19 Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into 2025
Explore the easiest nursing schools to get into, with high acceptance rates, low tuition, and accredited programs that make nursing education more accessible.
Many future nurses want a program that balances quality education with accessible admissions requirements. Schools with higher acceptance rates can offer a faster, easier, more affordable path into the profession.
Here, we'll highlight some of the easiest nursing programs to get into based on acceptance rates, tuition costs, and accreditation status. You'll also find a range of learning formats, including on-campus and online options, so you can find the easiest nursing degree that fits your schedule and goals.
Nursing Schools With the Highest Acceptance Rates
Below are some of the easiest nursing schools to get into, based on high acceptance rates and flexible admissions criteria. Whether you're applying for a traditional BSN or looking for the easiest RN to BSN program online, these schools offer accessible pathways into nursing without sacrificing quality education or clinical experience.
1. Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program and additional graduate nursing pathways. The university uses a competency-based format, which allows you to advance through coursework as you master the material. This format benefits adult learners, especially those balancing work and family responsibilities, by offering flexible scheduling and flat-rate tuition.
WGU's BSN program focuses on key areas such as evidence-based practice, leadership, patient-centered care, and community health. Although the pre-licensure BSN is not available in all states, the RN-to-BSN is widely accessible and created for licensed RNs seeking to advance their education.
Acceptance rate: 100%
Accreditation: CCNE
2. Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University provides several nursing pathways, including associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Many of these programs are offered both online and on campus across more than 20 locations. Rolling admissions and frequent start dates help students begin their nursing education with minimal delays.
The RN-to-BSN program is offered fully online and can often be completed in just one year. Courses cover topics such as nursing leadership, informatics, and population health. Support services include academic coaching and career readiness tools designed to help you pass the NCLEX and transition into the workforce.
Acceptance rate: 100%
Accreditation: CCNE
3. Aspen University
Aspen University offers a flexible nursing program with both pre-licensure and RN-to-BSN options. Aspen's programs deliver asynchronous online coursework that allows students to learn on their own time. The admissions process is simple and supports those returning to school after time away.
The RN-to-BSN track can be completed in under a year, depending on transfer credits. Curriculum topics include nursing ethics, healthcare policy, and community health. Additionally, Aspen's structure provides affordability, rolling enrollment, and academic advising to support learners throughout their degree journey.
Acceptance rate: 100%
Accreditation: CCNE
4. Finger Lakes Health College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Finger Lakes Health College in New York (FLHCON) specializes in nursing education through its Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in affiliated hospitals and healthcare facilities in the region.
With small class sizes and personalized instruction, students benefit from a supportive learning environment. Clinical rotations begin early in the program, helping students gain real-world experience and confidence as future RNs.
Acceptance rate: 100%
Accreditation: ACEN
5. University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers both a traditional BSN and an online RN-to-BSN track. Students typically spend their first two years completing general education before applying to the upper-division nursing major. The program prepares students for licensure with simulation labs, hospital clinicals, and service-based learning.
Faculty members support students through academic advising and career coaching. The RN-to-BSN program is great for working nurses, offering online courses that fit into busy schedules. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles or advanced study in nursing.
Acceptance rate: 99%
Accreditation: CCNE
6. University of Toledo
The University of Toledo in Ohio offers both a traditional BSN and an RN-to-BSN completion track. Students begin with general education and pre-nursing coursework before applying to the clinical portion of the program. Instruction focuses on health promotion, critical thinking, and culturally competent care.
The College of Nursing partners with hospitals and clinics throughout the region for clinical placements. For licensed nurses, the RN-to-BSN program is fully online, providing a flexible way to earn a bachelor's degree while continuing to work.
Acceptance rate: 97%
Accreditation: CCNE
7. University of St. Thomas
The BSN program at the University of St. Thomas in Texas integrates Catholic values with practical nursing education. Here, you'll complete foundational science and liberal arts courses before beginning clinical studies.
The program offers hands-on learning through hospital partnerships in Houston and includes training in simulation labs. Faculty provide academic mentoring, while support services help prepare students for the NCLEX and their first nursing positions.
Acceptance rate: 97%
Accreditation: CCNE
8. Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences (MCHS) in Iowa offers a variety of nursing degrees, including ASN, BSN, and RN-to-BSN options. The curriculum balances academic study with clinical rotations in urban healthcare settings.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized advising, and access to experienced faculty. The RN-to-BSN program is offered entirely online to meet the needs of working professionals seeking career advancement.
Acceptance rate: 97%
Accreditation: CCNE
9. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSULA) offers nursing degrees at the associate, bachelor's, and graduate levels. Students in the BSN program receive early exposure to clinical settings and can choose from a variety of learning formats.
The university's RN-to-BSN program is delivered online and includes coursework in evidence-based practice, informatics, and leadership. Students are supported through dedicated academic advisors and career preparation resources.
Acceptance rate: 96%
Accreditation: CCNE
10. Edgewood College
Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin, offers both traditional and accelerated BSN programs. The curriculum includes simulation lab experiences, community-based health projects, and hospital clinicals throughout the Madison area.
