Updated Nursing Admissions for New First-Time Freshmen
Beginning with the upcoming 2027 admissions cycle, the University will implement a new process for admitting students into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for new first-time freshmen at entry. Transfer students will be considered for admission into Nursing through a competitive application process.
Under this updated model, students will now be considered for nursing at the time they are admitted to the University, rather than applying for promotion to the upper division course work after completion of the lower division coursework. Students who are admitted to the University and express interest in nursing will participate in a college review process conducted by the Capstone College of Nursing to determine admission directly into the nursing program, including lower and upper division coursework. First-time freshmen will only be considered in the UA fall admission application for nursing program admission.
College Review
This college review is designed to identify students who are well-prepared for the rigor and expectations of the program. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission into the nursing program. Students admitted to the University but not selected for nursing will have the opportunity to select another major or program.
Criteria Considered
- High school grade point average
- Standardized test score (ACT or SAT) required
- Information provided on the admissions application, including honors, leadership experience, volunteer experience, extracurricular activities and employment
This change allows students to receive earlier guidance, clearer academic planning and a more structured pathway into nursing while maintaining high academic and professional standards.
Students must apply to UA by the December 4, 2026, priority admissions deadline to be considered. Admission to the nursing program will be released late January 2027. After college review, students will receive a decision of admitted, waitlisted or denied.
Timeline
- Early August: 2027 application opens
- December 4, 2026: Deadline to apply for nursing
- Late January 2027: Nursing program admission notifications
- March 1, 2027: Deadline to accept nursing program offer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing about admission to the nursing program?
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for new first-time freshmen will now consider students for nursing at the time they are admitted to the University, rather than promoting students after completion of lower division coursework. Students admitted to the University who indicate interest in nursing will undergo a college review process for admission into the nursing program.
Does admission to the University guarantee admission into the nursing program?
No. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission into the nursing program. Students must successfully complete the college review process conducted by the Capstone College of Nursing in order to be admitted.
What happens if I’m not admitted into the nursing program?
You will have the opportunity to choose another academic program or participate in the Exploring 4 Success (E4S) program which is designed to guide each student through the major exploration process and college-based advising at the conclusion of their freshman year.
If I have been admitted to UA, but I’m still waiting to hear back about admission to the nursing program, can I pay my Freshman Enrollment Deposit?
Yes. However, it is important to note that the Freshman Enrollment Deposit is non-refundable even if you are not admitted to the nursing program.
If I have been admitted to UA, but I’m still waiting to hear back about admission to the nursing program, can I still apply for housing?
Yes. However, the $175 housing prepayment and application fee ($140 refundable prepayment for fall housing charge and $35 non-refundable application fee) are still required to submit the housing application. If you apply for housing and then decide not to attend UA, cancel your housing application prior to the deadlines to receive a refund. The housing deposit deadline is February 1.
If I have been admitted to UA, but I’m still waiting to hear back about admission to the nursing program, will I be considered for scholarships?
Yes, admitted students who meet the appropriate criteria and deadlines for scholarship consideration will still be eligible for automatic and competitive scholarships.
If I get admitted to nursing as a new first-time freshman, do I still have to apply for upper division?
No, students admitted into the nursing program as freshman will continue through the nursing program as long as they continue to meet academic standards outlined by the Capstone College of Nursing.
How does this affect current students/can current students be considered for this review?
This change does not impact any student admitted to the University prior to Fall 2027. Current students will continue their lower division coursework and apply to upper division.
Does this change affect transfer students?
Transfer students will be considered for admission into Nursing through a competitive application process.