IU Nursing Acceptance Rate And Requirements (2025)

Choosing a nursing school is one of the most important decisions for any future nurse. With healthcare professionals in high demand across the United States, programs like the Indiana University (IU) School of Nursing are becoming increasingly competitive. If you’re considering applying to IU, it’s crucial to understand the acceptance rate, admission requirements, prerequisites, GPA expectations, and program options.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about IU Nursing acceptance rate and requirements so you can maximize your chances of admission.

IU Nursing Acceptance Rate

The IU School of Nursing is one of the top-ranked nursing schools in the U.S. It is also one of the largest, offering programs across multiple campuses, including IU Bloomington, IU Indianapolis (formerly IUPUI), and IU Fort Wayne.

Because of its reputation, the program is highly competitive. Here’s what you should know:

Traditional BSN Program Acceptance Rate: On average, IU’s acceptance rate ranges between 10% and 15% for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This means only about 1 in 10 applicants are admitted.
Direct Admit Nursing (IU Bloomington): For high-achieving high school students, IU Bloomington offers direct admission into the nursing program. This option has a slightly higher acceptance rate, around 25% to 30%, but it requires very strong academic performance in high school.
Accelerated BSN (Second Degree): Acceptance into the accelerated track is also competitive, with an average rate of 15% to 20%.
Graduate Programs (MSN, DNP, PhD): Acceptance varies depending on specialty. For example, Nurse Practitioner programs may admit 30–40% of applicants, while doctoral-level programs are even more selective.

Why is the IU Nursing Acceptance Rate Low?

High Demand – Nursing is a fast-growing field, and IU is one of the most respected schools in the Midwest.
Limited Clinical Spots – Clinical placements at hospitals and healthcare centers are limited, so programs cannot admit all qualified applicants.
Academic Standards – IU is committed to producing highly skilled nurses, which means they maintain rigorous admission criteria.

In short, getting into IU Nursing is not easy, but with the right preparation, it’s absolutely possible.

IU Nursing Requirements

Admission into IU Nursing depends on whether you are applying as a direct admit freshman, a traditional BSN student, an accelerated BSN applicant, or a graduate student. Below are the key IU nursing requirements you need to know.

1. High School Students (Direct Admit into Nursing – IU Bloomington)

High school seniors who want guaranteed entry into the IU Nursing program can apply for direct admission.

Requirements for Direct Admit Nursing at IU Bloomington:

Minimum high school GPA of 3.8 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
SAT score of 1270+ or ACT composite of 27+.
Strong performance in biology, chemistry, and math courses.
Application to IU must be submitted by November 1 of senior year.
Evidence of leadership, healthcare interest, or volunteer experience strengthens your application.

Direct admission is highly competitive, but it gives you a secure spot in the IU BSN program right from freshman year.

2. Traditional BSN Program (After Prerequisites)

Students who are not direct admits must complete pre-nursing coursework before applying to the traditional BSN track.

IU Traditional BSN Admission Requirements:

Completion of 29–31 credit hours of pre-nursing courses (including Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English Composition, and Statistics).
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Minimum pre-nursing prerequisite GPA of 3.0, with no grade lower than C.
TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) score may be required at some IU campuses.
Submission of an application to the School of Nursing during the sophomore year.

Selection is based on GPA, standardized test scores, and available clinical spots.

3. Accelerated BSN (Second Degree Students)

For students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, IU offers an accelerated BSN program that takes 16 months to complete.

IU Accelerated BSN Admission Requirements:

A non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 2.7–3.0 in undergraduate coursework.
Completion of prerequisite courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, and Statistics.
Strong motivation and ability to handle an intensive program (full-time study required).

4. Graduate Nursing Programs (MSN, DNP, PhD)

IU also offers advanced nursing degrees for those who want to become nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or leaders in healthcare.

IU Graduate Nursing Requirements:

A BSN degree from an accredited nursing program.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 in nursing coursework.
Active RN license.
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3).
Statement of purpose outlining career goals.
Some programs may require GRE scores.

IU Nursing Prerequisites

Before applying, students must complete certain IU nursing prerequisites. These courses ensure you have the scientific foundation necessary for advanced nursing training.

Typical prerequisites include:

Anatomy & Physiology I and II
Microbiology
Chemistry
Nutrition
Statistics
English Composition
Psychology (Introductory & Lifespan Development)

All prerequisites must be completed with a minimum grade of C.

IU Nursing GPA Requirements

One of the most important factors in your admission is your GPA.

Direct Admit: 3.8 high school GPA minimum.
Traditional BSN: 3.0 cumulative GPA, with higher averages (3.5–3.8) making you more competitive.
Accelerated BSN: 2.7–3.0 undergraduate GPA.
Graduate Programs: 3.0+ GPA in BSN coursework.

Since IU is highly competitive, meeting the minimum GPA doesn’t guarantee admission. Most admitted students have above-average GPAs.

IU Nursing TEAS Test

Many applicants ask: Does IU Nursing require the TEAS test?

At IU Bloomington, the TEAS is not required for admission.
At IU Fort Wayne and IU Indianapolis, the TEAS exam may be required as part of the admission process.

The TEAS test evaluates your readiness in reading, math, science, and English, helping nursing schools assess your academic preparedness.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Into IU Nursing

Because IU Nursing is so competitive, you’ll need a strong strategy. Here are some tips:

Excel in Prerequisites – Aim for As in science courses like Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology.
Keep a High GPA – Since GPA is the biggest factor, maintain a 3.5 or above.
Apply Early – Especially for direct admission. Submitting your application before deadlines shows commitment.
Gain Healthcare Experience – Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.
Write a Strong Personal Statement – For graduate and accelerated programs, explain your passion for nursing and career goals clearly.
Prepare for TEAS (if required) – Use official practice materials to boost your score.

IU Nursing Tuition and Costs

Before applying, it’s important to consider the financial commitment.

Undergraduate (Indiana Residents): Around $12,000–$14,000 per year.
Out-of-State Students: Approximately $35,000–$38,000 per year.
Accelerated BSN: $20,000–$25,000 for the entire program.
Graduate Programs: Tuition varies by specialization, typically $600–$800 per credit hour.

IU also offers scholarships, financial aid, and nursing-specific awards to help students cover costs.

Why Choose IU Nursing?

Despite the competitive acceptance rate, IU Nursing offers incredible opportunities:

Nationally Ranked – IU is recognized among the top nursing schools in the U.S.
Strong Clinical Partnerships – Students gain experience at leading hospitals in Indiana.
Multiple Campuses – Flexibility to study at Bloomington, Indianapolis, or Fort Wayne.
Research Opportunities – IU is a leader in nursing research and innovation.
High NCLEX Pass Rates – Graduates consistently perform well on the RN licensing exam.

Conclusion

The IU Nursing acceptance rate may be low, but don’t let that discourage you. By understanding the IU nursing requirements, completing your prerequisites, maintaining a strong GPA, and applying strategically, you can increase your chances of admission.

Whether you’re applying as a direct admit freshman, a traditional BSN student, or a graduate-level nurse, IU offers world-class nursing education that can launch your healthcare career.