Brian PhilipsThe University of Arizona (UA) is one of the leading institutions in the Southwest for healthcare education, and its College of Nursing consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in the United States. Aspiring nurses from across the country apply each year to gain a place in one of UA’s competitive nursing programs.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the University of Arizona Nursing acceptance rate, admission requirements, program tracks, and helpful tips for standing out as an applicant.
University of Arizona Nursing Acceptance Rate
The University of Arizona is a large public research institution with an overall undergraduate acceptance rate of about 85–86%, which makes it moderately selective. However, while getting accepted into the university as a general student may be relatively straightforward, gaining admission into the College of Nursing is significantly more competitive.
How Competitive Is the Nursing Program?
The College of Nursing at UA admits students into its professional nursing curriculum only after careful evaluation. The number of seats available each year is limited, and applicants are ranked according to GPA, prerequisite completion, standardized test scores, and other criteria.
While the university does not publicly release the exact nursing program acceptance rate, reports from student forums and past applicants indicate that it is considerably lower than the general UA acceptance rate — typically ranging between 10% and 20%.
This means that for every 100 students who apply to the nursing program, only about 10–20 are admitted. That level of selectivity places UA among the more competitive nursing programs in the region.
Direct Admit vs. Traditional Admission Pathways
The University of Arizona now offers two main routes to enter its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program:
- BSN Direct Admit (DA) Pathway – Students are admitted directly into the nursing track from high school. This guarantees a spot in the professional program as long as academic standards are maintained.
- Traditional BSN Admission Pathway – Students first enroll as pre-nursing majors at UA, complete the required prerequisites, and then apply to the professional nursing program during their sophomore or junior year.
The Direct Admit route is generally more secure but highly competitive at the freshman level. The Traditional route requires students to prove their academic readiness by excelling in prerequisite science and math courses.
Why Is the Acceptance Rate So Low?
There are several reasons for the program’s selectivity:
- Limited seats: The nursing program only admits a set number of students each cycle due to clinical placement capacity.
- Rigorous standards: Nursing demands strong academic and practical ability, so only the best-prepared students are admitted.
- High demand: Nursing remains one of the fastest-growing professions, with many students competing for limited spaces in accredited programs.
Because of this, maintaining a high GPA, completing all prerequisites, and demonstrating passion for nursing are crucial to improving your admission chances.
University of Arizona Nursing Requirements
To be considered for admission to the University of Arizona College of Nursing, applicants must meet a series of academic, testing, and personal requirements. These vary slightly depending on whether you are applying for the BSN Direct Admit, Traditional BSN, or Master’s Entry (MEPN) pathway.
Let’s look at each in detail.
1. Academic GPA Requirements
A strong GPA is one of the most critical factors in the selection process.
- BSN Direct Admit applicants generally need a high school GPA of at least 3.6 or higher, particularly in math and science courses.
- Traditional BSN applicants should have a college GPA of at least 3.5, although admitted students often have averages above that.
- MEPN (Master of Science for Entry to the Profession of Nursing) applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their last 60 units of coursework and in their prerequisite courses.
Students who fall below these averages may not be considered competitive, even if they meet the minimum eligibility criteria.
2. Prerequisite Coursework
Before entering the professional nursing program, students must complete several prerequisite courses. All courses must be passed with at least a grade of “C” or higher (though most successful applicants have “B” grades or better).
Typical UA nursing prerequisites include:
- Chemistry with Lab
- Introductory Biology
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- Lifespan Human Development
- Human Nutrition
- English Composition and Writing
These foundational courses prepare students for advanced nursing subjects like pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment.
3. Entrance Exam Requirements
Depending on your program, you may need to take a nursing entrance exam.
- HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc.) or ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exams are commonly required for MEPN applicants.
- A minimum composite score of around 75% on these tests is considered competitive.
These exams assess your knowledge of reading, science, math, and language — all essential for nursing success.
4. Personal Statement and Recommendations
The University of Arizona uses a holistic admissions approach, meaning your grades and test scores aren’t the only things that matter. Applicants are also evaluated on their motivation, leadership, and commitment to nursing.
You’ll typically need to submit:
- A personal statement explaining why you want to become a nurse and why UA is your preferred school.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals who can attest to your character and academic ability.
- A resume or list of extracurricular activities related to healthcare, community service, or leadership.
