Getting Into Nursing School with a Low GPA: What You Need to Know

If you’re passionate about becoming a nurse but worried your GPA might hold you back, you’re not alone. Many aspiring nursing students face similar setbacks. Whether due to tough life circumstances, juggling work and school, or simply a rocky start in college.

The truth? Getting into nursing school with a low GPA is hard but absolutely possible. It just means you’ll need to be strategic, persistent, and proactive about highlighting your strengths in every other part of your application.

Here’s how to give yourself the best shot, even if your grades aren’t perfect.

> Explore Go-Elective Pre-Nursing & Nursing Internships Abroad

It's Tough—But Definitely Not Impossible

Most Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs set a minimum GPA requirement around 3.0, though some top-tier programs expect higher. But don’t panic if your GPA doesn’t quite measure up—many programs consider the whole applicant, not just a number.

To stand out with a lower GPA:

1. Crush your entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI. High scores show academic potential even if your transcript doesn’t.
2. Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors, supervisors, or healthcare professionals who can vouch for your work ethic and potential.
3. Write a compelling personal statement that addresses any GPA-related challenges while emphasizing your growth, commitment, and clinical readiness.
4. Be transparent about extenuating circumstances (like health issues, family responsibilities, or financial hardship), and explain how you've rebounded.

Admissions teams appreciate honesty, maturity, and evidence of resilience—especially in future nurses.

GPA Requirements Vary Widely Between Programs

Not all nursing schools are the same. Some have cutoffs as low as 2.0, while others require a 3.5+ to stay competitive. Some place heavier weight on science prerequisite GPAs—like your grades in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology—over your cumulative GPA.

Pro tip:

Target schools where your strengths align. If your early grades were shaky but you’ve recently excelled in science courses or clinical experience, prioritize programs that weigh recent academic trends or healthcare experience more heavily.

Expand Your Search and Be Strategic

If your first-choice programs feel out of reach, broaden your search. Consider:

1. Less competitive geographic areas with fewer local applicants
2. Community colleges and public universities with ADN programs
3. Online or hybrid options that offer flexible admission criteria
4. Holistic admission programs that consider essays, interviews, and experience alongside GPA

Also, don’t underestimate the value of real-world exposure. Admissions officers often favor applicants with direct healthcare experience—even more so when it involves cross-cultural or underserved populations.

That’s where a pre-nursing internship abroad with Go Elective can help you stand out. Spending time in real clinical settings in Kenya or Tanzania shows initiative, builds cultural competence, and strengthens your application narrative.

Consider the LPN-to-RN Route

Another viable option for students with low GPAs is starting as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). LPN programs often have more flexible entry requirements and can be completed in less time.

Once you’ve gained experience and proved your commitment in the field, you can apply to bridge programs that allow LPNs to transition into RN or BSN roles. And bonus: LPNs earn a median salary of over $54,000/year while gaining hands-on clinical experience that will strengthen future applications.

For many students, this stepping-stone route leads to greater success, job readiness, and long-term growth in the nursing profession.

Don’t Forget to Build Experience and Confidence

Whether you’re applying with a low GPA or not, direct clinical experience can set you apart. Participating in a structured internship, especially in a global health setting, can:

• Demonstrate your ability to handle real patient care
• Strengthen your application with strong reference letters and clinical reflections
• Show admissions committees your dedication to the nursing profession

At Go Elective, our nursing and pre-nursing internships place students in reputable teaching hospitals in East Africa. You’ll shadow nurses and doctors, observe patient care, and build cross-cultural communication skills that give your application an edge.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Low GPA Define Your Potential

Your GPA is just one part of your story. Nursing programs want candidates who are driven, compassionate, and capable of learning in real clinical environments. Not just those who aced every exam.

With the right mindset, thoughtful planning, and meaningful experience under your belt, you can rise above GPA setbacks and still become an incredible nurse.

Ready to boost your application and your confidence with guided hands-on experience abroad? Explore our pre-nursing internships orapply today now to start building your future in healthcare today.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Nursing Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Jun 14, 2025