Florida offers some of the fastest and most competitive Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in the country. With the state's growing elderly population and expanding healthcare systems, the demand for registered nurses is higher than ever.
This guide breaks down the top options for 2026, highlighting program length, tuition, clinical training, admission requirements, and verified NCLEX pass rates.
Quick Glance: Top Florida ABSN Picks
Best Overall Value: University of Florida (Gainesville)
Fastest Completion Time: University of Miami (12 Months)
Top NCLEX Pass Rate: University of Central Florida (97%+)
Best for South Florida: Florida International University
Most Flexible Start Dates: Rasmussen University
Top 11 Best ABSN Programs in Florida (2026)
Our ranking methodology blends data from the U.S. Department of Education with the experiences and insights of the allnurses community . We verify NCLEX pass rates directly through the Florida Board of Nursing and cross-reference tuition data for the 2026 academic year.
1. University of Florida
Location: Gainesville, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: A+ (97)
Visit University of Florida Profile
The University of Florida (UF) remains the gold standard for public nursing education in the state. The UF College of Nursing offers an intensive ABSN track that combines rigorous academics with clinical rotations at UF Health Shands Hospital.
Program Format: On-Campus
In-State Tuition: ~$12,780 (Total Estimated)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.07% (Verified Jan 2026)
Program Length: 15 Months
Application Deadline: Summer cohort apps due Feb 1, 2026.
Why it stands out: Unbeatable value for in-state residents and high prestige.
2. University of Miami
Location: Coral Gables, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: A+ (96)
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For students prioritizing speed, the University of Miami offers one of the fastest routes to licensure. Their 12-month program is grueling but efficient, utilizing the world-class S.H.A.R.E.® simulation facility.
Program Format: On-Campus
Tuition: ~$43,230 (Private)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.42%
Program Length: 12 Months
Application Deadline: Summer (March 1, 2026); Spring (Oct 1, 2026).
Why it stands out: Incredible clinical partnerships and a 1-year timeline.
3. University of South Florida
Location: Tampa, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: A (92)
Visit University of South Florida Profile
USF's ABSN program services the Tampa Bay region with rotations at major trauma centers. The 16-month curriculum is paced slightly more moderately than 12-month options, allowing for better information retention.
Program Format: On-Campus
In-State Tuition: ~$13,696
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.18%
Program Length: 16 Months
Start Dates: Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts available.
Why it stands out: Strong presence in the Tampa medical community and affordable tuition.
4. University of Central Florida
Location: Orlando, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: A (91)
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Located in Orlando, UCF ABSN program consistently boasts some of the highest NCLEX pass rates in the state. The program is heavily integrated with AdventHealth and Orlando Health systems.
Program Format: On-Campus
In-State Tuition: ~$12,084
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.57%
Program Length: 16 Months
Application Deadline: Apply to UCF by Oct 15; Nursing application Jan 1-15, 2026.
Why it stands out: A focus on simulation technology and consistently high board pass rates.
5. Florida Atlantic University
Location: Boca Raton, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: A (91)
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FAU's Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing emphasizes a "Caring Science" curriculum. The ABSN program is available at both the Boca and Davie campuses.
Program Format: On-Campus
In-State Tuition: ~$12,180
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.54%
Program Length: 16 Months
Application Deadline: Application period runs Sept 1 - Feb 3, 2026.
Why it stands out: A holistic approach to nursing education in a supportive environment.
6. Nova Southeastern University
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: B+ (88)
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Nova Southeastern University (NSU) provides regional flexibility with campuses in Miami, Fort Myers, and Fort Lauderdale. Although tuition is higher at this private school, the ABSN program often features more accessible admission compared to the limited seating at public universities.
Program Format: On-Campus
Tuition: ~$34,560
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.77%
Program Length: 24 Months (Entry-level Master's options also available)
Why it stands out: Good option for students needing rolling admissions or who missed public school deadlines.
7. Jacksonville University
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: B+ (87)
Visit Jacksonville University Profile
JU partners with premier healthcare providers like the Mayo Clinic and Baptist Health. They offer a unique 12-month ABSN track for highly motivated students.
Program Format: On-Campus
Tuition: ~$70,016 (Private)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.2%
Program Length: 12 or 16 Months
Why it stands out: Direct clinical partnerships with the Mayo Clinic.
8. Rasmussen University
Location: Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin
allnurses School Ranking: B+ (86)
Visit Rasmussen University Profile
Rasmussen operates multiple campuses (Tampa, Ocala, Orlando) and offers a hybrid model, which is rare for ABSN programs.
Program Format: Hybrid (Online Theory + In-Person Clinicals)
Tuition: ~$39,962
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: ~90% (FL Average)
Program Length: 18 Months
Why it stands out: Four start dates per year make it easy to start quickly.
9. Keiser University
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida (and others)
allnurses School Ranking: B (84)
Visit Keiser University, Ft Lauderdale Profile
Keiser University's ABSN program is recognized for its small class sizes and unique "one class at a time" monthly schedule, a format designed to help students better manage the intense workload of an accelerated curriculum.
Program Format: On-Campus
Tuition: ~$41,800
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 70.59% (Varies significantly by campus)
Program Length: 16 Months
Why it stands out: Unique scheduling format focused on one subject at a time.
10. Florida International University
Location: Miami, Florida
allnurses School Ranking: B (83)
Visit Florida International University Profile
FIU's Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing ABSN program prepares students for leadership in diverse urban healthcare settings. It serves as a high-value public option for South Florida residents.
