Salve Regina Nursing Acceptance Rate And Requirements (2025)

Choosing the right nursing school is a major step for anyone aspiring to enter the healthcare field. Among the top nursing programs in Rhode Island, Salve Regina University stands out for its combination of academic excellence, personal mentoring, and strong career outcomes. If you’re considering applying, understanding the Salve Regina nursing acceptance rate and admission requirements can help you prepare effectively and improve your chances of getting in.

This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the nursing acceptance rate at Salve Regina, the requirements for admission, and other important information you need before applying.

Salve Regina Nursing Acceptance Rate

Salve Regina University, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is known for its strong liberal arts foundation and reputable nursing program. Like many universities, Salve Regina’s acceptance rate varies between general admission and program-specific admission — and nursing tends to be more competitive.

Overall University Acceptance Rate

According to recent admission data:

• Salve Regina University’s overall acceptance rate hovers around 68%–70%.
• Out of approximately 6,200 applicants each year, about 4,200 students are typically accepted.
• This makes Salve Regina a moderately selective institution — not as difficult to get into as Ivy League schools, but still competitive enough to ensure a high academic standard.

However, this general figure does not reflect the selectivity of its nursing program, which has additional requirements and limited capacity due to clinical placements.

Nursing Program Acceptance Rate

The nursing major at Salve Regina is considered direct-admission and significantly more selective.
According to university data:

• Only about 50%–55% of applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program are accepted each year.
• This difference is due to the limited number of clinical placements available, strict accreditation standards, and the need to maintain a low student-to-faculty ratio in labs and hospitals.

Therefore, while the university overall might seem moderately selective, the nursing program is highly competitive. Applicants should approach it with careful preparation, strong grades, and an early application.

Salve Regina Nursing Requirements

Salve Regina’s nursing program offers several pathways:

1. Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
2. RN-to-BSN (for Registered Nurses with an Associate Degree or Diploma)
3. Graduate Nursing Programs (MSN, FNP, PMHNP, and Post-Master’s Certificates)

Let’s go through the requirements for each level of study.

1. Undergraduate Nursing (BSN Program)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a direct-entry program, meaning students apply to the nursing major right from high school. You don’t need to complete pre-nursing courses before declaring your major.

Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission, you’ll need:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must complete a college-prep curriculum with courses in English, Mathematics, and advanced sciences such as Biology and Chemistry.
• Strong Academic Record: Competitive applicants typically present a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Standardized Tests: Salve Regina is test-optional, so you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, strong test scores can strengthen your application if your GPA is borderline.
• Letters of Recommendation and Personal Essay: The admissions committee looks for applicants who demonstrate motivation, compassion, and a clear commitment to the nursing profession.
• Application Deadline: For nursing, the priority deadline is November 1st. Applications submitted after this date may not be considered due to limited space.

Progression Standards Once Admitted

Being accepted into the program is only the first step. Nursing students at Salve Regina must maintain certain academic standards to stay in the program:

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.9 each semester.
• Earn at least a C or higher in all prerequisite and nursing courses.
• Students who earn two grades below “C” in nursing courses risk dismissal from the program.
• Nursing students are expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and adherence to the code of ethics in clinical practice.

Curriculum Overview

The BSN program at Salve Regina combines classroom instruction with clinical experience. Core courses include:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Health Assessment
• Nursing Research
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
• Maternal and Child Health Nursing

Students gain hands-on training in the university’s state-of-the-art simulation labs before advancing to clinical placements at partner hospitals across Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts.

Licensure and Career Outcomes

• Salve Regina’s BSN graduates consistently achieve an NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of around 88%, and nearly 100% pass after retakes.
• Employment outcomes are excellent — 100% of nursing graduates find jobs within months of graduation, and many secure offers before they even graduate.
• The program’s 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio in clinical settings ensures personalized instruction and high-quality mentorship.

2. RN-to-BSN Program

For registered nurses who already hold an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing, Salve Regina offers a fully online RN-to-BSN program designed to fit the schedule of working professionals.

Admission Requirements

To qualify for this track, applicants must:

• Hold a current, unencumbered RN license.
• Have completed an accredited associate degree or nursing diploma program.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7.
• Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended.

