RN to BSN Admission Requirements

RN to BSN admission requirements include educational prerequisites, proper nursing licensures and certifications, background and character checks, and state or program-specific additional requirements.

But before getting into those, here's what an RN to BSN program entails and how it differs from a regular BSN degree.

What is an RN to BSN Program?

An RN to BSN program is a bachelor's program designed specifically for current registered nurses who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program. Upon completion of the program, nurses will have their BSN and can move forward with graduate education.

Most of these programs are shortened, accelerated degree programs with full or part-time attendance options that can be completed in one to two years. Some programs are offered entirely online, some only on campus, and some in a hybrid format.

Because an RN to BSN degree is made for specific applicants, there are RN to BSN admission requirements that are unique to this type of program. Here's what you need to do or submit with your application in order to be considered for admission to an RN to BSN program.

Applications and Additional Forms

The first step is, of course, filling out your application for the university and program you'd like to be part of. You'll also need to include financial aid forms, high school and college transcripts, and any other documentation that your university requests, such as proof of residency.

Most, if not all, higher education institutions will request a background check as well. If you've had a background check in the last two years, you should be able to submit that one with your application.

If not, the university can help you get a current background check — speak to an admissions counselor to find out about background check requirements and how to complete yours when you apply.

Prior Education and GPA Requirements

For an RN to BSN program specifically, there are educational requirements. Only students who have completed an ADN or nurse diploma program will be admitted to an RN to BSN program.

In addition to completing a prior degree, some programs require prerequisite courses in subjects such as anatomy, psychology, and statistics. These are usually taken during your ADN, but make sure each prerequisite course is completed and has the required minimum grade before you apply.

Minimum GPA requirements for RN to BSN programs can vary, but generally, you need a 2.5 or higher with a grade of C or higher in required prerequisite courses to be considered for admission.

Certification and Licensure for Registered Nurses

Because you need to be an RN to enroll in an RN to BSN program, part of the application process includes providing proof of a current, unrestricted registered nursing license in the state that the program is in.

Not only do you need to have a license at the time of applying, but you need to maintain it throughout your program. This could mean you have to renew your licensure through employment while completing your education.

Some programs also require that you work a certain number of hours per week and that you have experience working as a nurse during or prior to starting the program. There is usually an option to waive the work requirement through exams or demonstration of need.

Special Requirements for Specific States and Universities

In addition to the standard requirements above, some states and specific schools can have additional RN to BSN admission requirements.

These requirements include interviews, personal statements, and recommendation letters. They help establish your background, nursing competence, work ethic, motivations, and compatibility with the program.

Some programs also have residency requirements — you'll need to reside and work as a nurse in the same state you attend the program in or need to be living in an authorized state. Others may have specific course completion requirements.

Here are some examples of state or program-specific requirements:

• At SUNY Delhi, students must complete Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, English, and Psychology prerequisite courses and have a 2.8 or above GPA.
• At Ohio State University, you only need a 2.0 GPA, but you need to reside in an authorized state and submit an online video interview for the BSN program.
• Penn State University requires potential students to have completed two years of a world language that isn't English in addition to an RN license in order to apply.