Nursing School Prerequisites: Key Classes, GPA Requirements and Timelines

Nursing school prerequisites can make or break your application.

Not because the classes are impossible.

Because missing one lab, taking the wrong version of anatomy, letting a science course expire, or applying with a weak GPA can delay your start by a semester or a full year.

Prerequisites are the foundation for nursing school. They prove that you can handle anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medication math, academic writing, and the fast pace of clinical coursework.

They also help schools compare applicants before students ever enter a skills lab.

What are nursing school prerequisites?

Nursing school prerequisites are the college courses you must complete before starting the nursing core.

The nursing core is where you study topics like:

• Fundamentals of nursing
• Health assessment
• Pharmacology
• Medical-surgical nursing
• Maternal-newborn nursing
• Pediatrics
• Psychiatric nursing
• Community health
• Leadership
• Clinical judgment
• NCLEX preparation

Prerequisites come first because nursing school moves quickly.

You do not want to learn the difference between arteries and veins for the first time while you are also learning oxygen delivery, shock, IV fluids, and medication administration.

You need the foundation before the clinical application.

Why prerequisites matter so much

Prerequisites help nursing programs answer three questions.

Can this student handle college-level science?
Can this student communicate clearly and safely?
Can this student keep up with a structured, high-pressure program?

Schools also use prerequisites to calculate admission points.

Some programs score:

• Overall GPA
• Science GPA
• Prerequisite GPA
• Anatomy and physiology grades
• TEAS or HESI score
• Prior healthcare experience
• Completion of all courses before the deadline
• Repeated courses or withdrawals
• Residency or service-area status
• Interview or essay score

That means a student with a 3.8 overall GPA but a C in Anatomy and Physiology may not be as competitive as they expect.

A student with a 3.4 overall GPA and strong A/B grades in every lab science may look more ready for nursing school.

ADN vs BSN prerequisite requirements

Prerequisites depend partly on the degree path.

ADN prerequisites

Associate Degree in Nursing programs usually focus on core sciences and essential general education.

Common ADN prerequisites include:

• Anatomy and Physiology I
• Anatomy and Physiology II
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• College Algebra or Statistics
• General Psychology
• Lifespan Development
• Nutrition
• Humanities or social science elective

ADN programs are often offered by community colleges.

They may be more affordable than four-year universities, but they can still be very competitive because the price is attractive and seats are limited.

BSN prerequisites

Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs usually require more general education and may have more science or statistics expectations.

Common BSN prerequisites include:

• Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs
• Microbiology with lab
• Chemistry with lab
• Statistics
• English Composition
• Lifespan Development
• General Psychology
• Sociology
• Nutrition
• Communications
• Ethics or humanities
• Electives required by the university core

BSN programs may also expect stronger academic writing, research readiness, leadership potential, and broader general education.

For more on degree pathways, see NurseZee’s guide to RN to BSN programs and accelerated BSN programs.

Accelerated BSN prerequisites

Accelerated BSN programs are usually for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

They may require:

• Anatomy and Physiology I and II
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Statistics
• Nutrition
• Developmental psychology
• Pathophysiology or pharmacology before admission at some schools

Accelerated programs move fast.

A missing prerequisite can push your start date back.

A weak science grade can also hurt because the program is compressed and admissions teams want proof that you can handle the pace.

Direct-entry MSN prerequisites

Direct-entry MSN programs are usually for non-nurses with a bachelor’s degree in another field.

They often require many of the same core sciences as accelerated BSN programs.

Some also require:

• Research methods
• Statistics
• Abnormal psychology
• Organic or biochemistry
• Healthcare ethics

Before choosing this route, read NurseZee’s guide to direct-entry MSN programs.

LPN to RN prerequisites

LPN to RN bridge programs may give credit for prior nursing education, but they still usually require college prerequisites.

Common requirements include:

• Active LPN/LVN license
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Math or Statistics
• Psychology or Lifespan Development
• Entrance exam or bridge transition course

If you are already an LPN, see NurseZee’s LPN to RN programs guide.

Core nursing school prerequisite classes

Most nursing programs build prerequisites around science, math, communication, and social understanding.

The exact course numbers matter.

“Human Anatomy and Physiology for allied health majors” may count at one school and not another.

“Survey of chemistry” may count for one program and not another.

Do not guess.

Send course descriptions to the nursing advisor if you are transferring credits.

Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs

Anatomy and Physiology is usually the most important prerequisite sequence.

It covers body structure and function.

