Is there a chance I can get in to nursing school?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

The admissions requirements for the University at Buffalo (UB) nursing program depend on which specific nursing track you're applying to. Since you mentioned you're interested in applying next fall, I'll assume you're looking at the traditional BSN program. Here are the general admissions requirements for the traditional BSN program at UB:

Academic Requirements

• High School Diploma. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• GPA. The competitive GPA for the BSN program typically ranges around 3.5–4.0, but the exact cutoff can vary based on the applicant pool.
• Overall GPA. A GPA of 3.6 is strong, but your pre-req GPA (around 3.44–3.55) will need to be as competitive as possible. If you can boost it with your current semester class, that will help.

Prerequisite courses. The BSN program has specific prerequisite courses that must be completed before admission, typically including:

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Psychology (Intro to Psych)
• Statistics
• English Composition
• Nutrition

All required prerequisites must be completed by the time of application. If you're still taking a class or plan to finish it by next semester, make sure everything is completed before the application deadline.

Standardized Tests

UB does not require SAT or ACT scores for nursing program applicants, but make sure to check if there are any changes to this requirement or exceptions based on your academic history.

Volunteer or Clinical Experience

While UB does not explicitly require a certain number of volunteer hours, having 30 hours of volunteer work in healthcare (such as at urgent care or in a clinical setting) will strengthen your application. Some competitive applicants have 50–100 hours, so add more if possible.

Your experience as a medical assistant is a big plus and will show that you have hands-on healthcare experience, which is highly valued.

Personal Statement / Essay

You may be asked to submit a personal statement or essay for your application. This is your chance to highlight your passion for nursing, explain why you want to become a nurse, and discuss your academic and extracurricular experiences.

Letters of Recommendation

You might need to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. These could be from professors, healthcare professionals, or employers who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential as a nurse.

Application Process

UB's nursing program has specific application deadlines, typically in the fall for Spring or Summer entry. Check the dates on the UB nursing website to ensure you submit your application on time.

The application is generally submitted through UB's online system. You must create an account, complete the application, and submit all required documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and other supporting materials.

Interview 

Applicants may be asked to participate in an interview during the selection process. This interview usually assesses their communication skills, motivation for pursuing nursing, and fit with the program.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Boost your pre-req GPA if possible, and make sure you're on track to complete all your required courses by the time of application.
• Volunteer more in healthcare settings, and aim for quality experiences that show your commitment and skills.
• Get involved on campus (joining clubs, being a tour guide, etc.) to show that you're well-rounded.
• Prepare for your statement—highlight why you want to become a nurse, what experiences have shaped you, and why you chose UB.

You might also want to contact UB's nursing admissions office or check their website for any additional specific requirements or updates on the application process.

The admissions requirements, application process, and additional details for the University at Buffalo's (UB) Nursing Program are on their official website. Here's the link to get you started:

UB School of Nursing Admissions: University at Buffalo Nursing Admissions

This page will provide you with the most up-to-date information about:

• Specific program details (Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, etc.)
• Prerequisite courses
• GPA and other academic requirements
• Application deadlines and process
• Volunteer and clinical experience guidelines
• Contact information for the nursing admissions office

Double-check for any changes to deadlines, program specifics, or requirements, especially if you plan to apply for the fall intake.

Good luck! Best wishes,

Nurse Beth