what are the requirements for nursing schools

Requirements for Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Schools Admission

Be prepared to meet the degree and school requirements and you have a better chance of your nursing school application process running smoothly—no hitches. Find out what entrance exams are necessary, required components for an application, and tips for ensuring success.

What You Need to Get Into Undergraduate Nursing School

Undergraduate nursing school requirements are quite similar to any other college requirements:

• Complete your application and have it submitted by the deadline.
• Complete your application for federal student aid (FAFSA) by the deadline.
• If you have an option to visit the campus and participate in an admissions interview, do so. Some nursing schools don’t have the resources to interview every student so when you have the chance you should take it.
• Any applicable transcripts must be included.
• Know what exams you must have taken, ie. SAT, Nursing School Entrance Exam, and any others.
• Apply for any applicable scholarships or grants through the school or other sources
• You must have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Meet any GPA requirements.

Nursing School Applications

Applications for nursing school or any type of college degree for that matter demand the utmost attention. Incomplete applications are often not considered, especially for competitive nursing programs.

Tips when completing your application process for nursing school:

• Attend any nursing workshops, informational sessions, open houses and admissions seminars that become available at the schools in which you’re interested. Besides access to some insider tips and information on the program you might be able to meet admissions officers face-to-face.
• Write the application deadline on a calendar or date book and don’t miss it! Nursing schools take this date very seriously AND it’s an indication of your motivation and commitment to a degree in the first place. Miss it and you’re done before you even hit the pavement.
• Some nursing schools only accept students on the basis of their application and academics; which means you don’t have the opportunity to “wow” them in a face-to-face interview. Leave nothing blank on an application, get your head screwed on straight for all essay questions and get it postmarked on time.
• Most nursing schools prefer students with above average scores in the sciences and math.

Nursing School Entrance Exams

All nursing schools do not require you take a nursing school entrance exam. But should you be required you’ll find an assortment of potentially required tests:

• PAX-RN, or the Pre-Admission Exam for RN students, developed and delivered through the National League for Nursing (NLN). The exam is broken down into 3 major parts: verbal, science, and math skills.
• TEAS, Test of Essential Academic Skills, includes 4 major parts: reading, math, English, science.
• NET, Nurse Entrance Test, tests candidates in 6 areas: reading, math, stress, social interaction, testing abilities, learning skills.
• Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam

Requirements for Applying to Graduate Nursing School

Graduate level nursing has become more popular especially given the rise in distance education. More and more Masters nursing programs are available as online degree programs for working RNs and students located in areas not local to a nursing school.

• BSN degree from an accredited nursing school, or Bachelors degree in a non-related field
• Complete application submitted by the deadline
• Attached transcripts
• Any required letters of recommendation included
• Any required exams completed, i.e. GRE
• Any required application fees included
• Statement of career goals and/or specialization

Nursing schools don’t really cut you breaks with the application process. The best advice is to read all the requirements of all the schools to which you’re applying and follow them to the letter. Combine a solid application with a good academic record and you have a fighting chance at breaking into a respectable nursing school program.

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Home / 3-Steps on How to Become a Registered Nurse in 2024 (RN)

3-Steps on How to Become a Registered Nurse in 2024 (RN)

Video overview of the process of becoming an rn, step 1: finding the right nursing school, search nursing programs, step 2: complete your rn program and pass the nclex-rn, rn nursing careers & specialties, step 3: find a registered nursing job.

We break down the process of becoming an RN into three easy steps - read on to get started on your nursing journey!

Deciding to join the ranks of healthcare’s foot soldiers as a registered nurse (RN) can feel like a big undertaking. We want to help! Browse our Guides for everything you ever wanted to know, and probably more, about how to become an RN.

Click here to learn more about what an RN does and whether this career fits you.

Nurses are the foot soldiers of the healthcare system. They are the gateway between patients and physicians and are the voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Nurses hold the power to make or break a patient's day and can bring happiness into a situation where it seems only sadness will prevail. Being a nurse is a huge responsibility, but with that comes vast rewards and personal satisfaction in helping someone who is in need and can not help themselves. Many begin the process with entry-level nursing options but aspire to continue their education and climb the ranks within the nursing field.

Start with local schools and compare accreditation, NCLEX-RN “pass rates,” course syllabi, cost, waitlists, and program length. The program you choose should be appropriately accredited for many reasons, have average or better NCLEX-RN “pass rates,” and fit into your personal decisions about cost, length, and location. One must also consider the entrance examination process, making passing the TEAS test a mandatory prerequisite for entry into nursing school. We provide an abundance of information on these issues!

We can help you find your way through the education process and beyond and help you keep looking forward to the day when you can call yourself a "Registered Nurse!"

LEARN MORE – Choosing an RN School , LPN to RN Program , or CNA to RN Program

Compare RN Program Accreditation

• Nursing School Accreditation

Compare the Costs of RN Programs

Finding creative ways to pay for nursing school to become a registered nurse (RN) can feel overwhelming and self-defeating. But we can help you find resources and ways of thinking outside the box to finance school.

Equally important is considering the "hidden costs" of nursing school, tips and tricks in applying for grants and financial aid, the trade-off of lost wages versus working during school, and more.

If you want to become a registered nurse, the money will come! Let us help you find it!

LEARN MORE – Cost of RN Programs

Find RN Programs in Your State

Each state may have different requirements for becoming a Registered Nurse. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

• AR Arkansas
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• DC Washington, DC
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• SD South Dakota
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• VA Virginia
• WA Washington
• WV West Virginia
• WI Wisconsin

Select your education background and program of interest and see all the accredited nursing programs available for you.

Making it through nursing school can be difficult, especially when balancing work, family, and other personal commitments. We have great information on how to make it all come together and create the right mindset to get through RN school. You can do it!

So, what is nursing school going to be like? Many potential students want to know what they are in for.

Work/Life Balance During School

Nursing school will mold a non-healthcare person into a detail-oriented, perfectionist, think-outside-the-box critical thinker. To do this, the rules are strict, the instructors are tough, and the coursework is challenging. Many nurses reflect that nursing school was one of the hardest things they've ever done, but hardly any ever regret that decision.

To be in a position of being able to save a human life is a great responsibility. Nursing school works to find which of those students are not cut out for it and push and mold the students who are into great nurses.

While all this is challenging, frustrating, and demanding, remember that nursing school graduation day is the most exhilarating feeling you may ever have! Keep looking forward, and let us provide all you need to make it to that glorious graduation day!

LEARN MORE – What to Expect During & After RN School

NCLEX-RN Help & Advice

The NCLEX-RN is the exam required after completing a nursing school program before the graduate can start working as a nurse. The State licenses registered nurses, which is the exam that must be passed to earn a license. Nursing schools work hard to prepare their students to pass this exam. We offer NCLEX-RN practice test questions , resources, tips, and other information on preparing for and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

LEARN MORE – NCLEX-RN Exam Guide

Choose schools and programs by degree level and nursing background. Education at every step.

How to Become RN

Entry Level Nursing

Medical Assistant

APRN Specialties

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Midwife

Clinical Nurse Leader

Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN and have a nursing license, you can find a job as an RN! We offer some great tips and tricks for an effective RN job search, where to start looking, how to build a fantastic resume, and how to show your best self during an interview. Finally, once you’re employed, how to be the best RN intern you can be!

There has never been a better time to become a registered nurse! We can help you find the right school, navigate the ups and downs of nursing school, pass the NCLEX-RN, find a job, and become the best new graduate RN you can be! We also offer discussions about hot topics in the industry, tips and tricks, and much more!

Finally, it’s nursing school graduation day! It’s such a huge accomplishment! Be proud of all you've done and all you will do in the future to help and heal patients who need you.

But, first things first, let us help you find a job.

By now, you probably have an idea of what area of nursing you're most interested in. We can help you create a fantastic resume to show employers your best self and get your foot in the door with your first-choice facility.

LEARN MORE – Types of RN Careers and RN Resume & Career Search

Tips and Tricks on a Great RN Interview

The resume worked, and your dazzling personality and education have shined through on paper. Now, let us help you make a great impression and get you through the interview process to land your dream job as a registered nurse!

This Guide includes tips and tricks for making a big splash during your interview, how to dress, what to do and not to do during a nursing interview, and how to be an incredible new graduate nurse once you land that job.

Congratulations on making considerable strides to better your future!

LEARN MORE – RN Interview Tips

How to Find an RN Job

What do RNs do, exactly, and where do they work?

These are great questions, and we have much information to help you understand exactly what you'd be getting into.

Nurses have one of the most versatile jobs there is. A nurse can choose to be an "adrenaline junkie" and work in intense, high-stress environments or decide to take it slower with lower-stress positions and everything in between! In nursing, there is an excellent position for everyone and the right job for every personality and temperament.

This guide offers a wealth of information about almost every nursing specialty!

LEARN MORE – Working as an RN and Registered Nursing Jobs .

Once you become an RN and start employment, perhaps you’ll consider continuing your education. If you are an ADN or diploma-educated RN, you might consider leveling up your career by enrolling in an RN to BSN program. Maybe you’ll choose to increase your salary with a high-paying RN specialty such as an advanced practice RN . You must return to the classroom for additional education to take this next step, but there are plenty of graduate nursing programs available, such as the Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) . Luckily, RegisteredNursing.org has collected information on every registered nursing program and school in the U.S.

Learn more about the following types of APRN programs: nurse practitioner programs , CRNA programs , midwifery programs , specialized nursing certifications , post-graduate certificate programs , and more.

You’ll also want to see our RN License Transfer and NLC Guide if you intend to work outside of the state where you became certified.

15 Most Common Prerequisites For Nursing School

Before you even get into nursing school there are many nursing prerequisites that may be required. You should be sure to check with your individual school to find out what courses are required, as it will depend on the school and the program you are accepted into. This article will answer the question: what are the prerequisites for nursing school? and will go into detail on the 15 most common prerequisites for nursing school. We will explain why prerequisites are an important part of the nursing school journey, an overview of the most common prerequisites, and how each course can help you once you are in nursing school and beyond.

What Exactly are Nursing School Prerequisites?

6 reasons why nursing schools require you to complete prerequisites, 1. to prove your basic understanding of the material:, 2. to ensure you will be able to handle the science courses:, 3. for them to be able to jump into more advanced concepts:, 4. to make sure you enjoy the material being taught:, 5. to have a competitive gpa for comparison among other applicants:, 6. to prove your determination and dedication to the healthcare field:, do all nursing schools require the same prerequisites, are nursing prerequisites really hard to complete, when and where should you complete the prerequisite courses required for nursing school, how long does it take to complete all the nursing school prerequisites, what are the required prerequisites for nursing school, 1. american government, about the prerequisite course:, required credits:, how does this prerequisite help you in nursing school & beyond:, 2. american public policy, 4. chemistry lecture & lab, 6. general psychology, 7. human anatomy, with lab, 8. human growth & development (lifespan), 9. human physiology, with lab, 11. microbiology lecture & lab, 12. nutrition, 13. pathophysiology, 14. sociology, 15. u. s. history, what are the required prerequisites for the nation’s best nursing schools, 1. the ohio state university - columbus, oh.

2. University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - Oklahoma City, OK

3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock TX

4. University at Buffalo - Buffalo, NY

5. University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston, TX

6. The University of Texas Health Science Center - Houston, TX

7. University of Maryland School of Nursing - Baltimore, MD

8. Seattle University - Seattle, WA

9. University of Nebraska Medical Center - Omaha, NE

10. Texas A&M University - College Station, TX

11. University of Utah - Salt Lake City, UT

12. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock, AR

13. University of Massachusetts-Boston - Boston, MA

Traditional bachelor of science in nursing:, accelerated bachelor of science in nursing:.

14. Thomas Jefferson University - Philadelphia, PA

15. University of Kansas - Kansas City, KS

What Are the Hardest and Easiest Nursing Prerequisite Courses?

8 tips to raise your nursing school prerequisite gpa, 1. retake classes:, 2. take additional classes:, 3. get a tutor:, 4. make friends:, 5. know your goals:, 6. create a reward system for yourself:, 7. ask the professor for help:, 8. reflect on past learning opportunities:, do nursing school prerequisites ever expire, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. do online nursing schools require the same prerequisites as on-campus schools, 2. which nursing prerequisites should i take first, 3. can i take prerequisites for nursing school in high school, 4. can i take prerequisites for nursing school at a community college, 5. can i finish my prerequisites after i begin nursing school, 6. is there a time limit on any of the prerequisite courses, 7. can i take nursing school prerequisites online, 8. can i retake a prerequisite, 9. can i get into nursing school with a gpa of 2.7 in my prerequisites, 10. can i get into a nursing school without prerequisites.

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How to Get Into Nursing School in 2023

Everything future RNs need to know to succeed in their nursing school applications. Education

• Nursing Schools
• Programs Support
• Table of Contents:
• Get Prerequisites

Research Nursing Programs

Plan to fund your education.

• Apply to Nursing School
• Take Admissions Interview
• How to Stand Out

Whether you're aiming for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN), or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, we've compiled all of the essential information you need to start your nursing education.

Read on to learn about the prerequisites, the application process, funding options, and more.

Get Your Prerequisites

For prospective students to be considered for any nursing program, a high school diploma or GED is required before application. Most ADN  and LPN programs only require a high school diploma or GED. However, the nursing school requirements for BSN  are more stringent.

