Is it possible to have nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements? Is it possible to have an easy admission into the nursing school? These are questions a lot of people who dream of being a nurse have. They are scared of being rejected by the institution they choose.
In this article, you will get information on the 45 nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. We have categorized them into the various nursing programs such as the ADN and BSN. Whichever one you want, we have a school that is easy to get into. You will also gain some insight into why a school may be an easy nursing school to get into, the requirements needed to get into a nursing school, and what to do to improve your chances of admission.
General Nursing School Admission Requirements
The main requirement for applying to nursing school is a high school diploma or GED. Most universities require a minimum 3.0 GPA or better. The higher the applicant’s GPA, the better the chances of getting into a top-notch program. Applicants without a minimum GPA of 3.0 should not apply as universities will rarely consider the application. Meanwhile, Hospital-based nursing programs and community colleges allow for lower GPAs.
Also, students will be required to take either the SAT or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) depending on the university they choose. In addition, aspirants are encouraged to purchase study guides, take review courses, and seek out extra help if needed. There is a need for individuals to confirm which exam is required by the program of their choice.
Once ready to apply, the applicants will need to submit the following documents:
- Official Transcript
- Standardized Test Scores
- Admission application
- Essay
- Letters of Recommendation
- Volunteer experience (preferably in healthcare)
- Application Fee (fee can be waived if the application is submitted during the tour)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) if applicable
It is important to pay close attention to deadlines that are listed on the school website and, if possible, submit the entire application early.
How We compiled a list of the Nursing Schools with the Easiest Admission Requirements
Well, to begin with, by no means are Nursing programs easy to get into or easy to complete. When we say, ‘Easiest admission requirements’, we simply mean these Nursing programs are easier to get into with the same admission requirements compared to other Nursing programs. To compile this list of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements in the nation, we have factored in the overall school acceptance rates as provided by the U.S. Department of Education.
Note, that we used the overall school acceptance rate and not the nursing program-specific acceptance rate to create this list of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. Because there are no available Nursing program-specific acceptance rates, by using the overall school acceptance rates we have tried our best to come up with this list of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
45 Nursing Schools with the Easiest Admission Requirements
Below is a list of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements:
- Cox College
- Finger Lakes Health College of Nursing and Health Science
- Ameritech College of Healthcare
- The University of Saint Francis
- Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Bethel University
- Mercyhurst University
- Herzing University – Akron Campus
- Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
- Gardner-Webb University
- Mississippi University for Women
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Arkansas Tech University – Ozark
- University of New Mexico – Gallup
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Fairmont State University
- Clarion University of Pennsylvania
- University of Montana
- Utah State University
- Bluefield State College
- Saint Anthony College of Nursing
- Bellin College
- Rochester University
- Milligan University
- Nyack College
- Nebraska Methodist College
- Concordia University-Saint Paul
- The University of Saint Francis
- Benedictine College
- Trinity Washington University
- Union College
- Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS)
- University of St. Thomas
- Georgia State University
- Sam Houston State University
- University of Texas at El Paso
- Lewis-Clark State College
- Dickinson State University
- Adams State University
- The University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Western Kentucky University
- Mississippi University for Women
- The University of Southern Mississippi
- University of Kentucky
- Mansfield University.
45 Nursing Schools with the Easiest Admission Requirements
Now, we’ll begin with private nursing schools for ADN programs
The Easiest to get into Private Nursing Schools for ADN Programs
Below are 10 private nursing schools that offer ADN programs
1. Cox College
- Location: Springfield, MS
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
Cox College offers one of the easiest ADN programs to get into. This implies that they have the easiest admission requirements. Prospective students have the option of either attending classes on the main campus in Springfield, or the college’s satellite campus in Monett, Missouri. There are night and weekend classes for students who need a more flexible format.
First-time college applicant students must submit an official high school transcript or an official GED certificate and must have a high school cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Additionally, the candidate should have a minimum composite score of 18 or higher on the ACT or a combined score of 860 or higher on the SAT. Transfer students are not left out as they must have a minimum of twelve previous college credits and a cumulative college GPA of at least 2.0.
2. Finger Lakes Health College of Nursing and Health Science
- Location: Geneva, NY
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
This school offers an Associate of Applied Science with a major in Nursing.
