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by
Carly Elliott, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
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.
Research Nursing Programs
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.
Plan to Fund Your Education
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
- Grants
- Student Loans
- Online Nursing Programs
- Military
- Work-Study Programs
- FAFSA
- 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.
Volunteer
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.