Program Highlights

• The RN-to-BSN program allows you to transfer up to 58 credits from previous studies.
• You’ll need to complete at least 30 credits at Salve Regina to earn the degree.
• The program can be completed entirely online, making it flexible for working nurses.
• The curriculum focuses on leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice — preparing graduates for advanced roles or graduate school.

3. Graduate Nursing Programs

Salve Regina’s graduate nursing programs build upon the BSN foundation, preparing nurses for leadership or advanced clinical practice.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN offers concentrations in:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Admission Requirements for MSN:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Current, unrestricted RN license.
• Completion of undergraduate courses in statistics and research methods.
• Professional resume and two letters of recommendation.
• Personal statement explaining professional goals.

Program Details:

• The MSN–FNP program requires 48 credits and 750 clinical hours.
• Students may transfer up to 9 graduate-level credits (if eligible).
• Classes are offered in flexible formats (hybrid and online).
• Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification exams as Family or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners.

Post-Master’s Certificates

For nurses who already hold a master’s degree, Salve Regina offers Post-Master’s Certificates in:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Each certificate requires approximately 39 credits and 750 clinical hours, depending on prior coursework.

Why Choose Salve Regina Nursing Program?

Beyond acceptance rates and requirements, Salve Regina offers several advantages that make its nursing program one of the best in New England.

1. Hands-On Learning and Clinical Experience

Students gain direct patient care experience in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. Salve partners with top healthcare institutions across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

2. Small Class Sizes

With an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio in clinical settings, every student receives individualized guidance and mentorship.

3. High NCLEX Pass Rates

An 88% first-time NCLEX pass rate — and nearly 100% eventual pass rate — demonstrates the program’s academic rigor and student preparedness.

4. Excellent Job Placement

Nearly all graduates secure employment within months of graduation. Many students are offered positions during their clinical rotations.

5. Beautiful Campus and Supportive Environment

Located in scenic Newport, Rhode Island, Salve Regina provides a serene learning atmosphere, fostering both academic and personal growth. Students enjoy access to support services, tutoring, simulation labs, and student-led nursing associations.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Accepted

Because the nursing program is selective, it’s essential to prepare your application strategically. Here are practical tips to enhance your competitiveness:

1. Apply Early: Submit your application by the November 1 deadline. Early applicants are given priority for limited nursing seats.
2. Take Challenging Science Courses: Excel in Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy in high school or college.
3. Write a Strong Personal Statement: Explain your motivation for pursuing nursing and why Salve Regina is the right fit.
4. Gather Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who can speak to your work ethic, compassion, and academic ability.
5. Engage in Volunteer Work: Experience in healthcare or community service shows genuine passion for patient care.
6. Maintain a High GPA: Aim for a GPA above 3.0 to stand out in the applicant pool.
7. Demonstrate Leadership: Participation in clubs, student government, or healthcare internships adds value to your profile.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Salve Regina offers a variety of financial aid options for nursing students, including:

• Merit-Based Scholarships based on GPA and academic performance.
• Need-Based Grants determined by FAFSA results.
• Nursing-Specific Scholarships sponsored by local hospitals and healthcare organizations.
• Federal Student Loans and Work-Study Opportunities.

Many students combine institutional aid with federal or state funding to reduce overall tuition costs.

Career Outlook for Salve Regina Nursing Graduates

Nursing graduates from Salve Regina enter a job market that’s growing faster than average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses is expected to grow by 6% through 2032, with even stronger demand for nurse practitioners.

Salve Regina’s emphasis on leadership and ethics prepares graduates for positions such as:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Nurse Supervisor or Charge Nurse
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Nurse Educator
• Public Health Nurse

Graduates often find employment in:

• Hospitals and acute care centers
• Community health agencies
• Long-term care facilities
• Mental health institutions
• Schools and public health departments

Conclusion

The Salve Regina University Nursing Program is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality, accredited nursing education in a supportive and hands-on environment.

While the overall acceptance rate of the university is around 70%, the nursing program’s acceptance rate is more competitive — around 50%, reflecting its commitment to academic and professional excellence.

To gain admission, focus on building a strong academic record, gaining healthcare exposure, and applying early. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a registered nurse seeking advancement, Salve Regina provides the resources, mentorship, and clinical experience you need to succeed in today’s healthcare industry.