Nursing School Prerequisite Checklist: Essential Coursework and Eligibility for Your School of Nursing

Nursing school prerequisites form the foundation for a successful journey toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Just as clinical competencies guide patient care, prerequisite courses provide students with the essential knowledge and academic preparation necessary for rigorous nursing programs. These requirements are more than administrative checkboxes; they ensure that students possess the scientific understanding, critical thinking skills, and general education background needed to succeed in complex healthcare environments.

Prerequisite coursework typically spans subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry, as well as general education courses that support analytical reasoning, communication, and professional development. Completion of these courses with the required grades and maintaining a competitive GPA are often integral components of nursing school admission standards. Beyond academics, prerequisites may be complemented by documentation requirements such as transcripts, background checks, and health clearances, all of which collectively affirm a student’s readiness for enrollment in a nursing program.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of nursing school prerequisites, outlining the essential coursework, GPA considerations, sequencing of science and general education courses, and program-specific variations for BSN admission. Whether you are planning your pre-nursing track, navigating course selection at a community college, or preparing for enrollment in an accelerated BSN program, understanding these foundational requirements is crucial. By comprehensively evaluating prerequisites, nursing students can strategically align their academic planning with program expectations, ultimately supporting a successful transition into nursing education and the broader healthcare field.

What prerequisite courses are required for BSN admission to a nursing program?

Before entering a BSN program in most schools of nursing, applicants must complete a set of prerequisite courses that build foundational knowledge in key academic areas. These courses are designed to prepare students for the scientific and analytical demands of nursing education and are typically outlined in a program’s admission requirements.

Which science courses (anatomy, physiology, microbiology) do BSN programs require?

A large majority of BSN programs require students to complete science prerequisites with laboratory components:

• Human Anatomy and Human Physiology are almost universally required, often as two separate courses or as a combined anatomy and physiology sequence. These subjects help students understand body structure and function—critical for later nursing coursework in areas like pathophysiology and pharmacology. 
• Microbiology with lab is another standard prerequisite in nursing education. It introduces students to microorganisms, infection processes, and basic immune responses—knowledge that underpins infection control and clinical decision‑making in health care. 

Programs usually specify that these science courses must be completed with acceptable grades (often a minimum “C” or better) to count toward eligibility. 

Do prerequisite coursework requirements include general chemistry and anatomy and physiology?

In addition to biology‑based sciences, many BSN prerequisites include a semester of general chemistry or introductory chemistry. This course provides foundational insights into chemical principles—including atomic structure, reactions, and molecular behavior—that help nursing students grasp topics related to electrolyte balance, pH regulation, and medication action.

Some programs also require or recommend additional science‑related courses, such as nutrition or statistics, which support evidence‑based practice and holistic patient care.

How many prerequisite courses must be completed before enrollment in a school of nursing?

The exact number of prerequisites can vary by institution, but there are common patterns across many BSN admission requirements:

• Most BSN programs expect applicants to complete at least 6–8 prerequisite courses before enrollment, particularly if these courses feed directly into the nursing curriculum. 
• For admission, many schools allow students to apply while some courses are in progress, but all required prerequisites—especially key science courses—must typically be completed by the semester before nursing coursework begins. For example, one BSN school requires that at least five out of six prerequisites be completed (with at least one science course graded) by the application deadline, with all prerequisites finished by the spring prior to enrollment. 
• Some programs differentiate between application prerequisites and admission prerequisites: you may need a subset completed to apply, but the full set must be done before actually entering the professional nursing sequence.

This sequencing ensures that students have a solid academic foundation before they begin courses in nursing theory, clinical practice, and complex patient care.

How do general education requirements affect nursing school admission and eligibility?

General education requirements serve as the foundational academic framework for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These courses are designed to develop critical thinking, communication, quantitative reasoning, and social science literacy—all essential skills for effective nursing education and professional practice. Completion of general education courses not only satisfies program requirements but also significantly impacts a student’s admission and overall eligibility for a school of nursing.