You need it for almost every nursing concept:

• Oxygenation
• Perfusion
• Neurologic assessment
• Renal function
• Fluid balance
• Endocrine disorders
• Reproduction
• Mobility
• Pain
• Wound healing
• Medication effects

Most schools require two semesters with lab.

The course names may look like:

Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab

or

Human Anatomy with Lab
Human Physiology with Lab

Both formats may work, but only if your target program accepts that sequence.

How to do well in A&P

Do not memorize random lists without understanding function.

Nursing school will ask you to apply the content.

For example:

A&P fact:
The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood into systemic circulation.

Nursing application:
Left-sided heart failure can cause pulmonary congestion, crackles, dyspnea, and decreased oxygenation.

Study A&P with clinical examples whenever possible.

Microbiology with lab

Microbiology teaches you how microorganisms spread and how infection develops.

It matters for:

• Infection control
• Standard and transmission-based precautions
• Sepsis recognition
• Wound care
• Antibiotics
• Sterile technique
• Vaccination concepts
• Lab interpretation
• Patient teaching

Most programs require microbiology with a lab.

A general biology course usually does not replace microbiology unless the school specifically says it does.

Microbiology topics to take seriously

Focus on:

• Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites
• Chain of infection
• Gram staining basics
• Normal flora
• Antibiotic resistance
• Aseptic technique
• Culture and sensitivity
• Immune response
• Healthcare-associated infections

These topics come back again in nursing fundamentals, med-surg, pediatrics, maternal-newborn, and NCLEX prep.

Chemistry with lab

Chemistry is required by many BSN and accelerated programs.

Some ADN programs require it.

Others do not.

Chemistry helps with:

• Acid-base balance
• Electrolytes
• IV fluids
• Pharmacology
• Drug solubility
• Metabolism
• Nutrition
• Renal function

The tricky part is choosing the right chemistry.

Your options may include:

• Introductory Chemistry
• General Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Chemistry for Health Sciences

Do not enroll until you confirm which one your nursing program accepts.

English Composition

English matters more than many pre-nursing students expect.

Nurses write all day.

You need clear writing for:

• Nursing documentation
• Care plans
• Patient education
• Handoff notes
• Incident reports
• Professional email
• Research papers
• Scholarship applications

Nursing school also requires a lot of reading.

A strong English foundation helps you read textbook chapters, journal articles, clinical policies, and exam questions more carefully.

College Algebra, Statistics, or Quantitative Reasoning

Math requirements vary.

Some programs require College Algebra.

Some require Statistics.

Some require both.

Some accept a quantitative reasoning course.

Statistics is especially common for BSN programs because BSN coursework includes evidence-based practice, research interpretation, and population health.

Math also supports dosage calculation.

You need comfort with:

• Fractions
• Decimals
• Ratios
• Proportions
• Percentages
• Unit conversions
• Basic algebra
• Rounding rules

Dosage calculation connection

Prerequisite math is not separate from nursing practice.

It turns into medication safety.

Order: Give 500 mg.
Available: 250 mg tablets.
Calculation: 500 mg ÷ 250 mg = 2 tablets.

This is simple math.

But under exam pressure or during a busy shift, weak math habits become safety risks.

Psychology

General Psychology introduces human behavior, emotion, cognition, stress, coping, and mental health concepts.

It supports:

• Therapeutic communication
• Patient education
• Mental health nursing
• Substance use care
• Family dynamics
• Trauma-informed care
• Stress and coping

Lifespan Development

Lifespan Development covers human growth from infancy through older adulthood.

It matters because nurses care for people across the entire life span.

You will use it in:

• Pediatrics
• Maternal-newborn care
• Geriatric nursing
• Developmental assessment
• Patient education
• End-of-life care
• Family-centered care

A school may require Lifespan Development specifically.

Do not assume Child Psychology or Developmental Psychology will automatically substitute.

Sociology

Sociology helps you understand how social factors affect health.

That includes:

• Family systems
• Culture
• Poverty
• Housing
• Education
• Social support
• Community resources
• Health disparities
• Access to care

This is especially important for community health, discharge planning, and patient education.

Nutrition

Nutrition connects to almost every body system.

You will use it for:

• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Heart failure
• Wound healing
• Pregnancy
• Pediatrics
• Older adults
• GI disorders
• Tube feeding
• Malnutrition
• Obesity
• Eating disorders

Some programs require a general nutrition course.

Others require a nutrition course designed for health sciences majors.

Check the course description.

Communications or public speaking

Some programs require oral communication.

This is not busywork.

Nursing requires clear communication with:

• Patients
• Families
• Providers
• Nursing assistants
• Pharmacists
• Respiratory therapists
• Social workers
• Instructors
• Preceptors

A communication class can also help with admissions interviews.

