Getting into nursing school is a great achievement worth celebrating. 

But before you get to the celebration, you have to get accepted into nursing school.

From prerequisites to written statements, figuring out how to get into nursing school may seem daunting. But if you follow these nursing school admissions tips, you’ll be ready to secure your spot in the program of your choice.

How to Get Into Nursing School

The most important part of the application process for nursing school is staying organized and completing all of the admissions requirements.

The steps to get into nursing school include:

• Meeting prerequisites such as GPA and math and science courses.
• Filling out an online application.
• Completing a written statement.
• Submitting transcripts from high school or previous colleges.

At Nebraska Methodist College (NMC), you can receive guidance and support during the admissions process from the admissions team.

They will help you understand the requirements of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, show you how to apply to nursing school, answer any questions you may have and give you advice for getting into nursing school.

At NMC, you can apply for the traditional four year BSN program or the accelerated one year BSN program. The accelerated program is for those who already have an associate or bachelor’s degree. 

Understanding Nursing School Requirements and Prerequisites

Before you begin the application process, you’ll want to become familiar with nursing school prerequisites and requirements.

At NMC, the criteria for admission into the BSN program is:

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
• An ability to meet the technical standards of nursing practice, which include general physical, communication, motor, observational and intellectual abilities. This also includes passing a background check and drug screening.
• Success in previous math and science courses, specifically in algebra, biology, chemistry or anatomy and physiology.

High School Preparation for Nursing School

As a high school student, you can prepare to get into nursing school by aligning your academics and extracurriculars with a future career in healthcare.

Recommendations for high school students that are aspiring nurses include:

• Taking math and science courses like algebra, biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology.
• Maintaining a high GPA.
• Joining your school’s healthcare organization like Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). 
• Volunteering at a local hospital.

While completing a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course isn’t a required qualification for nursing school at NMC, becoming a CNA can give you hands-on experience working with patients and will show your commitment to becoming a nurse.

College Prerequisites for Nursing Programs

Applying to the traditional BSN program doesn’t require previous college courses. 

But if you're applying to the accelerated nursing program, you must have completed prerequisite courses such as English composition, college chemistry, human anatomy, introduction to psychology, humanities courses and intermediate algebra.

If you didn’t take one or some of these courses during your associate or bachelor’s degree program, you can complete the courses prior to the program’s start date.

How to Craft a Strong Nursing School Application

NMC uses the Centralized Application for Nursing Programs, also known as NursingCAS, to assist with all nursing program applications.

NursingCAS is operated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (ACCN) and offers a convenient and efficient process to apply to nursing school using a web-based application. 

The application offers online checklists and instructions to easily navigate through the process of applying. Students are able to track the receipts of the application, transcripts and references 24/7.

As you begin the process, use these nursing program application tips:

• Write down the username and password you create when you set up your account.
• Read all of the instructions and questions carefully. 
• Take your time.
• Save all documents that must be uploaded using your name and the type of document it is.
• Pay attention to deadlines, and submit your application a few weeks before the application deadline.

Read more: 7 Tips for a Successful NursingCAS Application

Writing a Compelling Personal Statement for Nursing School

An important aspect of your nursing school application is your written statement. 

At NMC, you’ll respond to writing prompts about why you decided to become a nurse and what skills you have that will help you succeed in nursing school. You’ll also have a chance to address any low grades or withdrawals on your transcripts.

Your personal statement is your chance to tell your story, share why you want to be a nurse, show how you use logical reasoning and critical thinking skills, and give examples of your communication skills.

To make your personal statement more captivating, use specific examples or stories from your life. Sharing your own experiences allows the admissions team to get to know you and discover whether you have a growth mindset and the ability to learn the skills necessary to become a nurse.

Preparing for Nursing School Entrance Exams

Some nursing schools require prospective students to take an entrance exam.

At NMC, you are not required to take any entrance exams that determine entrance into the College.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Nursing Students

Before you apply to nursing school, you should find out how much your education is going to cost and know how you’re going to pay for college.

There are many options for nursing school financial aid. Whether you utilize low-interest loans, scholarships, tuition reimbursement programs or employer tuition discounts, you can find a way to pay for college and even decrease the cost of your education.

There are different types of financial aid that you might qualify for:

• Scholarships
• Grants
• Work-Study
• Loans
• Employer tuition discount
• Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement

To qualify for federal student loans, scholarships and work-study, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after you’ve been admitted to college.

The financial aid office will notify you of your financial aid offer.

Some scholarships will require an application and are based on merit or financial need.

At NMC, you can make an appointment with a financial aid advisor to learn more about your financial aid options.

Read more: Pathways to a Healthcare Education to Decrease Tuition Costs

Applying for Nursing Scholarships

NMC offers many scholarships to nursing students, including:

• Upfront Merit Scholarships
• Academic and Leadership Scholarships
• Scott Scholars Program
• Becker Presidential Scholarship
• Wischmeier Dean’s Scholarship
• Kathleen Montgomery Memorial ACE Scholarship (accelerated nursing)
• HOSA Leadership Scholarship
• NMC Legacy Grant
• Nebraska Career Scholarship

While you might qualify for an institutional scholarship, you’ll want to research external scholarships. They could be available through non-profit organizations, religious entities, your employer, your parents’ or guardians' employer or athletic clubs.

You can find more scholarship opportunities through EducationQuest.

Each scholarship will have an application that could include a form, essay, transcripts or proof of financial need.

Much like your written statement for your college application, you’ll want to take your time writing your scholarship essays. Each scholarship will have different requirements, so read the instructions carefully.

Why Choose Nebraska Methodist College for Nursing

At NMC, you’ll receive the guidance and support you need starting with the admissions process and throughout your time as a student. 

Graduates of NMC’s nursing programs say that NMC is one of the best nursing schools because of the faculty.

“There were multiple faculty members that went above and beyond for me during my time at NMC and I couldn't feel happier and more appreciative for them and their help,” said Lyndie Brady, a BSN graduate.

“I underwent several hardships during my time at NMC. This includes caretaking for my grandmother who was diagnosed with lung cancer and being involved in a severe car accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury. I am most proud of myself for my resilience and completing my major and minor with a GPA above 3.5.”

Students at NMC experience a holistic culture of caring with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. You’ll learn in our state-of-the-art laboratories and by working in clinical settings, which will prepare you to pass your licensure exam.

You’ll have support through academic coaching, counseling, study groups, test prep groups and peer-to-peer tutoring. 

Increase your chances of getting into nursing school by completing the required prerequisites, filling out your online application completely and writing a compelling personal statement.

After successful completion of the application process, you’ll receive your college acceptance letter and get to celebrate your accomplishment.

Contact our admissions team at (402) 354-7200 or admissions@methodistcollege.edu with questions or for more information.