Overview
In 2014, the San Diego State University School of Nursing initiated a new admissions process and curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. As such, the primary route for admission to the BSN program is via direct entry from high school. First-Time Freshmen can complete the BSN degree in four academic years and sit for the state licensure examination for registered nursing (RN) upon graduation. Admission to the Nursing program via direct entry is highly competitive given the impacted nature of the major.
Prospective First-Time Freshmen must apply to San Diego State University via Cal State Apply and select “Nursing (BS)” as their intended major at the time of application. If offered admission to SDSU, freshmen are admitted directly into the BSN program and will complete prerequisite courses during the first year of study. Nursing major courses typically begin sophomore year.
IMPORTANT! Students admitted to SDSU as undeclared, or as a major other than Nursing, will not be able to change their major to Nursing during their tenure at SDSU.
Standards for Direct Entry Admission
Admission to the School of Nursing’s BSN program is highly selective. The Office of Admissions ranks applicants using the Eligibility Index. Students are admitted to the School of Nursing according to rank and the number of positions available. Additional information about ranking and the admissions process for freshman can be accessed on the Office of Admissions website.
Minimum Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in A – G coursework
- Minimum grade of B in Intermediate Algebra, Biology, and Chemistry with lab courses. If AP or IB level courses were taken in these areas, applicants must have earned a minimum grade of B.
- SAT Critical Reading and Mathematics (old version) -or- SAT Evidenced Based Reading and Mathematics (new version) -or- ACT English and Mathematics.
- Incoming Freshman Class Academic Profile (pdf)
Application Process and Deadline for Direct Entry Admission
| Cal State Apply Application Due | |
|---|---|
| Fall 2021 Admission | October 1 – November 30, 2020 |
Freshmen applicants must apply to San Diego State University via Cal State Apply as a “Nursing (BS)” major:
Submit Cal State Apply Application
SDSU uses the Cal State Apply application through the Cal State Apply website. A nonrefundable filing fee must be paid at the time of application. If you cannot apply online, contact the Office of Admissions to make special arrangements to apply electronically with campus assistance. Additional application instructions can be accessed on the Office of Admissions website for Freshmen.
Questions?
All admissions related questions (e.g., application dates and deadlines, eligibility index inquiries, admissions criteria including minimum grade requirements and college entrance exam scores, AP/IB credits, transcript information, ranking methodology) should be directed to the SDSU Prospective Student Center at admissions@sdsu.edu or 619-594-6336.
Questions specific to the Nursing program can be directed to the School of Nursing Program Advisor at pstrachw@sdsu.edu.