Many BSN programs require students to complete their two-year post-secondary general education prerequisites before enrolling. Required prerequisites vary by program, but most BSN programs need students to have taken and passed anatomy and physiology, English, chemistry, biochemistry, statistics, nutrition, and developmental psychology. If you haven't done these classes yet, consider attending a community college to get them completed before applying to nursing school for a BSN.

Another important consideration is that previous grades may affect your ability to get into the nursing school of your choice. For ADN programs, you can be accepted into the program with a GPA as low as 2.5. However, BSN programs tend to have higher GPA requirements. Many will accept students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, but some won't consider students with GPAs that are below 3.5.

Nursing School Prerequisites

• Earn a high school diploma or GED. Most BSN programs require students to have taken high school-level English, math, science, and social studies courses before acceptance.
• For a BSN program, completion of additional prerequisite courses may be required, including classes in anatomy & physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, statistics, nutrition, and developmental psychology.
• Complete a First Aid CPR-BLS course.
• Complete a physical and immunizations as required for your prospective nursing school.
• Complete Mask Fit Testing
• Complete a Criminal Record Check

Entrance Exams

Although not always mandatory, part of the application process for some nursing programs will require prospective students to complete an entrance exam. Some BSN programs require students to take the TEAS exam . TEAS, or Test of Essential Academic Skills, allows a school to quickly determine whether a student can perform at the college level.

Nursing schools often use another entrance exam as part of the admissions process: the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2 ). The exam tests candidates' pre-admission knowledge of areas in their programs.

Often, applicants must take the exam and provide scores by the application deadline date. At some schools, they must take the exam during the admissions interview. Some nursing schools will require students to take the TEAS and HESI exams.

Different nursing programs can offer different career paths to students. Here we will discuss the LPN, ADN, and BSN degree programs.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

LVNs and LPNs are interchangeable titles depending on where you work. California and Texas use the title LVN, and the rest of the U.S. uses LPN.

LPNs and LVNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. They are typically responsible for more basic patient care and comfort measures. Usually, they work under the guidance of an RN or MD.

To become an LVN/LPN, you need a high school diploma or GED and to graduate from an accredited LVN/LPN program. You must then pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-PN) to obtain your nursing license. LPN programs typically include one year of coursework and training at a hospital, community college, or technical school.

There are also LPN to RN programs where LPNs can return to school to become an RN by completing either an ADN or a BSN through accelerated nursing programs.

Registered Nurse (RN)

A registered nurse administers hands-on patient care in various settings, including hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes, and other facilities.

RNs work with physicians and other healthcare team members to provide the best course of treatment possible. They also help to educate patients and their families about health issues. Most RNs begin their careers working at the bedside performing direct patient care. This experience is usually preferred for nurses who wish to advance their careers and eventually earn a BSN, MSN, APRN (such as Nurse Practitioner), or DNP.

To become an RN, you'll need to complete either an ADN or a BSN degree, then your NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing license. 

Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN)

• An ADN is a 2-year degree and is the minimum education required to obtain a license to work as an RN.  

Bachelors Of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• A BSN is a 4-year nursing degree for students who want to be an RN or for RNs who currently only have an ADN. Many nurses who start their careers with an ADN eventually advance by achieving a BSN through the completion of RN to BSN programs. 
• Bachelor's trained nurses work in nursing specialties throughout the hospital setting. For example, cardiac, neuro, pediatrics, labor & delivery, emergency room, and ICU, to name a few.

RNs are encouraged to become certified within their chosen specialty after gaining at least one or more years of direct nursing practice and experience. For example, a nurse in an ICU neuro/trauma can study and sit for the Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurses Certification (CNRN). In addition, many institutions will pay nurses more when certified within their specialty.

Mode of Education

There are also a variety of methods that educational institutions use to deliver their programs, including online, in-person and hybrid modes.

• Online programs:  Offer nursing education and content through online platforms, allowing students from various geographical areas to study at the same institution. Because nursing is a highly skilled clinical profession, online programs will have students complete clinical education locally under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Some programs are full-time, but online programs often offer a part-time option.
• In-person:  Nursing education programs that are offered on campus. Students will attend classes and clinical rotations in person and be directly supervised by an instructor and unit nurse. These programs are typically full-time.
• Hybrid: A hybrid mode for nursing education is a mix of online and in-person methods. Typically, students learn the course content online, engage in active learning activities, and practice nursing skills during in-person classes and clinical placements. These programs are typically full-time.

When researching various nursing programs, ensure that the program you are considering meets accreditation standards for nursing schools in your state.

Nursing school will cost a different sum depending on the length, type, location, and level of degree being earned. The National Center for Education Statistics reported that all institutions' average tuition, fees, room, and board in 2021-22 was $26,903.00, with four-year degrees costing $30,301 and two-year degrees costing $11,976.00.

The costs per program can also vary based on whether the school is public or private, with all public institutions costing $21,878.00 for a four-year degree, while private was priced at $47,962.00.

LPN Programs

• Length: Generally 1-2 years
• Price: Tuition generally costs $10,000 to $15,000

ADN Programs

• Length: Generally 2 years
• Price: Tuition costs typically between $9,000 to $20,000

BSN Programs

• Length: Traditional is generally 4 years
• Price: Generally between $20,000 to $50,000

Top Ways to Fund Your Education

• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Employee Reimbursements
• Savings & Budgeting
• Student Loans
• Online Nursing Programs
• Work-Study Programs
• U.S. Health Services Corps
• Accelerated Programs

Complete Your Nursing School Application

A nursing school application for all LPN, ADN, and BSN programs will require proof of completion of a high school diploma or GED. A BSN program will also require a transcript of your general prerequisite courses.

You may also be required to provide an essay and letters of recommendation for more competitive nursing programs. Make sure that these letters come from reputable people. Personal references are acceptable, but it is better to provide letters of recommendation from previous healthcare employers or teachers. The goal is to demonstrate to the BSN program that you are serious and have a reputation for working hard and achieving your goals.

When to Apply to Nursing School

Every nursing school will have different deadlines for accepting applications, so be sure to research your school of choice and apply early.

Some schools will have rolling admissions. Rolling admission is a method that allows students to apply to college or university during a larger window of time, usually six months or more. Colleges review applications on an ongoing basis and respond within four to six weeks.

Nursing School Admissions Interview

The main purpose of a nursing school interview is to determine if an applicant is a good fit for the nursing program. The interview allows applicants to meet face-to-face with nursing faculty and engage in a two-way exchange about the program, school, goals, and expected outcomes.

The interview may be one-on-one or in front of a panel of multiple interviewers. Additionally, be aware that some interviewers will have access to your application materials and know a bit about you, while others may not.

Important Things to Prepare & Remember During the Interview

In preparation for the interview, thoroughly research the specific nursing program you're interviewing for, including the curriculum, program highlights, school mission statement, and faculty. On the interview day, ensure you arrive early, dress professionally, turn off your cell phone and arrive with printed copies of your transcripts and resume.

During the interview, remember to maintain eye contact, treat the interviewers respectfully, and demonstrate your passion for the nursing field.

Sample Nursing School Interview Questions & Answers

Why are you interested in nursing?

I'm interested in pursuing a nursing career because I've felt compelled to care for others since childhood. I believe it's a natural part of me to want to help. As a teenager, I participated in multiple volunteering opportunities because I felt an innate urge to assist those in need.

What are some of your personal qualities that you believe will help you succeed in nursing?

I tend to have a naturally inquisitive nature, which will help me grow and learn in nursing school and beyond. I value hard work and honesty and try to demonstrate those qualities in everything I do. If I can be honest, work hard, and learn as much as possible, I can succeed in nursing school and my career.

What qualities do you have that you feel set you apart from other applicants or will make you a good candidate for our nursing program?

Your nursing school's mission is to educate well-qualified nurses capable of embracing the changes in healthcare today and in the future and to develop culturally competent nurses who treat all patients as equals. I value those things, as well. I have a strong work ethic and desire to make a difference, and I believe this school is the best place for me to become the type of nurse we all need.

Application Tips & How to Stand Out

A few things can be done to increase your chances of acceptance into your nursing school of choice. Ensure you have completed relevant prior education (including post-secondary prerequisites for BSN programs) and a high GPA. You can also write a letter of interest expressing your passion and dedication to nursing.

Gaining volunteer experience working with older adults, children, or people with disabilities is one way to strengthen your nursing school application.

Gain Experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant

Another way to stand out in your nursing school application is to gain experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), CNA's complete approved nursing assistant programs, and then pass knowledge and skills evaluations. The minimum age to become a CNA is 16-18 years old, so some students get certified and work part-time as nursing assistants while still in high school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i apply while i am still attending high school.

No. The admission requirements for most nursing schools require you to provide proof of successful completion of academic requirements. If you apply before completing the required courses, your application may be canceled with no refund.

I previously completed a criminal record/abuse check for another purpose. Can I submit those documents to my nursing program of choice?

Documents dated less than six months before the program start date will likely be accepted.

About Carly Elliott , BSN, RN

Carly Elliott has 10 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Hospice Palliative Care and Home Health.

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How To Become An RN: A Step-By-Step Guide

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During the Covid-19 pandemic, the importance and dedication of essential workers became even more clear. Registered nurses (RNs) are among the most crucial frontline workers in healthcare. Along with receiving relatively high pay and strong job security, many nurses find their careers meaningful. These professionals care for patients and help save lives in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Requirements for RN licensure vary by state but always include earning a degree and passing a national examination. Read on to learn more about how to become an RN.

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What Is a Registered Nurse?

Registered nurses typically provide bedside care and patient education alongside a team of healthcare professionals. RNs can become licensed after earning an associate in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). All RNs must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

Role and Responsibilities

Typical daily tasks for nurses include observing and caring for patients at the bedside, keeping detailed records of patient symptoms and information, administering medicine or treatments, and collecting blood and urine samples for lab analysis.

RNs work in physician offices, hospitals, schools and other medical facilities. RNs provide care and education to patients across the lifespan, including the elderly, children and people experiencing medical emergencies or acute trauma.

Work Environment

Registered nurses work in nearly every healthcare setting, including hospitals, community clinics, urgent cares and nursing homes. Nurses’ schedules depend on their work environment. Emergency room and intensive care unit (ICU) nurses generally work eight- or 12-hour shifts, sometimes overnight, while nurses in other healthcare facilities can work typical business hours.

Although their work environments and schedules can be stressful and fast-paced, nurses benefit from above-average salaries and economic demand.

RN Specialties

As a nurse, you can focus your career on a specific type of patient care. Specialties allow nurses to work with particular populations, departments or settings. The right specialization for you depends on your interests, preferred work environment, schedule and desired patient population.

RNs can specialize in critical care, treating patients in ICUs, or neonatal care, which involves caring for premature and sick newborns. Other RN specialties include public health, pediatrics , gerontology and perioperative care.

How to Become an RN

Get an education.

While licensure requirements vary by state, completing a nursing education is the first step to becoming a registered nurse.

In most states, the minimum education requirement for an RN license is a diploma from an accredited RN program; however, many aspiring nurses earn an ADN or a BSN .

A BSN degree is not required to become an RN, but many healthcare employers now prefer to hire nurses with BSNs, as this degree provides broader knowledge and stronger competency in foundational nursing skills.

Nursing programs should be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education or a state-specific accrediting body, if applicable.

Pass the NCLEX

While examination requirements vary by state, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN to earn licensure. Beginning in April 2023, prospective nurses must pass the Next Generation NCLEX. This test uses new question types drawn from case studies to better measure clinical judgment.

Test-takers can take up to five hours to finish the NCLEX. In 2022, the NCLEX pass rate for first-time test takers was 79.9% . We recommend that you make an NCLEX study plan and review NCLEX prep resources well ahead of your test date.

Obtain State Licensure

After passing the NCLEX, nurses apply for RN licensure in the state where they want to practice. Requirements for RN licensure vary by state; check your state’s nursing regulatory board for up-to-date requirements.

In most cases, RN licensure requirements include at least an accredited RN diploma and a passing NCLEX score.

Do You Need a BSN to Become an RN?

A BSN is not technically required to earn licensure and become a nurse. However, many employers prefer to hire nurses with BSN degrees. Research shows that BSN-prepared nurses lead to better patient outcomes, including lower patient mortality rates, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). AACN reports that over 77% of employers prefer or require nurses to hold at least a BSN.

BSN programs prepare nurses with more extensive knowledge than associate degrees and RN diplomas. This higher education can set you up for further career and educational advancement down the line should you choose to pursue a master’s in nursing .

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $77,600 in May 2021. The top 10% of nurses made more than $120,250 annually, while the bottom 10% made less than $59,450. Higher pay, however, is often correlated with higher living costs.

The BLS projects employment for nurses to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is comparable to the national growth average.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Become a Registered Nurse

Is becoming an rn hard.

Becoming an RN is challenging for many students since licensure requires multiple years of study and a mastery of technical and scientific concepts. However, the rewards for pursuing a nursing career are significant as well. In addition to high salaries, nurses also benefit from job stability and career mobility.

How many years does it take to be a nurse?

The time it takes to become a nurse depends on your education route and state licensing requirements. Nursing students can complete certain accelerated RN diploma programs in 16 months. Associate programs usually take around two years of full-time study to complete, while BSN degree programs take around four years. You can apply for nurse licensure soon after completing your education.

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How to Become a Nurse

Every state and the District of Columbia has a board of nursing with a mission of protecting the public from harm. Governance of the practice of nursing includes:

• Establishing requirements for initial licensure and retaining: basic education, continuing education and/or competency
• Interpreting scope of practice parameters, defined by state statute (nurse practice act)
• Investigating complaints of licensees and disciplinary actions

There is more than one educational pathway leading to eligibility to take the standardized National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)-RN.

