Low GPA

Columnist · Aug 20, 2014

Moved to Pre-Nursing forum for more response.

RunBabyRN · Aug 20, 2014

Do what you can to raise that GPA. You'll need to at least meet the minimum requirements to be in the applicant pool, but depending on the number and caliber of applicants you're up against, it can be tough to get in. You really need to nail any classes you have outstanding at this point, and boost your GPA. It might be worth it to SLOW DOWN a bit and really focus on getting As moving forward, if you want to be able to get in at some point.

Good luck!

Eru IlÃºvatar · Aug 20, 2014

This may sound harsh but realistically your GPA its really low in order to apply to nursing school. You may need to retake some classes or even start fresh with the prerequisites in order to raise that GPA. As mentioned before the applicant pool is varied and usually with many high GPA applicants, but as long as you meet the minimum you can be a part of the pool and that opens the door for a miracle to happen.

Dont loose hope but try to find a way to raise that GPA. Also research the work necessary in order to complete nursing school. Will you be able to handle the workload and content? A personal self assessment its necessary before committing your time and money in any endeavor.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Aug 20, 2014

Accelerated programs are much more intense and challenging than the 'normal' academic pace. The vast majority of students find that Nursing courses are far more difficult than pre-requisites. Realistically, based on previous GPA without science and math courses, the outlook for success in a nursing program seems unlikely.

I encourage you to make sure you have a Plan B.

nico_2451 · Aug 20, 2014

Thank you for all your feedback. I know some schools really look at your pre-req's and TEAS over your GPA. That is why I ask If i do well in those areas will I still have a chance to be accepted.

malenurse69, MSN, NP · Aug 20, 2014

I'll shoot you straight like HouTx did, your chances are slim to none, especially if you don't figure out what caused your current academic ineptitude. If you start getting straight A's from here on out you will make it, but that requires effort and persistence. Keep in mind the science class requirements are just a taste of what nursing school will be like, it'll only get harder with each semester. Knuckle up or choose a different major. Best of luck either way!

goddess9 · Aug 20, 2014

You'll need to kill it in the Math and Sciences. You need to think about why your GPA is so low, recollect yourself, and hit it hard.

Accelerated nursing programs are fast, hard, and intense. If you're coming in with that GPA, even with high test scores, I'd be concerned. I don't like telling people they can't do it... But this will be a challenge. Some people like challenges.... Maybe you're one of them.

nico_2451 · Aug 20, 2014

I understand that this is not going to be a cake walk. My GPA suffered due to my lack of effort. I am at a different point in my life, that is why I do not have an option but to get straight A's in all my prerequisites and do well on my TEAS exam. My concern at this point is even being considered due to my low GPA. I have read on different accounts that some schools use your pre-req's and TEAS score as a main determining factor but you have to have a certain GPA to apply. I have also read that if your GPA is low, forget about it.

studentnursemon86 · Aug 20, 2014

Part of why I chose an ADN program was my GPA. I am in about the same place. I worked hard and I am almost at a 3.0, however most of the BSN programs in my are wanted exactly a 3.0 or even a 3.5.

Good luck. Kick butt in those prereqs. I took one at a time for a while so I could focus on one subject to get the highest possible grades.

maj0079 · Aug 21, 2014

I really take offense to the nay sayers, yes it is hard, yes it can be difficult, but it can be done. I screwed up my first time in college. When I applied I had a 2.7 GPA, the requirement was a 2.75 GPA. I met with the nursing school director to ask what I can do to better my chances. She advised me on what to do and I got in on academic probation. I have been on the Dean's list since and I am a single mom of two and commute an hour to school.

Yes most schools, the ones with the big wait lists and in the "high student" states will not even look at you if you don't have their required GPA. Some do take into account all of your previous classes, some the last 60, some just the pre-reqs, it all depends on the school. There are many schools out there. If you are older the wiser and can show that your grades have been steadily getting better (as mine did), you may have a shot. Depends on the school as i stated. If you can look into schools in different areas, especially if you are wanting an accelerated program, do it. It will be a short time away from family and friends, but well worth it in the end. I have also found it doesn't matter where you get your ABSN as long as it is accredited, you pass the NCLEX in the state you want to live in and are willing to get a job somewhere else to get experience.

So if you really want it, it will happen! Def retake any classes that are less than a C! PM if you have anymore questions.

Eru IlÃºvatar · Aug 21, 2014

We are not Naysayers, in reference to those of us that have pointed out the reality of things.

We provide a reply based on the information provided by the OP and add a little of our opinion to it. I personally still encourage the OP to not give up and find a solution to his GPA problem, as you can read on my post.

But the reality its that the OP has a really low GPA, and wants to enroll in an accelerated option. So its pointed out that such a program its rigorous and hard and that maybe the OP does not has the study skills necessary to handle it. So we advise to do a self assessment of the OP capabilities before embarking in such a costly journey.

Blind hope its the demise of fools.