Admissions committees consider general education requirements alongside prerequisite coursework to evaluate whether applicants possess the academic breadth necessary for the demands of a BSN program. For instance, strong performance in writing-intensive courses such as English composition demonstrates a student’s ability to document nursing care accurately, while statistics courses provide essential skills for interpreting research and applying evidence-based practice in clinical settings. Failure to meet minimum requirements in these courses may delay or prevent enrollment in the nursing curriculum, highlighting their importance alongside core science prerequisites like anatomy and physiology.

Which general education courses count toward nursing prerequisites and the nursing degree?

While each college of nursing may vary in its specific policies, common general education courses that typically fulfill both prerequisite requirements and degree requirements include:

• English Composition and Literature – Supports clear professional communication and documentation in nursing courses.
• Statistics or Quantitative Reasoning – Critical for analyzing clinical data, understanding research studies, and engaging in nursing education research projects.
• Psychology and Sociology – Provides insights into human behavior, social determinants of health, and patient interaction, reinforcing competencies in nursing care.
• Nutrition or Health Science – Offers foundational knowledge for patient education and holistic care approaches.

These education courses often appear on a transcript alongside prerequisite coursework, and their completion is considered part of a student’s cumulative GPA and overall eligibility for admission to the BSN.

Can community colleges fulfill general education requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?

Community colleges provide a practical and accessible pathway for fulfilling general education requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Many students begin their pre-nursing studies at these institutions to complete transferable general education courses, which are later evaluated by the college of nursing for acceptance into a BSN program. For example, a student may complete English composition, statistics, and psychology at a local community college, then transfer these credits to an accredited institution to satisfy nursing prerequisites and contribute to the nursing degree.

It is essential, however, that these courses come from approved courses at an accredited institution to ensure they meet program requirements and are recognized in the nursing application process. Courses taken online or at other institutions should also be documented clearly on the transcript, with grades meeting the grade of C or better standard commonly required for BSN prerequisites.

How are transcripts evaluated for general education and prerequisite coursework?

When a student applies to a BSN program, the college of nursing carefully reviews the transcript to determine if all courses completed satisfy both general education requirements and prerequisite coursework. This evaluation includes verification of:

• Course titles and content alignment with program standards
• Grades earned in each course to ensure compliance with prerequisite GPA and cumulative GPA thresholds
• Lab components in science prerequisites such as microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and general chemistry

For example, a student with completed general education courses in English, statistics, and sociology and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher would typically meet admission requirements for many BSN programs. Conversely, deficiencies in either the course content or grade thresholds may require additional prerequisite coursework before enrollment in the nursing curriculum.

What GPA Requirements and grade standards do nursing programs set for prerequisite requirements?

Academic performance in prerequisite coursework is a critical determinant for admission to a nursing program and overall eligibility for a BSN program. Schools evaluate both the cumulative GPA and the prerequisite GPA to determine whether applicants have mastered the foundational material necessary for success in nursing courses and the nursing curriculum. Meeting the required GPA requirements ensures students are academically prepared for the rigor of BSN prerequisites and the demands of professional nursing education.

Is a 3.0 cumulative GPA required for BSN program admission and nursing school requirements?

Most schools of nursing require that prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. This applies to both science prerequisites, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry, as well as general education courses such as statistics, English, and psychology. Achieving a minimum C demonstrates sufficient understanding to progress into advanced nursing courses.

Example: A student who earns a C in Human Anatomy and C in Microbiology meets the nursing prerequisite standard. Conversely, failing to achieve this minimum may require repeating prerequisite coursework before enrollment in a college of nursing.

Do courses must be completed with a grade of C or better to meet nursing prerequisites?

A cumulative GPA represents the average of all college-level coursework, including both general education courses and prerequisite coursework. Many BSN programs establish a 3.0 cumulative GPA as the benchmark for admission requirements, though competitive programs may require higher scores.

Example: A student with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 and completed prerequisite classes is typically eligible to apply to most nursing programs. Maintaining this standard indicates readiness for both theoretical and clinical components of a BSN program.

How does prerequisite GPA differ from overall admission GPA for the college of nursing?