Ethics, humanities, or cultural diversity

BSN programs often include humanities or ethics requirements.

These courses help with:

• Informed consent
• End-of-life decisions
• Cultural humility
• Patient autonomy
• Moral distress
• Professional values
• Health policy

They may not feel as urgent as science classes, but they can still delay your application if missing.

Common nursing prerequisite list

Here is a quick reference list.

GPA requirements for nursing school

GPA requirements can be confusing because there are several GPAs.

A school may look at all of them.

Cumulative GPA

Your cumulative GPA includes all college coursework.

This may include classes from:

• Community colleges
• Four-year universities
• Previous degrees
• Repeated courses
• Transfer credits
• Dual enrollment

Some programs use cumulative GPA as a basic screening tool.

Others place more weight on prerequisite GPA.

Prerequisite GPA

Prerequisite GPA includes the courses required for admission.

This may matter more than cumulative GPA because it reflects your performance in the exact classes nursing faculty care about.

Example:

Cumulative GPA: 3.15
Prerequisite GPA: 3.72
Science GPA: 3.80

This applicant may be stronger than the cumulative GPA suggests.

Science GPA

Science GPA usually includes courses such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology I
• Anatomy and Physiology II
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Pathophysiology, if required before admission

Science GPA is high-stakes.

A C in English is not ideal.

A C in Anatomy and Physiology is a bigger problem.

Minimum GPA vs competitive GPA

Minimum GPA is the lowest score the school will consider.

Competitive GPA is the GPA that gives you a realistic chance.

They are not the same.

Common GPA ranges

These are general planning benchmarks, not universal rules.

Highly selective programs may admit mostly students above these ranges.

Less selective programs may admit students below these ranges if other parts of the application are strong.

What GPA should you aim for?

Aim for:

Overall GPA: 3.3 or higher
Science GPA: 3.5 or higher
Prerequisite grades: A or B whenever possible

Aiming high gives you more options.

It also protects you if one course does not go perfectly.

What if your GPA is low?

A low GPA does not always end your nursing school plan.

But you need a strategy.

Step 1: Identify the real problem

Ask:

Is my cumulative GPA low because of old coursework?
Is my science GPA low because of one failed class?
Did I take too many hard classes at once?
Did I work too many hours while taking lab sciences?
Do my target schools average repeated grades or replace them?

The solution depends on the problem.

Step 2: Retake the highest-impact courses

Usually, the best retake targets are:

• Anatomy and Physiology I
• Anatomy and Physiology II
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Statistics

Retaking a low-impact elective may not help much.

Retaking a science C, D, or F may help more.

Step 3: Learn each school’s repeat policy

Schools handle repeats differently.

They may:

• Replace the old grade
• Average both attempts
• Count the highest attempt only
• Limit the number of retakes
• Penalize multiple attempts
• Refuse repeated science courses after a certain number of tries

Before retaking a class, ask the admissions office how it will be calculated.

Step 4: Strengthen the rest of the application

You can offset some GPA weakness with:

• Strong TEAS or HESI score
• Healthcare experience
• CNA, EMT, medical assistant, or patient care technician work
• Clear personal statement
• Strong recommendation letters
• Upward academic trend
• Completion of all prerequisites before applying
• Applying to multiple schools

For career-entry options, see NurseZee’s guide on how to become a medical assistant and new grad nurse resumes.

Nursing entrance exams: TEAS, HESI, Kaplan and others

Many nursing programs require an entrance exam.

The two names students hear most are TEAS and HESI A2.

Some schools use Kaplan, NLN exams, ACT/SAT, or their own process.

The key rule is simple.

Study for the exam your target school actually requires.

Do not spend 10 weeks preparing for TEAS if your first-choice program requires HESI A2.

ATI TEAS

TEAS stands for Test of Essential Academic Skills.

Many nursing programs use it to assess academic readiness.

TEAS Version 7 is the current version.

It tests academic areas such as:

• Reading
• Mathematics
• Science
• English and language usage

TEAS science can feel intense because it pulls from anatomy, biology, chemistry, and scientific reasoning.

TEAS planning tips

Start with a diagnostic test.

Then build a study plan around your weakest areas.

Do not spend all your time studying the subject you already like.

A simple TEAS plan:

Week 1: Diagnostic test and content review plan
Weeks 2-3: Science review and practice questions
Week 4: Math review and timed drills
Week 5: Reading and English practice
Week 6: Full-length timed practice exam and remediation

If your science background is weak, give yourself more than six weeks.

HESI A2

HESI A2 is the HESI Admission Assessment Exam.

