USF Nursing Acceptance Rate And Requirements (2025)

If you’re passionate about becoming a nurse and are considering studying at one of Florida’s top public universities, the University of South Florida (USF) should be on your list. The USF College of Nursing is known for producing high-achieving nursing professionals who go on to excel in hospitals, clinics, and community health programs nationwide.

However, getting into the nursing program at USF isn’t easy — it’s highly competitive, with strict requirements and limited spaces available. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the USF nursing acceptance rate, admission requirements, pathways, and tips to improve your chances of getting in.

USF Nursing Acceptance Rate

The University of South Florida (USF) is one of the most prestigious public universities in Florida, offering a strong mix of academic excellence and affordable tuition. While USF’s overall undergraduate acceptance rate ranges between 43% and 45%, the College of Nursing is much more competitive.

How Competitive Is USF Nursing?

The USF Nursing acceptance rate is not officially published by the school because it varies by program pathway — Freshman Nursing Pathway, Upper Division (Traditional BSN), and Accelerated Second Degree. However, based on available data and student reports:

• The Freshman Nursing Pathway acceptance rate is estimated at around 25–30%.
• The Upper Division BSN program may have an acceptance rate closer to 20–25%, depending on the semester and available slots.
• The Accelerated Second Degree program, designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, accepts about 15–20% of applicants.

In summary, USF Nursing is competitive. Many applicants meet the minimum criteria but still get denied due to limited seats. That’s why meeting only the minimum GPA or prerequisite requirements doesn’t guarantee admission — you need to excel beyond them.

Why Is USF Nursing So Competitive?

1. Limited Clinical Placements: Hospitals and clinics can only accommodate a certain number of student nurses at once, limiting program size.
2. Strong Demand: Nursing is one of the fastest-growing career fields in the U.S., and USF’s strong reputation attracts thousands of applicants each year.
3. High NCLEX Pass Rates: The USF College of Nursing boasts an impressive 97% NCLEX pass rate, higher than the state and national averages, which draws even more students to apply.
4. Multiple Pathways: Each pathway has different criteria, which increases the number of applications the college must evaluate.

USF Nursing Requirements

Admission to the USF College of Nursing depends on which pathway you apply for. USF offers several entry points for aspiring nurses:

• Freshman Nursing Pathway (FNP) – For new high school graduates entering USF directly.
• Upper Division (Traditional BSN) – For students who have completed prerequisite courses.
• Accelerated Second Degree (ASD) – For those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.
• Graduate Nursing Programs (MSN, DNP, PhD) – For registered nurses pursuing advanced degrees.

Let’s break down the admission requirements for each.

1. Freshman Nursing Pathway (FNP)

The Freshman Nursing Pathway allows new high school graduates to begin their nursing journey directly at USF.

Requirements:

• High GPA: A strong high school GPA (usually 3.8 or above) is expected.
• SAT/ACT Scores: While USF is test-optional for many programs, competitive scores (1200+ SAT or 25+ ACT) strengthen your application.
• College Preparatory Courses: Completion of core science and math courses like biology, chemistry, and algebra.
• Essay or Personal Statement: Some applicants may be required to submit a short essay about their motivation for nursing.
• Progression Requirements: Students admitted through FNP must maintain high grades during their first two years to progress into the upper-division nursing courses.

Important Note: Once admitted into another major at USF, you cannot later switch into the Freshman Nursing Pathway. It is only available to first-time-in-college students.

2. Upper Division (Traditional BSN)

This is the most common pathway for students who have already completed the required prerequisite courses either at USF or through another college.

Requirements:

• Prerequisite Courses: Completion of the following with at least a “C” grade:
  • Anatomy & Physiology I and II
  • Microbiology
  • General Chemistry
  • Statistics
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Nutrition
  • Introduction to Psychology
• Minimum GPA:
  • Overall GPA: 3.0 or higher
  • Prerequisite GPA: 3.0 or higher
• Application Process:
  • Must apply through NursingCAS, the centralized nursing school application system.
  • All transcripts and test scores must be verified before the deadline.
• Civic Literacy Requirement:
  Students must complete Florida’s civic literacy exam before enrollment.
• Recency of Coursework:
  Some prerequisite courses must be completed within the last 5 years.

Pro Tip: Completing your prerequisites at a Florida public college helps ensure transferability since USF follows state course numbering for equivalence.

