10 Tips To Get Into an Accelerated Nursing Program

Accelerated nursing programs are fast-paced pathways that let you earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in as little as one year to 18 months. They’re designed for people who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to transition quickly into nursing. 

Because these programs move at such a rapid pace, admission is competitive, and schools look for applicants who are academically prepared and motivated. Below, you’ll find key tips on how to get into an accelerated nursing program.

What Is an Accelerated Nursing Program?

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to transition into nursing on a faster timeline, an accelerated nursing degree might be the right next step. These programs condense the coursework of a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) into 12 to 24 months, with some options leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Because of the intensive schedule, classes often run year-round and may include both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.

These pathways are useful if you want to enter nursing without starting from scratch. By building on your existing academic background, an accelerated program allows you to complete prerequisites quickly, move directly into advanced nursing courses, and prepare for licensure exams like the NCLEX-RN. The result is a shorter route to a nursing career, though the workload is demanding and requires strong time management.

Are Accelerated Nursing Programs Hard To Get Into?

On average, the acceptance rate for an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is around 40%, so putting together a strong application is especially important.

Accelerated nursing programs are generally more competitive because they have limited seats, attract many applicants, and require students who can keep up with the fast-paced curriculum. Schools look for candidates with solid academic records, completed prerequisites, and clear motivation for a nursing career. 

What Are the Admissions Requirements for an Accelerated Nursing Program?

Because of their intensity, accelerated nursing programs have specific admissions requirements to make sure you’re ready for the challenge. Most schools require a prior bachelor’s degree in any field, along with prerequisite science courses like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. These expectations exist because the curriculum is compressed into a short timeline, leaving little room to build foundational knowledge once you’re admitted.

Beyond academics, schools also look for qualities that suggest you can handle the demands of an accelerated pace. This often includes a minimum GPA, strong communication skills, and health care or volunteer experience. 

Admissions requirements for ABSN programs include:

• bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
• completion of prerequisite science and general education courses
• minimum GPA (commonly 3.0 or higher)
• letters of recommendation or personal statement
• health care or volunteer experience (varies by program)
• interview or entrance exam (at some schools)

What Prerequisites Are Required for an ABSN Program?

Before starting an ABSN program, you’ll usually need to complete a set of prerequisite courses that provide the scientific foundation for nursing. These classes make sure you have the knowledge needed to handle advanced nursing concepts in a condensed format. 

Requirements vary by school, but most expect the following prerequisites:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Social sciences
• Anatomy and physiology
• Microbiology
• Chemistry (general or organic)
• Nutrition
• Statistics
• Developmental psychology or lifespan psychology
• English composition or writing-intensive course

10 Tips To Get Into an Accelerated Nursing Program

Getting accepted into an accelerated nursing program takes more than interest; it requires preparation, strong academics, and a clear understanding of what each school expects. Review a few of the tips below to learn how you can improve your chances of standing out in a competitive pool.

1. Meet All Prerequisite Requirements

One of the first steps is making sure you’ve completed all required prerequisite courses. Most schools expect you to have recent credits in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and statistics. These courses provide the scientific background you’ll need to succeed in an accelerated nursing curriculum. Without them, your application may be considered incomplete or less competitive.

Completing prerequisites also shows schools that you’re serious about transitioning into nursing and capable of handling rigorous academic work. Many programs require a minimum grade in these classes, often a B or higher, to prove readiness. If you’re missing a course, community colleges and online options can be affordable ways to fill the gap before applying.

2. Maintain a Strong GPA

Most accelerated nursing programs require at least a 3.0 GPA to apply. Because these programs are demanding, schools want proof that you can succeed in challenging coursework. A higher GPA not only strengthens your application but also gives you an advantage when there are limited seats.

Schools also look closely at your grades in prerequisite science courses like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Strong performance in these classes shows that you’re prepared for the science-heavy nursing curriculum. Even if your overall GPA isn’t perfect, excelling in your core prerequisites can help balance things out.

3. Gain Healthcare or Volunteer Experience

Hands-on experience in health care settings can make your application much stronger. Working or volunteering in hospitals, clinics, or community health programs shows that you understand the realities of patient care. It also demonstrates your commitment to nursing, which is especially important for competitive programs.

Even if you don’t have paid experience, volunteering can be just as valuable. Roles like assisting patients, supporting nurses, or working with community initiatives give you insight into the profession while building practical skills. Schools often see this as proof that you’re entering nursing with both awareness and dedication, not just academics.

4. Complete Extra Science or Health Electives

Going beyond the minimum prerequisites can give you an edge when applying. Courses like pathophysiology, medical terminology, or genetics build on your science foundation and give you a preview of concepts you’ll encounter in nursing school. Taking these classes shows that you’re motivated to learn and willing to put in the extra effort.

Electives can also make the transition into an accelerated program smoother. Because the curriculum moves quickly, having prior exposure to advanced topics can help you feel more confident and better prepared. Even if these courses aren’t required, they highlight your initiative and may set you apart from other applicants.

5. Prepare for the Entrance Exam

Many accelerated programs require an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam. These tests measure your reading, math, science, and English skills. Scoring well is important because some programs place significant weight on exam results.

