Brian PhilipsIf you’re planning to study nursing in Ohio, you’ve made a great choice. Ohio is home to some of the best nursing schools in the United States, offering a variety of programs—from associate degrees in nursing (ADN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and even accelerated options. However, getting into these programs can be highly competitive.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the Ohio nursing acceptance rate, nursing school requirements, and other key information you need to successfully apply and start your journey toward becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Ohio.
Ohio Nursing Acceptance Rate
The term “acceptance rate” simply refers to the percentage of applicants who are admitted into a nursing program. Because nursing education involves clinical training, labs, and strict accreditation standards, schools must limit how many students they can admit each year.
This makes most nursing programs—especially BSN programs—more competitive than general college admissions. Factors that affect acceptance rates include:
- The number of applicants versus available seats
- The school’s reputation and location
- Type of program (traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, ADN, or RN-to-BSN)
- Availability of clinical sites and instructors
Average Nursing Acceptance Rate in Ohio
While exact numbers vary by institution, most Ohio nursing schools have acceptance rates between 30% and 70%. Some programs are highly selective, while others admit a larger percentage of qualified students.
Here’s what data shows across a few well-known nursing programs:
- Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland): Around 29% acceptance rate for nursing students. This private institution is one of the most selective in Ohio.
- Ohio State University (Columbus): The general university acceptance rate is about 57%, but the BSN program is much more competitive, requiring high GPAs and completed prerequisites.
- Ohio University (Athens): Has a more accessible nursing program, with an acceptance rate of about 87% for its BSN program.
- Smaller community colleges offering ADN programs may admit more than 70–80% of qualified applicants, depending on demand and available space.
In summary, Ohio’s average nursing acceptance rate ranges from 40% to 60%, depending on the type of school and program you apply to. Selective universities tend to have lower acceptance rates, while regional or community colleges are more accessible.
Factors That Affect Acceptance Rates
- GPA competition – Nursing programs attract top-performing students, so even meeting the minimum GPA doesn’t guarantee admission.
- Prerequisite grades – Poor grades in sciences like Anatomy or Microbiology can lower your chances.
- Program capacity – Clinical placements and lab availability often limit how many students a school can accept.
- Entrance exam performance – Some schools require exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
- Application completeness – Missing documents, essays, or recommendations can hurt your chances.
Ohio Nursing Requirements
Once you understand the competitiveness, the next step is meeting the academic and application requirements for nursing schools in Ohio.
1. Academic Prerequisites
Before being admitted into a nursing program, applicants must complete certain foundational courses. These usually include:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology (I and II)
- General Biology
- Chemistry (with lab)
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- English Composition
- Psychology
At Ohio State University, students must complete seven prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C+ or better. Similarly, Ohio University requires successful completion of biology and chemistry courses before applying to the BSN major.
If you’re applying for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at a community college, you’ll likely need high school biology and chemistry before admission.
2. Minimum GPA Requirement
Most Ohio nursing schools set a minimum GPA requirement between 2.75 and 3.2, depending on the program level.
| School | Minimum GPA | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio State University | 3.2 | Very competitive BSN program; GPA is a major factor |
| Ohio University | 2.75 | Moderate GPA requirement; pre-nursing students must meet this to apply |
| Columbus State Community College | 2.6 | Minimum GPA for ADN applicants |
| Case Western Reserve University | 3.5+ | Highly competitive; focuses on academic excellence |
Even though some programs accept GPAs as low as 2.5, aiming for 3.5 or higher significantly improves your chances of admission.
3. Pre-Nursing or Two-Step Admission Process
Many universities in Ohio use a two-step admission process. Students are first admitted as pre-nursing majors and must meet certain criteria before being fully admitted to the professional nursing program.
For instance:
- Ohio State University: Students are first admitted into the pre-nursing major. To progress, they must maintain a 3.2 GPA and complete all prerequisite courses.
- Ohio University: Students start in the pre-BSN track (ND1220) and apply later to the BSN program (BS1221) after meeting GPA and course requirements.
This two-stage process ensures that only students with proven academic ability and commitment continue into the demanding clinical phase.
4. Entrance Exams
Some nursing programs require applicants to take an entrance exam to assess their readiness for nursing coursework.
The most common test is the ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). It covers math, science, reading, and English. Minimum scores vary by school, but most look for at least 60–70% overall.
Examples:
- Ohio University’s ADN program requires a satisfactory ATI TEAS score.
- East Ohio College lists the TEAS as a mandatory step in its nursing admission process.
- Some BSN programs may waive standardized tests, especially if your GPA is strong.
