Nursing School Requirements in Virginia (2026)
A complete guide to nursing school admission requirements in Virginia: GPA, prerequisite courses, application steps, and what to expect after graduation — including NCLEX and RN licensure.
What our Virginia program sample looks like
By degree type in the first 50 programs we show: RN-BSN 52%; BSN 28%; DNP 8%; ADN 6%.
By delivery in that same sample: 80% online, 2% hybrid, 18% on-campus.
1
LPN Programs
3
ADN Programs
14
BSN Programs
26
RN-to-BSN
6
MSN / DNP
RNs in Virginia earn $79,530/year on average with 7.2% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS).
Find programs →Compare Accredited Programs in Virginia
Nursing School Requirements in Virginia: The Basics
Nursing school admission requirements in Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia?
How to Get Into Nursing School in Virginia: 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. Virginia 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 Virginia Board of Nursing (https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing). Pass the NCLEX-RN to receive your license and begin practicing.
After Graduation: NCLEX and Virginia RN Licensing
Completing an accredited nursing program is only the first step. To practice as an RN in Virginia, you must:
- Apply for licensure with the Virginia Board of Nursing
- Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE
- Pass the NCLEX-RN (national first-time pass rate ≈ 87%)
- Receive your Virginia RN license and begin practicing
Virginia License Details
License Renewal
2 years
CE Hours
15 hours per renewal
NLC Compact
Yes — practice in 40+ compact states
Accredited Programs in Virginia
Programs in Virginia start as low as $8,100 in total tuition (RN to BSN).
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