Applicants to this program must submit an official high school diploma or GED transcript. Also, prospective students must complete a college-level chemistry course with a lab component or equivalent and an introductory anatomy and physiology course.
Both courses must be taken within five years of the application date and have a minimum of a grade of “C”. High school seniors applying to this program should review the High School Ranking Sheet for further instructions.
3. Ameritech College of Healthcare
- Location: Draper, UT
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
Ameritech College of Healthcare offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program that prepares students for a role as registered nurses in as few as 20 months.
Interested students who seek admission must complete an application, pay any applicable fees, and submit an official high school transcript or GED certificate and official transcripts from any post-secondary school. Applicants must speak fluent English.
Before starting classes, all prospective students must pass the Distance Education Readiness Assessment and submit a criminal background check and drug screen.
4. The University of Saint Francis
- Location: Fort Wayne, IN
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
If you are interested in starting your nursing career in a short period, the Associate of Science in Nursing degree program offered at the University of Saint Francis could be an excellent option for you.
With a 100% acceptance rate, making it one of the easiest nursing schools to get into, and 93.3% of students reporting career placement within 6 months of graduation, you can be on your way to your dream job in as little as 2 years.
Prospective students who wish to enroll in the ADN at this University must submit official high school and post-secondary transcripts and copies of any health-related certifications, such as CNA or EMT.
Additional admission requirements include completing the TEAS test (Test of Essential Academic Skills), ACT/SAT scores, and a written essay describing the applicant’s desire to become a registered nurse.
5. Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Location: Des Moines, IA
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
If you seek one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements and want to graduate in a short amount of time, Mercy College of Health Sciences could be an excellent option.
But before you begin, the interested candidates must first apply and be accepted for admission to Mercy College of Health Sciences. Once admitted to this school, students must enroll in core coursework. After completing core requirements, prospective program candidates may now apply to the nursing program.
Now, applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all prerequisite coursework and any classes they wish to transfer. A minimum grade of “C” is required in College Anatomy with Lab, College-level English Composition or 2 semesters of high school English, and one math prerequisite.
6. Bethel University
- Location: Mishawaka, IN
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
Bethel University is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. It offers a 66-credit hour Associate Degree in Nursing. Students can complete the program in 2 years of full-time study.
The applicants must prove they qualified in the upper two-thirds of their high school graduating class, have a minimum 2.7 GPA in high school, or have a composite score of at least 50 on the GED. Admission to the ADN nursing program is possible upon enrollment in or completion of all prerequisite college courses.
In addition, applicants must have ACT or SAT scores from tests taken within five years of application to the program. SAT scores should be a minimum of 540 for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 510 for Math. ACT scores should reflect minimum scores of 21 in English and Reading and 19 in Math.
7. Mercyhurst University
- Location: Erie, PA
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
Mercyhurst University is home to one of the easiest ADN programs to get into. The nursing school in this university boasts of experienced faculty, a reputation for producing well-equipped nurses, and state-of-the-art learning facilities.
Students interested in the ADN program at this university must have a high school diploma, high school grade or equivalent of a “C” or higher in Algebra, Chemistry, and Biology, and a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Applicants must also have either SAT, ACT, or MNE Placement Test scores and a TEAS test score of a minimum of 66% which is administered upon application to the university. Depending on their enrollment status, students may choose part-time or full-time enrollment and graduate in 5 to 8 semesters.
8. Herzing University – Akron Campus
- Location: Akron, OH
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
Herzing University is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. The university offers direct entry ADN options and an LPN to ADN pathway.
First-time students must hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Prospective transfer students with a minimum of 18 transferable credits will be considered based on their collegiate cumulative GPA. All applicants must submit official transcripts, a Statement of Intent, and submit to a criminal background check and drug test.
9. Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
- Location: Lancaster, PA
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
The Associate Nursing Degree at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences will offer the opportunity to become a registered nurse in 5 semesters. It marks number 9 on our list of nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
Applicants to this school must show proof of graduating from an approved high school or earn a GED. Candidates must complete at least 4 English Units, one Biology unit, one Science unit with a lab, and at least 2 Algebra units in high school or post-secondary college-level course requirements for admission.
They also consider SAT and/or ACT scores, high school class rank, academic performance in post-secondary math and science classes, healthcare-related service, and community service when reviewing applications.
