Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline to apply to the master’s programs?
What are the minimum requirements for acceptance?
What standardized test is required for admission?
Can I apply if I am still enrolled in a BSN program?
Is an interview required for admission?
How long will it take to make a decision on an application?
Is RN experience required for admission?
If accepted, can I begin the program at any time?
How long will it take to complete a master’s program?
Can I work while completing the master’s program?
How is the admissions process different for post-master’s candidates?
What is the application deadline to apply to the master’s programs?
How is the admissions process different for post-master’s candidates?
Q: What is the application deadline to apply to the master’s programs?
A: The School of Nursing operates on a rolling admissions policy, meaning that applications are processed and reviewed until all slots in the program are filled. It is recommended that prospective students submit their application and supporting materials at least two months prior to the program’s start date. Some programs encourage applicants to submit by a certain date:
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Full-time applicants to the Pediatric Acute/Chronic Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs for fall 2010 must submit their completed application by April of 2010. Part-time applications for fall 2009, spring 2010, and summer 2010 are still being accepted on a rolling basis.
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Full-time applicants to the Women's Health Nurse Practitioner and Nurse-Midwifery Programs for summer 2010 must submit their completed applications by September 1, 2009. For prospective students interested in part-time study for fall 2009 and spring 2010, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Part-time applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their completed applications two semesters prior to their intended start term.
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Applicants to the Nurse Anesthesia program for 2010 should submit their application by September 1, 2009 to start May 2010.
Q: What are the minimum requirements for acceptance?
A: Applicants must have completed a BSN degree at an accredited college or university, and a statistics course. A competitive applicant generally has a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their BSN with GRE scores of 500 in both verbal and math. Penn Nursing does offer a GRE waiver to applicants. Applicants who have completed their BSN education in the United States with a GPA of 3.2 or greater on a 4.0 scale are eligible to have the GRE requirement waived. The elegibility is determined by each individual program director and the elegibility is not guaranteed.
Q: What standardized test is required for admission?
A: Applicants must submit scores from the GRE general test. A competitive applicant has a minimum score of 500 in the verbal and quantitative sections and 4.0 in analytical writing. Applicants with a GPA of 3.2 or higher in their BSN program are eligible for a GRE waiver. Click here for more information about the GRE waiver. Non-native English speaking applicants must submit scores from the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
Q: Can I apply if I am still enrolled in a BSN program?
A: Yes, however your acceptance would be contingent upon the successful completion of your degree requirements and evidence of RN licensure.
Q: Is an interview required for admission?
A: Yes, interviews can be conducted either in-person or over the phone.
Q: How long will it take to make a decision on an application?
A: Decisions can typically be made within five to six weeks of receipt of the application and all supporting credentials. Applications cannot be reviewed until all required materials are received.
Q: Is RN experience required for admission?
A: The following programs require RN experience:
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner – 2 years in a level III NICU**
- Pediatric Acute/Chronic Care Nurse Practitioner – 1 year in a pediatric setting**
- Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner – 1 year in a pediatric setting**
- Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner – 1 year in a pediatric oncology setting**
- Nurse Anesthesia – 1 year (in addition to orientation/probationary period) in an ICU setting
** RN experience must be met prior to the start of the clinical sequence (non-clinical courses may be taken while completing work experience)
RN experience may be suggested for other programs at the individual program director’s discretion
Q: If accepted, can I begin the program at any time?
A: Part-time admission can be obtained for fall, spring or summer. For applicants interested in full-time study, the following programs begin in the Fall for full-time students:
- Family Health Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Acute/Chronic Care Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner
The following programs begin in May for full-time students:
- Adult Health Nurse Practitioner
- Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Nurse Midwifery
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Mental Health Advanced Practice Program
- Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner
The Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program can begin full-time beginning in the fall or summer. The Health Leadership and Nursing and Health Care Administration programs can begin full or part-time in the fall, spring or summer.
Q: How long will it take to complete a master’s program?
A: Full-time students can complete the master’s program within 12-18 months. Part-time study can take on average, between 2-3 years to complete a master’s program.
Q: Can I work while completing the master’s program?
A: Many part-time students work while completing their master’s program. Nurse anesthesia students are not permitted to work while completing the program.
Q: How is the admissions process different for post-master’s candidates?
A: Post-Master's applicants completed an application for admission as well as official BSN and MSN transcripts as well as three letters of recommendation. MSN transcripts will be reviewed by the appropriate program director to determine which courses must be taken to meet the requirements of the MSN program certificate.
To address additional questions, contact the School of Nursing Admissions Office at 215-898-4271 or admissions@nursing.upenn.edu.