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Frequently asked questions


NAU School of Nursing FAQs

We receive many common questions about attending the School of Nursing at Northern Arizona University. Your queries about the application process, program information, and student resources should all be answered here.


Admissions and application process

Does the School of Nursing have a separate application, and where can I find it?

Yes. After applying to Northern Arizona University, you will submit a separate application to the School of Nursing. The application page you select varies depending on which program you are applying for.

What are the deadlines for applications to the School of Nursing?

Information on the HESI A2 exam

We require the HESI A2 exam for applying to the traditional and AIP BSN programs—or for all students who are not yet licensed RNs. It includes sections on Anatomy and Physiology, Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary and General Knowledge, and Math.

To help prepare for the HESI A2 exam, we recommend the Admission Assessment Exam Review, 5th Edition (2021-2022). ISBN: 9780323582261

Can I reapply to the program if I do not get in?

Yes. If you were not accepted, then you can wait until next application cycle to reapply.

How do I get my transcripts evaluated for prerequisites?

Visit JacksPath to see how courses from another institution will transfer to NAU.


Program information

Where are the nursing programs offered? Can I apply to more than one campus?

  • The traditional BSN program is offered in Flagstaff, Yuma, and Tucson.
  • The American Indian Program is offered in Flagstaff, has a separate application, and is only available during the fall application cycle.
  • The Compressed BSN is offered in Flagstaff, North Valley, Tucson, and Yuma.
  • The Accelerated BSN is offered in North Valley and Flagstaff. Flagstaff will be available during the Fall 2024 application cycle.

You can apply for more than one campus, and can indicate first and second choice for what campus you want to attend.

How long does the program take?

You spend the first three semesters as a pre-nursing student, completing prerequisites. Upon completion of all prerequisites, you will be ready to apply to the School of Nursing. Once accepted:

  • Traditional BSN and American Indian Program: 5 semesters (2.5 years) with summer semesters off
  • Compressed BSN: 4 semesters (16 months), including summer semester
  • Accelerated BSN: 3 semesters (12 months), including summer semester

Is the School of Nursing accredited?

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Northern Arizona University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
655 K Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
202-887-6791

What is the NCLEX pass rate?

Our NCLEX pass rates are consistently over 90%.

To view current pass rates, please visit the Arizona State Board of Nursing website.

What is the cost of attendance?

University tuition and fees are managed by Student and Departmental Account Services. The university also manages the college fees students are required to pay.

Can I study abroad?

The School of Nursing has study abroad resources.


Student resources

Are there any clubs or organizations for pre-nursing students?

The Student Nurses’ Association (SNA) of Northern Arizona University is a student organization comprised of all university pre-nursing and nursing students, and is governed by an executive board under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

Are there any scholarships for nursing students?

Yes, we do have scholarships for nursing students.

How do I set up an appointment with a nursing advisor?

If you are a current student at NAU, you can set up an appointment with our online appointment scheduler.

If you are not currently a student at NAU, please email nursing.advising@nau.edu or contact Gateway First Year Advising.