Undergraduate Diploma in Nursing, once the most common route to RN licensure and a  nursing career , is available through hospital-based schools of nursing

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year degree offered by community colleges and hospital-based schools of nursing that prepares individuals for a defined technical scope of practice.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BS/BSN) is a four-year degree offered at colleges and universities:

• Prepares graduates to engage in the full scope of professional nursing practice across all healthcare settings
• First two years often concentrate on psychology, human growth and development, biology, microbiology, organic chemistry, nutrition, and anatomy and physiology.
• Final two years often focus on adult acute and chronic disease; maternal/child health; pediatrics; psychiatric/mental health nursing; and community health nursing.
• Is intended to result in a deeper understanding of the cultural, political, economic,  and social issues that affect patients and influence healthcare delivery
• Includes nursing theory, physical and behavioral sciences, and humanities with additional content in research, leadership, and may include such topics as healthcare economics, health informatics, and health policy

Graduate Offer additional routes to advancing the expertise of registered nurses:

• Master’s Degree (MSN) programs offer a number of tracks designed to prepare Advanced Practice Nurses, nurse administrators, and nurse educators.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs are research-focused whose graduates typically teach and/or conduct research
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs focus on clinical practice or leadership roles

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Bachelor of Science in Nursing Requirements: Learn What to Expect with These Programs

When it comes to Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements, each school has its own unique expectations of new students.

Whether you’ve volunteered throughout high school at a hospital, proven you’re an A student, thrived in science courses or are already a working nurse with years of experience, finding the right school often comes down to the best BSN programs for your needs.

Here are some of the most important factors to weigh when considering enrollment in a BSN program.

Cost of school

BSN nursing programs require a financial commitment. How much your cost will be depends on the type of program you choose — whether online, on campus, in your region or out of state.

According to a website that compares BSN costs, a four-year, on-campus program can range from $40,000 to $200,000. Add in room and board, along with other fees and the price of a college or university program on campus can jump to at least $90,000. An accelerated BSN program often ranges from $17,000 to $90,000.

Working nurses entering an RN to BSN program can expect a cost of anywhere from $8,000 to $55,000.

For many schools, there are some costs you might not be thinking about yet. These can vary greatly based on attending school in a big city or studying online from a small town.

These can include books, parking, shoes, scrubs, clinical fees, transportation, childcare and technology requirements such as smartphones, laptops or tablets.

Time commitment

Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements include a time commitment that can range from 11 months to four years, depending on your individual circumstances.

An accelerated program for second-degree BSN students can range from as little as 11 to 18 months, while working nurses in an RN to BSN program can expect the educational journey to average 12 to 24 months.

Students with no post-secondary education can enter a college or university program with a traditional four-year timeline.

Academic requirements

Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements can vary by school. As a general rule, most schools will require at least a 2.75 cumulative grade-point average in high school or an associate degree program. In addition, school might require a specific GPA in your science and health-related courses.

Along with references, an essay and a resume (or, in some cases, a curriculum vitae), it is important to have some relevant volunteer or work experience at a hospital or healthcare facility.

Previous studies in chemistry, biology, physiology, anatomy or various related subjects also is helpful when planning your admission applications.

Traits that may be required as well are strong communication skills — both verbal and written — along with good observational, critical thinking and social skills.

Clinical hours

Clinical placements give nursing students the practical experience they need to make a smooth transition into the profession.

However, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements for clinical hours varies widely by state.

Some programs require up to 1,200 hours, while others only require 400 hours.

Pay close attention to the hours requirement for the schools to which you apply and ask about their rationale for the number of hours.

The topic has been debated over the years, including at the 2016 National Council of State Boards of Nursing annual meeting in Chicago, where Mindy Shaffner, associate director of nursing education for the Washington Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission, expressed concern about nursing losing its status as the most trusted profession in the nation without a required number of hours nationally.

“We are trusted because we practice well,” she said. “And how do we get the practice we need to become newly licensed nurses and carry that reputation forward? Through practice experiences in our pre-licensure nursing programs.”

So what kind of coursework fits into Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements?

Some of the most common include anatomy, microbiology, nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, leadership, ethics, research, community health and gerontology.

Each school’s BSN program varies, so be sure to learn about the curriculum before you apply.

Online options

The AACN reports that more than 600 colleges and universities in the U.S. offer some type of online BSN coursework . This gives students who need the flexibility of an online learning environment plenty of opportunities.

Working nurses often prefer online courses such as RN to BSN programs so they can maintain their current work schedule while also advancing toward a BSN degree.

Students who are non-nurses may prefer online BSN or hybrid programs to continue working to help pay for school or if they have children or older family members to care for while attending classes. These programs offer an inclusive experience with students from various backgrounds and experience levels, along with top-notch instructors.

In December 2017, New York became the first state to enact a law that requires “all (registered professional nurses) either have or obtain a bachelor’s degree within 10 years of initial licensure.”

Why is this important? According to news reports, nearly two dozen other states have considered similar legislation. That would make it much more important for working nurses to look into BSN nursing programs. In addition, those wanting to enter the profession should know their individual state’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements.

The goal, according to the New York legislature , was to increase the educational entry point to get into the nursing profession. The law does have exemptions, as mentioned in a January 2018 Nurse.com blog post , but its intent is clear.

A common occurrence among some BSN nursing programs is putting students on waitlists. Because each program has a limited number of students it can admit, some end up waiting for admission.

Part of the reason is that the demand for nurses is so high that schools must force some students to wait. How long can that wait be? That often depends on geography and your choice of schools.

Some of the nation’s most well-known schools and regions with the highest populations can have the longest wait times.

Don’t take being put on a wait list personally. Two key factors that play into why schools waitlist students are a lack of instructors or a lack of clinical placement opportunities.

Two options for students who end up on waitlists are to maintain contact (via phone or email) with the school that has put your admission application on hold and, of course, to spend that time applying to other schools.

Finding the best BSN programs that fit your needs takes a little time and effort. But the time you spend researching each school’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements can make you a more informed candidate.

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How to get into nursing school - guide + stats.

Reviewed by:

Jonathan Preminger

Former Admissions Committee Member, Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine

Reviewed: 5/27/24

Nurses are in high demand right now, showing just how crucial their role is in healthcare.

In fact, nursing is one of the most popular fields in the United States, with nearly 4.2 million individuals identifying as registered nurses. The field, which is expected to grow by 6% each year, is a safe bet for those looking for a challenging role with job stability and a comfortable salary.

If you know that becoming a nurse is your calling, know that there are many steps to take on your path. Keep reading to learn how to gain admission to nursing school.

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

Steps to Get Into Nursing School

There are many different pathways to becoming a nurse, but the first step always starts with nursing school. Before you make your decision to go to nursing school, you should ask yourself questions like:

• "What kind of nurse do I want to be?"
• "How much schooling do I want to endure?"
• "What type of education do I already have?"

Asking yourself these questions will ensure that you are on the right path to becoming the type of nurse you want to become. It will also prevent you from making any changes to your education path down the line. 

1. Graduate High School or Get a General Equivalency Diploma

One of the fundamental prerequisites for pursuing a career in nursing is completing your high school education. 

To gain admission to nursing school, you typically need to have a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Completing high school or obtaining a GED is the first step on your journey to becoming a nurse.

2. Research and Choose a Nursing Degree 

Keep reading to learn how to secure a nursing degree. 

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate or Diploma

• Earn yourself a High School Diploma or GED. It's the first step towards your CNA journey.
• Next, dive into a CNA Training Program in your state. This is where you'll learn the nuances of patient care, from basics to the more complex content.
• Then comes the fun part—Clinical Training. It's an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
• Pass that Approved CNA Examination in Your State, and you're officially certified to make a difference in people's lives.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Certificate or Diploma

• Step one: get your high school diploma or equivalent. 
• Next, take a training program designed to prep you for the National Council Licensure Examination for LPNs. 
• Depending on where you are, you might need to ace a state-administered licensing test before becoming an LPN.

Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)

• Ready to take your nursing game up a notch? First, meet those Eligibility Requirements. 
• Then, it's all about finding the right program that suits you best. 
• Finish strong, earn your License and Certification, and you're officially an ADN nurse.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• Apply to an Accredited BSN Program.
• Once you've conquered the program, it's time to take on the NCLEX-RN® exam. Pass that, and you're officially an RN.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

• Ready to specialize? First, pick your Nursing Specialty.
• Attend those MSN Degree Program Info Sessions, where you'll better understand what to expect.
• Complete those MSN Prerequisites.
• Study hard for those Master of Nursing School Entrance Exams. 

Doctoral Degree in Nursing (DNP)

• To obtain a DNP, start early!
• Get your BSN and pass the NCLEX like a champ.
• Rack up that valuable work experience.
• Complete an MSN degree to show you're serious about taking your nursing career to the next level.
• Finally, successfully complete a DNP Program.

Ready to nail the NCLEX exam? Dive into Inspira's collection of free practice questions . Each question is like a mini confidence boost, helping you get familiar with the exam's ins and outs. These questions are designed to prepare you effectively; they are your secret weapon for mastering the NCLEX.

2. Research Select Your Nursing Schools 

When looking into nursing schools, focus on what matters most to you. Check if the program is accredited and if the faculty have solid experience. 

Think about where the school is located and what kind of support services they offer. Make sure the curriculum matches your interests and career goals. By picking a school that ticks these boxes, you'll be well-prepared for a rewarding journey into the nursing field.

3. Fulfill All Requirements

Each nursing school may have specific prerequisites and admission requirements. These can include completing certain high school courses, meeting a minimum GPA, or taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Some nursing programs also require the GRE for admission. 

Additionally, some schools may require you to complete certain prerequisite courses, such as biology or chemistry, before applying to their nursing program. Ensure you fulfill all the necessary prerequisites and requirements for the nursing schools you're interested in.

4. Fill out the Necessary Documents and Apply

Once you've selected the nursing schools that suit your aspirations, it's time to start the application process. Gather all the required documents, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an application fee. 

Pay close attention to application deadlines, as missing them can jeopardize your chances of admission. Carefully complete all application materials and submit them to your chosen nursing schools.

5. Pass the Interview

Some nursing programs may require you to pass an admission interview as part of the application process. The interview is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know you better and assess your suitability for the nursing program. 

Prepare for the interview by practicing common interview questions, researching the school, and showcasing your passion for nursing. A successful interview can greatly enhance your chances of gaining admission to your desired nursing school.

By following these steps and carefully planning your educational path, you can embark on your journey toward becoming a nurse and achieving your career goals.

Nursing School Consultant Lauren offers this advice for getting into nursing school:

"No matter what your experiences or background, if you want to make a career shift into medicine in whatever capacity best interests and suits you, it is absolutely within the realm of possibility. Do as much as you can to get an idea of what you're interested in by looking into different programs and talking with people in those career fields."

"Do your research into what programs best interest you and think about your long-term goals. Do you want to be working with families, children, in acute care settings, or in a clinic? Get a picture of what you see yourself doing."

"Align your extracurricular activities in a way that best meets your long-term goals. For example, if you want to be a pediatric nurse practitioner, try to volunteer at a children's hospital. If you want to work in an acute care setting, consider becoming a volunteer EMT."

Nursing School Prerequisites and Application Requirements

The prerequisites for nursing school differ greatly depending on the stream of nursing that you want to pursue. Regardless, you’ll have to have written your SAT or ACT before you apply.

Nursing schools also consider your high school GPA during admissions. The average GPA required for nursing school is 2.5-3.0, but this may change depending on the program and school you apply for.

In addition to your GPA and SAT scores, aspiring nurses should consider taking courses recommended for nursing school. These courses include advanced math and science courses in high school or a high school-equivalent secondary education. 

Choosing the Right Nursing Program

To enroll in a nursing degree program, you must have graduated from high school or earned your GED. This initial requirement applies whether you're aiming for a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing).

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is one of the quickest ways to become a registered nurse. Schooling for an ADN only lasts about 18 months to 2 years and is usually done at a community college. 

Receiving your ADN is a fantastic introduction to the nursing field. Given the relatively short training period, it's also a cost-effective and time-effective solution.

Throughout their workday, ADNs can expect to complete tasks like: 

• Administering medication to patients 
• Discussing symptoms and monitoring vital signs
• Providing medical guidance and instruction where necessary.

The downside? Many hospitals prefer applicants to have a BSN, so hiring for ADNs is becoming less common. However, there are many "bridge" programs that allow you to fast-track your studies to receive a BSN or other nursing degrees if you already have an ADN.

If you're looking for a quick and cost-effective pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse, going for an ADN could be a great option!

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the most common schooling route for prospective nurses—after all, 65.2% of all nurses in the United States have a BSN degree. Alongside the ADN, it's an alternative option for those who want to become registered nurses.

Compared to the ADN, the BSN is more comprehensive. It consists of four years of education instead of two and focuses on theory-based learning and critical thinking skills. Receiving a BSN allows for more opportunities within the nursing field, which can result in a higher-paying starting wage compared to those with an ADN. 

It can also lead to more leadership opportunities and is the most common first step of schooling for those who want to pursue a master's or a Ph.D. in nursing. 

Those with a BSN are responsible for tasks such as:

• Examining patients and consulting about medical inquiries with them
• Operating medical equipment
• Performing diagnostic tests and communicating results to medical staff and patients

Those who enroll in and complete a BSN program can look forward to a more comprehensive education and a high starting wage.