5. Additional Application Requirements
Besides GPA and test scores, nursing programs assess personal and professional readiness. Expect to submit:
- Personal statement or essay – Explaining why you want to become a nurse and how your background supports your goals.
- Letters of recommendation – Usually from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals.
- Resume or experience list – Highlighting volunteer work, shadowing, or healthcare experience.
- Background check and fingerprinting – Required by the Ohio Board of Nursing before clinical placements.
- Immunization and health clearance – Proof of required vaccinations (Hepatitis B, MMR, TB test, etc.).
- CPR certification – Most programs require Basic Life Support (BLS) certification before clinical rotations.
These additional documents help schools evaluate your character, motivation, and readiness for patient care.
6. English Proficiency for International Students
If you’re an international applicant or educated outside the U.S., you’ll need to prove English proficiency. The Ohio Board of Nursing requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 83 for licensure eligibility.
Additionally, foreign transcripts must be evaluated by credentialing agencies approved by the board.
7. Program-Specific Admission Rules
Each nursing school in Ohio sets its own unique policies. Some examples include:
- Case Western Reserve University: Requires interviews for top applicants and may limit course retakes.
- Hondros College of Nursing: Accepts LPN-to-RN bridge students but requires an active PN license.
- Columbus State Community College: Requires students to attend a nursing information session before applying.
- Aultman College of Nursing: Applicants must pass a health screening and drug test before enrollment.
Always review the latest admission guidelines on the school’s website, as requirements can change annually.
Why Ohio Nursing Programs Are Competitive
Nursing programs in Ohio are in high demand for several reasons:
- Strong job market: Ohio consistently ranks among the top states for nursing employment.
- Excellent salaries: The average RN salary in Ohio is around $76,000 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Quality education: Ohio nursing schools are accredited by bodies like the CCNE and ACEN, ensuring top training standards.
- Clinical opportunities: The state has world-class hospitals like the Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth, providing students with exceptional practical experience.
Because of this, competition for spots can be tough—especially at major universities and hospitals that partner with top programs.
How to Improve Your Chances of Admission
Here are some actionable strategies to increase your odds of getting accepted into a nursing program in Ohio:
- Maintain a high GPA: Aim for a 3.5 or higher, especially in science courses.
- Score well on entrance exams: Prepare thoroughly for the TEAS test using online prep resources.
- Get healthcare experience: Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes to strengthen your application.
- Write a strong essay: Be authentic and show passion for patient care and community service.
- Secure quality references: Choose people who can vouch for your academic ability and professionalism.
- Apply to multiple programs: Increase your chances by applying to both BSN and ADN programs.
- Meet deadlines early: Nursing applications often close months before general admissions.
Following these steps not only helps your application stand out but also prepares you for the rigorous demands of nursing school.
What Happens After Admission: Licensure and Practice in Ohio
Once you complete your nursing program, the next step is obtaining your RN license. Here’s what the process looks like in Ohio:
- Graduate from an approved nursing program (ADN, BSN, or accelerated).
- Apply for licensure through the Ohio Board of Nursing.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination).
- Complete a criminal background check (BCI and FBI).
- Maintain continuing education credits for license renewal.
Ohio is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses licensed in Ohio to practice in other participating states without obtaining additional licenses—making it easier to work across state lines.
Comparison of Top Nursing Programs in Ohio
| Institution | Acceptance Rate | Minimum GPA | Entrance Exam | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State University | ~40–50% | 3.2 | Not required | Competitive BSN program with strong research focus |
| Ohio University | ~87% | 2.75 | TEAS for ADN | Offers both BSN and ADN pathways |
| Case Western Reserve University | ~29% | 3.5+ | Optional | Top-ranked private university with clinical access to Cleveland Clinic |
| Columbus State Community College | ~70% | 2.6 | TEAS optional | Affordable ADN program with high NCLEX pass rate |
| Hondros College of Nursing | ~80% | — | Interview | Offers LPN-to-RN and ADN pathways |
This table gives you a quick snapshot of how diverse Ohio’s nursing programs are—ranging from elite universities to accessible community colleges.
Conclusion
Studying nursing in Ohio is an excellent career move. With a strong healthcare network, numerous accredited institutions, and solid job opportunities after graduation, the state offers a great environment for aspiring nurses.
However, competition is fierce—so preparation is key. Maintain strong academic performance, complete your prerequisites early, gain hands-on experience, and craft a standout application.
By understanding the Ohio nursing acceptance rate and requirements, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right school, meet all admission standards, and start your journey toward a rewarding nursing career.