Brian PhilipsIf you’re planning to study nursing at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), you’ve made a smart choice. UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI) is one of the largest and most respected nursing schools in Texas, producing highly skilled graduates who consistently perform well on the NCLEX-RN exam.
However, getting into the UTA Nursing program is not easy. The process is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission. This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the UTA Nursing acceptance rate, admission requirements, and tips for increasing your chances of getting in.
UTA Nursing Acceptance Rate
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has a general acceptance rate of around 81%, which means it’s moderately selective when it comes to general undergraduate admissions. However, that number can be misleading for nursing hopefuls — because the nursing program’s acceptance rate is much lower.
How Competitive Is UTA Nursing?
The UTA nursing program — especially the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Prelicensure and Accelerated Online (AO BSN) tracks — uses a competitive ranking system rather than simple admission criteria. Students are selected based on academic performance, prerequisite grades, TEAS test results, and “consideration points.”
While UTA doesn’t publish an official acceptance rate for nursing, student reports and discussions suggest that only 15% to 25% of applicants are accepted into the clinical (upper-division) phase of the program each term.
In other words, only about 1 in 4 or 5 qualified applicants get in. This makes UTA’s nursing program one of the most competitive in Texas.
Why the Acceptance Rate Is Low
Several factors contribute to the low acceptance rate:
- High number of applicants: UTA is one of the largest nursing schools in the nation, attracting thousands of applicants each year.
- Limited clinical spots: Nursing education requires hands-on hospital and lab experiences. The number of available clinical placements limits how many students can be accepted each semester.
- Rigorous academic standards: UTA’s program emphasizes patient safety, clinical excellence, and leadership. Only students with the strongest GPAs and test scores are offered spots.
Students often say that to have a competitive chance, your composite score (overall GPA + science GPA) should be 7.5 to 8.0 or higher out of 10.5 possible points.
UTA Nursing Requirements
Before you can start your nursing journey at UTA, you must meet specific academic and application requirements. These are designed to ensure that students are prepared for the demanding coursework and clinical expectations of the nursing program.
1. General University Admission
First, you must be admitted to the University of Texas at Arlington. This means submitting your application through ApplyTexas, providing transcripts, and meeting general university admission criteria.
However, being accepted into UTA does not guarantee admission into the nursing program. You’ll have to complete additional steps once you become a UTA student.
2. Prerequisite Coursework
To apply for the nursing clinical program, you must complete specific nursing and health prerequisite courses, including natural science subjects.
Required science courses (16 credit hours):
- Anatomy & Physiology I and II
- Microbiology
- General Chemistry
Additional prerequisites include:
- Statistics
- Nutrition
- Lifespan Growth and Development
- Introductory Psychology
All science prerequisites must be completed before the application deadline, and they must be passed with a minimum grade of C.
Keep in mind that certain science courses may expire after 3 years, especially if they involve laboratory components.
3. GPA and Ranking System
UTA doesn’t admit nursing students on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead, it ranks them using a point-based system that combines GPA scores and additional factors.
Here’s how the system works:
- Natural Science GPA (out of 4.0)
- Overall GPA (out of 4.0)
- These are added together for a composite score (maximum 8.0 points)
Students can earn up to 2.5 bonus points for special achievements, such as:
- Completing at least 30 prerequisite credit hours at UTA
- Earning a B or higher in Pathophysiology on the first attempt
- Being a U.S. veteran, National Guard member, or reservist
- Holding a previous bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Completing ROTC at UTA
This gives a maximum total possible score of 10.5 points. In most admission cycles, the cutoff for acceptance is around 7.7–8.0 points.
4. TEAS Exam (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
All applicants must take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). This standardized test evaluates your readiness for nursing education by assessing:
- Reading comprehension
- Science
- Math
- English and language usage
You must achieve at least a “Proficient” level (58.7%–77.3%) in each section. However, higher scores will make your application stronger.
TEAS retake policy:
- You can retake the TEAS exam every 30 days
- You’re allowed a maximum of 3 attempts per year
- Scores are valid for two years
5. Additional Admission Requirements
- Immunizations: Applicants must complete all required immunizations before starting the program.
- Background Check & Drug Screen: UTA requires a criminal background check and drug screening before clinical placements.
- CPR Certification: Students must hold a current American Heart Association BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
- Physical Examination: Proof of good health and ability to perform clinical tasks is required.
