Nursing School Requirements: A Beginner's Guide

Pursuing a nursing degree can be highly time-consuming and requires consistent effort and determination to complete. Nursing candidates are expected to complete rigorous coursework and clinical experiences.

There are many educational pathways available for prospective students to take to become licensed nurses in their state of choice.

Below, you'll learn about the major differences among the nursing degree programs and the necessary steps needed to take to gain admission into a nursing program.

Find The Right Program For You

There are several degree programs that aspiring nurses can enroll in to become a nurse. The first step in the process is to find the program that works best for you and fulfill its admission requirements.

Here is a list of the common degree programs that aspiring nurses can enroll in.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A BSN program is a four-year degree program that provides two years of prerequisite courses and general education courses followed by two extra years of nursing core courses.

A BSN program is the most popular route that aspiring nurses generally take. Graduates of BSN programs are often offered better career opportunities and higher salaries.

However, the programs are more expensive than the other degree programs.

Accelerated BSN Program

In addition to the traditional four-year nursing degree, many institutions have created a faster route for aspiring nurses who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field.

Generally, these programs are less expensive and can be completed in as few as 12 to 20 months.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An ADN program offers the fastest route to becoming a registered nurse. The programs can be completed in 18 months to two years.

Pursuing an ADN degree can limit potential career growth since most employers prefer BSN graduates. In addition, nurses with an ADN degree are typically paid less.

In Person or Online?

Another choice that aspiring nurses may have to make is whether they want to attend the program in person or online. Both of the program types offer the same education, just in different ways.

In-person programs offer the traditional educational experience in which students follow an institution's schedule.

However, there are many online programs that offer flexible scheduling that easily fits into a student's schedule.

There are some drawbacks to consider when enrolling in an online program. Some of these drawbacks are:

• lack of daily structure
• less direct access to teachers
• less social interactions with peers
• difficulties with staying motivated

When making this decision, it comes down to a student's preference and learning style.

What Are the Steps for Getting Into Nursing School?

If you are an aspiring nurse who is looking to enroll in a nursing program, here is a list of the steps you need to take to become admitted into your program of choice.

Step 1: Meet the Nursing School Requirements

The first step to applying to nursing school is to make sure that you have the required prerequisites completed prior to applying. The specific requirements will vary from one program to another and each institution is different with their requirements.

However, there are some general requirements that a student will need to fulfill prior to admission. These include:

• have a high school diploma or GED
• meet GPA requirements for prerequisite courses
• achieve minimum ACT/SAT scores
• high school/transfer transcripts
• earn a minimum score on HESI and/or TEAS

2. Prepare Application and Apply Early

Once you have decided which program type is best for you and have completed the prerequisite courses and other admission requirements, candidates are then advised to begin their application.

Each program is different when it comes to deadlines, so making a note of it and working on the application is recommended.

The following application components should be handled in a timely manner.

Submit a letter of recommendation from two former teachers. It is always best to ask your teachers up to six weeks before the deadline.

High school or GED transcripts are also a part of the application process. It is best to reach to your school at least a month before the deadline to ensure they are received in time.

Depending on the nursing program, some programs require a copy of your SAT or TEAS score. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam ensures that the student has the academic skills needed to perform well in nursing school.

It is similar to the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exam. Please contact your program to find out which score(s) they require.

Many nursing programs require a written essay and additional supplemental essays. It is best to give yourself enough time to complete them before the deadline.

Some programs may want to interview you. Practicing your responses to potential questions ahead of time is advised.

Step 3: Choose the Best Program

When deciding the best program, there are several factors to consider when making the decision. Some of these are:

• cost of attendance/tuition
• learning format (in person or online)
• time to complete the program
• full-time or part-time option
• professional resources and networks

Step 4: Develop a Payment Strategy

Once admitted, there are several methods that a student can use to help lower their education costs. Like many other programs, students can use financial aid, grants, and scholarships to help fund their nursing degree.

The majority of these resources are available to be researched online. Newly admitted students are also welcome to reach out to their institution's financial aid office for more information.

Pursue Your Nursing Degree Today

Enrolling in a nursing degree program can be a daunting task that requires several steps to be completed.

If you are wanting to enter the nursing profession, please follow this step-by-step guide and reach out to your program of choice today.