students transferring to an MSN program can automatically enter the program.
6- Lewis-Clark State College
One of the easiest nursing schools to get into is Lewis-Clark State College. Its acceptance rate is 100%. Students must complete prerequisite courses with a C (2.0) or better at an accredited university, complete an application, and pay an application fee for consideration
The overall prerequisite GPA must be 2.75 or higher. Transfer students can submit course descriptions of prerequisite courses to determine equivalency
7- University of North Carolina Pembroke
University of North Carolina Pembroke's acceptance rate is 91%. To be eligible for the BSN program, students need a minimum GPA of 2.5 and must earn a grade of "C" or better in all nursing prerequisite classes.
Additionally, they are required to take the TEAS exam, and their application should include a score of 58.7% or higher on the TEAS exam.
8- Cox College
Cox College acceptance rate is 100%. For admission, the school requires either an official high school transcript or a GED certificate. Additionally, applicants should have a high school cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Alternatively, a minimum composite ACT score of 18 or higher, or an SAT combined score of 860 or higher, is accepted. The school's website mentions that if these criteria aren't met, applicants may still be eligible for provisional admittance and are encouraged to discuss their options with an admissions counselor.
9- University of Texas, El Paso
University of Texas, El Paso's acceptance rate is 100% and is considered one of the easiest nursing schools to get into. The university, while maintaining relatively less rigorous admission standards, boasts BSN graduates who consistently excel in first-time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN compared to local and national averages.
The admission criteria include holding a high school diploma or GED, maintaining a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, completing an online application, providing transcripts, submitting Master'sCT exam scores, and presenting a permanent resident card or residency affidavit.
10- Chamberlain University
Chamberlain University's acceptance rate is 92%. To apply to the school, prospective students need to complete an online application and participate in an interview with an admission representative.
They must provide proof of high school graduation or an equivalent GED. Additionally, scheduling the HESI admissions assessment is required.
ACT or SAT scores must be sent directly to the college, and applicants need to demonstrate English proficiency to meet the admission requirements.
11- Georgia State University
Georgia State University's acceptance rate is 100%. Georgia State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has specific admission requirements, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 in science and program, twice-dozen application attempts, and a note of any repeat science prerequisites.
Application materials include an application, two letters of recommendation, short answers, and volunteer experience.
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam is also required as part of the application process. Applicants must note any science prerequisites they repeat during the application process.
12- University of St. Thomas
University of St. Thomas's acceptance rate is 98%. To increase your likelihood of admission to the University of St. Thomas, aim for a high school GPA of 3.63 or higher, achieve B+ grades consistently, attain a SAT score of 1250, obtain an ACT score of 25, graduate within the top half of your high school class, and provide letters of recommendation from your teachers.
13- Union College
Union College's acceptance rate is 98%. To apply to Union College, candidates need to submit a completed application, obtainable from the Office of Admissions or the college website, with an option to apply as early as the end of the junior year of high school.
Eligibility criteria include graduation from high school, completion of a comparable home school curriculum, or a GED. Applicants should maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 on a 4-point scale. Additionally, a minimum ACT composite score of 18 (with minimum English and math scores of 17) or a combined SAT score of 870 (old SAT) or 1290 (new SAT) is required.
The ACT test can be taken on campus, with arrangements made through the Career Center. Submission of transcripts from all previously attended institutions, including high schools and colleges, is mandatory. Home school students should provide official transcripts and a curriculum explanation.
Those without a high school diploma or completed home school curriculum must submit minimum GED test scores. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests.
Transfer students with at least 24 semester hours from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 2.00 are considered for admission as sophomores or above, and ACT scores are not required for transfer applicants.
14- Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University's acceptance rate is 97%. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has varying admission requirements based on factors such as GPA and standardized test scores.
For undergraduate students, the minimum GPA for automatic admission is 3.0 - 3.49, with a SAT score of 1010 or ACT score of 19. For holistic review admission, the GPA range is 2.5 - 2.99, with SAT scores of 1110 or ACT scores of 22.
For graduate students, a minimum undergraduate GPA from a baccalaureate-granting institution of 2.5 or a GPA of at least 2.8 is required. Standardized test scores range from 960-1130 and 18-24.
15- University of New Mexico
University of New Mexico's acceptance rate is 97% and is considered one of the easiest nursing schools to get into. Standardized test scores (ACT, SAT, or CLT) are not mandatory for admission but may be helpful in some cases. High school transcripts are accepted, but no preference is given to either type.
The highest available ACT Composite or SAT Total scores are used when necessary. Applicants with dual credit should apply as freshmen, and their application will be reviewed using freshmen admission criteria.
They should send their college transcript along with their high school transcript when applying for admission and again after graduation. Students from home-school backgrounds or non-accredited high schools (minimum age 16) are welcome at UNM and will be considered for admission using an official transcript.
Official ACT, SAT, or CLT scores may also be helpful. Students from home-school or non-accredited schools are encouraged to submit GED or NM HiSET scores.
Non-traditional students should take the GED and either the ACT or SAT, and official GED and standardized test scores will be used to consider their application for admission.
16- University of Wyoming
University of Wyoming's acceptance rate is 97%. It is one of the easiest nursing programs to get into. To be eligible for the Standard MSW Program, you need a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, showcasing a broad liberal arts background.
This involves completing at least 21 credit hours in social and behavioral sciences, along with 6 credit hours in natural sciences, humanities, visual and performing arts, and quantitative reasoning.