Preparing ahead of time can make a big difference. Using study guides, practice exams, or prep courses helps you identify weak areas and build confidence before test day. Think of the exam as your chance to show off what you know; it’s not just another hurdle, but a way to stand out.

6. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters provide schools with a more personal insight into your abilities and character. Choosing the right people ensures your letters carry credibility and detail. Some examples of strong recommendation letters would be ones that come from:

• professors who can speak to your academic strengths
• supervisors who can vouch for your work ethic
• health care professionals who have seen your commitment firsthand

These letters should highlight qualities like compassion, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. They also serve as outside confirmation of your readiness for the fast pace of nursing school. Asking early gives your recommenders time to write thoughtful, detailed letters that can set your application apart.

7. Show Commitment to the Demands of Nursing

Accelerated nursing programs move quickly, often packing several years of coursework into just over a year. To succeed, you’ll need to show schools that you can manage the pace and pressure. Demonstrating time management, resilience, and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities reassures schools that you’re ready for the challenge.

You can highlight these qualities in your personal statement, recommendation letters, or examples from past academic and work experiences. Whether it’s balancing a job with coursework or pushing through challenges in previous studies, showing commitment proves you’re ready to dedicate yourself fully to nursing.

8. Apply to Multiple Programs

Because accelerated nursing programs are competitive, it’s smart to apply to more than one school. Acceptance rates can be low, and each program may have slightly different prerequisites or admission priorities. Casting a wider net increases your chances of finding a program that fits your background and goals.

Applying broadly also gives you more options once you receive acceptance offers. One program might highlight clinical experience, while another may weigh GPA or entrance exam scores more heavily. Applying to multiple programs gives you the flexibility to compare costs, locations, and support services before making a decision.

9. Highlight Transferable Skills From Prior Degrees or Careers

If you’re coming to nursing from another field, you probably already have valuable skills to list on your application. Abilities such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving are highly relevant in nursing. Highlighting how you’ve used these skills in your previous degree or career shows you’re ready to bring them into a health care setting.

For example, someone with a business background might emphasize leadership and organization, while a former teacher could focus on communication and patience. Framing your past experiences in terms of nursing shows schools you’re more than just your GPA and that you bring unique strengths to the program.

10. Get Certified in Basic Health Credentials

Earning short health-related certifications can show schools that you’re serious about entering the nursing field. Credentials like CPR or First Aid not only give you practical skills but also prove your commitment to health care. Some students even pursue a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential, which offers direct patient care experience and makes applications stand out.

These certifications also prepare you for the realities of nursing school and clinical work. By gaining early exposure to patient care and safety protocols, you’ll feel more confident during hands-on training. Adding one or more of these credentials signals initiative and readiness for the demands of nursing:

• CPR certification
• First Aid certification
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) (optional but valuable)

Why Are Accelerated Nursing Programs So Competitive?

Accelerated nursing programs are competitive because they accept only a limited number of students each year. With small class sizes and high demand for nurses, schools must carefully select applicants who are most likely to succeed. This means even well-qualified candidates face tough competition.

The rigorous nature of the curriculum also adds to the selectivity. With coursework condensed into just 12 to 24 months, you’ll be expected to manage heavy class loads and clinical hours without much downtime. Schools want students who can handle this pace and thrive in an intense learning environment.

FAQs About Accelerated Nursing Programs

If you’re exploring accelerated nursing programs, these common questions can help you better understand the admissions process, program structure, and outcomes.

How Long Do Accelerated Nursing Programs Usually Take?

Most accelerated nursing programs last between 12 and 24 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some schools offer intensive one-year tracks, while others spread the coursework out for a more manageable pace. Either way, the goal is to condense a traditional nursing degree into a shorter timeline.

What Degree Do You Need Before an Accelerated Nursing Program?

To qualify for an accelerated nursing program, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. This degree provides the general education background required for advanced coursework. While your major doesn’t need to be related to health care, most schools expect you to complete prerequisite science courses before applying.

Are Accelerated Nursing Programs More Expensive?

Accelerated nursing programs can cost more than traditional BSN programs because of their condensed format and intensive support services. The good news is that most schools accept federal aid, scholarships, and grants to help with expenses. While tuition may feel steep upfront, the faster timeline often makes the return on investment worthwhile.

How Difficult Are Accelerated Nursing Programs Compared to Traditional BSN Programs?

Accelerated nursing programs are usually more challenging because they cover the same material in a shorter period. You can expect heavy course loads, frequent exams, and demanding clinical hours packed into 12 to 24 months. Success depends on preparation, strong time management, and your ability to stay committed.

Do Accelerated Nursing Programs Guarantee Job Placement?

Accelerated nursing programs don’t guarantee job placement, but you’ll be entering a field with strong demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for registered nurses, and many schools provide career services like resume workshops, job fairs, and employer connections. Your job prospects depend on your skills, clinical experience, and location.

Explore Nursing Programs

Accelerated nursing programs offer a fast track into a rewarding career, but getting accepted takes preparation and planning. Browse nursing programs on Learn.org and reach out to schools directly to compare admissions requirements, costs, and support services so you can find the program that fits your goals.