Ask A Nurse: My Options If I Get Rejected From Nursing School?

Getting turned away from a nursing program is common, and it isn't the end. Despite the shortage, programs have limited seats and a lot of applicants. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reported that 80,407 qualified applicants were turned away from nursing schools in 2019 alone, largely because schools didn't have enough faculty.

Vent to friends and family, then put that energy into a stronger application. Here's where to focus.

Retake Classes With Poor Grades

GPA matters. If you earned a C or D in a science or math course, retake it. Confirm first that the schools you're applying to will count the better grade. Raising your overall GPA and your science and math GPA makes a real difference.

Get Experience

Healthcare experience makes you more competitive and shows you know what the work actually involves, so you won't be caught off guard.

Consider a CNA Program

Becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA) is one of the best ways to get that experience. Many rejected applicants spend a year as a CNA before reapplying. You can finish a CNA program in roughly 15 weeks or less, classroom and clinical hours included, and the median annual wage is $30,830 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You also get exposure to a range of care settings while you wait to reapply.

Complete Your Prerequisites

If your prerequisites aren't done, that alone can sink an application. Schools want a solid background in biology, physiology, and microbiology, and usually anatomy, math, statistics, chemistry, and sociology. Some also require nutrition, English, or extra credits in a specific subject. Check the exact list for each program.

Ask the School What They Value

Schools want well-rounded applicants with volunteer experience, good test scores, and a minimum GPA. But every program weights things differently. One leans hard on GPA, another rewards healthcare experience or strong letters of reference. Talk to the admissions counselor and find out how each requirement is ranked. You can't hit the target until you know where it is.

Take the TEAS

Most schools want a strong score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which covers math, science, reading, English, and language. Programs use it to predict how you'll do. You can take it in person or remotely at a proctored site, and each section is timed. Plan to prepare for at least six weeks. The exam has 170 multiple-choice questions.

Apply to Several Programs

You may have one dream program, but applying broadly raises your odds. Don't limit yourself to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs. Include associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs too. Either way you can graduate and license as a registered nurse (RN), and from an ADN you can later do an RN-to-BSN or RN-to-master's bridge.

Watch the details. Nothing tanks an application faster than an incomplete one. If a school asks for three letters of reference, send three. Some programs interview applicants now, so prepare for that.

Be Open to Relocating

Look beyond your area. Programs with less competition may be an easier admit. If you live in New York City, consider schools in surrounding states. You'll pay out-of-state tuition, but scholarships and grants can offset it.

Don't Give Up

A rejection stings, but the experience and coursework you add before the next round boost your odds and your confidence. Many students come back more motivated and work harder once they're in. It may take a few extra months, but it's achievable when you make yourself the strongest applicant you can be.

Key Points

• The American Association of Colleges of Nursing found 80,407 qualified applicants were denied admission in 2019, largely due to faculty shortages.
• Improve your application: gain experience through a CNA program, finish your prerequisites, and raise your GPA by retaking courses below a B.
• Prepare for and take the TEAS.
• Apply broadly, including both ADN and BSN programs and schools in surrounding states.