The prerequisite GPA differs from the overall admission GPA because it specifically measures performance in courses directly required for BSN prerequisites. This includes science courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry, along with certain education courses integral to the nursing curriculum.

Some nursing schools weigh the prerequisite GPA more heavily than the cumulative GPA, especially for competitive programs.

Example: A student may have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 but a prerequisite GPA of 3.5, reflecting strong performance in relevant prerequisite coursework. This distinction can enhance eligibility for admission to the BSN and demonstrate readiness for rigorous nursing courses.

Practical Implications for Nursing Students

Understanding the distinction between prerequisite GPA and cumulative GPA is essential for pre-nursing students planning their academic path. Maintaining a grade of C or better in all prerequisite courses and targeting a strong prerequisite GPA ensures competitiveness for admission.

Students may strategically complete prerequisite classes at a community college to strengthen foundational skills before enrollment in a college of nursing. Careful planning of prerequisite coursework and attention to GPA requirements allows nursing students to meet both academic and programmatic standards, improving their chances of successfully entering a BSN program.

How should pre-nursing students plan prerequisite coursework and sequencing?

Careful planning of prerequisite courses is critical for pre-nursing students preparing for a BSN program. Sequencing courses strategically ensures timely admission to a college of nursing, maintains a competitive prerequisite GPA, and supports mastery of content essential for nursing education. Early and intentional planning also reduces the risk of repeating courses and helps students meet nursing school requirements efficiently.

When should I take anatomy and physiology and human anatomy relative to admission deadlines?

Key science prerequisites such as anatomy and physiology and human anatomy are typically considered the foundation of BSN prerequisites and should be scheduled carefully relative to application deadlines. Most schools of nursing recommend completing these courses one to two semesters prior to submission of the nursing application, ensuring grades are posted on the transcript and can be evaluated for eligibility.

Example: A student applying for admission to the BSN in Fall 2026 might take Human Anatomy in Spring 2025 and the Anatomy and Physiology sequence in Summer and Fall 2025. Completing these prerequisite courses must occur before the program’s enrollment period to satisfy prerequisite requirements.

Can I take prerequisite courses online or through community colleges and transfer the credits?

Community colleges and online platforms provide flexibility for completing prerequisite coursework, particularly for students balancing work or other responsibilities. Many BSN programs accept transferable credits from accredited institutions, provided the courses completed meet program-specific content and grade requirements.

Example: A student may complete microbiology and general chemistry at a local community college, earning grades of C or better, and transfer these credits to satisfy BSN prerequisites at a four-year college of nursing. However, students should verify that courses are approved courses for transfer and that lab components are included when required by the program.

What is the recommended sequence of science courses for BSN prerequisites and nursing education?

Sequencing of science courses for BSN prerequisites is crucial for building knowledge progressively. Most nursing programs suggest the following structure:

1. General Chemistry – Provides foundational chemical principles before taking biologically focused courses.
2. Human Anatomy – Introduces the structural organization of the human body.
3. Anatomy and Physiology Sequence – Explores detailed functional processes in organ systems, building upon human anatomy knowledge.
4. Microbiology – Should be taken after anatomy and physiology to contextualize microbial processes within human physiology.

This sequencing supports nursing education by ensuring that students approach complex nursing courses with a solid understanding of underlying scientific principles. For example, understanding organ systems in anatomy and physiology facilitates comprehension of microbial infections in microbiology, which is then applied in nursing care concepts.

What documentation and non-course requirements are part of nursing school admission?

Admission to a BSN program involves more than completion of prerequisite coursework; students must also satisfy a variety of documentation and non-course requirements designed to ensure eligibility, patient safety, and preparedness for nursing education. These requirements complement nursing school prerequisites and confirm that applicants meet professional, legal, and health standards before enrollment in a college of nursing.

How should prerequisites be listed on the transcript for application to a school of nursing?

A clear and accurate transcript is essential for evaluating prerequisites for nursing school and overall eligibility. Applicants should ensure that all courses completed as part of their prerequisite coursework are listed with proper course titles, credit hours, and grades. Courses must be completed prior to enrollment in many BSN programs, and institutions often require that laboratory components for science prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry are explicitly noted.