Find Your Perfect BSN Program

Looking for the perfect BSN program can be a bit of a puzzle, right? Well, don't worry—our BSN Program Selection Quiz is here to simplify the process. All you have to do is answer a few easy questions.

First, you'll pick your preferences like where you'd like to study and how long you want the program to be. Then, just share some academic info, and we'll do the rest, suggesting BSN programs that match your profile. 

Once you're done, you'll get a list of BSN options, complete with school names, locations, and key stats to help you compare them. If you need more help, you can retake the quiz or chat with one of our nursing admissions experts. We're here to make finding the right BSN program a breeze!

Licensed Practical Nurse

Becoming an LPN, otherwise known as a Licensed Practical Nurse, is a fantastic introduction to the nursing field and an easy way to test the waters to see if nursing is a good fit for you. 

LPNs are responsible for essential healthcare tasks, ensuring patients are comfortable. They are usually supervised by RNs and often work to assist them and other medical professionals with everyday tasks.

Schooling for LPN programs usually takes around a year to complete, so it's an ideal way to break into the field without breaking the bank on tuition. Once you've become an LPN, it's easy to receive more schooling, as there are many LPN—RN accelerated programs to consider.

Certified Nurses’ Assistant (CNA)

A great way to gain practical experience in the nursing field is by completing a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) program. A CNA provides medical care while working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

To become a CNA, you must have a high school education and attend CNA training at a community college. Most state-regulated programs take 4 to 12 weeks and combine classroom learning with hands-on learning. 

Should you want to continue your nursing education, many ADN or BSN programs fast-track you through the program if you already have certain credits or experience in the field. 

If you’re looking for a more advanced nursing degree, consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN). 

A Master of Science in Nursing awards students with an even more comprehensive nursing education and higher pay. Pursuing an MSN can lead to more advanced careers within the field, such as:

• Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Clinical Nurse Educator

While many different bridge programs allow you to complete an MSN in less time, the most common applicants are those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). 

Obtaining an MSN will take around two years with a full course load and often comes with hefty tuition fees. However, there are many flexible options for schooling, such as part-time course offerings, which can allow you to juggle work and school if needed.

There are also various nursing scholarships available if a financial investment is holding you back from pursuing an advanced nursing degree. 

Not 100% sold yet? According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing , only 14.9% of nurses nationwide held master’s degrees in 2020, and the demand for those with an MSN far outweighs the supply. Receiving an MSN will ensure job security and a very comfortable salary.

Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or Doctor of Nurse Practitioner)

Ready to take your nursing career to the next level? A Doctoral degree in Nursing awards you the highest advanced nursing education possible. 

There are two pathways to receiving a doctoral degree in Nursing:

• Ph.D. in Nursing : focuses more on research, curriculum development, and teaching other nurses in post-secondary institutions.
• Doctor of Nurse Practitioner : provides a more comprehensive study on nursing best practices while utilizing cutting-edge research.  

Both programs require applicants to have a BSN, at minimum, and many require an MSN. Each program can take 4 to 6 years to complete, but those passionate and dedicated to the field of nursing will find the experience worth the investment.

How to Get Accepted Into Nursing School: Increase Your Chances

Once you’ve decided that a career in nursing is in the cards for you, you may be wondering about what nursing school requirements you need to adhere to. 

Undoubtedly, nursing school is very competitive - and you’ll want to give yourself the best possible chance to stand out. Here are some ways to boost your chances of getting accepted:

Put your passion into practice by volunteering in the healthcare field. You can volunteer in healthcare establishments such as nursing homes, hospitals, doctor’s offices, and pop-up clinics. You can also explore any other community service initiatives that are not in the healthcare sector. 

Volunteer experience shows the admissions council at your prospective nursing school that you are serious and passionate about the field. It also shows that you care about people and the community, which is an essential quality for nurses. 

By putting in a couple of hours a week, you can also gain valuable experience that will supplement your learning while starting nursing school.

Volunteer experience isn’t always one of the prerequisites for nursing school admission for nursing school applicants–for some schools, volunteering is just recommended. 

With this said, volunteering will always boost your application regardless of the context. Ensure you research your prospective schools' admissions requirements for more information. 

Get a Letter of Recommendation

A plus side of volunteering in healthcare is that you build connections, which is excellent when the time comes to ask for letters of recommendation. They are not always required for specific programs, but it's highly recommended and is a great way to make you stand out from other applicants.

Your letter of recommendation should be written by a teacher, employer, mentor, or coach. Having someone in the medical field vouch for your passion and skills can be a significant factor in a successful nursing school application.

While asking for a letter of recommendation can be intimidating, its impact on your application is profound. Its purpose is to attest to your character and share why you would be an ideal candidate for nursing school–so having stellar letters of recommendation can have a meaningful impact on the strength of your application. Also, check out our Nursing School Admissions Guide . It’s your go-to resource, jam-packed with 60 pages of expert advice and insights to ace your way through the admissions process. 

We've cut through the clutter to give you straightforward tips and background info, ensuring you're fully prepared to tackle every step with confidence. Whether it's application dos and don'ts or interview prep, consider this guide your trusty sidekick on your path to nursing school success.

Expected Salary for Nurses in the USA

Curious about how much nurses earn in the USA? We'll dive into the factors that impact nursing salaries and provide valuable insights into the earning potential within the field.

Below, we’ve listed some frequently asked questions and answers.

1. How Hard Is It to Get Admitted Into Nursing School?

While getting into nursing school can be challenging, it's not impossible. You'll want to give yourself the best possible chance of acceptance by aiming for a high GPA, SAT score, and high grades within the required prerequisite math and science courses. 

Volunteering in the healthcare sector may also make you a more competitive applicant while simultaneously allowing you to build relationships in the field. These connections can help give you glowing letters of recommendation and may even benefit you after you graduate.

2. What Are the Requirements to Study Nursing?

While each school has different application requirements, the general requirements to study nursing are as follows:

• A minimum high school GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of an entrance exam, such as the SAT, ACT, or, depending on the type of program, the National League for Nursing Pre-Admission Exam (NLN-PAX)
• Completion of advanced prerequisite courses in math and science

For Master’s and Ph.D. programs, a BSN or MSN may be required.

3. How Do You Get Through to Nursing School?

Navigating nursing school can be challenging, but it's all about finding the right strategies. Being organized is key, as it saves you precious time. Make studying a regular habit to absorb information effectively, and don't forget self-care – it keeps you in top shape to conquer your nursing studies.

5. How to Get Into a Nursing School After High School?

To get into a nursing school after high school, you'll want to start by making sure you've excelled in science and math courses during your high school years. Then, research nursing programs to understand their specific admission requirements. 

Typically, you'll need to submit your high school transcripts, standardized test scores (like SAT or ACT), and perhaps letters of recommendation. Craft a compelling personal statemen t to showcase your passion for nursing, and don't forget to apply to multiple nursing schools to maximize your chances of acceptance.

6. How to Get Into a Nursing School After College?

If you're considering nursing after college, your path may vary a bit. Begin by earning a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology or psychology. While in college, maintain a strong GPA, as nursing programs can be competitive. 

After graduating, explore accelerated nursing programs designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another discipline. These programs often require prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology. 

Apply to your preferred nursing programs and prepare for any necessary interviews. Your college background can be a valuable asset in your nursing school applications.

Get Admitted Into Nursing School With Inspira Advantage

Getting into nursing school can be challenging but Inspira Advantage is here to help. 

With personalized and specific Nursing School Admissions consulting , you’ll be able to smoothly navigate your application for nursing school and get one step closer to making your dreams of becoming an RN a reality.

Once you’ve gone through each of these steps and made your way through nursing school, the NCLEX is your next step. Fortunately, our team of experts can set you up for success with personalized NCLEX test prep . 

Schedule A Free Consultation

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Nursing School | Information, Requirements, and Overview

Choosing the right nursing school to attend is imperative to getting top nursing jobs. It is no wonder that so many potential nursing students invest a substantial amount of time and effort into finding the nursing school that offers the greatest number of opportunities to learn new nursing concepts and receive the most opportunities for advancements in the nursing field.

With the shortage of nurses in the United States, it is important that more people take an interest in this field of healthcare. Those who design nurse education programs must create highly informative, rigorous training programs to suit the changing needs of the technological advancements in the healthcare field.

Nursing School Information & Overview

Nursing school is not for everyone. Those who choose to become nurses should expect to dedicate a tremendous amount of time to studying nursing information and participating in clinical experiences to keep up with the changes in the nursing industry. Knowing what to expect from nursing school is imperative to the success of nursing students.

The degree options that students are granted upon graduating from the various nursing programs that there are to choose from include a Diploma in Nursing, Associate of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD), or Doctor of Nursing Practice.

In addition to earning specialized degrees, nurses can also specialize in specific area of nursing to optimize their marketability in the nursing industry. A few of the specialty areas include forensic nursing, burn nursing, geriatric nursing, legal nursing, oncology nursing, medical surgical nursing, and mental health nursing. With a master’s degree in nursing, it is possible to become an Advanced Practice Nurse and hold the title of Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, or Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Nursing programs consist of a combination of coursework and clinical experiences. The coursework may consist of basic courses—such as biology and anatomy- and core coursework that may consist of pharmacology and physiology. The courses that students take in nursing school will teach them about sterile dressing changes, inserting catheters, medication administration, physical examinations, and other vital nursing skills.

Graduates of nursing programs must pass the licensing examination to become licensed nurses. Nurses working in the United States must take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licenses Practical Nurses (LPNs). Those who become licensed nurses have the greatest opportunities in the nursing industry. After graduating from nursing programs, it is necessary to complete continuing education hours to maintain the nursing license. Each state has specific guidelines to maintain a nursing license so nurses must check with their Board of Nursing to determine the requirements.

Nursing School Program Types

Nursing programs come in a variety of types to suit the needs for everyone who wants to study nursing. These unique programs are designed around the schedule of the each student so that each one can meet success in the manner that suits each individual best.

Nurses must choose to either earn a diploma, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in nursing to become nurses. Most nursing careers begin with a diploma, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in nursing. The time it takes for a student to complete nursing school varies greatly, but generally speaking, it takes less than a year to earn a diploma, 2 years or less to earn an associate’s degree, 4 years or less to earn a bachelor’s degree, and 2 years or less to earn a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing.

Most employees prefer nursing professionals with a minimum education of a bachelor’s degree, but students should not be discouraged from earning a lesser degree. Many nursing professionals begin their nursing careers by earning a nursing diploma and continue taking classes to earn advanced degrees. All that matters is that students start somewhere to begin their nursing degree. You can see a articles about the levels of nursing degrees in our online database.

Nursing students can choose between earning their degree full-time or part-time from a number of nursing schools in the country. They also have the opportunity to choose between accelerated, advanced, dual, joint, and online nursing programs. Here is the outline of options that nursing students have when choosing nursing programs.

• Full-time – Attending nursing school full-time can help nursing students complete their program in less time. It usually takes 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree, but it may take less time if students attend summer sessions and intersession courses to help student earn their degrees faster. This option is best for those who are only focuses on attending nursing school.
• Part-time – This option allows those who are working full-time or part-time to achieve their dreams of attending nursing school. Part-time options are designed to accommodate those with complex schedules. Part-time programs offer the option to attend school during the evening and on weekends to earn a nursing degree.
• Accelerated – Accelerated programs are designed for those who want to fast track their nursing education. Generally, those who currently hold some type of education degree can benefit from this program option. Students complete this type of nursing program in a fraction of the time it would take to earn the nursing degree in the traditional manner. The programs are rigorous and advanced, and the students complete the programs in 12 to 20 months.
• Dual – These programs allow nursing students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s, or a master’s and doctoral degree in nursing simultaneously. These intensive, accelerated programs generally take 5 years to complete. Graduates are extremely marketable upon graduating from dual nursing programs.
• Joint – These programs combine a nursing degree with a degree in another area of healthcare such as health administrations and public health. This type of nursing education usually combines master’s level degrees, and they are designed for those who want to work in administrative positions in the healthcare industry.
• Online – These programs offer nursing students the option to earn their degrees online. Some programs are offered completely online, while others offer a combination of online and traditional on campus courses. Many of these programs help nursing students earn their degrees in less time.

Nursing School Educational Requirements

Nursing schools may require that incoming students hold a GED or high school diploma. They also require that nursing students participate in a college track high school education program to gain acceptance to nursing school. These programs contain nursing school prerequisite course such as chemistry, biology, and physics in which students generally must earn a “C” average or higher.

Additional considerations that potential nursing students must prepare for are criminal background checks. Students may be rejected for admission if they do not pass criminal background checks. Information regarding recent physical examination records must be submitted before students enter a nursing program. Drug screenings may also be a requirement to get into nursing programs. Testing positive for drugs will prevent students from entering a nursing program.

Students are required to maintain a certain GPA throughout their nursing program after gaining acceptance into the program. Usually a 2.5 is the minimum GPA for these programs. Nursing programs are extremely competitive so it may be necessary to gain higher scores to get into advanced nursing programs and to compete for nursing jobs after graduation.

Nursing students will also be required to complete a certain number of clinical hours to complete their nursing program. Each program has a minimum number of hours that students must complete for the nursing program. These experiences are completed under the supervision of doctors and other licensed medical professionals.

For a more defined set of requirements to get into nursing school, students should check the requirements in their respective states and check with the specific nursing school in which they plan to enroll. Students should begin determining this information well in advance of applying to a nursing school.

To find out more requirements, see our section on Nursing School Prerequisites .