Programs choose which HESI sections they require.

Common HESI A2 subjects include:

• Math
• Reading comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Grammar
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and physiology

Some schools also require a critical thinking section.

HESI planning tips

Before studying, ask the school:

Which HESI A2 sections are required?
What minimum score is required for each section?
Is there a composite score requirement?
How many attempts are allowed?
How long are scores valid?
Can I use scores from another testing site?

A student can score well overall and still miss admission if one required section is too low.

Entrance exam retake rules

Do not assume you can retake the exam unlimited times.

Programs may limit:

• Number of attempts per application cycle
• Required wait time between attempts
• Which score counts
• Whether superscoring is allowed
• How long scores remain valid
• Where the exam must be taken

Build your timeline so you have room for one retake if needed.

What is a good TEAS or HESI score?

There is no universal answer.

A “good” score depends on the program.

Some schools publish minimums.

Others rank applicants by score.

Use this general mindset:

Minimum score = eligible to apply.
Competitive score = strong enough to earn points in that program’s rubric.

Ask the admissions office for recent admitted-student averages if they share them.

Nursing school application timeline

A strong nursing application usually takes longer than students expect.

You are not only taking classes.

You are managing transcripts, deadlines, exams, immunizations, references, essays, and backup plans.

18-month planning timeline

This timeline works well for many ADN and BSN applicants.

Adjust it for your school’s deadlines.

Months 1-3: Research programs

Start with a program list.

Include at least three options.

For each school, document:

• Degree type
• Prerequisite courses
• Minimum GPA
• Competitive GPA, if available
• Entrance exam
• Application deadline
• Start date
• Clinical requirements
• Accreditation status
• State board approval status
• Tuition and fees
• Transfer-credit rules
• Course recency rules

Use this format:

School:
Program type:
Application deadline:
Start term:
Prerequisites:
Entrance exam:
Minimum GPA:
Recent admitted GPA:
Science course recency:
Online lab policy:
Transfer credit contact:

Months 3-6: Take general education courses

Good early courses include:

• English Composition
• General Psychology
• Sociology
• College Algebra
• Communication
• Humanities elective

These courses build momentum.

They also make it easier to focus later on lab sciences.

Months 6-12: Complete core sciences

Plan science courses carefully.

A common sequence:

Semester 1: Anatomy and Physiology I + one general education course
Semester 2: Anatomy and Physiology II + Statistics or Psychology
Semester 3: Microbiology + Nutrition or Sociology

If chemistry is required, place it early enough that it does not collide with A&P and microbiology unless you can handle the workload.

Should you take two lab sciences together?

Some students can.

Many students should not.

Two lab sciences can mean:

• Two lecture exams in the same week
• Two labs to prepare for
• Two sets of terminology
• Two practical exams
• More time in class
• More study hours

If you work, parent, commute, or have not taken science recently, avoid stacking too many lab sciences.

Months 9-13: Prepare for TEAS or HESI

Start exam prep while finishing prerequisites.

Do not wait until the week before the deadline.

A good exam-prep sequence:

Take a diagnostic exam.
Review weak content.
Practice timed questions.
Complete a full-length practice exam.
Remediate missed topics.
Schedule the official exam early enough for a retake.

For broader test strategy once you are admitted, see NurseZee’s NCLEX prep guide.

Months 12-15: Prepare applications

This is where students lose time.

You may need:

• Official transcripts from every college attended
• Entrance exam score report
• Prerequisite worksheet
• Recommendation letters
• Resume
• Personal statement
• Application fee
• Proof of CNA or healthcare experience, if required
• Background disclosure forms
• Transfer-credit evaluations

If using NursingCAS, create your account early and give transcripts time to arrive.

Months 15-18: Submit, monitor, and prepare

After submitting, keep checking your application portal.

Common problems include:

• Missing transcript
• Unverified coursework
• Wrong course matched to a prerequisite
• Missing exam score
• Unsubmitted supplemental application
• Payment issue
• Recommendation letter not received

Do not assume silence means everything is complete.

Post-acceptance requirements

After acceptance, you may need to complete:

• Background check
• Drug screen
• Immunization records
• TB testing
• CPR/BLS certification for healthcare providers
• Health insurance documentation
• Physical exam
• Flu vaccine
• COVID-19 documentation, depending on school and clinical site policy
• HIPAA training
• OSHA training
• Liability insurance
• Uniform purchase
• Skills kit purchase
• Clinical onboarding modules

Some clinical sites have stricter requirements than the school.

Complete these early.

A delayed background check or missing vaccine record can block clinical placement.

