For many aspiring nurses, finding the right nursing school is one of the most important steps toward starting a successful healthcare career. But the process of getting accepted into nursing programs can be stressful, especially since many schools have low acceptance rates due to high demand. If you live in New Jersey and want to become a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced practice nurse, the good news is that several schools in the state have higher-than-average acceptance rates.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the nursing schools in New Jersey with the highest acceptance rates, what makes them accessible, how to apply, and what to expect once enrolled. We’ll also cover tuition costs, degree options, and strategies for improving your chances of admission.
This guide is designed to help you confidently choose the right program for your goals and prepare effectively for your nursing journey in 2025.
Why Acceptance Rates Matter in Nursing School Admissions
Choosing a nursing school with a higher acceptance rate can make the application process less stressful. Here’s why:
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Reduced competition: Schools with higher acceptance rates admit a larger percentage of applicants.
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Faster path to nursing career: You avoid long waitlists or repeated applications.
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Increased opportunities: High-acceptance programs may still offer quality education and accredited degrees.
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Confidence boost: Getting accepted the first time motivates students to stay on track toward their goals.
It’s important to remember that a high acceptance rate does not mean lower quality. Many schools in New Jersey combine accessibility with strong academic standards, hands-on training, and career support.
Factors That Influence Nursing School Acceptance Rates
Before we dive into the schools themselves, let’s look at the main factors that affect how selective a nursing program is:
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Program Capacity – Nursing programs with more faculty, labs, and clinical partnerships can admit more students.
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Demand for Seats – In areas with fewer nursing schools, competition can be higher.
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Admission Requirements – Some schools require higher GPAs, prerequisite courses, or entrance exams. Others may be more flexible.
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Degree Pathways – Acceptance rates differ between ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), and LPN programs.
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Partnerships and Campuses – Schools with multiple campuses or community college partnerships often accept more students.
Nursing Schools in New Jersey With the Highest Acceptance Rates (2025)
Below we highlight New Jersey nursing schools that have reputations for admitting a larger percentage of qualified applicants, while still offering accredited and respected programs.
1. Kean University – School of Nursing
Overview:
Kean University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and an accelerated BSN for students with prior degrees.
Why High Acceptance:
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Large public university with multiple nursing tracks.
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Expands capacity by using regional healthcare partnerships.
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Accepts both first-time college students and transfer students.
Key Features:
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Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs.
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Simulation labs and strong clinical rotations.
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Affordable tuition compared to private schools.
Preparation Tips:
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Meet GPA requirements early and complete prerequisite science courses.
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Apply as early as possible to increase your chances.
2. New Jersey City University (NJCU) – Nursing Department
Overview:
NJCU has one of the more accessible nursing schools in the state, with programs designed to prepare students for licensure exams and clinical careers.
Why High Acceptance:
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Strong emphasis on supporting first-generation and non-traditional students.
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Offers flexible admission pathways.
Key Features:
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BSN, Accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs.
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Focus on community health nursing.
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Accessible tuition rates for New Jersey residents.
Preparation Tips:
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Highlight community service and health-related volunteering in your application.
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Show persistence and dedication, as NJCU values student determination.
3. Fairleigh Dickinson University – Henry P. Becton School of Nursing
Overview:
Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) is a private institution but is known for relatively higher acceptance rates compared to other private nursing schools.
Why High Acceptance:
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Multiple campuses and program formats.
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Focus on producing career-ready nurses at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Key Features:
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BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
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Small class sizes with personalized faculty attention.
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Strong alumni network in healthcare systems.
Preparation Tips:
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Showcase leadership experience and commitment to patient care.
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Strengthen your science foundation with biology and chemistry courses.
4. Bloomfield College – Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing
Overview:
Bloomfield College provides a BSN program that is accessible to many students while still maintaining accreditation and quality.
Why High Acceptance:
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Smaller private school with mission to serve diverse student populations.
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Offers strong faculty support for admitted students.
Key Features:
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BSN program with clinical partnerships across New Jersey.
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Student-focused, community-oriented approach.
Preparation Tips:
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Demonstrate community involvement and service in your application.
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Emphasize resilience and determination to succeed.
5. Caldwell University – Department of Nursing
Overview:
Caldwell University offers a BSN program with a supportive environment for first-year students.
Why High Acceptance:
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Encourages applications from a wide range of students.
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Focuses on holistic nursing education.
Key Features:
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BSN, Accelerated Second-Degree BSN.
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Emphasis on holistic and ethical nursing practices.
Preparation Tips:
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Take prerequisite science courses seriously.
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Write a compelling personal statement about why you want to become a nurse.
6. Felician University – School of Nursing
Overview:
Felician University has one of the largest private nursing programs in New Jersey.
Why High Acceptance:
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Large class sizes and multiple program pathways increase admissions.
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Mission-driven approach with a focus on healthcare access.
Key Features:
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Traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, and MSN programs.
