What Nursing Schools Look for in Applicants: A Comprehensive Guide

Thinking about becoming a nurse? Wondering what nursing schools look for in applicants? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of aspiring nurses apply to nursing programs—only to find the competition tougher than expected.

As an academic admissions counselor, I’ve worked with hundreds of prospective nursing students, helping them prepare strong applications that stand out. This guide provides an inside look at exactly what nursing schools look for in applicants, what helps you get accepted, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Whether you’re applying to an ADN, BSN, accelerated program, or graduate-level nursing school, this guide is designed to boost your chances of success.

Why Admissions Criteria Matter in Nursing Schools

Before diving into what makes a strong applicant, it’s important to understand why nursing schools are so selective.

Nursing is a rigorous profession that requires not only academic excellence but also emotional intelligence, strong communication skills, and a deep sense of responsibility. Patients’ lives may depend on your decisions. Therefore, nursing schools aim to admit students who can handle the pressure, maintain professionalism, and excel in both classroom and clinical settings.

What Nursing Schools Look for in Applicants

1. Academic Performance: Your GPA Still Matters

Minimum GPA Requirements

Most nursing schools have a minimum GPA requirement, often ranging between 2.5 and 3.0. However, competitive programs—especially BSN and accelerated BSN—typically look for GPAs above 3.5.

Tip: Focus on your science GPA. Courses like Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry are critical.

Recent Academic History

If your overall GPA is lower but you’ve recently improved (e.g., taken post-baccalaureate or community college courses), many schools will weigh that upward trend favorably.

2. Science Prerequisites and Rigor of Coursework

Most nursing schools require the completion of specific science and general education prerequisites before admission:

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II

• Microbiology

• Chemistry (often with lab)

• Psychology (General & Developmental)

• Statistics

• English Composition

Grades in Prerequisites Matter More Than You Think

Admissions committees pay special attention to grades in science prerequisites, often more than your overall GPA. A “C” in English might be okay, but a “C” in Anatomy could be a red flag.

Read Also: Top 10 Best Nursing Schools in South Carolina (SC)

3. TEAS or HESI Admission Test Scores

What are TEAS and HESI?

These are standardized entrance exams that test skills in:

• Reading comprehension

• Math

• Science

• English and language usage

Competitive Scores

• TEAS: Most schools expect at least 70–75%, while top-tier programs may expect 85%+.

• HESI: A composite score of 80% or higher is generally considered competitive.

Insight from an Admissions Counselor: Some schools weigh test scores heavily if GPA is borderline. It’s a great way to compensate for a weaker academic record.

4. Healthcare Experience and Volunteer Work

Nursing is a hands-on field, and applicants with direct patient care experience are highly valued.

Examples of Valuable Experience:

• CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

• EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)

• Phlebotomist

• Hospice Volunteer

• Shadowing a nurse or doctor

• Medical missions or public health volunteering

Even non-certified roles, such as caring for a family member or volunteering at a clinic, can show dedication and insight into patient care.

5. Strong Letters of Recommendation

Most nursing programs request 2–3 letters of recommendation. These should come from:

• Science professors

• Clinical supervisors or nurses

• Volunteer coordinators

• Academic advisors

What Makes a Good Letter?

The best letters are:

• Personal: Describe your character and work ethic

• Specific: Provide examples of performance in class or care settings

• Professional: Written by someone with credibility in the field

Avoid generic letters from family friends or religious leaders unless directly relevant to your nursing journey.

6. Personal Statement or Admissions Essay

Your nursing school personal statement is your opportunity to share your “why.”

What to Include:

• Why do you want to become a nurse

• Personal experiences that shaped your decision

• What qualities do you bring to the nursing profession

• Long-term goals in healthcare

• Challenges you’ve overcome

Pro Tip: Avoid clichés like “I want to help people.” Instead, share a compelling story or moment that made nursing your calling.

7. Interview Performance (For Schools That Require It)

Not all nursing programs require interviews, but many top-tier BSN and MSN programs do.

What They’re Assessing:

• Communication skills

• Professionalism

• Empathy and ethical reasoning

• Maturity and preparedness

Common Interview Questions:

• “Why do you want to be a nurse?”

• “Describe a time you handled a difficult situation.”

• “How do you handle stress?”

• “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Practice responses and present yourself with confidence, compassion, and clarity.

Read Also: How to Become a School Nurse: Qualifications, Certification & Career Requirements

8. Diversity and Unique Background

Many nursing schools seek to build a diverse student body. Applicants who:

• Speak multiple languages

• Come from underrepresented communities

• Have non-traditional academic paths

• Are career changers

• Having military or life experiences

…can bring valuable perspectives to patient care.

How to Leverage This:

Use your application and personal statement to highlight how your background will enrich the nursing cohort and profession.

9. Emotional Intelligence and Compassion

Nursing isn’t just about skills—it’s about caring for people in their most vulnerable moments.

Admissions teams want to see evidence of:

• Empathy

• Listening skills

• Teamwork

• Moral integrity

This often comes through in recommendation letters, essays, and interviews.

10. Professionalism and Application Presentation

Admissions officers notice how you present your application:

• Are all documents complete and on time?

• Are there grammatical or spelling errors in your statement?

• Did you follow instructions?

Professionalism begins with your application.

11. Extracurriculars and Leadership Roles

Though not always required, involvement in:

• Student government

• Health clubs (HOSA, Red Cross, etc.)

• Community outreach

• Tutoring or mentoring

…shows you are well-rounded and capable of balancing multiple responsibilities, just like real-world nurses.

12. Resilience and Adaptability

Nursing school is tough. Admissions committees look for students who can bounce back from challenges.

Example: If you had a low GPA due to family illness or personal struggles, share that context. What matters most is how you overcame it and what you learned.

How to Strengthen Your Nursing School Application (Checklist)

Here’s a concise checklist to help you stand out:

Final Thoughts: What Makes a Standout Nursing School Applicant?

The most successful applicants are those who blend academic strength with emotional intelligence, clinical awareness, and a genuine commitment to patient care.

It’s not just about having a perfect GPA—it’s about being the kind of person who patients will trust, colleagues will respect, and professors will be proud to teach.

As an admissions counselor, I advise all applicants to start early, stay organized, and seek mentorship throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I get into nursing school with a low GPA?

Yes, but you may need to:

• Excel in recent coursework

• Score high on the TEAS or HESI

• Gain relevant clinical experience

• Write a compelling personal statement

Q2: Do all nursing schools require TEAS or HESI?

No, but most do. Always check your target school’s requirements.

Q3: How important is healthcare experience?

Very important. Even volunteer work or caregiving counts. It shows you’re familiar with the demands of the field.