How to plan prerequisite classes without hurting your GPA

Nursing admissions reward strong grades.

Your schedule should protect your GPA, not just move fast.

Do not overload science labs

A risky semester looks like this:

Anatomy and Physiology II
Microbiology
Chemistry
Statistics
30 hours/week of work

Some students survive that schedule.

Many do not earn the grades they need.

A safer version:

Anatomy and Physiology II
Statistics
Nutrition
15-20 hours/week of work if possible

Then take Microbiology in the next term.

Take prerequisites in a logical order

A good order:

English and math foundation
Anatomy and Physiology I
Anatomy and Physiology II
Microbiology
Chemistry when required
Statistics before BSN-level research courses

If you are rusty in science, take basic biology before A&P if your advisor recommends it.

Use summer courses carefully

Summer can help you finish faster.

But a 16-week science course compressed into 6-8 weeks can be brutal.

A summer lab science may be reasonable if:

• You are not working heavy hours
• You have strong study habits
• You are only taking one major science
• You can attend every lab
• You are not relying on the course to fix a weak GPA under pressure

Protect your A&P grade

A&P is the course admissions teams often notice first.

Do not treat it like a checkbox.

Study habits that help:

• Preview before lecture
• Draw body systems
• Use active recall
• Teach concepts out loud
• Practice labeling diagrams
• Use spaced repetition
• Attend lab review
• Start exam prep early
• Connect anatomy to nursing scenarios

Use tutoring early

Do not wait until the first failed exam.

Use tutoring when:

• You score below your target on the first quiz
• You cannot explain concepts without notes
• You are memorizing but not applying
• Lab practicals feel overwhelming
• You are running out of study time

Admissions committees care about final grades, not how hard you struggled privately.

Use help early.

Online prerequisites and online labs

Online prerequisites can be legitimate.

But they are not always accepted.

The issue is not whether online learning is “real.”

The issue is whether your target nursing program accepts that exact course and lab.

When online courses may work

Online courses may work well for:

• English
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Nutrition
• Statistics
• Humanities
• Some chemistry or microbiology courses with approved labs

When online courses become risky

Online courses are riskier when:

• The school requires in-person labs
• The course is self-paced without proctored exams
• The lab uses only simulations and the school wants hands-on labs
• The school does not accept third-party lab kits
• The course is from a non-regionally accredited institution
• The credit hours do not match the requirement

Questions to ask before taking an online lab

Use this script.

Hello,

I am planning to apply to the nursing program for the [term/year] start. Before registering, I want to confirm whether this course will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.

Course: [Course name and number]
Institution: [School]
Credits: [Credits]
Lab format: [In person / online kit / simulation / hybrid]
Syllabus attached: [Yes/No]

Can you confirm whether this course will be accepted for [specific prerequisite]?

Thank you.

Save the written response.

Do not rely only on a verbal answer.

Prerequisite expiration rules

Many schools have recency rules.

This is especially common for science courses.

A school may require A&P, microbiology, or chemistry to be completed within:

• 5 years
• 7 years
• 10 years

Some schools have no expiration rule.

Others enforce it strictly.

What to do if your science courses are old

Ask the school:

Do science prerequisites expire?
Which courses have expiration limits?
Is the time limit based on application date or program start date?
Can clinical work experience waive the recency rule?
Can I take a challenge exam?
Do I need to repeat lecture and lab?

If you must repeat, retake the course strategically.

An A in a repeated A&P course can strengthen your application and refresh your foundation before nursing school.

How to compare nursing program requirements

Do not compare schools casually.

Build a spreadsheet.

Program comparison checklist

Track these items for each school:

• Program type
• State board approval
• ACEN or CCNE accreditation
• Prerequisites
• Minimum grade per course
• Minimum GPA
• Average admitted GPA, if available
• Science GPA calculation
• Entrance exam
• Entrance exam minimum score
• Retake rules
• Application deadline
• Start dates
• Seat count
• Waitlist policy
• Clinical sites
• Tuition and fees
• Transfer-credit policy
• Online lab policy
• Course expiration rules
• Required healthcare experience
• Interview requirement
• Essay requirement
• Background check standards

Program comparison template

School name:
Program type:
Application deadline:
Start term:
Prerequisite courses:
Courses still needed:
Minimum GPA:
Competitive GPA:
Science GPA rules:
Entrance exam:
Minimum score:
Retake policy:
Course expiration policy:
Online lab policy:
Accreditation:
State board approval:
Estimated cost:
Clinical sites:
Notes:

Check accreditation and state approval

This is not optional.

