Brian PhilipsAre you dreaming of becoming a registered nurse through Sacramento State University? The Sacramento State Nursing Program (SAC State Nursing) is one of the most competitive nursing programs in California, attracting hundreds of applicants every semester. With a strong reputation for clinical excellence, high NCLEX pass rates, and experienced faculty, Sac State’s nursing school is a top choice for many aspiring healthcare professionals.
However, getting accepted into this program is no easy feat. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the SAC State nursing acceptance rate, program requirements, application process, and pro tips to boost your chances of admission.
SAC State Nursing Acceptance Rate
When it comes to competitiveness, the SAC State Nursing program ranks among the toughest nursing schools in California. While the general acceptance rate for Sacramento State University is high—around 94%—the nursing program acceptance rate tells a completely different story.
How Competitive Is the Nursing Program?
Sac State admits only about 80 students per semester into the Traditional BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program. Considering that over 250 to 300 students typically apply each cycle, the effective acceptance rate falls between 20% to 30%. That means fewer than one in three qualified applicants earn a coveted spot.
The main reason for this high level of competition is limited clinical placements in hospitals and healthcare facilities. The School of Nursing must adhere to strict capacity limits, making the program highly selective even among strong applicants.
Average GPA and TEAS Scores of Admitted Students
While the minimum GPA requirement is 3.0, successful applicants usually far exceed this. In recent years:
- The average GPA of admitted students was around 3.9–4.0.
- The average TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) score for admitted students ranged between 85% and 95%.
- Many accepted applicants had nearly perfect grades in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
With such high standards, it’s no surprise that the SAC State Nursing program acceptance rate is so selective. Meeting the minimum isn’t enough—you’ll need to excel across all admission factors.
SAC State Nursing Requirements
To get into the Sac State Nursing program, you must meet several academic, testing, and eligibility requirements. Let’s go over them step by step.
1. Two-Step Admission Process
Applicants must first be accepted into Sacramento State University and then submit a supplemental nursing application to the School of Nursing.
Step 1: Apply for general university admission through Cal State Apply.
Step 2: Submit the separate nursing program application online through Sac State’s nursing portal.
You cannot declare “Nursing” as your major during your first admission. Instead, you’ll be admitted under “Expressed Interest Nursing” until you’re formally accepted into the clinical BSN program.
2. Academic Requirements
To apply, you must meet certain academic standards:
- Minimum Overall GPA: 3.0
- Minimum Prerequisite GPA: 3.3
- Minimum TEAS Score: 75%
- Minimum Total Points: 60 (based on Sac State’s point system)
Even though these are the official minimums, competitive applicants usually have much higher GPAs and TEAS scores.
3. Prerequisite Courses
You’ll need to complete specific prerequisite and corequisite courses before applying. Most should be completed at the time of application, though one science and one non-science course may still be in progress.
Required prerequisite courses include:
- Human Anatomy (with lab)
- Human Physiology (with lab)
- Microbiology (with lab)
- General or Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- English Composition
- Oral Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Statistics
Each course must be completed with a minimum grade of C- or better. You’ll also need at least eight total prerequisite grades, with two in science courses.
4. Corequisite Courses
Corequisite courses that support nursing education include:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Human Development (across the lifespan)
- Nutrition
- Sociology or Anthropology
Completing these before applying strengthens your overall profile and readiness for the rigorous BSN curriculum.
5. TEAS Exam Requirement
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a crucial part of your nursing application. This exam evaluates your abilities in reading, math, science, and English.
- Minimum TEAS Score: 75%
- Competitive Range: 85–95%
Applicants must submit official TEAS results via the ATI Testing website before the application deadline. Because this exam carries significant weight in your overall points, strong preparation is key.
How the SAC State Nursing Point System Works
Sac State uses a point-based selection system to determine who gets accepted each semester. The higher your points, the stronger your chances.
| Category | Maximum Points Available |
|---|---|
| GPA (Adjusted Nursing GPA) | 40 points |
| TEAS Exam Score | 30 points |
| Optional Criteria (Experience, Bilingual, etc.) | 18 points |
| Total Possible Points | 88 points |
To be considered, applicants must earn at least 60 points.
Optional Criteria May Include:
- Health-related work experience
- Bilingual language proficiency
- First-generation college student status
- No course repeats or omissions
- Disadvantaged background (as defined by Sac State guidelines)
Applicants who score the highest overall points are offered admission. Others may be placed on an alternate list or encouraged to reapply in the next cycle.
