Yes, you can overcome poor grades, but it takes a lot of work to do so. So just to give you my perspective as someone applying to three DNP programs, first attempt. My first undergrad (B.S./UCLA) 15 years ago, graduated with a 2.5, BSN ten years ago 3.6, and I took two graduate level nursing courses last year at the university SON affiliated with my academic teaching hospital (as a non-matriculated student) and killed it. CCRN-CMC, TCRN, 9 years work experience in critical care in addition to participating in research with my attending providers/medical director, committee work, charge and precepting. I intentionally took the GRE as an adjunct to my cumulative GPA even though there is evidence that indicates it has absolutely no bearing on success in nursing graduate programs. Definitely take additional chemistry courses and ace them, and determine which programs you may want to apply to and see if their program directors will consider the GRE as an adjunct to poor (older) grades. Prove that you want it. Become the best critical care nurse you can be in a multifaceted manner. Three applications in this year, two committee reviews thus far, two interview offers, waiting on one window to close.