Nursing School Health Requirements

The overall health of students is also important when applying to nursing schools. It is important to be in the best shape possible when handling patients because they depend on nursing professionals to help them restore their health. Nursing students must be free of infections and communicable diseases because this can have an impact on consumers, students, and others that are part of the nursing program. Students must not have any psychological conditions or disorder that threatens their ability to perform their jobs with the highest level of skill and precision.

Students must complete a physical examination before getting into nursing school. The tests that students must take include CDRL, urine analysis, complete blood count, and RPR. Students must repeat the physical examination every year that they are in nursing school. Additionally, students may have to take an X-ray, TB skin test, and other tests to prove that they are in good physical health.

Students are also expected to have their immunization records up to date. They may be expected to have current vaccinations for rubeola, polio, rubella, mumps, varicella, and Hepatitis B. Some programs may allow students to sign a waiver to waive the Hepatitis B immunization. All documentation of medical records, immunization, and laboratory tests must be submitted before students can be admitted into the nursing program.

Nursing students may also be required to have current CPR certification in order to be admitted into a nursing program. In order to complete the clinical component of the nursing program, students must have proof of liability insurance before completing the clinical aspects of the program.

Nursing School Application Process

The application process to get into an undergraduate nursing program may include the following: a completed application, including transcripts, medical records, background check, and test scores; interview; and application essay. Other requirements may be needed so students should check with their respective nursing programs to determine the specific requirements. Students should also know the deadline dates to complete the application process to get into nursing school.

Those who wish to get into a graduate level nursing program may have to complete the above requirements and some additional steps to get into a nursing program. Students may also be required to submit curriculum vitae or resume, statement of purpose or another application essay, proof of current RN license, GRE scores or other test scores, and other pertinent documentation. Recommendation letters may also be required to get into a graduate level nursing program. International students must meet the above requirements and provide a valid visa and financial certification (proof of funding) to get into nursing school.

Students should check with their respective schools to determine the application process and the supporting documentation needed to earn a spot in one of many accredited nursing schools around the country. The State Board of Nursing is also an excellent source of information about the state requirements to get into nursing school.

The choice to attend nursing school is one of the biggest choices that students will ever make in their lives. It is important to understand what the journey to becoming a licensed nurse will consist of so nursing students are fully prepared for the journey. Getting into a state approved, accredited nursing program will make a huge difference in the nursing experience. Even with the nursing shortage, the nursing industry is still very competitive and challenging.

Students have many choices when it comes to getting into nursing school and choosing the right program options. Completing nursing school will not be an easy task, but as long as students know what to expect, the journey can be easier. See our section about nursing school classes to learn more about the classes you can expect to take.

Thinking about going to Nursing School?

Are you contemplating going to nursing school, or are you actually in nursing school right now? Nursing school can be challenging, especially if you do not know what to expect. Here is a great guide by S. L. Page BSN, RN called “ How to Pass Nursing School “. This book gives you detailed information about how to pass nursing school from beginning to end. S.L. Page, the creator of this website, complied all the information students what to know about nursing school into one easy to read guide. She gives in depth information on how to succeed in nursing school.

S.L. Page graduated from nursing school with honors and passed the NCLEX-RN on her first try. In this ebook, she reveals the strategies she used to help her succeed.

Here is what the book looks like:

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Traditional Pathway Program Admission Requirements

Admission to the University of Colorado College of Nursing's Traditional bachelor of science program (TRAD) is competitive. To keep the selection process fair, admission requirements are definitive and applied to each application in the same manner. Please keep in mind that applications are not reviewed until they are received by the application deadline and coded as ‘verified’ in NursingCAS.

Students requiring an F-1 visa are encouraged to contact the Office of International Admission prior to starting the TRAD application

Minimum TRAD Admissions Requirements

How to Apply

• Earned grades in the prerequisite courses, as detailed below. These courses must be earned from a regionally accredited institution with a grade of C or higher. A minimum 3.0 prerequisite GPA is required. This prerequisite GPA only includes the highest grade attempts for courses listed on transcripts at the time of application. If your outstanding course(s) drops your prerequisite GPA to below a 3.0, your offer of admission will be withdrawn. Prerequisite courses must be completed within 10 years of the application deadline . We strongly suggest a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. Note that the overall GPA calculation includes all previous course attempts from regionally accredited institutions, regardless of the year courses were completed. Grade forgiveness and repeat/delete policies are not honored for the overall cumulative GPA.

Applicants without a bachelor's degree are required to complete a total of 60 semester credits (or 90 quarter credits) from a regionally accredited institution. You may take a maximum of 18 semester credits (12 quarter credits), the semester before you start the program. Of these 18 semester credits (12 quarter credits), only one course can be from Anatomy, Chemistry, Physiology, or Microbiology.

The required courses include: (view BS prerequisite descriptions and track your prerequisite progress )

Watch our video guide on prerequisite information.

• Human Anatomy (or A&P I)
• Human Physiology (A&P II)
• Microbiology
• General Chemistry*
• College Algebra
• General Sociology
• General Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Cultural Anthropology or Multicultural Studies
• English Composition II
• Creative Arts
• Two from Foreign Language, History, Microeconomics, Philosophy, or Political Science (courses must be from two different content areas)

*One of these science lectures must have an accompanying lab.

Note: Prerequisites alone often do not total 60 semester (or 90 quarter) credit hours. Some electives may be necessary. Elective credit hours may be selected from most major academic disciplines. Examples of exceptions are commercial or vocational courses, doctrinal courses in religion, and physical education activity courses.

Applicants with a bachelor's degree are only required to complete five prerequisite courses listed below. Only two of the following prerequisites may be taken the semester before you begin the program: 1) statistics and 2) one course from anatomy, chemistry, physiology, or microbiology.

• General Chemistry

Note: Degrees have no expiration date, but need to be posted on your transcripts the semester before you start the program.

• International credential evaluation for degrees earned outside of the United States. To request an evaluation of a foreign degree, a prospective student should submit copies of their diploma and transcripts to [email protected] .
• English language proficiency (see Additional Requirements below)
• Letter of good academic standing if you have previously attended or are transferring from another nursing program.
• Meet the minimum requirements outlined in the Technical Standards for admission, progression, and graduation.

How to Apply/Application Materials

• Complete the application and pay the required application fee. Note that there are two fees associated with the application (NursingCAS and CU Nursing). Both must be paid for an application to be considered complete.
• Submit official transcripts from all institutions attended directly to NursingCAS. Official transcripts from all institutions must be sent regardless of years attended, the number of credits enrolled, or grades earned. This includes any concurrent/dual enrollment courses you took in high school; you must submit official transcripts for any post-secondary school(s) from which you earned college credit while in high school. Submitting transcripts is a two-step process:
• Order your official transcripts in NursingCAS and submit them directly to NursingCAS.
• Enter all courses from each transcript into NursingCAS; this includes the school name, course name, course code, grade, credit number, and term completed. Applicants have the option to pay for this service offered by NursingCAS and is available on the transcript entry page in the application. Failing to accurately report can result in an application being withdrawn from admissions consideration.
• Three professional or academic references (at least one academic reference is recommended). The NursingCAS application will ask for the contact information for your three references. References will be contacted by NursingCAS to complete an online Likert-scale reference form, which is then submitted directly back to NursingCAS. Letters of reference are not accepted.
• Personal statement responding to the following: “Given your personal background, describe your interest in nursing and what makes you special or unique.” Statements must be no more than 500 words, 12 point font, Times New Roman, double spaced, with one-inch margins.
• Official TOEFL scores reports (international applicants only - see Additional Requirements below).

When to Apply

• The application process often takes several weeks (including entering courses into NursingCAS, receiving recommenders' ratings, and ordering all official transcripts [domestic and foreign]), therefore applicants should allow themselves ample time to complete each section. We recommend applicants submit their applications 4 to 6 weeks prior to the application deadline. For details on deadlines, refer to undergraduate application deadlines .
• Applications must be submitted (i.e., in a Received status) by the application deadline. After the application deadline, there is a consecutive 10-day grace period which allows for: all references to reach a Completed status, all official transcripts to be received by NursingCAS, and the application to reach Verified Status. After this grace period, applications not in a Verified status and/or without these required supporting documents will not move forward in the application process. Learn more about your application status .

What to do After Applying

• Once any additional course(s) currently being taken are completed, a final official transcript must be received in NursingCAS, and course information manually entered, using the Academic Update feature. See more information on the Academic Update process and timeframe in NursingCAS.
• Make sure your application is listed in Verified status. Verified status means the application has been received and transcripts have been delivered and determined to be accurate and complete. Learn more about your application status .
• You must be available for the interview and orientation dates listed in the NursingCAS application. The interview dates are not negotiable.
• If any academic history (grades, courses, student standing, etc.) has changed after your application has reached Verified status, you may do an Academic Update in NursingCAS. See more information on the Academic Update process and timeframe in NursingCAS.

Interview Selection

A select number of students will be invited to interview for a position in the TRAD cohort. The admission interview consists of program presentations, individual and group interview activities.

Admissions Notifications

All admission notifications are delivered by email to the address listed in NursingCAS. Admission decisions are generally admitted, waitlist, or deny. All admits are given 10 consecutive days to respond to the offer of admission. Failure to respond to the offer will result in administrative withdrawal. An enrollment deposit is not required.

Students placed on the waitlist are notified by phone if space becomes available. The waitlist ranks are not provided.

Pre-enrollment Requirements

All students at CU Nursing are admitted conditionally pending successful completion/passing of the pre-enrollment requirements including, but not limited to background checks, drug screens (including marijuana), immunizations, etc. Prospective students who have criminal convictions (or pending criminal activity) are encouraged to contact an admissions representative prior to applying. If criminal history or a pending criminal charge prohibits the possibility of clinical placements, admission will be rescinded/denied.

Admitted students should not start any of the pre-enrollment requirements until properly informed and instructed to do so. Many of the pre-enrollment requirements are timed and starting items prematurely can result in a financial loss to the student.

Admitted students are considered CU Nursing students and are held to all policy and procedures that govern the university and college.

Additional Requirements

Transfer credit requirements, transfer credit.

All of your prerequisite classes will be considered transfer credit. This college level credit may be accepted by the University of Colorado if:

• It has been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.
• A grade of C (not C-) or better has been attained.
• The credit is for courses appropriate to the degree sought at this institution.
• It is not vocational-technical course work.
• It is not remedial course work

Advanced Placement (AP) Credit

• Only specific prerequisites and electives can be met using AP credit; view the AP Credit Transfer Guide .
• The minimum score shown is required to transfer the AP credit to meet prerequisites and electives.
• The official transcript (score report) from the College Board is required to show the score(s) earned. This document needs to be sent directly to the University of Colorado College of Nursing.
• To ensure that your official score report is received by the College of Nursing, please request that the College Board mail the document to:

University of Colorado College of Nursing Office of Admissions 13120 E. 19th Avenue, Mailstop C288-6 Aurora, CO 80045

International Baccalaureate (IB) Credit

• Only specific prerequisites and electives can be met using IB credit. View the IB Credit Transfer Guide .
• The minimum score shown is required to transfer the IB credit to meet prerequisites and electives.
• Instructions for ordering your IB diploma are available through on the IB Requesting transcripts and certificates page .
• To ensure that your official score report is received by the College of Nursing, please request that the International Baccalaureate program mail the document to:

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Credit

• Only specific prerequisites and electives can be met using CLEP credit; view the CLEP Credit Transfer Guide .
• The minimum score shown is required to transfer the CLEP credit to meet prerequisites and electives.
• The official transcript (score report) from the College Board is required to show the score(s) earned.
• To ensure that your official score report is received by the College of Nursing, please use the following school code when ordering the report from College Board: 5281.

Pass/Fail Credit

• COVID-19 Exception for Prerequisite Courses - The CU College of Nursing's strong recommendation is that students choose to have standard grades listed on their transcript and not the Pass/Fail grade option. However, for courses completed in Spring 2020 only, Passing (P) or Satisfactory (S) grades may be accepted to fulfill prerequisite courses, provided the P or S indicates that the student has earned a C grade or higher. For GPA calculation purposes, an approved P or S course grade will be converted to the lowest score associated with the P or S by the sending institution (e.g. a C grade will be calculated as a 2.0). For spring 2020 grades only, the student, via the sending institution, will have the option of submitting the underlying/actual grade earned, e.g. A, B, etc., which will be used in the GPA calculation for review purposes. There will not be a cap to the total number of prerequisite credits that may be taken on a P/F or S/U basis for spring 2020 coursework, provided that the aforementioned criteria are satisfied.

Foreign Transcripts and Study Abroad Credits

Transcripts for all foreign (non-study abroad) coursework must be submitted directly to the University of Colorado College of Nursing for evaluation through the Office of International Affairs. Transcripts for study abroad coursework from a non-U.S. institution may be required depending on how foreign coursework is posted on the domestic (receiving institution) transcript. If all course information (course title, credits hours and grades) is posted to the domestic transcript, applicants do not need to submit a separate transcript from the study abroad institution. If any course information is incomplete, or the grades are posed as Pass/Fail, a transcript for the study abroad coursework will need to be submitted directly to the University of Colorado College of Nursing Office of Admissions & Student Affairs .

