Brian PhilipsCalifornia State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is one of the most prestigious nursing schools in California and across the United States. Its School of Nursing has built a strong reputation for producing competent, well-trained, and highly employable nurses. Because of this reputation and the high demand for nursing careers in California, CSULB’s nursing programs are extremely competitive, with acceptance rates far lower than the university’s overall admission rate.
If you are considering applying to CSULB’s nursing program in 2025, it’s important to understand the acceptance rate, admission requirements, prerequisites, and application process. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maximize your chances of admission.
CSULB Nursing Acceptance Rate
CSULB’s nursing acceptance rate is among the lowest in California. For Fall 2025, the program’s estimated acceptance rate is 2–3%, making it one of the most selective nursing programs in the state.
On average, the Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program receives over 2,000 applications annually, but only about 90 students are admitted. This extreme level of competition means that even applicants who meet the minimum requirements may not be offered a spot.
Why Is the Acceptance Rate So Low?
There are several reasons why the CSULB nursing program is so selective:
- High Demand for Nursing Careers
California leads the nation in nurse employment and salary levels, attracting thousands of students who want to pursue nursing in the state. CSULB, being a top-ranked university, naturally draws a very high applicant pool. - Limited Program Capacity
The School of Nursing is constrained by faculty-to-student ratios, lab space, and the number of clinical placements available in local hospitals. These factors restrict how many students the program can admit each year. - Strong Academic Standards
Admission is based on a point system that evaluates GPA, prerequisite performance, TEAS scores, and other factors. This ensures only the most academically prepared applicants are selected.
CSULB Nursing Point-Based Selection
CSULB evaluates students based on a holistic, point-based scoring system:
- Overall GPA: Higher GPAs earn more points.
- Prerequisite GPA: Particularly in science courses.
- TEAS Score: A standardized test evaluating essential academic skills.
- Healthcare Experience: Volunteer work, CNA jobs, or internships may be considered.
- Course Repetitions: Too many repeats in science prerequisites can reduce competitiveness.
Applicants with the highest combined point scores are offered admission.
CSULB Nursing Requirements
To qualify for admission into the CSULB nursing program in 2025, students must meet both university-level requirements and School of Nursing prerequisites.
1. GPA Requirements
- Cumulative GPA: Minimum 3.25 or higher in all college coursework.
- Prerequisite GPA: Minimum 3.0 in required nursing prerequisites.
- Competitive Range: Most admitted students have GPAs above 3.7.
2. Prerequisite Courses
Students must complete eight prerequisite courses before applying. These are divided into science and non-science categories:
Science Prerequisites (must include a lab component):
- Human Anatomy – Understanding of body structure.
- Human Physiology – How organ systems function.
- Microbiology – Study of microorganisms relevant to health.
- Chemistry – General, inorganic, or organic chemistry accepted.
Non-Science Prerequisites:
- Statistics – Applied statistical methods for health sciences.
- Oral Communication (Speech) – Development of communication skills.
- Written Communication (English Composition) – Academic writing proficiency.
- Critical Thinking – A course designed to build reasoning skills.
Note: All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C or higher, though competitive applicants usually earn A’s and B’s.
3. Standardized Testing
- TEAS Exam (Test of Essential Academic Skills): Applicants must achieve a minimum score (usually above 75–80%) to be considered competitive. Most admitted students score above 85%.
4. General Education Requirements
Applicants must complete the CSU General Education pattern, or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), before admission.
5. Clinical Clearance (Post-Acceptance)
Once admitted, nursing students must pass additional requirements such as:
- Background checks
- Drug screening
- Health screenings and immunizations
- CPR certification
CSULB Nursing Programs Offered
The School of Nursing at CSULB provides multiple pathways for different types of students.
1. Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Designed for students entering nursing for the first time.
- Admits around 90 students each year.
- Program duration: 3 years (6 semesters).
2. RN-to-BSN Program
- For licensed registered nurses who already have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
- Designed to help nurses complete their BSN degree.
- Flexible and often shorter in duration.
3. Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing (EL-MSN)
- For students who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree but wish to transition into nursing.
- Combines BSN-equivalent coursework with graduate-level nursing training.
4. Graduate Nursing Programs (MSN and DNP)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): For advanced roles such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): For leadership and advanced practice roles.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Admission
Since CSULB’s nursing program is highly selective, applicants should go beyond the minimum requirements. Here are strategies to improve your odds:
- Maintain a High GPA
Strive for a 3.7+ GPA in both overall and prerequisite courses. - Score High on the TEAS Exam
Aim for at least 85% or higher to remain competitive. - Finish Prerequisites Early
Do not wait until the last semester to complete them—apply with all prerequisites done. - Limit Course Repeats
CSULB discourages repeated attempts at science prerequisites. Too many repeats can hurt your application. - Gain Healthcare Experience
Work or volunteer in healthcare settings to strengthen your application and resume. - Apply to Multiple Nursing Programs
Because of the low acceptance rate, also apply to other CSU or private nursing schools as a backup.
How Hard Is It to Get Into CSULB Nursing?
In one word: very. With thousands of applicants and fewer than 100 admitted students per year, the program is one of the toughest to get into in California. Even students with strong GPAs and TEAS scores may not be admitted simply due to the limited number of spaces.
Compared to other CSU nursing programs such as Cal State Fullerton, San Diego State, and Cal State LA, CSULB consistently ranks as one of the most selective.
Career Outlook for CSULB Nursing Graduates
Graduating from CSULB’s nursing program opens many opportunities in healthcare. The school’s reputation ensures strong job prospects across California and beyond.
Employment Opportunities
- Registered Nurse (RN) in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health centers.
- Specialty nursing fields: pediatrics, critical care, emergency medicine, oncology, and surgical nursing.
- Leadership and administrative nursing roles.
Salary Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California has the highest RN salaries in the United States, with an average of $133,340 annually in 2025. Many CSULB graduates secure employment quickly after graduation due to high demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the CSULB nursing acceptance rate for 2025?
The acceptance rate is between 2–3%, making it one of the most selective programs in California.
2. What GPA is required for CSULB nursing?
The minimum GPA is 3.25, but most admitted students have GPAs above 3.7.
3. What TEAS score do I need?
A competitive TEAS score is at least 80%, though admitted students typically score 85% or higher.
4. How many students are admitted into the CSULB BSN program each year?
Around 90 students are admitted annually into the Basic BSN program.
5. Can transfer students apply to the CSULB nursing program?
Yes, transfer students are welcome but must meet the same prerequisites and GPA requirements.
6. Is CSULB nursing harder to get into than other CSU schools?
Yes, CSULB is one of the most competitive nursing schools in the CSU system, along with SDSU and CSUF.
7. What careers can I pursue after graduating from CSULB nursing?
You can work as a Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Nurse Educator, or in specialized nursing fields.
8. How long does the Basic BSN program take?
It typically takes 3 years (6 semesters) to complete the program once admitted.
Conclusion
The CSULB nursing program remains one of the most competitive in the state, with an acceptance rate of only 2–3% in 2025. To gain admission, students must excel academically, achieve high TEAS scores, and demonstrate preparedness through healthcare experiences.
Despite the difficulty of admission, the rewards are substantial. Graduates of CSULB’s nursing program benefit from excellent career opportunities, high salaries, and the prestige of earning a degree from one of California’s most respected nursing schools.
If nursing is your passion, start early, plan carefully, and aim to exceed the minimum requirements—this will give you the best chance of success at CSULB.