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Clinical placements at leading hospitals in New Jersey.
Preparation Tips:
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Highlight alignment with the school’s values of compassion and service.
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Stay proactive in completing application materials on time.
7. William Paterson University – Department of Nursing
Overview:
William Paterson University offers one of the more open-access BSN programs among public universities in New Jersey.
Why High Acceptance:
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Large program capacity compared to smaller private schools.
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Commitment to community-based nursing education.
Key Features:
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BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP options.
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State-of-the-art simulation labs.
Preparation Tips:
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Keep GPA strong in science prerequisites.
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Emphasize teamwork and leadership experience in your application.
8. Ramapo College of New Jersey – Nursing Program
Overview:
Ramapo College combines small class sizes with a solid nursing program that maintains good acceptance rates.
Why High Acceptance:
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Public college with mission to increase access for local students.
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Balanced approach to academics and hands-on training.
Key Features:
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Traditional BSN and RN-to-BSN programs.
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Focus on leadership and evidence-based nursing.
Preparation Tips:
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Prepare for the application interview if required.
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Gain volunteer experience in healthcare to stand out.
How to Improve Your Chances of Admission to Nursing Schools in New Jersey
Even if you are applying to schools with high acceptance rates, strong preparation is still necessary. Here are practical strategies:
Academic Preparation
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Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA (higher for BSN programs).
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Complete prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology.
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Consider AP or honors courses if still in high school.
Entrance Exams
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Some programs require TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
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Prepare early with practice tests and review books.
Personal Statement
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Share why you want to be a nurse.
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Highlight compassion, dedication, and perseverance.
Clinical or Volunteer Experience
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Volunteer in hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.
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Shadow registered nurses to gain perspective.
Letters of Recommendation
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Request recommendations from teachers, supervisors, or healthcare professionals.
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Choose people who can speak about your commitment to healthcare.
Summary Table: Nursing Schools in New Jersey With High Acceptance Rates
| Nursing School | Type | Degree Options | Why Acceptance Is High | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kean University | Public | BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-BSN | Large program, multiple tracks | Affordable tuition, strong clinical rotations |
| NJCU | Public | BSN, Accelerated BSN | Flexible admissions, diverse students | Focus on community health nursing |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | Private | BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP | Multi-campus, flexible pathways | Small class sizes, alumni network |
| Bloomfield College | Private | BSN | Mission to serve diverse populations | Community-based approach |
| Caldwell University | Private | BSN, Accelerated BSN | Holistic admissions philosophy | Ethics-focused nursing education |
| Felician University | Private | BSN, RN-BSN, MSN | Large class sizes, multiple programs | Extensive clinical partnerships |
| William Paterson University | Public | BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP | High program capacity | Simulation labs, community focus |
| Ramapo College of NJ | Public | BSN, RN-BSN | Access-focused admissions | Leadership and evidence-based curriculum |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Which nursing school in New Jersey has the highest acceptance rate?
Public universities like Kean University and NJCU, as well as private schools like Felician, are known for higher acceptance rates. -
Does a higher acceptance rate mean lower quality education?
No. Many schools with high acceptance rates are accredited and provide excellent training. -
What GPA do I need to get into a nursing program in New Jersey?
Most programs require a minimum of 3.0, though higher GPAs improve your chances. -
Are there accelerated nursing programs in New Jersey?
Yes, schools like Kean, Caldwell, and Felician offer accelerated BSN programs. -
What entrance exams do New Jersey nursing schools require?
Some require the TEAS exam, while others focus on GPA and prerequisites. -
Can I transfer into a nursing program from another college?
Yes, many schools allow transfer students with completed prerequisites. -
Do high acceptance rate programs still have waitlists?
Some do, but wait times are usually shorter than highly selective programs. -
Are these programs accredited?
Yes, the programs listed here are accredited by recognized nursing education bodies. -
How long does it take to complete a BSN in New Jersey?
Traditional BSN programs take about 4 years; accelerated programs take 12–18 months. -
Are online nursing programs available in New Jersey?
Some schools offer hybrid RN-to-BSN programs, though clinicals must be completed in person. -
Is financial aid available for nursing students in New Jersey?
Yes, through FAFSA, state grants, and school-specific scholarships. -
Can I work while attending nursing school?
Yes, but nursing programs are demanding, so part-time work is often more manageable.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Nursing School With Confidence
Nursing is one of the most rewarding and in-demand careers in the United States. In New Jersey, several nursing schools make the path to becoming a nurse more accessible with higher acceptance rates, flexible admissions policies, and supportive faculty.
By researching your options, preparing academically, and applying strategically, you can increase your chances of acceptance and move closer to your dream of becoming a nurse. Whether you choose a public university or a private college, what matters most is finding the right fit for your goals, budget, and learning style.
Now is the best time to start preparing. Explore the schools listed here, review their requirements, and take the first step toward your nursing career in 2025.