The accelerated BSN is created for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor's degree. Academic advising, faculty mentorship, and access to local healthcare networks provide students with a strong foundation in professional nursing.
Acceptance rate: 94%
Accreditation: CCNE
11. University of Southern Indiana
The University of Southern Indiana (USI) provides a traditional BSN program and a fully online RN-to-BSN track. Students enter the clinical phase of the program after completing general education and prerequisite coursework.
Nursing students participate in clinical rotations and simulation labs that emphasize leadership and patient-centered care. The online RN-to-BSN is structured for working professionals who want to earn a degree while remaining in the field.
Acceptance rate: 94% to 95%
Accreditation: CCNE
12. Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock Christian University in Texas offers BSN and RN-to-BSN programs grounded in faith-based values. The nursing curriculum combines classroom instruction with clinical experiences in Lubbock-area hospitals.
Students benefit from small class sizes, NCLEX prep support, and faculty with real-world nursing experience. The RN-to-BSN option is available online for students who want to continue working while finishing their degree.
Acceptance rate: 95%
Accreditation: CCNE
13. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University (ODU) in Virginia offers a pre-licensure BSN and an online RN-to-BSN program. Students in the traditional program complete clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics across the Hampton Roads region.
The online RN-to-BSN track serves licensed nurses who want to pursue supervisory or specialized roles. Students have access to advising, faculty support, and digital tools to improve online learning outcomes.
Acceptance rate: 96%
Accreditation: CCNE
14. Wichita State University
Wichita State offers a comprehensive nursing program that includes traditional BSN and RN-to-BSN pathways. Students enter the nursing major after completing prerequisite courses and participate in clinicals across a variety of healthcare settings in Wichita.
The RN-to-BSN option is offered online and supports working professionals through flexible schedules and course design. Tutoring, NCLEX review, and job search assistance are available to all students.
Acceptance rate: 91%
Accreditation: CCNE
15. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) offers BSN and accelerated nursing programs, allowing students to enter the profession on a faster timeline. Coursework combines science, ethics, and health systems management with clinical placements across Boston.
Faculty provide guidance throughout the program, and students benefit from simulation labs and access to top hospitals in New England. Working nurses can also benefit from the online RN-to-BSN at MCPHS.
Acceptance rate: 88%
Accreditation: CCNE
16. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)'s RN-to-BSN program is fully online and caters to licensed nurses looking to finish their degree on a flexible schedule. The curriculum includes community health, informatics, and nursing leadership.
Students can finish the program in as few as 12 months. Asynchronous courses and supportive advising make this option accessible for professionals balancing work and family.
Acceptance rate: 87%
Accreditation: CCNE
17. University of Wyoming
The University of Wyoming (UW)'s BSN program includes clinical placements in rural and urban settings, preparing students for a variety of care environments. The school has a strong focus on population health and primary care.
The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing supports students with small cohorts and faculty mentorship. Courses cover healthcare research, leadership, and public health practice.
Acceptance rate: 78%
Accreditation: CCNE
18. Loyola University New Orleans
Loyola offers BSN, RN-to-BSN, and graduate-level nursing programs grounded in Jesuit values of service and ethics. The BSN includes coursework in adult health, pediatrics, and community care, with clinicals in the New Orleans area.
The RN-to-BSN is fully online and ideal for licensed nurses seeking upward mobility. Students at Loyola receive individualized support, including career advising and academic mentoring.
Acceptance rate: 70%
Accreditation: CCNE
19. University of Saint Francis
The University of Saint Francis (USF) in Indiana prepares nursing students through traditional and accelerated BSN programs. Classroom instruction is paired with simulation training and hands-on clinicals in local hospitals.
The curriculum supports holistic care and leadership development. Academic support services include tutoring, NCLEX review, and access to experienced faculty advisors.
Acceptance rate: 70%
Accreditation: CCNE
How We Rank Schools
We rank nursing schools based on factors that matter most to prospective students: accessibility, quality, and affordability. Each school on this list is evaluated using the following criteria:
- Accreditation: We only include programs accredited by recognized agencies to ensure quality and eligibility for licensure.
- Acceptance rates: Schools with higher acceptance rates are prioritized to reflect ease of admission.
- NCLEX pass rates: We choose to feature nursing programs with high NCLEX pass rates to ensure program quality.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for Nursing School?
Admissions requirements for nursing school vary by program, but most schools ask applicants to meet several academic and background standards. Typical nursing school requirements include:
- Completion of high school or college-level biology and chemistry
- A minimum GPA (usually 2.5 or higher)
- Completion of general education prerequisites such as English and math
- TEAS or HESI exam scores (required by some programs)
- Letters of recommendation or personal statement
- Proof of immunizations and background check clearance
- Basic CPR certification or CNA licensure (sometimes required)
If you're missing any of these, some schools allow you to complete courses before applying. You can also explore self-paced nursing prerequisites online to meet requirements on your own timeline.
What Can I Expect From a Nursing Degree Program?
