ABSN and gpa dilemna

[Alexis417]

Hello all!

Anyway, like most of you I'm sure, I'm working on my pre req's and looking to apply to an accelerated nursing program this year. I would really like to go to Wagner, but here's my situation: I have a very good science gpa, whether you look at my undergraduate science gpa alone or in conjunction with the additional science classes I took after graduation, but my overall degree gpa isn't as good. I had a myriad of health problems after taking a class in the middle east, and unfortunately it was difficult to diagnose and since this happened two years into college I really didn't have the time to bring my gpa back up that much, especially just starting to take my science classes. I went from being a 3.6 student, to a 2.9, and hopefully with me retaking two of my undergrad classes it'll be brought up a little bit more. However, the last three semesters ( while taking prereqs)I have had over a 3.0, so I'm hoping the steady increase and good science gpa will help me explain what happened the last two years of school.I have a b in biostats, an a- in anatomy 1, and a b+ in anatomy 2 (took both in summer session- very difficult,) a in developmental psych, etc... I'm also in the process of taking micro and nutrition, however grades are not available yet.

I just wanted to know if anyone else in my position had any luck getting into any programs in the NY/NJ area. I live in Staten Island, and willing to commute an hr, but I really am not in a position to leave (familial health issues) and looking for guidance regarding admissions in the tristate area. I came across a few helpful posts, but being new to this site, I'm not really sure where this post belongs so any help would be much appreciated.

Some of the helpful posts included: a list of schools that accept students with lower gpa's, sadly none of which are near me, and helpful suggestions when applying for programs that came from a woman who has been reviewing apps for the last 20 years. Regarding the latter, the post made me feel like my goals were actually attainable, and I just want so desperately to do everything I can to maximize my chances of getting accepted into an ABSN program.

I'm also wondering if anyone has any current experience with reaching out to admissions regarding this issue/ knows any schools in the tri state area that actually do accept student with less than a 3.0/anything else you wish to say. I'm all ears. Thank you everyone.

[AccelCNL, MSN, RN]

I have been in your position. I had a really poor GPA at one point ( less that 2.5). I transferred schools, got my health on track, and graduated from school with a 3.7 GPA. I applied to Concordia College ( NY) and got into their ABSN program. However, I am going to attend direct entry program ( leading to a MSN) out of state. If you GPA is a problem, you can apply as a regular transfer student. I know LIU-Brooklyn only requires a 2.75 GPA ( overall and in science) for entrance for the regular program. I believe for the ABSN program a 3.0 is needed. Yes, ABSN programs are great and the speed of getting the degree done in wonderful. However, if entry is a problem try for a regular program at a school where clinicals are in the Jr. and Sr. year. I would also try NYU. It is expensive but I have a friend who graduated from the ABSN program there. I also understand that they are not only focused on GPA for admission.

If you were willing to move out of your area, I would have other options for you. But I say try the ABSN programs where you are and also apply to the regular BSN programs.

You will get into a nursing program though. Persistence is key. I received 4 rejections. However, now I will be starting school in the Fall. Keep trying you will get in.

[iPink, BSN, RN]

I graduated from my ABSN program a couple of years ago in NJ and you must have a 3.0 to apply. With the increase of potential applicants applying, the admissions office are sticking to their requirements of having a minimum of 3.0 from your previous degree.

On here if you go to the "U.S." banner located on top, then choose either CT, NJ, and NY, and you'll find posts/threads regarding schools in those areas.

I believe some people have resorted to applying to online schools just to get in. Good luck.