English Language Proficiency

Due to the clinical nature of the nursing profession, all students must meet the following communication standards, as outlined in the Technical Standards of our Student Handbook :

• A student must be able to communicate clearly and effectively in English with clients, teachers and all members of the health care team. Written and oral communication must use standard, professional medical terminology.
• He/she must communicate with clients clearly and effectively in English to elicit information regarding history, emotional status and activity, and to perceive nonverbal communications.
• Communication includes speech, hearing, reading, writing and computer literacy.
• A student must be able to clearly and effectively report in English to members of the health care team. Additionally, students must be able to relay appropriate information to clients, as well as teach, explain, direct and counsel a wide variety of individuals.
• In some instances the student will be required to provide clear, direct communication in English during highly stressful, crisis situations. These skills necessitate a strong command of the English language and prompt, timely interpretation of pertinent patient data.
• Students must be able to communicate online in a timely, professional manner, e.g., enter an electronic medical record immediately after the patient visit.

If your primary language is not English, or if you are an International Student, you will need to demonstrate required English language proficiency by meeting one of the following criteria:

• You are a citizen of a country whose official language is English including Australia, Belize, Botswana, Canada (except Quebec), Commonwealth Caribbean, Ghana, United Kingdom, Ireland, Kenya, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
• You have obtained a total score of at least 560 on the paper-based TOEFL and 50 or above on the Test of Spoken English (TSE); a score of 83 on the Internet-based TOEFL with 26 or above on the spoken English section. For other minimum subscores see internationaladmissions.ucdenver.edu . The College of Nursing TOEFL Exam Code is 3377. Be sure to use this code when registering for the exam to ensure that we will receive the results.
• You have obtained a total score of 6.5 on IELTS with a minimum speaking subscore of 8. Official IELTS scores must be sent directly to the College of Nursing.
• You have graduated from the University of Colorado Denver’s ESL Academy.
• You have graduated from a US/UK accredited school abroad with English as the medium of instruction.
• You have earned a Bachelor’s degree in the U.S. or you have successfully completed a minimum of 2 semesters of full-time study in a master’s program at an accredited institution in the U.S.

Previous Enrollment in a Nursing Program

Applicants who were previously enrolled in another nursing program (prerequisite courses excluded) are required to submit a letter of good standing from the previous school indicating that the student left in good academic standing. Documentation can be sent to [email protected] and will also need to be included in the NursingCAS application profile.

Technical Standards

All College of Nursing students must meet the minimum requirements outlined in the Technical Standards for admission, progression and graduation.

Healthcare Experience Recommended

Healthcare experience is not an admissions requirement for the Traditional Pathway. However, it is strongly recommended that applicants have exposure to the nursing field so that they better understand the expectations for this career path. Applicants are encouraged to include information about healthcare experience in their resume and the Experiences section in NursingCAS.

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The A to Z Guide to Starting Nursing School

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How to Prepare for Nursing School

How to select a nursing school, how to apply to nursing school, how to pay for nursing school.

• What to Expect

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Going to nursing school is your first step in becoming a professional nurse. Discover what you need to know about applying and getting into nursing school, how to pay for it, and what to expect in this guide. Find out how to prepare for nursing school, including nursing school application requirements, and selecting a nursing school that’s right for you.

When applying to nursing school, there are many things to keep in mind. You want to choose the right nursing program so you can receive the education you need to start your career in a positive way. When considering applying to nursing school, ask these questions:

If you’re currently in high school , good for you for wanting to get a head start on your nursing career ! There are some things you can do now, including taking AP classes and taking advantage of dual enrollment if your school offers it. Other options are finding healthcare-related volunteer or internship opportunities and enrolling in courses in basic first aid and life support.Shadowing a nurse or other healthcare professional can help you better understand what a nursing career might be like. You can also get involved in the HOSA-Future Health Professionals to learn leadership skills. You also want to do as well as possible on the SAT . These strategies can help strengthen your nursing school application and resume.

Not everyone starts nursing school straight out of high school. Some college students will first earn a degree in science or another major before realizing that nursing most interests them. Other students will switch to nursing while part way through another program. Still, others may have an entirely different career (or several careers) before applying to nursing school in their 20s-40s and beyond.

Internships and Volunteer Opportunities for High School and Pre-Nursing Students

Discover nursing internships and volunteer opportunities for high school and pre-nursing students in our state-by-state guide

Ask a Nurse: What Can I Do as a High Schooler to Get a Head Start On Becoming a Registered Nurse?

High school students can take these steps to improve their chances of admission into a nursing program and get a head start on their education.

10 Ways High School Students Can Prepare for a Nursing Career

Check out 10 ways that a high school student can prepare for a nursing career of their dreams.

Most colleges and universities require students to submit SAT scores as part of their general application materials. SAT scores help a school compare individual students to their larger pool of applicants. After a student receives general admission into a school, some bachelor’s programs may also require students to submit their general SAT scores or SAT …

How to Choose a Nursing School

Choosing a nursing school is the first step in becoming a nurse. There are many things to consider, including how long a program lasts, the school’s accreditation, and the type of degree that’s offered. You must also decide whether to attend a technical school or college and the type of nursing role you want to pursue after graduating. After graduating, you need to pass the NCLEX and become licensed.

Knowing whether you want to begin your nursing journey with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is a major decision.

Since it usually takes two years to complete, an ADN is the fastest path to becoming a professional nurse. Tuition at community colleges can be more affordable than 4-year universities. If you have an ADN, then you can then enroll in an RN-to-BSN bridge program while working as a nurse and building your career. There are online and in-person programs , and each option has its benefits and challenges.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) offers strong reasons for pursuing a BSN, including the fact that many studies and organizations —including the Institute of Medicine’s Future of Nursing report —recommend that more nurses be prepared with a BSN.

Because of this, many hospitals now only hire nurses with a BSN, and these programs normally take four years to complete. However, if you already have an ADN, then it will take you less time. Depending on the nursing role that interests you, a BSN may be the best avenue to get there.

For those with a bachelor’s degree in another field, an accelerated bachelor’s in nursing (ABSN) usually allows you to transfer many credits towards the program. ABSN programs take anywhere from 11-18 months to complete.

Another factor to consider when choosing a nursing school program is the schools’ accreditation . The accreditation process involves an independent peer review by an organization with the authority to determine if a school meets educational standards.

Financial aid organizations want to know that a program prepares students for success in the field. Accreditation also signals to applicants and employers that the school offers a solid education. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredit nursing programs.

If you don’t attend an accredited school, you may not be able to sit for the NCLEX exam . An education from a non-accredited school may make it difficult or impossible to transfer your license to another state, according to this NCSBN map . Some employers may not hire you if you didn’t go to an accredited school.

How to Choose a Nursing Program

What Is Accreditation and Why Is It Important?

Types of Nursing Degrees and Levels

How Long Is Nursing School? Breakdown by Degree and Type of Nurse

In-Person vs. Online Nursing Programs: Which Is Right for Me?

Ask a Nurse: College vs. Technical School?

Once you’ve chosen a nursing school (or several schools) to apply to, it’s time to begin the application process . Nursing school requirements can vary, so be sure to follow the rules. The NursingCAS (Centralized Application Service for Nursing) allows you to apply to multiple schools with one universal application and one set of transcripts.

Volunteer experience (e.g., hospice volunteer or mission trip) and internships can strengthen your application, especially if these activities are related to healthcare. Prior work experience in a related area can also be helpful (e.g., EMT, paramedic, home health aide, certified nurses aide).

Admissions counselors can help you prepare your application. A nursing school application has many moving parts, so make sure you know each school’s requirements well. If you’re returning to school after working in another career, contact the school’s admissions office to find out which credits will transfer.

Common Prerequisites

Find out the timeline for applying to nursing school . Each program will have different deadlines. First, assess what prerequisites are required and make sure to complete them with the best grades possible since your GPA will count. Common prerequisites include:

Common Interview Questions

Next, you may need to take a nursing school entrance exam like the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam, or National League for Nursing Pre-Admission exam (NLN-PAX). After receiving your application, some schools may require you to sit for a nursing program interview . Common questions might include:

Also be prepared if the schools you’ve chosen require references, a resume, letters of recommendation, or a personal essay.

What Are the Prerequisites for Nursing School?

This guide explores common nursing school prerequisites. Discover what classes and requirements you need before you apply.

Nursing School Application Checklist and Deadlines

Applying to nursing school is the first step toward a rewarding career. Get all the information you need about the process in this detailed guide.

Applying to Nursing School

Are you considering a nursing career or wondering how to apply to nursing school? Now is a great time to get started. Read this guide to learn how to apply to nursing school and choose a program that suits your professional interests.

Application & Transfer Guide for Undergrads

Applying for college is a complex process. These are some of the most important issues to consider when choosing a program that best meets your goals.

Your Guide to Nursing Entrance Exams

Many nursing programs require prospective students to take an exam. There are various nursing entrance exams, including the PAX, TEAS, HESI, Kaplan, and PSB.

Preparing For Your Nursing Program Interview

Most people experience anxiety or nervousness before an important interview, but we hope the following tips and advice from nursing professionals can help you feel confident and prepared for the process.

Getting into the nursing school of your choice is probably the first thing on your mind. But after getting accepted and celebrating, the next big question is how to pay for it.

Starting nursing school is exciting, and there are many options to help you cover the cost of attending, including loans, grants, and scholarship. After all, once you become an RN, you can earn a higher salary, which will help you pay back any nursing school loans.

The cost of nursing school varies widely, depending on whether it’s a public or private university and other factors. Private universities might charge up to $40,000 for an ADN program, whereas a public university ADN education might range from $6,000-$20,000. BSN programs at private universities could cost $80,000 to $100,000, and BSN from a public university might run you $40,000.

There are numerous scholarships and grants for nursing students — the more you apply to, the better. Some scholarships may seem low, but every dollar helps when you’re putting together the resources to afford your nursing education. The AACN offers financial aid resources for nursing students, including links to scholarship search engines.

If you’re wondering if a nursing degree is worth it , consider the fact that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the annual median salary for registered nurses is $77,600. (Note that the BLS does not differentiate between nurses with an ADN or a BSN.)

The BLS projects 9% job growth for RNs from 2020-2030, which is as fast as average. With an ongoing nurse shortage, nursing graduates should continue to find demand in a large job market. If you have your sights on becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) in the future, the BLS projects 45% job growth through 2030, and reports a 2021 average annual salary of $118,040.

Once you’re working as a nurse, you can refinance your loans and save money by consolidating loans, decreasing your monthly payments, and getting a better interest rate.If you’re worried that money may be tight while you’re in school, there are plenty of budgeting calculators and other resources that can help reduce stress around money so you focus your energy on school. Student discounts, cheaper textbooks, healthy spending habits, and other tips can make a big difference if you’re disciplined about your finances.

Nursing Scholarships and Grants

Nurses deserve a break. These scholarships and grants offer financial awards to nursing students.

How Much Does Nursing School Cost?

How much does nursing school cost? Nursing school tuition depends on many factors, such as degree level and location. Learn more about nursing school expenses.

Why is Nursing School So Expensive?

Make no mistake: nursing school comes at a high cost. Find out why and get tips on how to maximize your nursing school education from our healthcare experts.

Paying for Your Nursing Degree

Are you curious about how to tackle your nursing school tuition? Check out our guide to discover ways to pay for your nursing education.

Is Nursing School Worth It?

Before choosing the nursing career path, you should carefully consider the cost of tuition, potential salary figures, and return on investment. On this page, we ask nursing professionals about these concerns.

Refinancing Nursing School Loans: Everything You Need to Know

Student loan refinancing has become more popular today in response to the rising cost of financing a nursing education. There are many options for nursing school graduates to refinance federal subsidized and unsubsidized student loans and private student loans. Refinancing involves taking out a new loan with new terms; the new lender pays off the …

Budgeting for Nursing School

This guide looks at budgeting for nursing students. Keep reading for tips to reduce costs, free budgeting tools, and links to useful personal management resources.

What to Expect in Nursing School

Once you’re accepted to nursing school and you’ve started your nursing education, you’ll have your hands full. There is plenty to get used to, a lot to learn, and many new experiences to take in, including clinical assignments with real patients.

In your first year of nursing school, you can expect to purchase a number of supplies, including:

Common Nursing Courses

You can expect clinical experiences to begin during your first or second semester after learning nursing fundamentals and attending “skills labs” that cover clinical hands-on skills. Common nursing courses include, but are not limited to:

Best Practices and Advice

Best practices and advice from former nursing students might include:

Some of the challenges of nursing school are the many hours of studying required to learn the enormous body of knowledge that makes up the profession. It can feel overwhelming, but every nursing student learns along the way that you just can’t absorb or know everything.

The first time you put on your scrubs and show up to a clinical assignment or practicum with your shiny new stethoscope, you’ll probably feel very new and awkward. Trying to learn new skills may make you feel like you have ten thumbs. If you don’t have previous experience interacting with patients and their loved ones (e.g., as nurses aides or EMTs) it will take time to find your “voice” and bedside style as a nurse.

As a nursing student, you may see, smell, touch, and hear things that are unfamiliar and unpleasant, and even some things that make you feel queasy. There’s a lot to get used to if you’ve never spent time in a hospital or nursing home before. The reality of what it’s like to be a nurse may be somewhat different than what you imagined (or saw on TV).

Make no mistake that nursing school can be very difficult, and there will be times when you’re frustrated, angry, confused, and exhausted. However, once you find your rhythm, feel more comfortable in your own skin, and gain some confidence in both the classroom and the clinical space, you’ll find that there are just as many rewards as there are challenges, if not more so. Nursing school is a fascinating journey that, when completed successfully, serves as a doorway to a career that can be as varied, interesting, and exciting as you would like it to be. According to a 2021 Gallup poll , nurses are deeply trusted by the American public. Your nursing career can reflect that trust in many ways. Enjoy the process, and look forward to the happy day when you can proudly say that you are indeed a registered nurse.