Before investing time and money, confirm:

Is the school institutionally accredited?
Is the nursing program approved by the state board of nursing?
Is the nursing program nationally accredited by ACEN or CCNE, when applicable?
Will graduates be eligible to apply for NCLEX?
Will credits transfer if I continue to BSN, MSN, or DNP later?

National programmatic accreditation is especially important if you may transfer, pursue graduate school, move states, or apply to competitive employers.

State board approval matters for licensure eligibility.

NCSBN directs applicants to state-specific licensure guidance because nursing authorization is handled through boards of nursing.

Nursing school application materials

Prerequisites are only part of the file.

Most applications also require documents.

Official transcripts

You usually need transcripts from every college attended.

That includes:

• Community college
• Four-year university
• Dual enrollment
• Summer courses
• Online schools
• Old coursework from years ago

Do not hide old transcripts.

Schools usually require complete academic history.

Recommendation letters

Good recommendation letters come from people who can speak to your readiness.

Strong choices:

• Science professor
• Nursing prerequisite instructor
• Healthcare supervisor
• Volunteer coordinator
• Work supervisor who knows your reliability

Weak choices:

• Family friend
• Relative
• Person with a prestigious title who barely knows you
• Instructor from one class who cannot describe your work

Personal statement

Your essay should show maturity, not drama.

Focus on:

• Why nursing
• What you learned from healthcare exposure
• How you handled challenge
• Evidence of service
• Academic growth
• Understanding of nursing responsibilities
• Fit with the program

Avoid saying only:

I want to help people.

That is true for many applicants.

Show what kind of nurse you are preparing to become.

Resume

A pre-nursing resume can include:

• Healthcare experience
• CNA or medical assistant work
• Volunteer roles
• Leadership
• Work history
• Certifications
• Community service
• Academic honors
• Languages
• Research or tutoring

If you need a format, use NurseZee’s new grad nurse resume guide as a structure model and adapt it for pre-nursing.

Common mistakes students make with prerequisites

Mistake 1: Taking classes before checking the program list

This is the most expensive mistake.

A student takes “Intro to Chemistry” and later learns the BSN program requires “General Chemistry with Lab.”

Now they must take another chemistry course.

Mistake 2: Ignoring course expiration

Old science credits can become a problem.

Do not assume your 2018 Anatomy and Physiology course will count in 2026.

Ask.

Mistake 3: Taking too many hard sciences at once

Speed feels productive.

Weak grades hurt more than a slower timeline.

A strong B or A in a lab science is usually better than rushing and earning a C.

Mistake 4: Applying to only one school

Nursing admissions can be competitive.

Apply strategically.

Build a list with:

• Reach programs
• Match programs
• Safer programs
• Different start terms
• ADN and BSN options if appropriate

Mistake 5: Waiting too long to take TEAS or HESI

If you test too close to the deadline, you may not have time to retake.

Schedule early enough to recover from a bad test day.

Mistake 6: Assuming all online labs are accepted

Some are.

Some are not.

Get written approval.

Mistake 7: Forgetting clinical compliance costs

After acceptance, you may need to pay for:

• Background check
• Drug screen
• Immunizations
• CPR/BLS
• Uniforms
• Shoes
• Lab kit
• Stethoscope
• Malpractice insurance
• Books and software
• Parking
• Clinical travel

Budget for the start-up costs, not only tuition.

Mistake 8: Treating the minimum GPA as the goal

Minimum GPA keeps you in the applicant pool.

It may not get you admitted.

Aim higher.

Sample prerequisite plans

These are examples, not universal schedules.

Use them to plan questions for your advisor.

Example 1: Community college ADN applicant

Goal: Apply to an ADN program in 18 months.

Semester 1:
English Composition
General Psychology
College Algebra

Semester 2:
Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
Lifespan Development
Nutrition

Summer:
TEAS prep
Sociology

Semester 3:
Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
Microbiology with Lab

Application window:
Submit transcripts, TEAS score, and application materials.

Why this works:

The student avoids taking A&P I, A&P II, and microbiology all at once. The TEAS is scheduled before the application deadline. General education courses are completed early.

Example 2: Traditional BSN applicant

Goal: Apply to a university BSN program after two years of pre-nursing coursework.

Semester 1:
English Composition
General Psychology
College Algebra
Intro Biology if needed

Semester 2:
Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
Statistics
Sociology

Summer:
Nutrition
Communication

Semester 3:
Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
Chemistry with Lab
Lifespan Development

Semester 4:
Microbiology with Lab
Humanities or ethics
TEAS or HESI prep and exam

Application window:
Submit university nursing application and all required documents.

