6 Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into in Florida 2025

Nurses have a lot to learn and many skills to gain before beginning work. Because of this, nursing school can be tough to get into as admissions officers narrow down the most promising students.

Florida residents may be wondering about the easiest nursing schools to get into. Although Florida is a competitive state for nursing, there are a few options for easy nursing programs to get into. We'll look at six of these options for students in Florida.

How Competitive Are Nursing Schools in Florida?

Because of high enrollment, limited spots, and rigorous admissions requirements, Florida is a competitive place for nursing students � but there are several things prospective nurses can do to stand out.

First, ensure you meet all requirements by passing prerequisite courses, earning the minimum grade point average (GPA), and completing any additional testing, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Beyond that, schools want a complete picture of your academic, professional, and personal achievements. Stand out, even when applying for the easiest nursing degrees, by including any volunteer work and examples of soft skills.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for Florida Nursing Schools?

All nursing schools will have different admissions requirements, but most follow similar patterns. For a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, applicants should have at least a 3.0 GPA. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) will require a lower GPA, ranging from 2.5 to 2.75.

Many programs have nursing school prerequisites like anatomy and physiology, psychology, biology, or statistics. They may require students pass these classes with a specific grade, such as a C or higher. Working adults who need extra flexibility can complete these self-paced nursing prerequisites online.

Finally, some schools require students to be vaccinated against certain diseases and to pass a criminal background check. Check your school's specific list of admissions requirements before applying.

Nursing Schools With the Highest Acceptance Rates in Florida

The easiest nursing programs to get into are those with the highest acceptance rates. Generally, large public colleges, such as the University of Central Florida (UCF), tend to be more competitive, accepting fewer than 50% of students who apply. While still not easy, the schools below have higher acceptance rates, offering you a better chance of admission.

1. Galen College of Nursing, Tampa Bay

Galen College reports 100% acceptance for students who meet admissions requirements. These vary based on the program, but the bachelor's program requires an entrance exam and one of the following test scores:

• ACT: 20
• SAT: 1100
• Multilevel PAX: 101
• TEAS: 58.7

Galen offers a three-year BSN program, a two-year Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), an LPN/LVN to ADN bridge program, and a practical nursing (PN) program. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, and both online and in-person options are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,848 per year (in-state); $16,848 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

2. Keiser University, Fort Lauderdale

Keiser offers students extra flexibility, with both online and in-person courses, small class sizes, and part-time learning options. Students can enroll in the ASN, accelerated or fast-track BSN programs, as well as a traditional BSN. Advanced students can earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctorate at Keiser.

Applicants to the traditional BSN program must have a 3.0 high school GPA, a 60 TEAS score, and a B or higher in five prerequisite classes. The traditional program is 120 credit hours.

• Estimated tuition cost: $35,276 per year (in-state and out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 81%
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

3. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a top-ranked school by U.S. News and World Report, with a 98.7% NCLEX pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). It offers a bachelor's degree in nursing, as well as several master's and doctoral programs.

BSN applicants should have a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA and a 2.75 or higher science GPA. Prospective students must also pass a nutrition course and anatomy and physiology courses with a lab. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $39,000 year (in-state and out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 73%
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Barry University

Students at Barry University can register for a two-year pre-nursing program to complete general education and prerequisite courses, or enroll in a traditional or accelerated BSN degree program. Barry partners with 11 local facilities to allow students to get real clinical experience in a local healthcare setting.

Applicants should have a 3.0 cumulative college GPA, a C or higher in all required courses, and a high score on the nursing program admission exam. Graduates will be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and qualify for their RN license.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,800 per semester (in-state and out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 60%
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. Jacksonville University

High school seniors can apply to Jacksonville's direct-entry nursing program if they meet the following requirements:

• weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher
• have a B or higher in chemistry, biology, and Algebra II
• SAT score of 1180 or ACT score of 24

Other applicants will be evaluated based on their cumulative GPA, prerequisite GPA, writing sample, and virtual interview. Jacksonville offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated option, and an RN to BSN program, as well as various graduate programs. Students will take nursing courses four days a week and do clinicals once a week.

• Estimated tuition cost: $48,500 per year (in-state and out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 58%
• Accreditation: CCNE

6. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida (UWF) offers a traditional BS in nursing, an online RN to BSN, and graduate programs in becoming a nurse executive, nurse educator, or family nurse practitioner. Over the last three years, BSN students have had a 91% pass rate on the NCLEX.

Applicants must be accepted to UWF before applying to the nursing program. Students should have at least a 3.0 GPA, an overall composite score of at least 75% on the TEAS, and have completed all prerequisite courses.

• Estimated tuition cost: $211.98 per credit hour (in-state); $641.37 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 57%
• Accreditation: CCNE

How We Rank Schools

• Accreditation: All of our schools are nationally accredited, but their nursing programs are further accredited by either the CCNE or ACEN, ensuring the highest-quality education.
• Acceptance rates: All the schools on our list advertise acceptance rates over 55%, which means they accept more than half of all students who apply. This helps improve your odds in a competitive market.
• Program reputation: Even with higher acceptance rates, these schools still feature knowledgeable faculty, rigorous curriculum, and hands-on experiences. All of this prepares you to pass the NCLEX.

What Can I Expect From a Nursing Degree Program?

Nursing school is not for the faint of heart. Coursework is loaded with pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, and more. You can complete some of these courses ahead of time through a community college or online program, but you'll likely still have a lot to learn. Full-time programs take two to four years.

In addition to classroom studies, your program will include clinical work. This may be done at a local facility, through virtual labs, simulations, or a combination. All aspects of your baccalaureate program prepare you to apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing.

FAQs About the Easiest Nursing Programs To Get Into

Getting into nursing school is a big first step in your healthcare career, so it's normal to still have questions. Below, we'll look more at what to expect from classes, admissions requirements, and the job outlook.

Is Nursing School Hard?

Nursing school isn't easy. Between classes about medicine, the human body, and patient care, along with hands-on clinical work, it's a lot to take in. Additionally, nursing school heavily emphasizes math courses as nurses will use these skills every day on the job.

Read More: Can I Be a Nurse If I Am Bad at Math?

Are Online Nursing Schools Easier Than Traditional Programs?

Just because you take courses online does not mean that online nursing school is easier than on-campus programs. These programs are often taught by the same faculty with the same rigorous course expectations. The easiest RN to BSN programs online can, however, provide flexibility for working adults.

Can I Get Into Nursing School With a Low TEAS Score?

While the TEAS provides a good indication of your academic readiness, a low score does not automatically disqualify you from entry. Some schools do not require TEAS scores, but most others consider many factors in a student's application, not just standardized testing. If you decide to retake the test, most schools allow you to take it three times per year.

What Is the Fastest RN Program in Florida?

If you have a related bachelor's degree, then the fastest way to become an RN is through an accelerated BSN program. These can generally be completed in a year or two. Many of the schools on our list, and many larger state schools like University of Miami, offer accelerated programs.

What Is the Job Outlook for Nurses in Florida?

Nurses play a critical role in their communities, and overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates 6% job growth over the next ten years. That means your nursing career outlook is good, especially if you graduate from a high-quality, accredited nursing program.

What Is the Hardest Nursing Class?

The hardest nursing class depends on your personal strengths and weaknesses. However, classes like pathophysiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical I are often reported to be the most challenging. Finding a buddy can help boost your study habits and overall mental health throughout nursing school.

Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into Near You

Although nursing school is competitive in Florida, there are still many high-quality options for future nurses. As you continue to review your options, remember to check out more nursing degrees offered at the schools featured on Learn.org. Reach out to one today to discuss your career goals.