Ask a Nurse: What Are the Hardest Classes You'll Take in Nursing School?

15 Common Courses In RN Programs

How Online Nursing Programs Work

Advice From Nursing Grads to New Students

Nursing Internships and Practicums

• Approval of Nursing Education Programs. (2022). https://www.ncsbn.org/665.htm
• Baccalaureate Education. (2022). https://www.aacnnursing.org/Nursing-Education-Programs/Baccalaureate-Education
• Institute of Medicine, et al. The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. (2011). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24983041/
• Saad, Lydia. Military Brass, Judges Among Professions at New Image Lows. (2022). https://news.gallup.com/poll/388649/military-brass-judges-among-professions-new-image-lows.aspx
• Surgery for breast cancer. (2019). https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer.html
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages. 2022. Nurse Practitioners. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291171.htm
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. 2022. Registered Nurses. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm

Page Last Reviewed: September 25, 2022

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

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Today marks the 177th Commencement Ceremonies at Emory University! After the activities at the Quandrangle, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing will host a Degree Candidate Recognition Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Emory Student Center. All events will be streamed live.

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What Is a Medical-Surgical Nurse? Requirements and Outlook

Nursing August 29, 2024

Nurses provide many types of care to patients, ranging from routine care during wellness visits to emergency interventions following accidents or for acute illnesses. Some also provide hands-on care before and after surgical procedures.

For aspiring and current nurses who are interested in caring for patients during a time of particular vulnerability, the medical-surgical nursing position can be an excellent option. But what is a medical-surgical nurse? Learn more about this impactful profession, and find out how a nursing education can prepare you for long-term success as a medical-surgical nurse.

What Does a Medical-Surgical Nurse Do?

Medical-surgical nurses, also called med-surg nurses, provide care to patients who are preparing for, or recovering from, an operation. Med-surg nurses promote the safety, well-being, and comfort of their patients while also treating them for any complications that arise from the surgery, comorbidities, or other chronic health issues they have. Nurses in this specialty also monitor patients before and after a surgical procedure, alerting the attending surgeon to any significant change in their vital signs or overall condition.

What Is a Medical-Surgical Nurse’s Work Environment?

Most medical-surgical nurses work in hospitals and other large healthcare facilities, though some work in outpatient surgical centers, military facilities, and nursing homes. Their most common work environment is the med-surg unit, which is where patient intake occurs. Nurses in these units help their patients get ready for their surgical procedure, provide immediate assistance following the procedure, and ensure patients have the guidelines they need for a successful recovery once they go home.

Medical-Surgical Nurse Job Description

The responsibilities associated with this position can vary from facility to facility. However, a typical job description for a medical-surgical nurse might include the following duties:

Assessing, planning, and implementing care plans for patients who require surgery, all in consultation with doctors and other healthcare professionals

Providing direct bedside care to patients before and after an operation

Preparing, administering, and documenting patients’ medications

Starting patients’ IVs, inserting their catheters, and changing their surgical dressings

Monitoring patients’ vital signs and responding quickly to any adverse change

Collaborating with attending physicians on patients’ discharge plans

Answering questions from patients and their family members, and educating them about the patients’ recovery and aftercare 

Medical-Surgical Nurse Education and Experience Requirements

Individuals interested in pursuing a medical-surgical nursing specialty need to gain the right set of skills and patient care competencies. This means seeking a robust education, getting licensed, and obtaining hands-on experience.

Undergraduate Degree

The first step for aspiring nurses is to earn an undergraduate degree. This may be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A nursing degree program furnishes students with the foundational skills in patient intake and bedside care they will need to be a successful medical-surgical nurse.

After completing their nursing program, individuals must take and successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Once they pass the exam, they can become licensed as registered nurses through their state’s nursing board. Licensure is required for any kind of full-time nursing position.

Hands-On Experience

Nurses need to gain some experience in patient triage, intake, and surgical preparation procedures before they can be qualified for a full-time position as a medical-surgical nurse. This might mean completing a medical-surgical internship, or simply taking on a nursing shift that involves some time working with patients before and after their surgical procedures.

Certification

Medical-surgical certifications are not strictly required, but they can signify a nurse has achieved a high level of clinical acumen and patient care skills. Some of the most prestigious medical-surgical certifications are the certified medical-surgical registered nurse (CMSRN) designation and the medical-surgical nursing certification (MEDSURG-BC).

Required Skills

Through this pursuit of education and experience, aspiring med-surg nurses should focus on honing skills such as analytical thinking, communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills. All are essential for success as a medical-surgical nurse.

Job Outlook for Medical-Surgical Nurses

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for nurses is quite positive. The BLS projects 6% job growth for nurses between 2022 and 2032, which is higher than the average projected for all professions. This growth encompasses all nursing specialties, including med-surg.

Explore Your Future as a Medical-Surgical Nurse

Working with patients before and after their surgical procedures can be rewarding for any nurse. To prepare for long-term success as a medical-surgical nurse, start by pursuing a high-quality education. Learn more about the nursing school programs from Fortis which are designed to help students develop a wide set of nursing skills that are valuable in any nursing field.

Recommended Readings How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse? LPN vs. RN: What’s the Difference? How to Become a Pediatric Nurse

Sources: Betterteam, Medical-Surgical Nurse Job Description Indeed, “What Is Med-Surg Nursing? (With Helpful Job Requirements)” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses Zippia, What Does a Surgical Nurse Do?

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Contact Information

Wondering whether a degree in nursing might be right for you? Contact us to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.

Phone: 530-898-5891 Email: [email protected]

Have you imagined yourself wearing scrubs, working in a hospital or clinic, and providing frontline care to people? Help fill the national demand for nurses, who play so many important roles in our healthcare system, by providing patient care, guidance, and support.

By enrolling in our nationally ranked, recognized, and accredited nursing program, you’ll gain the practical experience needed to launch a career in nursing or begin graduate studies. You’ll be supported by passionate faculty and dedicated clinical partners in small classes where your peers become like family.

Putting ‘Care’ in Career

Our curriculum brings the nursing profession to life, offering you everything from courses in communication and human anatomy to hyper realistic simulation practicums at our state-of-the-art learning lab.

Specializations and Options

We offer two options within the nursing major to meet your needs, depending on where you are in your learning journey.

General Option

If you are beginning in the nursing field, this curriculum meets all state requirements for initial Registered Nurse licensure as well as Public Health Nursing certification.

Advanced Placement Option (for RN to BSN)

If you’ve already completed an associate’s RN program, this option meets the requirements for Public Health Nursing certification.

You Can Improve Lives

Our program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and consistently named among the nation’s best BSN programs. Graduates enjoy a 100% employment rate with a median income of more than $89,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A few places where our graduates work include:

• Enloe Medical Center
• Stanford Health
• UCSF Medical Center
• Sharp Health Care in San Diego
• Loma Linda University Health
• UC Davis Health Center

I’ve resuscitated people back to life, I’ve lost patients, I’ve helped deliver a baby, I’ve cut the cord. I handle everything from the beginning of life to the end.

A Call to Service

The Chico State nursing faculty consistently use their skills and expertise to address the most pressing questions impacting our healthcare system in unique and creative ways.

Caring for Community Health

Nursing professor Sarah Brown Blake is incorporating climate change and environmental health and justice into her teaching .

Nursing Alum Puts LGBTQ+ Patient Care Policy into Practice

Envisioning an American healthcare system that welcomes its LGBTQ+ patients with the dignity and respect that all patients deserve, Jonathan Gurrola (Nursing, ’18; MA, Psychology, ’19) is working to make that dream come true.

Serving on the Frontlines Against COVID-19

Doing their part to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, students from Chico State's School of Nursing volunteered at local sites to provide testing and administer long-awaited vaccinations.

Employment rate upon graduation

National Council Licensure Examination pass rate

A Culture of Belonging

With three active student clubs, including the California Nursing Students Association, Nursing Club, and United Nursing via DEI, you’ll have a variety of platforms to connect with peers, access professional mentors, and develop leadership skills.

Practical Nursing Experience in Action

True hands-on learning.

In our nursing program, a big part of learning is doing the work. In addition to skill labs and our collaborative class environment, you’ll test yourself in our state-of-the-art facilities working with community partners who offer you the chance to fully realize your vision of becoming a nurse.

Life-Like Simulation Center

The Rural Northen California Simulation Center is one of its kind in Northern California, offering you a true-to-life learning environment to practice your skills with peers. Operating in collaboration with our students and community partners, you’ll have guidance and input from faculty and advisors.

Critical Work Experience

Gain important clinical experience through the Rural California Nursing Preceptorship (RCNP) Program, designed to give student nurses and graduate nurses (RNs) an opportunity to work in a rural or semi-rural setting.

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We acknowledge and are mindful that Chico State stands on lands that were originally occupied by the first people of this area, the Mechoopda, and we recognize their distinctive spiritual relationship with this land, the flora, the fauna, and the waters that run through campus. We are humbled that our campus resides upon sacred lands that since time immemorial have sustained the Mechoopda people and continue to do so today.

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Non-clinical nursing jobs: Alternative career paths and salaries

Patient care isn’t always easy. If you’re ready for a new role outside the clinic, looking into non-bedside nursing jobs may be the right choice for you. From flight nurses to nurse health coaches and working at pharmaceutical companies to managing medical records, nurses have many options outside of careers as traditional healthcare providers. Keep reading to learn more about possible non-clinical roles , education requirements, and salaries. 

The importance of diversifying career paths

The move from the bedside to a non-traditional role can seem intimidating. However, it’s an opportunity to expand your career options while enhancing your work-life balance. 

Your clinical and professional skills are transferable to other non-traditional nursing careers in leadership , education, research, or consulting and provide experience with the challenges you might encounter. These diverse career roles help you build multiple skills, creating versatility and expertise.

Non-traditional positions may be as demanding as traditional nursing jobs, but usually involve fewer night and weekend shifts. The slower, more predictable pace creates stability and flexibility for a better work-life balance.

Non-clinical nursing job options

Non-bedside nursing jobs for those who want to work outside patient care have expanded over the years. Depending on your interests, you might work in education, consulting, administration, community health, information technology, or many other areas.

Nurse educator

A common non-bedside nursing job is as a nurse educator . These nurses are experienced nursing professionals who teach, train and mentor up-and-coming nurses in a classroom or clinical setting, perform research and community education, and design curricula. Nurse educators often hold graduate degrees in nursing theory, such as a master of science in nursing or a doctoral degree. 1

Nurse consultant

Nurse consultants work in many settings, including hospitals, urgent care clinics, nursing homes, and physicians’ offices. They provide professional insight into patient care, promoting wellness, designing customized care plans, and educating professionals and patients. 2

To try out a non-bedside role before they go all-in, some nurses act as part-time legal nurse consultants. A legal nurse consultant may provide professional opinions for legal professionals on different types of cases, and could offer testimony in different capacities including as a: 3

• Testifying medical expert
• Medical fact witness
• Medical reviewer
• Licensing investigator
• Risk management expert

Nurses can also work in law enforcement forensic departments as forensic nurses, working to treat victims of crimes and help advocate for anti-violence efforts.

Nurse administrator

Interested in a non-bedside nursing job but still want to make a clear impact on patients? Check out nursing administration. Nurse administrators typically plans and coordinates the activity of a hospital or other healthcare facilities as an administrator, supervisor, or executive. 4 The specific duties of nurse administrators vary depending on the role but usually involve coordinating the logistics behind quality patient care and medical services including:

• Hiring and managing the staff of healthcare organizations
• Developing and monitoring policies and procedures
• Creating and controlling budgets
• Planning future strategies
• Mitigating risk

Public health specialist

Public health nurses work with communities and focus on improving systems and factors that affect the health of various populations. Public health specialists hold advanced degrees, focusing on community health , chronic illnesses and public health policy. 5  

As a public health nurse, you can work in many possible settings and roles, from health department director, school nurse, infection control nurse , or non-profit leader. Duties range from program planning and financial management to policy development and public health research or health education campaigns. 6

Nurse informaticist

Medical informatics involves mining data to improve workflows, technology, and nursing processes for better patient safety. As a member of a healthcare team, an informatics nurse applies nursing and information or analytical sciences to data communication in the nursing practice. Nurse informaticists have helped organizations apply EMRs, digital order entry, and other technologies in this developing field. 7

Salary ranges and compensation

Non-bedside or non-hospital nursing careers are well-paying jobs with comparable or higher wages than clinical positions. While the annual average salary of these roles varies depending on a number of factors, as of spring of 2024 they were:

• Nurse educator: $104,846 8
• Nurse consultant: $112,174 9
• Healthcare administrator: $88,984 10
• Public health specialist: $70,858 11
• Nurse informaticist: $101,360 12

Multiple factors influence average salary levels, from location, demand, and specific positions to individual education, training, and experience. Leadership and consulting positions, for example, may offer higher wages, which will differ in each location. 

Advanced education and training also drive higher salaries. For instance, the median annual wage for a nurse with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is $102,600, compared to $71,091 for a nurse with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). 13

In addition, gaining experience can help you advance through your new career and increase your earning potential. New healthcare administrators may have lower salaries than other roles, but you can move into a manager, supervisor, or director position where top earners make as much as $241,000 annually. 14  

Educational requirements and training

Registered nurses transitioning from patient care services to non-clinical jobs in the nursing profession will likely need to pursue additional training and education to make the switch. Whether through a graduate nursing degree, certification, continuing education, or mentorship, bedside nurses can turn a page in their careers to apply their nursing skills outside of a. healthcare facility.