Why this works:

The student finishes BSN-friendly courses like statistics, chemistry, and communication while protecting science GPA.

Example 3: Second-degree accelerated BSN applicant

Goal: Apply to accelerated BSN programs with a previous bachelor’s degree.

Term 1:
Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
Nutrition

Term 2:
Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
Statistics, if not already completed

Term 3:
Microbiology with Lab
Chemistry with Lab, if required

Application period:
Submit transcripts from all colleges, prerequisite plan, essay, recommendations, and entrance exam score if required.

Why this works:

The applicant uses the previous bachelor’s degree for general education but still completes current science requirements. The science sequence is not overloaded unless the program deadline requires it.

Example 4: GPA repair applicant

Goal: Improve science GPA before reapplying.

Term 1:
Retake Anatomy and Physiology I
Use tutoring weekly
Reduce work hours if possible

Term 2:
Retake Microbiology or Chemistry
Prepare for TEAS/HESI

Term 3:
Apply to multiple programs
Include a short explanation of academic growth if the application allows it

Why this works:

The student targets high-impact science courses instead of retaking unrelated electives. The plan shows academic recovery and readiness.

How to choose between ADN and BSN prerequisites

Sometimes the best route is not obvious.

Choose ADN prerequisites if:

• You want the most direct route to RN eligibility
• Cost is a major concern
• You plan to complete RN to BSN later
• Local community college programs have strong NCLEX pass rates
• You need a smaller or local program
• You are balancing work or family responsibilities

Choose BSN prerequisites if:

• Your target employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses
• You want public health, leadership, or research coursework earlier
• You may pursue graduate school
• You want a traditional campus experience
• You are applying to university-based programs
• You qualify for scholarships or strong financial aid

Choose accelerated BSN prerequisites if:

• You already have a bachelor’s degree
• You can handle a full-time intensive schedule
• You have strong science grades
• You want a faster route into RN practice
• You can manage the cost and limited work flexibility

Choose direct-entry MSN prerequisites if:

• You already have a bachelor’s degree
• You understand the program’s RN eligibility pathway
• You have researched cost and graduate-level expectations
• You know whether the program prepares you for generalist RN practice, advanced practice later, or both

Questions to ask a nursing advisor

Bring specific questions.

Do not ask only, “What do I need?”

Ask:

Which exact courses satisfy each prerequisite?
Do science courses expire?
Are online labs accepted?
Can I apply with prerequisites in progress?
How is GPA calculated?
Do repeated courses replace old grades or get averaged?
What was the average GPA for recently admitted students?
Which entrance exam is required?
How many exam attempts are allowed?
How long are entrance exam scores valid?
Is healthcare experience required or only recommended?
Is there a waitlist?
How many students are admitted each cycle?
Where are clinical sites located?
Is the nursing program state-board approved?
Is the program ACEN or CCNE accredited?

Save the answers.

Policies can change.

When possible, ask for a link to the written policy.

Red flags when researching prerequisites

Slow down if you notice these.

Red flag 1: The school cannot clearly explain licensure eligibility

If a program cannot clearly explain whether graduates are eligible to apply for NCLEX in your state, be cautious.

Red flag 2: The school pushes enrollment before evaluating transcripts

A reputable admissions process should help you understand what transfers before you commit.

Red flag 3: The school avoids accreditation questions

You should be able to verify institutional accreditation, program approval, and nursing accreditation status.

Red flag 4: The school promises easy admission with no academic standards

Nursing school should be accessible, but it should not be academically empty.

Patient safety requires real preparation.

Red flag 5: Clinical placement details are vague

Ask where students complete clinicals and who arranges placement.

If clinical placement is uncertain, your timeline may be at risk.

Quick prerequisite checklist

Use this before you apply.

Courses

• [ ] Anatomy and Physiology I with lab completed or scheduled
• [ ] Anatomy and Physiology II with lab completed or scheduled
• [ ] Microbiology with lab completed or scheduled
• [ ] Chemistry with lab completed if required
• [ ] English Composition completed
• [ ] Math or Statistics completed
• [ ] Psychology completed
• [ ] Lifespan Development completed
• [ ] Sociology completed if required
• [ ] Nutrition completed if required
• [ ] Communication or humanities completed if required

GPA

• [ ] Overall GPA meets minimum
• [ ] Prerequisite GPA is competitive
• [ ] Science GPA is competitive
• [ ] Retake policy reviewed
• [ ] Course withdrawals explained if needed
• [ ] GPA repair plan made if needed

