Is It Hard To Get Into Nursing School?

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Are you wondering, “Is it hard to get into nursing school?” Traditional nursing programs have limited availability, so they can be competitive. But with an ABSN track like ours at UIW, you have better chances of getting in because we offer more spots and multiple start dates each year.

nurse standing holding clipboard and smiling

If you’re considering nursing school, you may have many questions circling in your mind. Is it hard to get into nursing school? How competitive is nursing school? These are valid questions, and knowing your chances of acceptance is important before putting in all the work to apply.

Fortunately, the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) can accept more students than traditional programs, which can increase your chances of getting into nursing school.

So, let’s answer the question, “How competitive is nursing school?” Then, we’ll offer strategies for helping you get accepted.

Why Is Nursing School Competitive?

Nursing programs are renowned for being competitive — and for good reason. Nursing schools want only the best of the best to graduate from their programs. Plus, traditional nursing schools are limited in the number of nursing students they can enroll each year due to faculty and facility constraints.

However, an Accelerated BSN track is a little different. How hard is it to get into nursing school when you apply to an accelerated track? In short, it’s a much more streamlined process than traditional BSN programs, but let’s dive deeper into the reasons why.

UIW nursing student in red scrubs checking the time

How the ABSN Track Increases Your Chances of Acceptance

The accelerated nursing track at UIW is committed to combating the nursing shortage and making it possible for more students to achieve the goal of becoming a nurse. Below, we will explain how our ABSN track helps students increase their chances of getting into nursing school.

Multiple Start Dates

Whereas traditional nursing schools generally offer only one start date per year, the ABSN track at UIW offers three start dates each year — January, May and August — so you can choose the best start date for you. Having three cohorts of students each year also increases the number of students we can accept, giving eligible students a better chance of acceptance.

UIW nurses practicing on manikin

Learn more about what to expect with online learning in nursing school.

Admissions Support

The support team is another factor that makes it easier to get into nursing school at UIW. Our admissions advisors are committed to helping you submit the best application possible. They will support you throughout the admissions process, such as determining which prerequisites you must complete.

3 Ways To Increase Your Chances of Getting Into Nursing School

As you start the journey of applying to nursing school, here are a few strategies to help increase your chances of acceptance:

1. Choose the Right Nursing Program

This first step is most crucial. If you want to get into nursing school, find the right school for you — one that will optimize your chances of success after graduation. Be on the lookout for qualities such as an accelerated BSN track, multiple start dates per year, online coursework and rolling admissions.

Want more info about how to choose a nursing program? Ask these 12 questions to the nursing school before applying.

woman sitting at desk holding a pen while working on laptop

2. Connect With Your Admissions Counselor

During the nursing school admissions process, your admissions counselor is your advocate and guide. Put your best foot forward, invest in a professional relationship and show that you are passionate and dedicated to becoming a nurse.

3. Consider Relocation

Relocating is a great way to improve your chances of acceptance. By expanding your options to include schools outside of your immediate area, you improve your chances of finding a program that is right for you.

San Antonio river walk

Curious about relocating? Here’s what you need to know about relocating to San Antonio for nursing school at UIW.

Begin Your ABSN Journey at UIW!

So, is it hard to get into nursing school? Traditionally, gaining admission to nursing school has been hard — but the ABSN track at UIW makes nursing school accessible. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 non-nursing college credits, you may be eligible for the 16-month track. Reach out by completing our online form, and we’ll contact you about the next steps.