10. Gardner-Webb University
- Location: Boiling Springs, NC
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
Gardener-Webb University offers LPN to ASN and ASN options for students interested in earning an Associate of Science in Nursing.
All applicants must have a 2.85 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. GPA is calculated cumulatively for prospective students with less than 64 college credits. The GPA for applicants with more than 64 college credits is calculated on the most recent 64 credits earned. Prospective candidates must have TEAS scores within the last 2 years with an overall minimum score of 65.
Additional admission requirements include submitting a physical and mental health form signed by your healthcare provider, a satisfactory criminal background history for all states of residence for the past 10 years, and CPR Certification for Healthcare Providers conferred by the American Heart Association.
To gain a diploma as a registered nurse, interested candidates should submit a completed application to the nursing department and earn a minimum grade of B- in all prerequisite courses. LPN/LVN applicants will have to submit a copy of their current practical nursing license in good standing in the state of Utah or a Compact State. The licensure requirement does not apply to Utah State University Practical Nursing students immediately transitioning to the AAS program.
Easiest to get into Public Nursing Schools for ADN Programs
Below are 10 public nursing schools that offer ADN programs and are easy to get into
11. Mississippi University for Women
- Location: Columbus, MS
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
The Mississippi University for Women offers a fast-paced, 2 year Associate of Science in Nursing degree.
The applicants to this school must submit an official ACT score with a minimum of 18 if the test was taken after October 1989 or at least 15 if taken before that date. Official transcripts from high school and any collegiate coursework are needed and must demonstrate a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on all attempted coursework.
Admission to the ASN program is also possible upon an applicant completing College Algebra and Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II with a minimum grade of “C” in each class.
12. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Location: Natchitoches, LA
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
The ASN program that is offered by Northwestern State University includes general education, clinical, and didactic nursing courses.
Applicants must submit official high school transcripts which reflect a minimum 2.35 cumulative high school GPA and any one of the following: ACT English sub-score of 18 or better (SAT 450, COMPASS Writing 68), ACT Math sub-score with a minimum of 19 (SAT 460, COMPASS Algebra 40), or ACCUPLACER 250+ in Writing and QRAS.
Successful candidates must have a high school core of 2.0 GPA, an ACT composite score of 20, or an SAT composite score of 940. Regent’s Core Curriculum requirements can be found on the school website when you click here.
13. Arkansas Tech University – Ozark
- Location: Ozark, AR
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
With a high acceptance rate as indicated above, Arkansas Tech University is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements and it offers ADN programs. This program is open to Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses who wish to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing (AAS-RN).
Admission criteria include completing thirty-seven hours of coursework in the specified platform with a minimum 2.75 GPA, a current unencumbered license to practice as an LPN/LVN in Arkansas or a Compact State, and a successful completion of the LPN STEP testing.
The interested candidates for admission must be at least 18 years old and have either graduated from an Arkansas State Board of Nursing-approved Practical Nursing program within the previous 12 months or worked a minimum of 1,000 hours as a Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse within the year before applying.
14. University of New Mexico – Gallup
- Location: Gallup, NM
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
The University of New Mexico offers a 70-credit hour Associate Degree in Nursing. Admission to the program is competitive and is limited to 17 Associate Degree students each semester.
This school uses a point-based process to select candidates for admission. These candidates must provide an official high school transcript or GED certification and transcripts from any post-secondary school and must be 18 years old or older.
All applicants must register, take, and pass the ATI TEAs entrance exam and complete prerequisites before applying to the nursing program. The prerequisite courses are English Accelerated Composition, General Psychology, Human Anatomy and Physiology with Lab, Elements of General Chemistry with Lab, and Human Growth & Development.
15. Eastern Kentucky University
- Location: Richmond, KY
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
Eastern Kentucky University applicants who are accepted by the college and declare the Associate of Science in Nursing degree as their major are admitted to the University as a pre-associate nursing major. Prospective candidates must apply to the University and the nursing program separately.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 grading scale is required on all undergraduate coursework for admission to the ASN program. Additional criteria for admission include completion of the HESI A2 test. Applicants must also submit a medical fitness form, criminal background check, and urine drug screen at the time of application.
Eastern Kentucky University is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements and you can earn an Associate of Science in Nursing degree.
