Understand the Steps to Your Pathway Into Nursing

Tina Loarte-Rodriguez, DNP, RN, CPPS, CPHRM, Executive Director
​Connecticut Center for Nursing Workforce

Getting into a nursing school in Connecticut means following some important steps and meeting certain requirements. First, you need to have a high school diploma or a GED, which proves you have finished basic schooling. Many nursing schools ask for a certain grade point average (GPA), which shows your overall grades. Commonly, schools look for at least a 2.75 GPA, but sometimes they want 3.0 or higher. If your GPA is lower, it might still be okay to apply, but you should check with the specific school for their rules.

Next, most nursing schools want you to have taken some science and math classes before you start. These classes often include biology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry. You will also need to show you can do college-level math and write well in English. Many schools require a C or better in these classes to make sure you understand the basics.

Schools may also ask you to take a test like the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the HESI Admission Assessment. These tests check your skills in reading, math, science, and English, and help the schools see if you’re ready for nursing classes. If you want a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you might also need to send in SAT or ACT scores.

When you apply, you will usually have to give official copies of your school records, letters of recommendation from people who can talk about your work or study habits, and a short essay. In this essay, you explain why you want to be a nurse and share any volunteer or healthcare experience you might have.

Before you can begin clinical training, you will need proof of certain shots—such as for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), chickenpox, and hepatitis B—and you may need a tuberculosis (TB) test. You also need CPR certification and must pass a background check and a drug test, since you will be caring for patients.

Some nursing schools have special tracks for people who already have a different college degree or are Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Requirements can vary, so always check each school’s website and the Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing or the Connecticut Department of Public Health for the most accurate details.