A well-written essay and strong references can significantly strengthen your application.
5. Health and Background Requirements
Once accepted, nursing students must meet several health and legal requirements before beginning clinical rotations. These include:
- Immunization records (such as Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Tdap)
- Tuberculosis screening
- CPR certification
- Criminal background check and drug screening
These safeguards ensure student eligibility for clinical placements and compliance with healthcare standards.
University of Arizona Nursing Program Tracks
The College of Nursing offers multiple academic pathways depending on your background and goals:
1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This is the traditional undergraduate nursing degree for first-time college students. It combines classroom learning, simulation labs, and clinical experiences in hospitals and healthcare centers.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses.
2. BSN Direct Admit
The Direct Admit option is ideal for high-achieving high school seniors. Students are admitted directly into the nursing track and can progress to upper-division coursework without reapplying, provided they maintain GPA and grade requirements.
This pathway saves time and provides a clear, uninterrupted route from freshman year to graduation.
3. MEPN (Master of Science for Entry to the Profession of Nursing)
This accelerated master’s program is designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree but want to enter the nursing field. It typically takes 15–24 months and prepares graduates for RN licensure and advanced roles.
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in another discipline, meet prerequisite and GPA standards, and pass the TEAS or HESI exam.
4. DNP and PhD Programs
For those interested in advanced practice or research, UA offers Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD in Nursing programs. These require RN licensure and prior nursing experience but allow graduates to specialize as nurse practitioners, educators, or researchers.
Tips for Getting Accepted into the University of Arizona Nursing Program
Given how competitive the UA Nursing program is, you’ll need to go beyond meeting the minimums to stand out. Here are some proven strategies:
1. Maintain a Strong GPA
Your GPA is the most critical factor in the admissions process. Aim for 3.5 or higher in all prerequisite and science courses. Nursing is academically demanding, so the admissions committee looks for students who can handle the rigor.
2. Take Science and Math Seriously
Strong performance in courses like chemistry, biology, and anatomy demonstrates that you can excel in the technical side of nursing. If possible, take advanced placement (AP) or honors science classes in high school.
3. Gain Healthcare Experience
Volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or community health centers can make your application stand out. Real-world healthcare experience shows your passion and readiness for the profession.
4. Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Use your essay to tell your story. Highlight your motivation for becoming a nurse, your experiences helping others, and how UA’s program aligns with your goals. Make it personal and authentic.
5. Prepare for Entrance Exams
If you’re required to take the TEAS or HESI, start studying early. Use online practice tests, prep books, or tutoring to score well above the minimum required score.
6. Apply Early
UA’s nursing programs often have limited application windows. Submitting your application early gives you an advantage and ensures all materials are reviewed on time.
University of Arizona Nursing Tuition and Financial Aid
Like most specialized programs, nursing education involves additional costs such as lab fees, clinical uniforms, and medical equipment.
- In-state tuition at UA is approximately $13,000–$15,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition averages $35,000–$38,000 per year.
- Additional fees for nursing labs, clinical supplies, and technology can range between $1,000 and $3,000 per semester.
The University of Arizona offers several nursing scholarships, grants, and federal aid opportunities. Students can also apply for external scholarships from professional bodies like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) or local hospital foundations.
Career Prospects for UA Nursing Graduates
Graduates of the University of Arizona’s nursing programs are highly sought after nationwide. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, UA nurses often secure jobs quickly after graduation.
According to university reports, more than 95% of UA nursing graduates pass the NCLEX-RN exam on their first attempt — an impressive statistic that reflects the quality of training provided.
Graduates can pursue diverse roles such as:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Nurse Educator
- Public Health Nurse
- Travel Nurse
Many also advance into leadership, research, or graduate education within a few years.
Conclusion
The University of Arizona College of Nursing offers one of the most respected nursing programs in the country. However, its nursing acceptance rate is highly competitive, making preparation key.
To boost your chances of admission:
- Maintain an excellent GPA (3.5 or higher).
- Complete all prerequisite courses with strong grades.
- Prepare thoroughly for the TEAS or HESI exams.
- Write a compelling personal statement and secure strong recommendations.
- Apply early and stay organized.
If you meet the rigorous University of Arizona Nursing requirements, you’ll not only gain a top-tier education but also open doors to a rewarding career in healthcare.