Nursing School Requirements in Connecticut (2026)
A complete guide to nursing school admission requirements in Connecticut: GPA, prerequisite courses, application steps, and what to expect after graduation — including NCLEX and RN licensure.
What our Connecticut program sample looks like
By degree type in the first 50 programs we show: RN-BSN 48%; DNP 28%; BSN 16%; MSN 6%.
By delivery in that same sample: 94% online, 4% hybrid, 2% on-campus.
0
LPN Programs
1
ADN Programs
8
BSN Programs
24
RN-to-BSN
17
MSN / DNP
RNs in Connecticut earn $88,850/year on average with 4.2% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS).
Find programs →Compare Accredited Programs in Connecticut
Nursing School Requirements in Connecticut: The Basics
Nursing school admission requirements in Connecticut vary by degree level, but all accredited programs share a common foundation: prerequisite science courses, a competitive GPA, and a clean background check. After graduation from any pre-licensure program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain a license from the Connecticut Board of Nursing before practicing.
The most important lever applicants control is their prerequisite GPA. Science courses — particularly Anatomy & Physiology and Microbiology — are heavily weighted by admissions committees. Retaking a course to improve a C to a B or higher can make the difference in competitive programs.
Admission Requirements by Degree Level
LPN
Typical GPA
2.5–3.0
Program Length
9–18 months
Key Prerequisites
- High school diploma or GED
- English
- Basic math
- Biology (some programs)
The fastest entry point into nursing. Many programs accept students directly from high school.
ADN
Typical GPA
2.7–3.2
Program Length
18–24 months
Key Prerequisites
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- English Composition
- Psychology
- Statistics or Math
Community college programs. Many have waitlists — applying early and maintaining a high GPA is critical.
BSN
Typical GPA
3.0–3.5
Program Length
3–4 years (direct-entry) or 2 years (RN-to-BSN)
Key Prerequisites
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Psychology
- Sociology
- English Composition
University programs. Highly competitive — top programs often require 3.5+ GPA and healthcare experience.
RN-BSN
Typical GPA
2.5–3.0
Program Length
12–18 months (online)
Key Prerequisites
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- ADN or diploma in nursing
Designed for working RNs. No additional clinical hours required. Most programs are fully online.
MSN
Typical GPA
3.0–3.5
Program Length
2–3 years
Key Prerequisites
- BSN from an accredited program
- Active RN license
- Statistics course
- Professional letters of recommendation
Graduate-level admission. Many programs require 1–2 years of clinical RN experience.
Ready to Find Programs That Fit Your Profile in Connecticut?
How to Get Into Nursing School in Connecticut: Step by Step
- 1
Research program types and choose a degree level
Decide whether you are pursuing an LPN certificate, ADN, BSN, or RN-to-BSN. Each has different admission requirements, costs, and career outcomes. Connecticut has 50 accredited programs across all degree levels.
- 2
Complete prerequisite courses
Most nursing programs require Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and English Composition at a minimum. Complete these at a community college if needed before applying.
- 3
Maintain a competitive GPA
ADN programs typically require a 2.7+ GPA; BSN programs require 3.0–3.5. Retaking a science prerequisite to improve your grade can significantly strengthen your application.
- 4
Prepare application materials
Gather transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of healthcare experience (CNA, medical scribe, EMT, etc.). Many programs weigh clinical experience heavily.
- 5
Submit your application
Apply to 3–5 programs. ADN programs at community colleges often use a points-based ranking system. BSN programs use holistic review. Apply as early as possible — many programs have rolling admissions.
- 6
Complete the program and pass the NCLEX
After graduation, apply for RN licensure through the Connecticut Board of Nursing (https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Practitioner-Licensing--Investigations/Registered-Nurse/Registered-Nurse). Pass the NCLEX-RN to receive your license and begin practicing.
After Graduation: NCLEX and Connecticut RN Licensing
Completing an accredited nursing program is only the first step. To practice as an RN in Connecticut, you must:
- Apply for licensure with the Connecticut Board of Nursing
- Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE
- Pass the NCLEX-RN (national first-time pass rate ≈ 87%)
- Receive your Connecticut RN license and begin practicing
Connecticut License Details
License Renewal
1 year
CE Hours
None required
NLC Compact
No — single-state license
Accredited Programs in Connecticut
Programs in Connecticut start as low as $8,100 in total tuition (RN to BSN).
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