5 Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into in Washington 2025

Nursing is an essential sector of the American workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that there will be roughly 194,500 new job openings for registered nurses (RNs) through 2033. This 6% growth rate is one of the fastest across all sectors.

Applying to an accredited nursing school program is the first step to earning your RN licensure. In this article, we highlight some of Washington's easiest nursing schools to get into and answer frequently asked questions about nursing program requirements, job outlooks, and more. Read on to learn how to get started on this important and exciting career path in healthcare.

How Competitive Are Nursing Schools in Washington?

Nursing schools vary in levels of competitiveness. Generally speaking, four-year degree programs at private institutions are more competitive than two-year degree programs at community colleges. For example, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) on an accelerated track (also known as an ABSN) will be more selective than an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program.

ADN programs at community colleges are some of the easiest nursing programs to get into. These degree pathways are among the fastest ways to become a nurse and are relatively easy nursing programs.

Having a relatively high grade point average (GPA), like a 3.0 or higher, will help you stand out during the application process. If your GPA isn't strong, you can highlight achievements in other ways, like volunteer service, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for Washington Nursing Schools?

Admission requirements vary from school to school and program to program. However, many nursing school requirements are similar across the board: a minimum GPA on your official transcripts, certain courses (like biology and chemistry), and a background check.

The level of required coursework will depend on your chosen degree program. If you are applying to an ADN program, you will need certain high school-level science and math prerequisite courses. If you are applying for a bachelor's degree program, you must complete college-level courses (e.g., statistics and microbiology) before moving on to nursing theory courses.

Nursing Schools With the Highest Acceptance Rates in Washington

This list features a variety of the easiest nursing schools to get into in the state of Washington. Programs include both traditional ADN and BSN degree options. All of the following nursing programs have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

1. Big Bend Community College

Big Bend Community College (BBCC) is a small public school in Moses Lake, WA. BBCC offers an associate degree in nursing that enables graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in two years. Its associate degree in nursing is a Direct Transfer Agreement/Major Related Program (DTA/MRP), providing a seamless pathway to a BSN degree.

BBCC admits students each year in the fall semester only. Students should apply online in the spring to be considered for the following school year. Students must complete prequisite courses before applying to the nursing program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,290 per year (in-state); $3,678 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 100% (overall acceptance rate)
• Accreditation: ACEN

2. Clark College

Located in Vancouver, WA, Clark College is a mid-sized public school that offers a traditional ADN program. Its nursing program emphasizes a holistic, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based approach to nursing education. Coursework is delivered primarily in person, and students gain hands-on experience during simulation labs and clinical rotations.

Clark College's School of Nursing has three enrollment periods: fall, winter, and spring semesters. Prerequisite courses include nutrition, chemistry, and English composition. You may apply to the program online.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,458 per year (in-state); $4,614 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 100% (overall acceptance rate)
• Accreditation: ACEN

3. Bellevue College

Bellevue, WA, is home to Bellevue College, a public school with an open admissions policy. This means the school accepts nearly all students with a high school diploma or their General Educational Development (GED). Graduates of its ADN program achieve an average of 89% NCLEX pass rate on their first attempt, which is higher than the national average.

Bellevue College's ADN program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. The full-time ADN program has two start dates per year in the fall and winter semesters. The part-time program begins every spring semester.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,206 per year (in-state); $10,271 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 100% (overall acceptance rate)
• Accreditation: ACEN

4. Western Washington University

Western Washington University is located in Bellingham, WA, and offers a hybrid RN to BSN program. Classes meet one full day per week (some classes are online, others are on campus), allowing working RNs to balance professional commitments with their studies. Students take nursing courses for the first half of the program; the second half of the program focuses on practical applications through clinical experiences in local healthcare settings.

The program is designed for students who have already earned their ADN or nursing school diploma. Applicants must submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, a resume, and two academic or professional references.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,523 per year (in-state); $27,690 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 93% (overall acceptance rate)
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. Washington State University

Washington State University (WSU)'s College of Nursing offers various nursing degree options. Its traditional BSN is a four-year degree program. Students spend their first two years fulfilling general education requirements and nursing prerequisites; the second two years focus on nursing theory courses.