A nursing degree program typically involves classroom instruction, lab simulations, and hands-on clinical experience. You'll study subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, nutrition, microbiology, and pathophysiology, along with nursing-focused coursework in patient care, health assessment, and leadership. Programs also cover ethics, public health, and research methods to prepare you for well-rounded practice.
The curriculum is known for being academically and emotionally demanding. You can expect rigorous exams, time-intensive lab work, and strict clinical schedules. Many students report that balancing coursework and clinical hours can be challenging, especially during the upper-division semesters. However, the payout for the rigorous course load is a stable and rewarding career in nursing.
Class formats vary by program: Some are fully in person, while others offer hybrid or online options for general education and theory-based courses. No matter the class format, most nursing degrees include a set number of clinical hours completed at hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities under the supervision of licensed professionals. These clinicals are essential for developing practical skills and are required for licensure eligibility after graduation.
Pros and Cons of Easy Nursing Schools To Get Into
Choosing an easier nursing school to get into can be a great way to start your career faster, especially if you're looking for fewer application barriers or flexible admissions standards. These programs often serve nontraditional or first-generation college students and can offer valuable support along the way. Here are some potential benefits to consider:
- The admissions process may be simpler.
- You may not need to take standardized tests like the TEAS or HESI.
- Application requirements such as GPA or prerequisite grades are often more flexible.
- You may be accepted more quickly and avoid long waitlists.
- Some schools offer rolling admissions and multiple start dates per year.
- Online and hybrid learning formats may be more widely available.
- These programs can be more accessible for working adults or career changers.
While easier nursing programs offer greater access, there can be trade-offs depending on the school. It's important to weigh these potential drawbacks before applying:
- Graduation rates may be lower at some open-admission schools.
- Clinical placement options may be more limited in rural or smaller programs.
- Support services like tutoring or career counseling may vary in quality.
- Some employers may favor graduates from more competitive or well-known schools.
- You may need to be more proactive in seeking out clinical experience or mentorship opportunities.
Are Online Nursing Schools Easier Than Traditional Programs?
Online nursing programs can be more flexible, but they aren't necessarily easier. Deciding whether an online nursing program is 'easy' for you depends on your learning style, schedule, and timeline.
Many online tracks, especially RN-to-BSN programs, allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule while continuing to work. This convenience can make the learning experience feel more manageable, especially if you're balancing school with family or job responsibilities.
However, the academic expectations are usually the same as in traditional programs. Online students must still complete reading assignments, participate in discussions, submit clinical documentation, and pass exams. Pre-licensure programs also require in-person clinical hours, which cannot be completed online.
FAQs About the Easiest Nursing Programs To Get Into
If you're researching nursing schools with high acceptance rates, you may still have questions about the workload, required classes, and what comes after graduation. These answers can help you better understand what to expect, even from the easiest nursing programs to get into.
Is Nursing School Hard?
Even at schools with flexible admissions, nursing school can be intense. The coursework is fast-paced, exams are comprehensive, and clinical rotations require strong time management. Students are expected to master medical terminology, anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care protocols quickly.
That said, programs often offer academic support and tutoring, especially for new or returning students. So while the coursework is intensive, you'll typically have plenty of support as a nursing student to get through the program successfully.
Learn more: Can I Be a Nurse If I'm Bad at Math?
What Is the Job Outlook for Nurses?
The nursing career outlook is very strong, with job opportunities projected to grow steadily over the next decade. Hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies all need skilled nurses, especially as the population ages.
Some areas of nursing, such as critical care, geriatric care, and mental health, are experiencing particularly high demand. A nursing degree from an accredited school, even one with easier admissions, can still lead to excellent career prospects.
What Is the Hardest Nursing Class?
Some nursing courses are more challenging than others due to the volume of information and level of clinical decision-making required. Many students say the hardest nursing class is pharmacology, which involves memorizing hundreds of drug names, uses, side effects, and interactions.
Other tough courses include pathophysiology and medical-surgical nursing, both of which require critical thinking and a strong understanding of how diseases affect the body.
Can I Become a Nurse Without Taking the TEAS?
Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program without taking the TEAS. Many schools on our list do not require standardized entrance exams and instead focus on your GPA, completed prerequisites, and application materials like a personal statement or interview.
If you're looking for a less competitive admissions process, these programs can be a great option. However, if you're applying to more selective schools, the TEAS or HESI may still be required.
Do Online Nursing Programs Require Clinical Hours?
All pre-licensure nursing programs, including online programs, require students to complete clinical hours in person. This is because licensure boards mandate hands-on training under supervision to ensure you're prepared for patient care.
While general education and theory-based nursing courses may be offered online, you will still need to complete clinical rotations at approved facilities in your area. RN-to-BSN programs often waive clinical hours or allow students to complete projects instead if they are already licensed.
Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into Near You
Whether you're a first-time college student or a working adult looking for a career change, choosing one of the easiest nursing schools to get into can help you move forward with fewer delays. The programs featured on Learn.org offer a range of options, including traditional BSN tracks, RN-to-BSN pathways, and online learning formats. Explore your options today and take the first step toward becoming a nurse.