16. Fairmont State University
- Location: Fairmont, WV
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
At Fairmont State University, prospective candidates can choose from 3 program options to earn an Associate of Science in Nursing degree (ASN). The traditional ASN is a full-time, four-semester program.
The non-traditional LPN to ASN is an online option designed for Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses and is delivered in two to three evenings each week over three consecutive semesters. Any individual who cannot attend regular classes may choose the Hybrid Weekend ASN option.
Applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores, high school transcripts or GED scores, and college and/or LPN transcripts, including all attempted or completed post-secondary education courses. Transcripts must reflect a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average for an applicant to be considered for admission.
17. Clarion University of Pennsylvania
- Location: Clarion, PA
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
Clarion University, one of the easiest nursing schools to get into, offers a traditional Associate of Science in Nursing degree and an option for the advanced placement ASN pathway for currently Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative 2.75 grade point average with a grade of “C” or higher in Algebra, Biology, and one additional science, preferably Chemistry. A 58.7% or higher score on the ATI TEAS pre-entrance exam is required.
Candidates who earned an “A” in Biology and a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher may request a waiver of the ATI TEAS exam. Although standardized test scores such as the ACT and SAT are not required, for ASN admission, any applicant whose cumulative GPA is less than 2.75 and who has not been out of high school for more than three years may be required to take the test before admission is considered. Any LPN/LVN seeking admission to the program must hold an active, unencumbered practical nursing license.
18. University of Montana
- Location: Missoula, MT
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
Candidates for admission into the ADN program at the University of Montana must have a high school diploma or equivalency and complete or be in progress to complete all prerequisite courses when submitting the RN program application.
Applicants must have a minimum 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale. GPA is calculated based on the most recent sixty college credits. Applicants with less than sixty college credits must have a minimum 2.75 GPA for their total college credits. Admission to the nursing program requires completing a Human Anatomy and Physiology lecture/lab with a “B” or higher and a minimum “C” for all other prerequisite coursework.
Application Evaluation and Admission Decisions are based on a percentage scale with the following weights: Competitive Prerequisite GPA (40%), Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam Score (25%), and Interview (35%). Additional points may be awarded for hands-on healthcare experience and co-requisite course completion at the university’s discretion.
19. Utah State University
- Location: Logan, UT
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program at Utah State University is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. With only 2 semesters, the teachings can quickly catapult anyone who has already earned a practical nursing certificate or diploma into their career as a registered nurse.
Interested students should submit a completed application to the nursing department and must earn a minimum grade of B- in all prerequisite courses.
LPN/LVN applicants must make sure they submit a copy of their current practical nursing license in good standing in the state of Utah or a Compact State. The licensure requirement does not apply to Utah State University Practical Nursing students who are immediately transitioning to the AAS program.
20. Bluefield State College
- Location: Bluefield, WV
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
The Bluefield State College does not only have a high acceptance rate, but it also boasts a 97% employment rate for graduates within one year of graduation.
Admission criteria for the Associate of Science in Nursing program include submitting an ACT math score of 19 or better or meeting the eligibility to enter Math 101, an overall high school GPA of a minimum of 2.8, or a score of at least 45 on the GED examination.
Applicants must have completed one unit each of high school algebra, biology, and chemistry with a “C” or higher. In addition, candidates must complete TEAS testing and Health 100 with a “C” or higher grade. Any applicant who exceeds the academic standards for admission will be given priority for placement in the program.
Easiest to get into Private Nursing Schools for BSN Programs
21. Saint Anthony College of Nursing
- Location: Rockford, IL
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
Applicants at the Saint Anthony College of Nursing must make sure to complete at least 32 prerequisite courses before being admitted to the program, where they will enter as Sophomores.
Candidates must complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills pre-admission test before their application is accepted for processing. The successful candidates are granted acceptance to the program pending completion of all prerequisite courses.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for all prerequisite coursework with at least a 2.7 on all nursing sciences courses is also required from the prospective students.
22. Bellin College
- Location: Green Bay, WI
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
The BSN program at this college, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, is one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. Students in the program begin nursing classes in the first semester, taking them concurrently with general education courses.
After being accepted to the college, the applicants must pass a criminal background check and drug screening. Proof of CPR certification conferred by the American Heart Association, pre-entrance physical, immunization, and health records are also needed and must be submitted.