Additional certifications or degrees

Non-clinical nursing jobs often have a specialty focus as part of advanced practice. Additional education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing or graduate certificates, make you a stronger candidate for these positions. 15

A degree with a specialization track in education, leadership, or public health will allow you to develop nursing leadership skills while building on your existing clinical skills.

Continuing education opportunities

Continuing education (CE) offers training on emerging issues, new understandings, and best practices, but it can also help you advance your skills and increase your career potential. The American Nurses Association offers several CE certifications that may be useful, including: 16

• Nurse Executive
• Nursing Informatics
• Nursing Professional Development

Work environment and responsibilities

Healthcare, whether clinical or non-clinical, is a collaborative industry in general. While non-clinical roles may serve students or a medical organization rather than patients directly, you will partner with many healthcare professionals across different teams.

In addition, non-clinical positions often involve theoretical thinking and big-picture planning, allowing you to create policies that affect day-to-day healthcare activities. You might manage teams or departments, direct programs or spending, or influence community health or patient care decisions.

The workplace environment is usually office-based or remote, depending on the job. Nurse educators, for example, work onsite with students at universities, colleges or clinical settings. However, online instruction is a common option and you may find remote or hybrid positions that allow you to teach from anywhere.

Job satisfaction and fulfillment

Non-bedside nursing careers can bring as much depth, fulfillment, and satisfaction as bedside roles. While direct patient care is minimal, you can still affect patient outcomes through policy, program planning, research and education, and organizational problem-solving.

Working in management or policy roles allows you to contribute to improvements in the healthcare system, making positive changes that affect nurses, professionals and patients. A new role also means a chance to learn skills and experience personal and professional growth.

Pursue an online MSN toward a new nursing role

Do you love being a nurse but are ready for something new? Return to nursing school for a chance to take off on a different path. Non-traditional nursing careers in education, public health and leadership are vital to successful healthcare delivery. Explore new roles with the Oklahoma City University's online Master of Science in Nursing program and prepare for a specialized role and higher earning potential. Study with industry leaders and mentors through 100% online learning. Talk to an admissions outreach advisor today to learn more.

• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  forbes.com/advisor/education/healthcare/become-a-nurse-educator/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocn.13830
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from nurse.org/resources/legal-nurse-consultant/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  explorehealthcareers.org/career/health-administration-management/health-administrator/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8092811/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  himss.org/resources/what-nursing-informatics
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  indeed.com/career/clinical-nurse-educator/salaries
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  indeed.com/career/nurse-consultant/salaries   
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  indeed.com/career/health-services-administrator/salaries
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  indeed.com/career/public-health-nurse/salaries
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  indeed.com/career/clinical-informaticist/salaries
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  statista.com/statistics/1227044/annual-wage-of-nurses-in-the-united-states-by-education-level/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Health-Services-Administrator-Salary
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  nursingworld.org/content-hub/resources/nursing-resources/how-to-become-a-nurse-administrator/
• Retrieved on April 16, 2024, from  nursingworld.org/continuing-education/?q=certification&ResultPage=60&SortBy=Relevance#FilterForm

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What To Know About Applying to Nursing Schools

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While there may be a nursing shortage, U.S. News & World Report states that nursing programs remain one of the most competitive programs in terms of gaining entry. As the nursing shortage continues, nursing programs remain selective as there are only a certain number of spots available. 

There are a handful of reasons why nursing schools have become increasingly competitive despite the ongoing nursing shortage including decreasing class size, aging nursing faculty, increase in the number of applicants, availability of clinical sites, and classroom space.

According to AACN’s report Enrollment and Graduations in Baccalaureate and Graduate Programs in Nursing , U.S. nursing schools turned away 75,029 qualified applicants for the 2018-2019 academic year.

Here are a few helpful tips for applying to nursing programs. It is important to remember that each program may have specific requirements, so check the program’s website or contact an admissions counselor with questions or concerns.

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Informatics
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Informatics
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs

As a working RN, you need a flexible, transfer-friendly program to help you save time and money as you take the next step in your nursing career. In our CCNE-accredited4 RN to BSN program, you can transfer in up to 134 credits—which is nearly 75% of program requirements. Your transfer credits can be reviewed in one business day (on average).

Enrollment: FL

• MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• MSN - Adult-Gerontology NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Pediatric NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Nursing Leadership & Admin
• See more Rasmussen nursing programs

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.

• MSN - Women's Health NP
• MSN - Nurse-Midwifery/Women's Health NP

Nursing School Admission Requirements

The main requirement for applying to nursing school is a high school diploma or GED. Major universities require a minimum 3.0 GPA or better. The better the applicant’s GPA, the better the chances of getting into a top-notch program. Applicants without the minimum GPA should not apply as Universities will rarely consider the application. Hospital-based nursing programs and community colleges allow for lower GPAs.

Students will be required to take either the SATs or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) depending on the university of their choice. Prospective applicants are encouraged to purchase study guides, take review courses, and seek out additional help if needed. Individuals should confirm which exam is required by the program of their choice.

Once ready to apply, applicants will need to submit the following, 

• Official Transcript
• Standardized Test Scores
• Admission application
• 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

Pay close attention to deadlines that are listed on the website and, if possible, submit the entire application early.

Applying early reinforces the applicant’s commitment, as well as his or her eagerness to enter the program. Furthermore, early application gives admission counselors time to contact you if there is a need for supplemental information. Some major Universities offer early acceptance to the nursing program and others offer rolling admission. 

Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing encourages applicants to make sure their resume is updated and includes all leadership activities, volunteer history, education and work history, and publications or presentations.

Not all universities require volunteer work, however it is encouraged by college admission counselors. Ideal prospective students should volunteer at a community clinic or hospital.

Volunteering not only gives an applicant experience and a view into the nursing profession, but it also looks good on an application. Furthermore, it allows students to know if nursing is the right career path with ample time to change plans if need be. It’s important to show nursing programs that you are invested in the healthcare industry and have the initiative to expand your knowledge even prior to nursing school. This will make your application more competitive amongst hundreds of other applications. 

Students who wish to expand their volunteer resume can also join an organization such as the American Red Cross. While the majority of volunteers are needed internationally, the Red Cross does have local chapters with numerous volunteer opportunities.

One benefit of volunteering with the Red Cross is that they allow volunteers to tailor their experience towards their nursing career goals. For example, if a volunteer is interested in child health, there are opportunities to work in daycare and school settings. According to the American Red Cross website, additional opportunities for nursing students include teaching first aid, assisting with local blood drives, and providing disaster response.

Nursing School Interview Process

Applicants that pass the initial screening process will schedule an interview with an admission counselor, as well as several key members of the department. This interview doesn’t necessarily weed out candidates but it does allow a face to face interaction and an opportunity for students to explain why they would be a good fit for the program. It is important to know that not all nursing programs require interviews. 

The interview is a chance for the applicant to sell themselves. Nursing program committee members want to know why a student would make a good nurse and be a positive representative of the program. 

Other important things to remember during the interview process is,

• Be up to date on current health stories
• Prepare by practicing mock interviews
• Know key facts about the nursing program and the university
• Don’t lie, evade, or embellish during the interview

While the type of questions asked at nursing school interviews is expansive and differs for every program, most nursing school interview questions fall into one of the following categories:

• Traditional, open-ended
• Personality and involvement
• Situational or ethical dilemma in nursing
• Current affair

A recent nursing school interview format that is gaining popularity among many nursing programs throughout the U.S. is the multiple mini-interview. This type of interview consists of 6-10 timed stations that the applicants rotate through within a two-hour time period. This allows students to meet nursing faculty and get to know more than just a few key individuals. 

Sample interview questions include,

• Why do you want to be a nurse?
• What do you feel like your greatest skill is that will allow you to be a great nurse?
• Do you have any examples of when you needed to make a split second decision that impacted others?
• Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?
• Do you have any experience volunteering or working in the healthcare industry?
• If you could change one aspect of your personality at the snap of your fingers, what would it be and why?
• Tell me about a time when a barrier challenged your ability to communicate and how did you deal with that?
• Do you think a physician should tell a patient they have 8 months left to live?
• What is your opinion on physician-assisted death?
• Would your decision to become a physician change if the US moved to a universal healthcare system similar to that of Canada?
• Do you know the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
• If you see a classmate stealing, what would you do?
• A nurse at a clinical practicum site is acting unethically. What would you do?
• What are some of your passions?

Check out this interesting article to find out more tips and tricks about nursing interviews. 

Do Research

Many nursing programs receive more applications than the number of spots available. Unfortunately, this means that not everyone who applies will be accepted. Students can be put on a waitlist which means that if another accepted student does not wish to attend that program, the school will open up spots to applicants on the waiting list. 

Other students, might get into the University but not the nursing program. This is often seen in large state schools such as Penn State University or The University of Alabama. These programs will encourage students to take basic liberal arts and science classes and then transfer to the nursing program after their freshman or sophomore year. This might not seem ideal to some students, but it does provide additional opportunities within top-notch nursing programs. 

Paying for Nursing School

Let’s be honest, nursing school isn’t cheap. Most students require financial assistance and that is why it is important to speak to a financial aid representative at the University or community college to understand your options. Not everyone will qualify for all the different types of aid that are available but hopefully between scholarships, grants, and federal loans the cost of nursing school will be more manageable. 

Here’s a more in depth breakdown of the different types of monetary aid that is available. Remember, research the different types of aid you may be eligible for and apply early. 

Scholarships

A scholarship is an award of financial aid to a student to further their education. This money does not have to be repaid. There are a variety of different types of scholarships. These include

• Merit-based
• Student-specific (gender, race, religion, family, and/or medical history)
• Career-specific
• College-specific

Most scholarships will require letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and personal essays. Monetary amounts can be as little as $100 to as much as the cost of your education. You can apply to multiple scholarships as long as the school is on the approved list. 

Grants are determined by financial need. They can be used to cover the cost of tuition, books, clinical uniforms and supplies, housing and educational supplies. When applying for grants they will inform how they are to be applied towards your education. The amount of money you are eligible to receive depends strictly on your financial situation.

Typically grants do not have to be repaid as long as you graduate nursing school in the allotted amount of time. If you were to drop out there can be incurred costs.

Student Loans

Unlike scholarships and grants, loans must be repaid. Loans incur interest, so you will ultimately repay more than the initial amount of the loan. The exact terms of the loan will depend on the lender and other factors. There are several types of student loans.

The most common loans are Federal Student Loans. Federal student loans are a great option for most students for the following reasons:

• They don’t have to be paid back while you’re in school.
• They charge lower interest than loans from private lenders.
• If you’re having trouble paying back your loan, there are programs you can qualify for to assist you.
• You don’t need any credit history to get a federal student loan.

Two other fairly common loans are direct subsidized loans and direct unsubsidized loans more commonly referred to as Stafford Loans. 

Direct Subsidized Loans

• U.S. Department of Education loan
• Must meet certain income requirements
• Demonstrate financial need
• Government pays interest rate on loan while in schools
• Pay back once graduated

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

• Don’t have to meet income requirements
• Student is responsible for accrued interest

Federal Perkins Loan 

• Very low-income students
• Lender is the education institution
• Meet income requirements
• School must have funds available, limited monetary amounts

Private Student Loans

From banks and credit unions

Very high interest rates

Payments required while in school

• Determine where you would like to attend classes? Do you want to live on campus? Do you want to live at home? Are you ready to move out of state?
• Determine if you will be applying to a traditional four-year undergraduate program or a hospital-based/community college associates nursing program.
• Research nursing programs that fit your goals based on location, financial ability, and career plans.
• Set up college visits to determine if the programs are worth applying to. Make sure to meet with admissions counselors, members of the nursing faculty, and the financial aid department. ASK QUESTIONS!
• Gather required documents and APPLY!
• Once accepted, send the signed acceptance letter to the program and begin to prepare for your journey to become a nurse.
• Apply for financial aid including scholarships, grants, and/or loans. Check out  our scholarships page  for more information about scholarships that are available to nursing students. 

Find Nursing Programs

• GPA requirements are set forth by the University that the nursing school is a part of. Generally, BSN programs will require a minimum of a 3.0 GPA while an ADN program at a community college may only require a 2.5 GPA. 
• Depending on the type of University some will require a minimum high school GPA of 3.2. 
• The GPA required to get into an Ivy League school nursing program such as the University of Pennsylvania may be different than the GPA needed to get into the University of Florida’s nursing program. 
• Yes! This is highly advised as undergraduate nursing programs are highly competitive. If accepted to several programs, you can then decide which is the best fit academically and financially. 
• A traditional Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) program will allow individuals to graduate in four years with their nursing degree.  
• For students that already have a bachelor’s degree in another field a BSN can be earned in as little as 12-18 months through an accelerated second degree program. 
• An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) can be earned in as little as two years through a community college or hospital based program. 
• The only requirement to apply to a traditional four year nursing program is graduating from high school or earning your GED. All other requirements are part of the application process. These include, 
• Successful completion of a high school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA
• Admissions application
• Personal essay
• Personal interview
• Teacher Recommendations
• Application Fee
• Minimum SAT scores or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) (These will vary amongst Universities)
• There are several different ways to pay for nursing school including scholarships, federal loans, and grants. 

Kathleen Colduvell, originally with a degree in journalism, has worked in numerous hospitals over her eight years as a NICU nurse. Currently, she works at one of the leading children’s hospitals in the country in the NICU, PICU, and CICU and working as a Certified Breastfeeding Consultant.

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

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