Increasing GPA for Nursing Schools

SapphireKitten, CNA · Nov 30, 2016

Hi there! I am/was in a similar situation, but I only started a different degree program first. I didn't receive the degree like you. I started college fresh out of high school at 17 to become an elementary school teacher. Long story short, I slacked off and wasn't serious about that entire year of college and ended up with a 2.3 GPA. Then I had a change of heart for nursing after experiencing the medical field. Needless to say, it was a hot mess.

To start, I think you should pick out a few possible nursing schools that you would like to apply to once finishing your pre-reqs. Check to see which pre-reqs these schools require for nursing school admission. I recommend doing this first because some nursing schools require different pre-reqs for admission. This way, you'll know which pre-reqs to go ahead and take. Compare them with the courses you've completed for your Psychology degree. I imagine at least a few would be the same. If you're not satisfied with your grades in those courses, then you can re-take those with the other pre-nursing classes.

I'm confused on the difference between the two options you're deciding on. They look like the same idea to me. Maybe I'm just reading it wrong though. :down: I think applying to any college around you for these pre-reqs would suffice. Just make sure it's an accredited school, and any should be fine. I think putting your major as "non degree," or whatever the school calls it, is fine. Check with a school counselor to confirm it's the correct entry. My school literally has a major called "Louisiana Science Transfer," and it's for students just like us taking pre-reqs and eventually transferring. It helps my school know better about my eventual path!

I'm retaking algebra, English I, and Psychology right now for the same reason! I made C's in all of them the first time around. I know now to stay focused and tough it out, haha!

FutureNurseInfo · Nov 30, 2016

Hi, since you already have a degree, your best option, since you said you did not want to spend another 4 years in college, is to go the rout of an accelerated BSN, which usually is expedited and can take 12-18 months to complete. However, you will have to complete same pre-reqs such as chemistry, organic chemistry, A&P 1 and 2, intro to psych, human development, nutrition and statistics. Some schools may require less or more of pre-reqs; call them up and find out, just like other PP said. In terms of your GPA, if you apply for an accelerated BSN, the schools will look at your undergrad GPA; however, they will weigh in more your pre-req's GPA. My advice to you, contact the school of your choice and speak to an advisor. Repeat ONLY the courses you need. Do not take the course you do need just to boost up your GPA. Remember, your undergrad GPA is solid set. Now, work on your pre-req's GPA. You should be fine.

verene, MSN · Nov 30, 2016

I think in your situation, you are going to need to focus on programs that don't care about a prior degree and only look at your pre-req scores. This means ABSN programs are out (most want at leat a 3.0 cum GPA in prior degree + high scores in pre-reqs) as well as many traditional BSN programs. There are a few that might admit with a 2.5 GPA as a minimum requirement, but the reality is few will actually accept an applicant with that GPA unless they are exceptionally outstanding with other factors.

Look for ASN programs that only want pre-req GPA and HESI or TEAS scores, or programs that admit by lottery system for applicants with pre-reqs done and minimum GPA. Then focus your energies into doing well in your pre-reqs. Unless you had something very major going on in your life that caused the low undergrad GPA you likely need improved study habits to be successful in nursing school. Take the time spent doing your pre-reqs to learn them.

If you can, do you pre-reqs at a community college as it is typically much cheaper than university. You do not need to be degree seeking to take pre-reqs. Just enroll as a non-degree-seeking student.

qiqi_lomo · Dec 1, 2016

sorry for the confusion. I already have all the pre-reqs for several schools. when I first started college. I was biology major and was taking strenuous, I didn't do so well. my school didn't have any good counselors to guide you on these things so I kept going, took some classes etc. it was almost to the ending of my junior year that I decided to become a psych major

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Dec 1, 2016

Based on your education experience, you already know that there is only one way to improve your GPA unless you can somehow establish an entirely new identity and start fresh (just kidding). You don't want to re-take all those courses. So, it is what it is, right? In this case, you're options are limited to schools that will accept a low GPA. This will most likely be commercial (for-profit) programs since they are much more expensive and therefore not as competitive as traditional ones.

There may be a glitch in the matrix looming on the horizon because commercial schools are under heightened scrutiny for a variety of reasons. As a result, many of them seem to be tightening up in order to improve graduation and NCLEX pass rates. So, you may need to move fast before they decide to jack up their admission requirements.

Best of luck to you.