23. Rochester University
- Location: Rochester Hills, MI
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
All applications for admission to the Rochester University School of Nursing are evaluated on their ability to contribute to the educational environment and potential success in the program.
Applicants must have a minimum 3.2 CGPA and a minimum 3.0 GP on average for all prerequisite coursework. Prospective students should prepare a 500 to 1,000-word essay highlighting the reasons for interest in the Rochester University School of Nursing. Candidates who meet all other admission criteria will be invited to the face-to-face interview with the nursing faculty.
24. Milligan University
- Location: Milligan, TN
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
Milligan University offers one of the easiest BSN programs thus making it one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. It is available to applicants in three formats: traditional, pre-licensure, and LPN-to-RN.
Applicants follow a 3 step process of admission, progression, and retention in the nursing program. Admission to the BSN program offered in this school is contingent upon completing core requirements and the course of study outlined for advancement into the nursing major.
Additionally, candidates for admission must submit official transcripts from all institutions where coursework has been completed documentation of CPR certification, liability insurance as required by affiliated clinical agencies, and documentation of physical and mental fitness.
25. Nyack College
- Location: New York, NY
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
Candidates who wish to enroll in the nursing major at Nyack College must meet the admission criteria designated for freshman or transfer applicants. Prospective students must first be admitted into Nyack College and gain or exceed a score of 60 on the ATI TEAS exam.
After completing nursing prerequisite requirements and earning a minimum grade of “C” in each prerequisite class, the students will apply for admission to the clinical phase of the program. Once a student is accepted and progresses to the clinical stage, enrollment in courses outside Nyack College is not allowed.
26. Nebraska Methodist College
- Location: Omaha, NE
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Admission to the BSN program at Nebraska Methodist College is contingent when all the criteria being met. The applicants must demonstrate the ability to meet the technical standards of nursing practice.
Proof of a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale for all post-secondary coursework and success in previous math and science courses should be submitted. Preferred math and science courses including algebra, biology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry are also needed. Interested candidates must complete an undergraduate application, written statement, and program/career awareness questionnaire.
Official high school transcripts or GED test scores and official transcripts from any college must be sent to the admissions office directly for verification and evaluation.
27. Concordia University-Saint Paul
- Location: St. Paul, MN
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
Concordia Saint-Paul University blends in-person classroom instruction with hands-on learning experiences in the university’s high-fidelity simulation labs and local healthcare facilities.
The program focuses on the preparation of students to gain effective advocacy, collaboration, and leadership skills coupled with in-depth knowledge of evidence-based practices in nursing.
To apply to this BSN program, create an online account and complete a university admissions application. All applicants must use the online link to request official high school and/or college transcripts and submit an admissions essay.
ACT and SAT scores are optional. However, prospective candidates may submit official standardized test scores if they wish to have them considered as part of their application review.
28. The University of Saint Francis
- Location: Fort Wayne, IN
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
Any candidate interested in the BSN program at the University of Saint Francis must fill out an application for admission online and submit official high school and college transcripts. Although ACT and SAT scores are optional, students who have taken either of these tests are encouraged to provide test scores.
Applicants who do not meet all admission criteria could be asked to submit a personal essay that addresses past academic accomplishments and their plans to improve on their academic endeavors and succeed at the school.
29. Benedictine College
- Location: Atchison, KS
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Benedictine College offers regular and rolling admission options. The deadline for regular admission applications is December 1 of every year. Applications received after December 1 are considered rolling admission applications.
Student candidates must submit official high school transcripts showing 6 semesters of grades and official ACT, SAT, or CLT scores. Any applicant with a 2.75 or higher GPA may apply as a test-optional candidate if no standardized test scores are available.
Also, depending on the candidate’s previous high school or college grade point average and standardized test scores, an interview with program faculty may be required.
30. Trinity Washington University
- Location: Washington, DC
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Students enrolled in the BSN program at this university begin the program with a focus on liberal arts courses. The program has a rigorous curriculum and clinical experiences to prepare students with the knowledge, values, ethics, and skills required of professional nurses.
Interested candidates must first apply to Trinity and, once admitted, may apply for formal acceptance into the nursing program. The prospective candidates must have TEAS scores available from a test taken during the 12 months before the application deadline and complete a Statement of Intent/Personal Essay. Applicants must also submit official transcripts from high school and any post-secondary schools to the admissions office for review.