Program Format: On-Campus
In-State Tuition: ~$12,064
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.63%
Program Length: 16 Months
Application Deadline: Fall start dates; early application encouraged.
Why it stands out: Culturally competent care focus and low tuition.
11. Barry University
Location: Miami Shores, Florida
Program Focus: Holistic & Practical Skills
School Profile: Visit Barry University Profile
Barry University's 15-month program with a strong emphasis on practical skills and small class sizes.
Program Format: On-Campus
Tuition: Private (Contact school for 2026 rates)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
Program Length: 15 Months
Application Deadline: Rolling basis for Spring starts.
Why it stands out: Generous scholarship opportunities for a private university
For more details, student reviews, and NCLEX pass rates for every institution, visit our Nursing Schools Directory on allnurses.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a fast-track degree designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field (e.g., Biology, Psychology, Marketing). Because you have already completed general education requirements, the ABSN focuses strictly on nursing science and clinical practice.
Typical Coursework Includes:
Foundational Sciences: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology.
Core Nursing: Adult Health, Pediatrics, Mental Health, and Maternity.
Leadership: Evidence-Based Practice and Nursing Ethics.
Prerequisites & Admission Requirements in Florida
Admissions for 2026 are competitive. Most Florida schools follow a similar set of criteria.
Common Prerequisites
You must typically complete these before your cohort begins:
Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
Microbiology (with lab)
Chemistry (General or Organic)
Statistics
Human Growth & Development
Human Nutrition
Admission Criteria
GPA: A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is standard, though competitive programs (like UF or UCF) often look for a 3.5+ in prerequisite sciences.
Entrance Exams: Most schools require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 .
Citizenship: Proof of residency or citizenship.
Background Check: Mandatory Level 2 background check for Florida clinical clearance.
Cost Breakdown: Public vs. Private
In Florida, the cost gap between public and private nursing schools is significant.
| Feature | Public Universities (UF, USF, UCF) | Private Universities (Miami, Nova, Keiser) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tuition (Est.) | $11,000 - $15,000 | $35,000 - $70,000+ |
| Admission Style | Hard Deadlines (Once/Year) | Rolling Admissions (Multiple/Year) |
| Class Sizes | Larger | Smaller |
| Competition | Very High | Moderate |
Financial Aid Note: Florida residents attending private, non-profit colleges may be eligible for the EASE Grant (Effective Access to Student Education). For the 2025-26 academic year, this state grant provides up to $3,500 in tuition assistance, with an additional "EASE Plus" stipend available for students in high-demand fields like nursing.
Florida Nursing Salaries & Job Outlook
Florida is a "Compact State," meaning your Florida license allows you to practice in over 35 other states within the eNLC (Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact).
2026 Salary Expectations (Bureau of Labor Statistics / ZipRecruiter Data):
Average RN Hourly Wage: $47.32
Average RN Annual Salary: $98,430
Top Earners (90th Percentile): $135,320+
While the cost of living in cities like Miami is higher, the absence of state income tax in Florida boosts your take-home pay significantly compared to other states.
Why Choose an Accredited ABSN Program in Florida?
Choosing an accredited ABSN program in Florida is a vital step for your nursing career for several key reasons:
Ensures Quality Education: Accreditation confirms that the program meets rigorous state and national standards, ensuring you receive the high-caliber training required to serve Florida's diverse patient populations.
Eligibility for Florida Licensure: To practice as an RN in the Sunshine State, you must pass the NCLEX-RN. Graduating from an accredited program is a primary requirement to sit for this exam and obtain your Florida nursing license.
Seamless Credit Transferability: Should you pursue an advanced degree (like an MSN or DNP) at another Florida institution or elsewhere, credits from an accredited ABSN program are much more likely to be accepted.
Competitive Employment Opportunities: Top Florida healthcare systems—including AdventHealth, Baptist Health, and UF Health—prioritize candidates from accredited programs to ensure their staff is prepared for high-acuity environments.
Access to Financial Aid & Florida Grants: Enrolling in an accredited program is often a prerequisite for federal financial aid and state-specific funding, such as the EASE Grant for residents attending private non-profit colleges.
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I work while enrolled in a Florida ABSN?
It is highly discouraged. ABSN programs are considered "full-time jobs" due to the volume of studying and clinical hours (often 40+ hours per week of commitment).
Are there online ABSN programs in Florida?
No ABSN program in Florida is 100% online. While some schools (like Rasmussen) offer "Hybrid" formats where lectures are online, you must attend labs and clinical rotations in person at Florida healthcare facilities.
How do I get a license after graduating?
Upon graduation, you must apply to the Florida Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once passed, you will receive your Registered Nurse license.
What if my GPA is below 3.0?
Some private programs look at the "whole applicant" and may accept a slightly lower GPA if your TEAS scores are high or if you have relevant healthcare experience (like being a CNA or EMT).
What jobs can you get after an ABSN in Florida?
Graduates can become registered nurses after passing the NCLEX-RN. Common registered nursing roles include bedside care, public health, and specialty nursing in hospitals and clinics across the state. Many go on to advanced practice or leadership through graduate study.
How long do ABSN programs in Florida take?
Florida ABSN programs typically take 12 to 16 months, though some extend to 20+ months depending on course load and campus format.
What support is available to ABSN students in Florida?
Support includes tutoring, simulation labs, clinical placement assistance, academic advising, and NCLEX prep. Many schools also offer scholarships or tuition support.