6. Application Deadlines
The UTA nursing program admits students twice per year:
- Fall admission: Applications due January 15
- Spring admission: Applications due June 1
All prerequisites must be completed before the application deadline — you cannot apply while still taking core science courses.
7. Program Tracks Offered
UTA offers several nursing program tracks to suit different educational backgrounds and learning preferences:
a) Traditional BSN (Campus-Based)
This is the standard prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program for students who have completed the required prerequisites and want in-person classes and clinical experience.
b) Accelerated Online BSN (AO BSN)
The AO BSN offers a fast-track online option for students who need flexibility. Coursework is delivered online, but clinical rotations and labs are conducted in partner hospitals.
c) RN-to-BSN
For registered nurses (RNs) who already hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing, this program allows them to earn a BSN degree 100% online in as little as 9–12 months.
d) Accelerated Second Degree BSN
Designed for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing quickly.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Accepted
Because the UTA Nursing program is so competitive, it’s crucial to make your application stand out. Here are proven tips to help you improve your chances:
1. Focus on Science GPA
Your Natural Science GPA carries major weight. Prioritize getting A’s in courses like Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, and Microbiology.
2. Take Prerequisites at UTA
Whenever possible, complete your prerequisites at UTA. Doing so gives you extra consideration points in the ranking system.
3. Score High on the TEAS
Don’t just aim for “Proficient.” Instead, aim for Advanced or Exemplary to make your application stronger. Use TEAS prep books, online courses, and practice tests.
4. Retake Low Grades (Within Limits)
If you scored poorly in a science prerequisite, consider retaking it to boost your GPA. But note that UTA has a two-attempt limit for certain core science classes.
5. Apply Early and Prepare Documentation
Meet all deadlines and submit all required documents early. Late submissions or missing immunization proof can disqualify your application.
6. Get Advising Help
Meet regularly with a nursing academic advisor to review your course plan, prerequisites, and ranking strategy.
7. Build a Strong Backup Plan
Even strong applicants can be waitlisted or denied due to limited clinical capacity. Apply to multiple nursing programs in Texas (like UT Tyler, UTMB, or Texas Woman’s University) as backups.
Why Choose UTA’s Nursing Program?
Even though the program is challenging to get into, UTA Nursing is one of the most respected in the state for a reason.
1. High NCLEX Pass Rates
UTA graduates consistently perform well on the NCLEX-RN, with first-time pass rates above 95% in recent years. This speaks to the quality of instruction and clinical preparation.
2. Advanced Clinical Simulation Facilities
UTA operates a Smart Hospital Simulation Center, one of the largest academic simulation labs in the U.S. This facility allows students to practice patient care in realistic settings before entering actual hospitals.
3. Strong Hospital Partnerships
UTA partners with top hospitals across Texas — including Baylor Scott & White, Methodist Health, and Texas Health Resources — giving students valuable real-world experience.
4. Flexible Learning Options
With both campus-based and accelerated online programs, UTA provides flexibility for traditional and non-traditional students alike.
5. Prestigious Recognition
The National League for Nursing (NLN) designated UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, a distinction awarded to only a handful of schools nationwide.
Common Questions About UTA Nursing Admission
Is it hard to get into UTA Nursing?
Yes. The program is highly competitive, with only about 15–25% of applicants gaining admission each cycle. High GPAs and strong TEAS scores are essential.
What GPA do you need to get into UTA Nursing?
A minimum 2.75 GPA is required, but most accepted students have GPAs of 3.5 or higher in their natural science courses.
Can I apply while finishing my prerequisites?
No. All science prerequisites must be completed before the application deadline.
What happens if I’m not accepted?
You can reapply in the next cycle. Many students take time to improve their GPA, retake the TEAS, or earn extra points before reapplying.
Conclusion
Getting into the UTA Nursing program takes dedication, academic excellence, and careful planning. With an estimated acceptance rate between 15% and 25%, you’ll need to maintain a strong GPA, perform well on the TEAS exam, and complete all prerequisites on time.
However, the effort is well worth it. UTA Nursing graduates are among the most respected in Texas, equipped with real-world clinical experience and exceptional critical thinking skills.
If you stay focused, follow the requirements closely, and aim for excellence in your prerequisites, you’ll have a solid chance of joining one of the best nursing programs in the United States.