Brian PhilipsChoosing to pursue a career in nursing is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make, and the University of Central Florida (UCF) offers one of the most reputable nursing programs in the state. However, because of its outstanding reputation and high standards, getting into UCF’s College of Nursing can be quite competitive.
If you’re planning to apply, this guide breaks down the UCF Nursing acceptance rate, admission requirements, program details, and tips to help you prepare a strong application and boost your chances of getting accepted.
UCF Nursing Acceptance Rate
UCF’s College of Nursing is recognized nationally for excellence in training nurses who are both skilled and compassionate. However, its popularity also makes it one of the most selective nursing programs in Florida.
How Competitive Is UCF Nursing?
UCF’s Traditional and Second Degree BSN programs are limited-access, meaning that meeting the basic admission requirements doesn’t guarantee you a spot. Applicants compete for a small number of available seats, and admission is based on GPA, TEAS test scores, and prerequisite performance.
While UCF’s overall undergraduate acceptance rate hovers around 41%, nursing admission rates are significantly lower due to limited clinical placements and program size.
Recent UCF Nursing Admission Statistics
According to recent data from the UCF College of Nursing:
- Fall 2024 Traditional BSN (Orlando campus): 418 applicants, 140 admitted — 33.5% acceptance rate
- Spring 2025 Traditional BSN (Orlando): 269 applicants, 80 admitted — 29.7% acceptance rate
- Summer 2024 Second Degree BSN: 209 applicants, 85 admitted — 40.7% acceptance rate
These figures show that the average acceptance rate for UCF’s BSN programs generally falls between 25% and 40%, depending on the term and campus. Smaller campuses, such as Daytona and Cocoa, may have even fewer seats, making them slightly more competitive.
Why Is It So Competitive?
The limited number of clinical sites, strict faculty-to-student ratios, and the program’s stellar reputation all contribute to UCF’s selective admissions. Many students report that despite having excellent GPAs and TEAS scores, they still face tough competition due to the large applicant pool.
If you want to increase your odds of acceptance, you’ll need to aim for well above the minimum requirements in GPA and TEAS.
UCF Nursing Requirements
Meeting UCF’s nursing admission requirements is the first step toward entering the program. However, because of its limited-access status, surpassing these minimums is strongly recommended.
General Admission Process
- Apply to UCF: You must first apply and be accepted to the University of Central Florida.
- Select “Nursing Pending” as your major: This indicates your intent to apply to the nursing program later.
- Submit all official transcripts and scores: Include AP, IB, CLEP, and college transcripts.
- Apply separately to the College of Nursing: Once you’re admitted to UCF, you can apply for the nursing program of your choice (Traditional BSN, Second Degree, etc.).
Traditional BSN Program Requirements
The Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is designed for students who do not already hold a bachelor’s degree.
Minimum requirements include:
- Completion of prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher
- Strong performance in sciences such as:
- General Chemistry
- Microbiology with lab
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- A minimum GPA of 3.0, though admitted students typically have GPAs around 3.7–3.8
- Competitive TEAS test scores (average admitted score: 85–90%)
- Completion of general education and foreign language requirements
Application deadlines:
- Orlando Campus: Fall and Spring
- Cocoa and Daytona Campuses: Usually Fall only
Because more qualified applicants apply than there are seats, the selection process is based on a composite of GPA, TEAS scores, and prerequisite grades.
Second Degree BSN Requirements
This program is for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and wish to transition into nursing. It’s often called an Accelerated BSN program because it compresses nursing coursework into an intensive 15-month format.
Requirements include:
- A previous bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Completion of all nursing prerequisites with grades of C or higher
- A TEAS score in the competitive range (upper 80s or above recommended)
- A minimum GPA of 3.0, though most admitted students have 3.6+
- Proof of previous degree and transcripts
The Second Degree BSN program typically admits once per year (Summer start) and has an acceptance rate around 35–45%.
RN to BSN Program Requirements
The RN to BSN track is designed for registered nurses who already hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing and wish to earn their bachelor’s degree.
Requirements include:
- A current RN license
- A minimum GPA of 2.8–3.0
- Completion of any missing general education or prerequisite courses
- Proof of employment or clinical experience (for some applicants)
This program is often online or hybrid, allowing working nurses to complete their degree while maintaining their job.
Concurrent ASN to BSN Program
UCF also partners with local community colleges, such as Seminole State College and Valencia College, to offer a Concurrent ASN to BSN option.
Students complete their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) coursework at the partner college while simultaneously earning BSN credits from UCF.
Requirements:
- Admission to both UCF and the partner college
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- TEAS composite score of at least 78%
- Completion of all science prerequisites before starting the concurrent track
This pathway helps students save time and transition seamlessly into UCF’s nursing bachelor’s program.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Accepted
Getting into UCF Nursing takes strategy and preparation. Here are some proven tips to help strengthen your application:
1. Aim for High Grades in Science Courses
UCF weighs your performance in prerequisite science courses heavily. Focus on getting A’s in Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, and Microbiology to boost your prerequisite GPA.
2. Score High on the TEAS Test
The TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is one of the most critical parts of your application. Aim for a score above 85% to stand out among applicants.
3. Apply to Multiple Campuses
UCF offers the BSN program at its Orlando, Cocoa, and Daytona campuses. Applying to more than one location can increase your admission chances.
4. Take Prerequisites at UCF (if possible)
Some students report that taking prerequisite courses at UCF rather than other colleges makes their applications more competitive because it shows familiarity with UCF’s academic standards.
5. Volunteer and Gain Clinical Experience
Nursing is about compassion and real-world experience. Volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or community centers can help you stand out if UCF evaluates holistic factors.
6. Submit a Strong, Error-Free Application
Ensure that your UCF and College of Nursing applications are complete, accurate, and submitted before deadlines. Late or incomplete submissions are automatically disqualified.
What to Expect After Acceptance
Once accepted into the UCF College of Nursing, students enter a lock-step curriculum, meaning courses must be taken in a specific order.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: Approximately 5 semesters (including summers)
- Clinical Rotations: Conducted in hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities
- Licensure Preparation: Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam upon completion
- High NCLEX Pass Rate: UCF nursing graduates boast a 97% first-time pass rate, one of the highest in Florida
- Job Placement: About 92% of graduates stay and work within Florida’s healthcare system after graduation
Frequently Asked Questions About UCF Nursing
1. What is the average GPA for UCF Nursing?
Admitted students typically have a 3.7–3.8 GPA, though the minimum requirement is 3.0.
2. What TEAS score should I aim for?
Competitive applicants usually have TEAS scores above 85%, with some reaching into the 90s.
3. Can I apply as an out-of-state or international student?
Yes. Out-of-state and international students are welcome but must meet all the same prerequisites and testing requirements.
4. How many times per year can I apply?
- Traditional BSN (Orlando): Twice per year (Fall and Spring)
- Cocoa & Daytona BSN: Once per year (Fall)
- Second Degree BSN: Once per year (Summer)
- Concurrent ASN to BSN: Up to three times per year (depending on partner school)
Conclusion
Absolutely. The University of Central Florida College of Nursing offers one of the best BSN programs in the state, known for its high academic standards, advanced facilities, and exceptional graduate outcomes.
However, its competitive acceptance rate (25–40%) means that only the best-prepared applicants are admitted. To stand out, focus on earning high grades in prerequisite sciences, acing your TEAS test, and applying early.
With determination and careful preparation, you can join the ranks of UCF’s skilled nursing graduates and build a fulfilling, impactful healthcare career.