3. Accelerated Second Degree (ASD) BSN

This pathway is perfect for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field but want to transition into nursing. It’s one of USF’s most intensive and rewarding options.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Prerequisites: Completion of 8 state-mandated nursing prerequisite courses with grades of C or higher.
• GPA:
  • Minimum 3.0 in both cumulative and prerequisite GPAs.
• Application:
  • Apply through NursingCAS and ensure the application is verified by the deadline.
• Duration: The ASD BSN program runs for approximately 16 months, including summer sessions.
• Eligibility:
  • International (F-1 visa) students are not eligible for the ASD program on the St. Petersburg or Sarasota-Manatee campuses.

Why It’s Popular:
This program allows you to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in less than two years, making it a great choice for career changers.

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

If you’re already a registered nurse (RN) and looking to advance your education, USF offers several graduate-level options, including Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in Nursing Science.

General Requirements:

• A BSN from an accredited nursing school
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Resume or CV highlighting clinical and academic experience
• Letters of Recommendation (usually two or three)
• Personal Statement or Essay describing your professional goals
• GRE Scores (may be optional depending on the program)
• Interview: Some graduate programs require interviews or additional writing samples.

Graduate Specializations Include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
• Nurse Anesthesia
• Nursing Education
• Psychiatric-Mental Health

How to Apply to USF Nursing

The application process for USF Nursing depends on your entry pathway, but the general steps are:

1. Apply to USF: Submit your general undergraduate or graduate application through the USF admissions portal.
2. Complete Prerequisites: Make sure all required courses are completed with strong grades.
3. Apply through NursingCAS: This centralized system is used to manage applications for nursing programs.
4. Submit Transcripts and Documents: Ensure official transcripts are sent to both USF and NursingCAS.
5. Verification: Your application must be verified before the stated deadline to be considered.
6. Check Deadlines: Application deadlines vary depending on the program, so visit health.usf.edu/nursing for up-to-date information.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting In

Because the USF College of Nursing is competitive, you need to stand out. Here are practical ways to strengthen your application:

1. Maintain a High GPA: Aim for at least 3.7 or higher to stay competitive.
2. Excel in Science Courses: Prioritize biology, chemistry, and anatomy since these show readiness for nursing rigor.
3. Complete Prerequisites Early: Don’t wait until the last semester to finish key courses.
4. Volunteer in Healthcare: Experience in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers enhances your resume.
5. Write a Strong Personal Statement: Explain your passion for nursing, community involvement, and resilience.
6. Apply Early: Submit your application before deadlines to avoid technical or verification delays.
7. Get Recommendations: Letters from science professors or healthcare professionals carry weight.
8. Prepare for Interviews: Practice explaining why you chose USF and how you’ll contribute to the nursing community.

Why Choose the USF College of Nursing?

The University of South Florida College of Nursing isn’t just competitive — it’s also one of the best in the state. Here’s why it stands out:

• Top-Ranked Program: Recognized nationally for academic excellence and clinical innovation.
• High NCLEX Pass Rate: Consistently above 97%, outperforming state and national averages.
• Strong Clinical Partnerships: USF partners with major hospitals and healthcare systems across Florida.
• Cutting-Edge Simulation Labs: Students train in advanced clinical simulation facilities before entering real-world settings.
• Global and Community Focus: Opportunities for local and international community health experiences.

USF’s College of Nursing has been designated as a National League for Nursing (NLN) Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, highlighting its dedication to preparing top-tier nurses.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The cost of attending USF Nursing varies depending on residency and program level.

• Undergraduate (Florida Residents): About $6,410 per year in tuition and fees.
• Out-of-State Students: Approximately $17,324 per year.
• Accelerated Programs: May have additional summer tuition costs due to continuous enrollment.
• Graduate Programs: Typically range from $431–$877 per credit hour, depending on residency.

USF offers numerous scholarships, grants, and assistantships for nursing students, such as the USF Nursing Alumni Scholarship and Florida Nurses Foundation awards. Students are also encouraged to apply for FAFSA to receive federal aid.

Career Outlook After USF Nursing

Graduating from USF Nursing opens doors to many rewarding career paths. With the program’s strong reputation and clinical partnerships, most graduates find employment within months of passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Common Career Options Include:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Practitioner (after advanced study)
• Clinical Research Nurse
• Public Health Nurse
• Hospital Administrator

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for registered nurses is expected to grow by 6% between 2022 and 2032, with median salaries exceeding $86,000 annually. USF’s robust alumni network and employer connections further improve career outcomes.

Conclusion

Getting accepted into the USF College of Nursing is competitive but achievable with preparation, focus, and determination. With strong academics, outstanding faculty, and impressive NCLEX pass rates, USF offers one of the best nursing programs in the Southeast United States.

If you’re serious about pursuing a nursing career, start early — build a strong GPA, gain healthcare experience, and stay on top of deadlines. The effort you invest now will pay off in a fulfilling and respected career as a nurse.