Example: A student applying to a BSN program should have Human Anatomy, Anatomy and Physiology, and Microbiology listed on the transcript with corresponding grades and lab hours to satisfy prerequisite requirements. Clearly documented prerequisite classes help the school of nursing evaluate both prerequisite GPA and cumulative GPA, ensuring compliance with nursing school requirements.

Are background checks, health clearances, or immunizations required alongside prerequisite coursework?

Most nursing programs require background checks and verification of health science compliance alongside prerequisite courses. These requirements ensure patient safety and compliance with clinical site regulations. Common non-course requirements include:

• Background checks – Criminal record verification to ensure suitability for clinical placements.
• Health clearances – Documentation of physical health and absence of communicable diseases.
• Immunizations – Proof of vaccination for diseases such as MMR, Hepatitis B, and COVID-19, aligned with clinical site standards.

Example: A student who has completed all prerequisite coursework but fails to submit a background check may be deemed ineligible for enrollment until compliance is met. These measures are standard in nursing education programs and are often considered part of the admission requirements.

Do nursing programs require RN verification or prior nursing courses for BSN admission?

Certain BSN programs, particularly accelerated BSN programs or RN-to-BSN pathways, require verification of licensure as a registered nurse (RN) or completion of prior nursing courses. This ensures that students entering advanced tracks already possess a baseline competency in nursing care and practical clinical skills.

Example: A student applying to an accelerated bachelor of science program may need to provide RN licensure or transcript evidence of an associate degree in nursing with completed nursing courses. Traditional BSN programs generally do not require RN verification but may assess prior prerequisite coursework in health sciences and general education as part of the evaluation for admission to the BSN.

Practical Considerations

• Documentation Planning: Students should maintain an organized portfolio of transcripts, health forms, immunization records, and verification of completed prerequisite courses must for easy submission.
• Verification Deadlines: Non-course requirements often have deadlines separate from the nursing application, so early preparation ensures timely enrollment.
• Program-Specific Policies: Each school of nursing may have variations in admission requirements; applicants should consult program handbooks to ensure all prerequisite requirements and non-course items are satisfied.

How do program-specific variations affect prerequisites and admissions to a college of nursing?

While all BSN programs require foundational prerequisite coursework, program requirements and nursing school prerequisites can vary significantly depending on the school of nursing, program type, and competitive nature of the curriculum. Understanding these variations is crucial for pre-nursing students to maintain eligibility and successfully navigate the nursing application process.

How do prerequisite requirements vary between accelerated BSN programs and traditional BSN programs?

Traditional BSN programs are designed for students entering directly from high school or early college and typically require completion of core prerequisite courses over two to three years, including science courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry, as well as general education courses. These programs emphasize gradual progression through prerequisite classes, maintaining a strong cumulative GPA, and satisfying minimum requirements for admission to the BSN.

In contrast, accelerated BSN programs are intended for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field or an associate degree in nursing. These programs often compress prerequisite coursework into a shorter timeframe, requiring completion of all science prerequisites and sometimes additional health science courses prior to program start. For example, an accelerated bachelor of science applicant may be expected to complete anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry with lab components before enrollment due to the accelerated pace of the nursing curriculum.

What special prerequisite coursework is required for eligibility in competitive nursing programs?

Competitive BSN programs may include additional prerequisite requirements beyond standard nursing prerequisites. These often include:

• Advanced human anatomy or anatomy and physiology sequences
• Nutrition, psychology, or developmental biology courses to strengthen nursing education foundations
• Statistics or research methods to support evidence-based practice in nursing courses
• Courses in health science or patient safety to prepare students for nursing care responsibilities

Example: A highly competitive college of nursing may require prerequisite classes such as human anatomy, microbiology, and nutrition completed with a prerequisite GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students who meet these enhanced prerequisite coursework expectations are more likely to gain admission compared to those meeting only the minimum BSN prerequisites.