Entrance exam

• [ ] TEAS, HESI, Kaplan, or other required exam confirmed
• [ ] Required sections confirmed
• [ ] Minimum scores confirmed
• [ ] Retake policy confirmed
• [ ] Exam scheduled early enough for retake
• [ ] Scores sent correctly

Application

• [ ] Official transcripts requested from every college
• [ ] Application deadline verified
• [ ] Supplemental application completed
• [ ] Recommendation letters requested early
• [ ] Personal statement drafted and edited
• [ ] Resume updated
• [ ] Application fee budgeted
• [ ] Portal checked after submission

Program verification

• [ ] State board approval checked
• [ ] ACEN or CCNE accreditation checked if applicable
• [ ] NCLEX pass rates reviewed
• [ ] Clinical placement information reviewed
• [ ] Total cost estimated
• [ ] Transfer-credit policy reviewed

Frequently asked questions about nursing school prerequisites

What prerequisites do I need for nursing school?

Most programs require Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology with lab, English Composition, math or Statistics, Psychology, Lifespan Development, Nutrition, and sometimes Chemistry. BSN and accelerated programs often require more general education and may be stricter about science courses.

Do nursing prerequisites expire?

Some do. Many schools place expiration limits on science courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, or Chemistry. A common range is 5-10 years, but each school sets its own policy. Always check the program’s written recency rule.

What GPA do I need for nursing school?

Many programs list a minimum GPA around 2.5-3.0, but competitive applicants often have higher grades. Aim for a strong overall GPA and especially strong science grades. A minimum GPA lets you apply; it does not guarantee admission.

Is science GPA more important than overall GPA?

Often, yes. Nursing programs care heavily about Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry because those courses predict readiness for nursing science. A strong science GPA can help your application, while weak science grades can hurt even if your cumulative GPA is acceptable.

Can I apply while prerequisites are still in progress?

Many programs allow one or two prerequisites in progress at the time of application. Others require all prerequisites completed before applying. Check whether the rule is based on the application deadline, transcript deadline, or program start date.

What happens if I fail a nursing prerequisite?

You may be able to retake the course, but policies vary. Some programs replace the grade, some average attempts, and some limit repeats. Repeated failures in science courses can weaken your application, so talk with an advisor before retaking.

Should I retake a C in Anatomy and Physiology?

Maybe. If your target program is competitive and A&P is heavily weighted, retaking a C may help. But first check whether the school replaces the grade, averages both attempts, or penalizes repeated courses.

Are online science labs accepted for nursing school?

Sometimes. Some programs accept online labs from accredited colleges. Others require in-person labs. Before registering, send the course number, syllabus, credit hours, and lab format to your target program and ask for written confirmation.

Is TEAS required for nursing school?

Many programs require TEAS, but not all. Some use HESI A2, Kaplan, ACT/SAT, or no entrance exam. Check each school’s requirement before studying.

Is HESI A2 harder than TEAS?

It depends on your strengths and which HESI sections the school requires. TEAS and HESI test overlapping academic skills, but they are not the same exam. Prepare for the specific exam your program requires.

How long does it take to complete nursing prerequisites?

Many students need 12-24 months, depending on transfer credits, course availability, work schedule, and whether sciences must be taken in sequence. Students with prior college credits may finish faster. Students repairing GPA or taking classes part time may need longer.

Can I take prerequisites at a community college?

Often yes. Many students complete prerequisites at a community college to reduce cost. Before enrolling, confirm that the courses transfer to your target nursing program and meet lab, credit-hour, and recency requirements.

Should I take Anatomy and Physiology before Microbiology?

Many students do better taking Anatomy and Physiology first because it builds body-system knowledge used later. Some programs allow either order. Check prerequisites and course sequencing at your school.

How many schools should I apply to?

Apply to more than one if you can afford the fees and meet the requirements. Nursing school admissions can be competitive. A balanced list may include reach, match, and safer programs.

What if I already have a bachelor’s degree?

You may still need nursing science prerequisites. A previous degree may cover some general education courses, but accelerated BSN and direct-entry MSN programs usually require current Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Statistics, and related courses.

Do I need healthcare experience before nursing school?

Some programs require it, but many only recommend it. CNA, EMT, medical assistant, patient care technician, or volunteer experience can strengthen your application and help you confirm that nursing is the right fit.

Final thoughts

Nursing school prerequisites are not just admission hurdles.

They are your first layer of nursing preparation.

Take them seriously.

Choose the right courses.

Protect your science GPA.

Check expiration rules.

Study early for TEAS or HESI.

Verify accreditation and state board approval.

And do not build your plan around one school unless you are willing to wait if that school says no.

A strong prerequisite plan gives you options.

That is the goal.