WSU has a holistic admissions process: the school considers the applicant's potential as a whole � not simply from an academic perspective. Your GPA, Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) score, admissions interview, and extracurricular experiences (e.g., volunteer work) are all considered valuable components.

• Estimated tuition cost: $35,368 per year (in-state); $51,910 per year (out-of-state)
• Acceptance rate: 60% (overall acceptance rate)
• Accreditation: CCNE

How We Rank Schools

We consider accreditation status, acceptance rates, and nursing school program reputation when deciding which colleges and universities to feature.

• Accreditation: All programs must be vetted and approved by an independent accrediting organization. The ACEN and CCNE are the main nursing program accrediting programs in the U.S. All programs must also be approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing.
• Acceptance rates: We feature schools with accessible programs, which means they accept at least 50% or more of the students who apply.
• Program reputation: A nursing school's program quality is determined by its accreditation status and standard curriculum, experienced faculty, clinical experience opportunities, NCLEX-RN pass rates, and job placement after graduation.

What Can I Expect From a Nursing Degree Program?

Nursing degree programs vary according to degree level and individual school. However, all accredited programs share fundamental basics: nursing theory coursework (which includes classes like mental health and pediatric nursing), simulation labs, and hands-on clinical rotations.

Most undergraduate degree programs have education prerequisites. You can fulfill these requirements by taking many self-paced nursing prerequisites online. Graduate programs, like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), involve more advanced coursework and a capstone project.

FAQs About the Easiest Nursing Programs To Get Into

The following section addresses commonly asked questions about nursing programs, from career outlooks to GPA minimums to course difficulty.

Is Nursing School Hard?

Nursing school programs are not easy, as nursing is an intensive profession and requires both classroom study and hands-on practice. Even the easiest RN to BSN programs online have certain prerequisites that require a high level of concentration and study. For example, many BSN programs require students to complete math courses, such as statistics and algebra.

Which courses will be more difficult for you depends on your educational background and personal preference. Schools offer support to nursing students via faculty mentors, study groups, tutors, and online resources.

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

Are Online Nursing Schools Easier Than Traditional Programs?

Online nursing schools are not easier than traditional programs. Quality online nursing schools are accredited by the ACEN or the CCNE, and thus must uphold the same curriculum standards as their in-person program counterparts.

Some students find that online programs more easily accommodate their lifestyle. Working adults with professional and family commitments can schedule studies around their personal needs. You may find that with online programs, the hardest nursing class is more easily managed.

What Is the Lowest GPA To Get Into Nursing School?

The minimum GPA for nursing school depends on your chosen program and college or university. Generally speaking, a 2.0 GPA on your high school or college transcript is the minimum needed. More competitive programs require at least a 3.0 or 3.5 GPA.

Many schools take a holistic approach to the nursing school admissions process. If your GPA is on the lower end, be sure to highlight your other achievements. This can include volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation from teachers or employers.

What Is the Career Outlook for Nurses in Washington?

The need for registered nurses continues to grow both nationally and in Washington state. Washington STEM reports that nursing is the most in-demand job in the state, with demand expected to rise.

As such, the nursing career outlook is positive. Registered nurses and nurse practitioners (NPs) will continue to have lots of opportunities in the job market.

What Is the Hardest Nursing School To Get Into in Washington?

The University of Washington (UW) in Seattle, WA, is generally regarded as the most competitive nursing school in the state. The UW School of Nursing offers BSN, ABSN, DNP, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Science programs.

Its direct admissions, or direct entry, program is particularly selective. (Direct admissions is a process wherein schools offer acceptance to students before any formal application.)

Where Can I Work With a Nursing Degree in Washington?

There are many job opportunities for you once you have earned your nursing degree. RNs work in hospitals, acute care clinics, community health settings, schools, and long-term care facilities. You can work for private companies, government organizations, or non-profit groups. If you have a BSN or more advanced degree, you may be eligible for leadership roles.

Easiest Nursing Schools To Get Into Near You

No matter your goals, there are numerous nursing school options available. Connect with Learn.org's partner institutions to find out which is the best fit for your nursing education journey.