How can applicants verify accredited programs’ prerequisite policies and admission requirements?

To ensure compliance with nursing school requirements, applicants should verify that the BSN program is an accredited institution and review its specific prerequisite requirements. Methods for verification include:

1. Official Program Websites: Most college of nursing websites list detailed prerequisite coursework and GPA standards.
2. Academic Advisors: Advisors can confirm whether prerequisite courses must be completed prior to submission and ensure that transferred courses from community colleges or online programs meet standards.
3. Accrediting Bodies: Organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) provide directories of accredited programs, ensuring that courses completed meet national quality standards.
4. Admissions Office Communication: Direct contact with the admissions office allows clarification on program-specific variations, deadlines, and any additional prerequisite classes required for competitive BSN programs.

Example: A student planning to apply to an accelerated BSN program should verify with the college of nursing that completed prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology and microbiology from a community college is acceptable for admission to the BSN.

Practical Considerations

• Plan Early: Understanding program-specific variations allows nursing students to sequence prerequisite courses efficiently and avoid delays.
• Prioritize Key Science Courses: Competitive programs often weight science prerequisites heavily in selection, making strong performance in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology critical.
• Maintain Documentation: Ensure that transcripts clearly reflect prerequisite classes, lab components, and grades meeting prerequisite GPA standards.
• Evaluate Program Fit: Some programs emphasize research, clinical experience, or accelerated completion; aligning completed prerequisite coursework with program expectations increases eligibility.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating nursing school prerequisites is a critical step for aspiring nursing students seeking admission to a BSN program. Completion of core prerequisite courses—including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general chemistry—alongside general education courses establishes the academic foundation necessary for both the nursing curriculum and future nursing care responsibilities. Understanding program requirements, sequencing prerequisite classes, and maintaining strong prerequisite GPA and cumulative GPA ensures that students remain competitive for admission to the BSN and meet the nursing school requirements of both traditional and accelerated pathways.

Beyond academic coursework, attention to non-course elements such as transcript documentation, background checks, health clearances, and immunizations is essential for maintaining eligibility and ensuring compliance with clinical placement policies. Awareness of program-specific variations allows students to tailor their prerequisite coursework to meet both minimum and competitive standards, including special requirements for accelerated or highly selective programs.

By strategically planning prerequisite classes, leveraging opportunities at community colleges or accredited institutions, and proactively verifying admission requirements, students can approach the college of nursing with confidence. Mastery of BSN prerequisites not only supports successful entry into a bachelor of science in nursing program but also lays the groundwork for a strong academic performance, clinical competence, and a fulfilling nursing career. Ultimately, thorough preparation for nursing school prerequisites empowers students to transition seamlessly from foundational coursework to advanced nursing education, positioning them for success in the profession and excellence in patient-centered care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 prerequisites of nursing presence?

The five prerequisites of nursing presence focus on the qualities a nurse brings to patient care and include:

1. Empathy – Understanding and sharing the patient’s experience.
2. Attentiveness – Being fully present and observant during care.
3. Compassion – Responding with care and concern for patient well-being.
4. Communication – Listening actively and conveying information clearly.
5. Professionalism – Maintaining ethical standards and respect in all interactions.

What are the requirements for nursing courses in Kenya?

Nursing courses in Kenya typically require:

• A high school diploma or equivalent, with strong grades in biology, chemistry, and physics.
• Completion of a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum grade, often a C+ in science subjects.
• Meeting age and health standards, including immunizations.
• Admission into a recognized college of nursing or university nursing program, such as a diploma or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

What is the hardest prerequisite for nursing school?

The hardest prerequisite course for many students is usually anatomy and physiology due to its extensive memorization requirements and understanding of complex body systems. Other challenging courses may include microbiology and general chemistry, which combine conceptual understanding with lab components.

What is the hardest class in BSN?

Many students consider pathophysiology or pharmacology the hardest classes in a BSN program because they require integrating knowledge from anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nursing courses to understand disease mechanisms and medication effects. Clinical rotations can also be challenging due to the need for real-world application of theoretical knowledge.