Additionally, you must hold an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale. A crucial requirement is the successful completion of a statistics course with a grade of C or better. Moreover, you need a human biology course with a grade of C or better; note that General Biology classes do not fulfill this requirement.
Alternatively, you can substitute human biology with courses like Human Biology, Developmental Psychology, Biological Psychology, or Physiological Psychology.
17- University of Toledo
With an acceptance rate of 97%, the University of Toledo is one of the easiest nursing programs to get into.
The University of Toledo offers two routes for students aiming to join the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program: direct admission and pre-nursing. Those opting for direct admission need a 3.6 high school GPA and either an 1130 SAT or 23 ACT score.
Test-optional applicants under this pathway should maintain a 3.8 GPA. Pre-nursing candidates, on the other hand, require a 2.75 high school GPA along with a 990 SAT or 19 ACT score, and test-optional applicants in this category must hold a 3.0 high school GPA.
18- University of Maine
University of Maine's acceptance rate is 96% and is one of the easiest nursing schools to get into. The cumulative GPA for UMaine programs is calculated from official transcripts from all colleges attended. Most programs require a minimum of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, with some programs having higher requirements like Nursing (3.5).
Most programs require a variety of college-level subjects, including science, math, and communications. Some programs require successful completion of specific prerequisite courses, such as Engineering and Nursing.
The final high school transcript, HiSET, or GED is used to determine basic preparation for college-level work and assess if prerequisites for a specific academic program have been met.
A brief essay on a chosen topic evaluates written communication skills, and transcripts showing final grades for current college-level course work or mid-semester progress reports may be requested for admission decisions. Applicants will be contacted by the Admission Office if additional academic information is requested.
19- University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi, known for its vibrant school spirit and black-and-gold colors, achieves a notable 95% pass rate for the NCLEX-RN among its nursing students.
To gain early admission into the nursing program, a high school GPA of 3.5 and a minimum ACT score of 25 are required. Once admitted, students must uphold good academic standing while completing prerequisite courses. For standard admission, a minimum GPA of 2.5 in nursing prerequisites and an ACT score of at least 21 are necessary.
20- University of Utah
The University of Utah admits students with a GPA between 3.46 and 3.93, with no specific cutoff GPA requirement. A GPA within this range is considered competitive. Non-accredited U.S. high schools, homeschooling, or those who took the GED or HiSET exam require an official ACT or SAT score.
A high school GPA of around 3.64 is considered above average. Half of admitted applicants had an SAT score between 1190 and 1390 or an ACT score between 22 and 29.
How to increase your chances of getting into nursing schools?
If you're aspiring to get into nursing school, consider the following strategies to enhance your chances:
1- Achieve excellent academic performance, particularly in STEM subjects
In the field of nursing, a comprehensive grasp of science, a robust memory, and a commendable work ethic are indispensable. Demonstrating these qualities is possible through securing commendable grades across all your courses, with a particular emphasis on those aligning with nursing prerequisites.
If your educational institution offers courses such as anatomy, physiology, or sports medicine, consider enrolling in them. Additionally, engaging in challenging STEM courses like AP Psychology, AP Biology, and AP Statistics not only signifies your readiness for college-level coursework but also equips you for the demands of certain nursing classes.
2- Strive for a high SAT score
Attaining a commendable SAT/ACT score communicates to universities that you are well-prepared for the demands of higher education and instills confidence in your ability to excel. Notably, some nursing programs place special emphasis on your performance in the SAT math section. Explore our SAT and ACT Guides for valuable insights, free tips, and practice questions to enhance your scoring potential.
3- Clearly define your motivation
Clearly articulate your reasons for pursuing a nursing career. This demonstrates commitment and passion for the profession.
4- Research and choose wisely
Select nursing schools with multiple start dates and programs that align with your goals. This flexibility can enhance your chances of finding the right fit.
5- Apply to multiple schools
Broaden your options by applying to several nursing programs. This increases your chances of nursing schools acceptance rates, especially if some schools are highly competitive.
6- Prepare for tests
Some nursing programs may require standardized tests. Be well-prepared for these tests, as good scores can positively impact your application.
7- Seek advice
Consult with enrollment advisors or professionals in the field to gain insights and guidance on the application process.
8- Participate in relevant extracurriculars
In high school, explore the medical field through extracurricular activities to show your interest and help decide if a career in nursing or medicine is your long-term goal. Medical-related extracurriculars can include organizing blood drives, volunteering at a nursing home, or initiating a club at your school.
Another option is to shadow a nurse at work or conduct an informational interview to learn more about the profession. Contact your doctor's office or ask your school counsellor to arrange these opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the nursing field continues to be in high demand, and gaining admission to a nursing school is an important step in pursuing a career in this rewarding profession. The 20 easiest nursing schools to get into for 2024 offer promising opportunities for prospective students looking to kickstart their nursing education.
FAQs
1- What is the easiest nursing school to get into in the US?
Determining the absolute "easiest" nursing school to get into can vary based on individual circumstances and admission criteria. However, some nursing schools in the US are known for having higher acceptance rates. Here are a few:
Rasmussen University Nursing School - Acceptance Rate: 100% (for students who meet admission requirements).
Western Governors University - WGU's College of Health Professions offers a unique, competency-based approach to nursing education with a 100% acceptance rate.
University of Texas at El Paso - Recognized for its higher acceptance rate among nursing schools.
2- What GPA do most nursing schools require?
GPA requirements for nursing programs vary, but most require a 3.0 GPA or higher, with schools preferring a 3.7 to 4.0 GPA due to the competitive nature of these programs.