31. Union College
- Location: Lincoln, NE
- Acceptance rate: 98%
Students who enroll in this program in this college must have an average score of 21 on ACT exams. They must pass prerequisite courses like Maths, English, Reading, and Writing.
This college having a high acceptance rate makes it among the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
32. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences | MCPHS
- Location: Boston, Massachusetts
- Acceptance rate: 98%
This is a private university focused on health- and life-sciences education.
The average SAT score is 1280 but the student needs to aim higher. Also, the ACT average score needed for admission is 27 but the student can get a higher grade. Recommended letters are also needed to gain admission.
Additionally, an essay is required to be written and submitted to the admission unit.
33. University of Saint Thomas
- Location: Houston, TX
- Acceptance rate: 98%
The University of St. Thomas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and doctorate degrees.
The following are the minimum requirements for all Pre-Nursing students applying to the BSN program in St. Thomas: completion of BSN prerequisite courses (Anatomy, Chemistry, English, and Microbiology), a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or better for all prerequisite course work is required to qualify for consideration within the applicant pool. The cumulative GPA is used as one of the criteria for competitive ranking.
Any applicants currently enrolled at STU will need to submit a “Change of Major Form” once the prerequisites have been met to be considered for the BSN program.
Easiest to get into Public Nursing Schools for BSN Programs
The following schools are public nursing schools that offer BSN programs
34. Georgia State University
- Location: Georgia, ATL
- Acceptance rate: 100%
With a high acceptance rate, this university is among the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
The Georgia State University traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for students who do not hold licensure as registered nurses. The program is built on a strong foundation of liberal arts education that includes mathematics, sciences, language arts, and social sciences, as well as theoretical and clinical nursing practice. The program is designed to be completed in eight academic semesters.
To get admitted, students must take the Test Essential Academic Skills-TEAS. Students must create an online profile with atitesting.com to register for the TEAS exam at Georgia State and other testing locations.
The minimum science and program GPA needed to apply is 3.0.
35. Sam Houston State University
- Location: Huntsville, TX
- Acceptance rate: 97%
SHSU is a public nursing school with a high acceptance rate, making it one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
You must pass the average ACT score of 27 to be able to gain admission into this school. The prospective students must have an overall GPA and Prerequisite GPA of 3.0 and a “C” or better in all lower-level degree requirements.
Also, an acceptable score on the TEAS VI (Test of Essential Academic Skills). To know the acceptable score, you have to consult the admission unit or check the website of the school.
36. University of Texas at El Paso
- Location: El Paso, TX
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at this university is a 4-year program that offers a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students to care for patients on all levels of the health and wellness spectrum.
Admission to the program is a 3 step process. Firstly, applicants must gain acceptance to the university and complete the UTEP core curriculum and pre-professional coursework.
Candidates who complete this first step of coursework may apply for admission to the professional component of the program. Thirdly, admission to the nursing component requires passing a criminal background check and drug screen for the Texas Board of Nursing and having health insurance coverage.
37. Lewis-Clark State College
- Location: Lewiston, ID
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Lewis-Clark State College is one of the easiest BSN programs making it one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements.
Admission to the university is determined on a point-based system with multiple factors to be considered. All candidates must submit transcripts from every post-secondary school they ever attended, regardless of their success in that school.
Prospective students who wish to enroll in the BSN program at this state college must first complete prerequisite coursework and earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 grading scale for all college coursework.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required in Anatomy & Physiology with Lab, Chemistry with Lab, Microbiology with Lab, and Statistics. To begin the application process, interested candidates should visit www.nursingcas.org, create an account, and select the Lewis-Clark State College BSN program.
The interested candidates must be Certified Nursing Assistants or Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses or have an equivalent certification as determined by Lewis-Clark State College.
38. Dickinson State University
- Location: Dickinson, ND
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
Dickinson State University is another one of the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. Candidates interested in this program must complete a formal application to Dickson State University and the Department of Nursing and submit official high school and college transcripts, reflecting a minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education has waived the requirements for standardized test scores through Summer 2023. However, applicants may still need to submit ACT or SAT scores if they wish to have them considered for placement testing and scholarship purposes.
All prospective students will submit to a criminal background check annually, random drug screenings, and provide documented proof of health insurance coverage, clear physical/mental health evaluation, and immunization record.