SAC State Nursing Application Process and Deadlines
Planning ahead is crucial because the School of Nursing strictly enforces deadlines.
Fall Admission Cycle
- University Application: October 1 – November 30
- Supplemental Nursing Application: February 1 – March 1
Spring Admission Cycle
- University Application: August 1 – August 31
- Supplemental Nursing Application: September 1 – October 1
Key Documents You’ll Need
- Official transcripts
- TEAS exam results
- Proof of residency (if applicable)
- Completed prerequisite checklist
Missing a single document or deadline can make your application ineligible, so double-check everything before submission.
Understanding the Program’s Selectivity
The SAC State Nursing program is considered “impacted,” meaning it receives more qualified applicants than it can accommodate. This has been a growing issue for years due to limited clinical placement opportunities in hospitals.
As reported by The State Hornet (Sac State’s student newspaper), program directors have confirmed that the department often receives hundreds more applications than it can process, even after increasing class sizes slightly in past years. The cap of 80 students per semester ensures that each student receives adequate hands-on clinical training without overcrowding facilities.
SAC State Nursing Curriculum Overview
Once admitted into the clinical phase, nursing students begin intensive coursework that integrates theory, practice, and real-world application.
Core nursing courses include:
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Research
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternal and Child Health
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
Students participate in hospital rotations, simulation labs, and public health experiences throughout the program.
Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Challenges of Getting Into SAC State Nursing
Here are some of the biggest hurdles applicants face:
- Extremely High GPA Competition: Even a 3.5 may not be competitive in some cycles.
- Limited Clinical Slots: Hospitals can only accommodate so many students.
- Course Availability: Prerequisite science classes fill up quickly each semester.
- Strict Deadlines: Missing one requirement can lead to automatic disqualification.
- Residency Restrictions: Non-residents may face additional hurdles.
Despite these challenges, Sac State remains one of the most respected nursing programs in California, with strong NCLEX-RN pass rates and outstanding job placement.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission
If you’re serious about joining Sac State’s Nursing Program, here are strategies that can help you stand out:
- Aim for a 4.0 GPA: Strive for top grades, especially in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.
- Score Above 90% on the TEAS: Invest time in practice tests and study materials.
- Gain Health-Care Experience: Volunteer or work in clinics, hospitals, or eldercare homes.
- Demonstrate Leadership: Join pre-nursing clubs or community service programs.
- Use the Grade Omission Policy Wisely: You can omit up to two grades, but plan carefully.
- Avoid Repeating Courses: Repeats can cost you optional points in the selection system.
- Show Language Skills: Being bilingual can add bonus points to your application.
- Submit Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your documents.
Following these steps can significantly increase your competitiveness in such a selective program.
What to Expect After Admission
Once admitted, students begin one of the most rigorous yet rewarding programs in the CSU system. You’ll dive into nursing fundamentals, clinical labs, and hands-on patient care under faculty supervision.
Highlights include:
- Clinical placements in leading Sacramento-area hospitals
- Simulated lab experiences with high-tech mannequins
- Interprofessional training alongside medical and allied health students
- Preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam
After graduation, most students move directly into professional roles such as Registered Nurse, Public Health Nurse, or Clinical Specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What GPA do I need for Sac State Nursing?
You need a minimum of 3.0, but competitive applicants usually have GPAs between 3.8–4.0.
2. What is the minimum TEAS score required?
The minimum is 75%, though accepted students often score 90% or higher.
3. Can I apply while still completing prerequisites?
Yes, but only one science and one non-science course may be in progress.
4. Does Sac State accept transfer students?
Yes, transfer students are welcome as long as they meet all eligibility and prerequisite requirements.
5. How long does the BSN program take?
Typically, the program takes four years (two years of prerequisites and two years in the clinical phase).
6. What if I’m not accepted the first time?
Many applicants reapply after improving their GPA, TEAS score, or gaining healthcare experience.
Conclusion
The SAC State Nursing program offers one of the best nursing educations in California—but also one of the most competitive admissions processes. With acceptance rates hovering around 20–30%, aspiring students must bring their A-game in academics, testing, and preparation.
If you plan to apply, start early, stay organized, and strive for excellence in your prerequisites and TEAS exam. Remember, every point counts in the selection process.
With determination and careful planning, your dream of joining Sacramento State’s prestigious School of Nursing can become a reality.