39. Adams State University
- Location: Alamosa, CO
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
To complete an online application to the BSN program, the student must answer a ten-question short-response questionnaire, and provide a 2-page persuasive personal essay.
The applicants should prepare a professional resume showcasing work history and volunteer experiences and submit standardized test scores such as the ACT, SAT, or TEAS, Accuplacer (English/Writing), and ALEKS-Math.
Additionally, Candidates should provide three to five references who can attest to the candidate’s likelihood of success in the program. Although it is not mandatory for admission into the BSN program, CNA certification is highly recommended and affords applicants preferential admission status.
40. The University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Location: Fort Kent, ME
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
The BSN program offered here is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Applications for admission are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Still, general admission criteria include: Candidates must submit a high school diploma or equivalency, official high school transcript, and transcripts for any college credits earned.
Applicants are also asked to submit a letter of recommendation from a school counselor or teacher and, although they are not required, standardized may be submitted for consideration with the application.
41. Western Kentucky University
- Location: Bowling Green, KY
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Students enrolled in the Western Kentucky University Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program receive training that is focused on leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills, which lay the foundation for all nursing skills.
All candidates must first complete at least 63 credits, including required prerequisite courses. Applicants must apply and be admitted to Western Kentucky University before applying to be admitted into the BSN program.
The admission requirements include earning a minimum overall GPA of 2.75 for all undergraduate coursework, earning a “C” or higher in all required sciences, and each prerequisite nursing course.
Guaranteed Nursing Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is available to full-time, first-time freshmen with an unweighted High School GPA of at least 2.6 or better or a composite score of 23 or higher on the ACT.
42. Mississippi University for Women
- Location: Columbus, MS
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Applicants who wish to get enrolled in the BSN program at Mississippi University for Women must complete an application for admission to the university, followed by a separate application to the nursing department.
Along with the application, candidates should submit high school transcripts that reflect completion of the College Preparatory Curriculum and ACT or SAT scores.
Applicants who are not high school graduates must have qualifying Generation Education Development (GED) SCORES and a composite score of 18 on the ACT or a minimum of 970 on the SAT exams.
43. The University of Southern Mississippi
- Location: Hattiesburg, MS
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
Prospective students must complete an admissions exam administered by the Assessment Technologies Institute. This test evaluates basic math, reading, science, and writing skills.
Applicants must also complete the College Preparatory Curriculum and submit a composite ACT score, ACT super score, or combined SAT score.
Candidates should prepare a Statement of Intent and resume and submit at least three letters of recommendation. Official transcripts from high school and any college coursework previously completed are needed and should be presented with the admissions application.
44. University of Kentucky
- Location: Lexington, KY
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
The University of Kentucky offers a 4 year, traditional BSN program that prepares its students to meet the challenges of healthcare today. The university provides a low student-faculty ratio, and opportunities for professional development, and boasts of a 100% NCLEX pass rate for first-time test-takers.
With a high acceptance rate, the university ranks among the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements. Applicants should complete the online application for admission to the University and list pre-nursing as the major of choice. Eligible candidates will have a minimum 3.4 unweighted high school GPA.
In the first year of enrollment, the admitted students would complete Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, and Introduction to Psychology, after which they may apply to the School of Nursing.
Note that all applicants must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and a minimum 3.0 GPA in science and will participate in an interview with nursing faculty.
45. Mansfield University
- Location: Mansfield, PA
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
Admission to the Mansfield University BSN program is the same as general university admission with additional nursing department criteria.
Applicants must submit immunization records and proof of physical and mental fitness. Candidates must have completed the following high school classes: English (4 credits), History or Social Sciences (3 credits), Lab Sciences (2 credits with at least one Biology and one Chemistry), and Math (2 credits, one must be Algebra).
Frequently Asked Questions on Nursing School Admission Requirements
1. Can I apply my previous nursing or healthcare experience toward becoming an RN and/or earning a higher degree?
Registered nurses (RNs) must have at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), but some students decide to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). If you’re already working in the medical field, there are several pathways to work toward becoming an RN.
Let’s give you two examples:
Conclusion
Now you’ve gotten information about the nursing schools with the easiest admission requirements, it is worthy to note that venturing into the nursing field is not an easy task and one has to be disciplined and motivated to be successful in being a registered and licensed nurse.
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