As you evaluate the Undergraduate Nursing program at Howard University School of Nursing in Washington, DC, know that this Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathway emphasizes direct entry options and prerequisite completion for upper-division transfer. For the 2025-2026 admission cycle, the program requires the English Casper test only, with distribution by January 26, 2026. Test dates include May 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM EDT through January 13, 2026, at 8:00 PM EST. This guide details eligibility, selection factors like minimum 3.0 GPA and prerequisites, curriculum structure, student life at this historic HBCU, and preparation steps to strengthen your application.
Eligibility Requirements for Howard University School of Nursing Nursing-Undergraduate
You qualify for the Undergraduate Nursing program at Howard University School of Nursing by completing specific prerequisites before advancing to the upper division. Continuing Howard students apply internally after lower-division coursework.
- Complete all prerequisite courses with a minimum science GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for upper-division admission.
- For RN-BSN track, finish the lower-division academic plan of study.
- Submit official transcripts and a $83 non-refundable application fee.
Strategic applicants complete prerequisites early to align with upper-division entry, often in their sophomore year via direct entry to bypass separate nursing school applications.
Selection Factors Howard University School of Nursing Considers
Prerequisites
The program mandates prerequisite courses before upper-division nursing. You must pass these with grades supporting your 3.0 science GPA minimum.
- All listed lower-division courses from Howard's plan of study.
- Science-specific prerequisites calculated into the 3.0 GPA threshold.
Competitive candidates exceed minimums, demonstrating readiness through strong performance in biology, chemistry, and related fields.
GPA
Howard University School of Nursing sets a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA and 3.0 science GPA for upper-division entry. Applicants with 3.51 or higher in recent undergrad coursework position themselves favorably, especially non-traditional students balancing family commitments.
Casper
You must submit an English Casper test score for the 2025-2026 cycle, as this distribution accepts only English versions. Available test dates are:
- May 14, 2025 — 8:00 PM EDT
- Aug 5, 2025 — 8:00 PM EDT
- Sep 4, 2025 — 8:00 PM EDT
- Oct 21, 2025 — 8:00 PM EDT
- Nov 13, 2025 — 8:00 PM EST
- Dec 4, 2025 — 8:00 PM EST
- Jan 13, 2026 — 8:00 PM EST
Distribute scores by January 26, 2026; no ID requirements apply. The updated Casper format runs 65-85 minutes with 11 scenarios: 4 video-response and 7 typed-response, each with 2 questions and 3.5 minutes for typed replies. Individual typed responses receive separate scores. Completing at least 50 practice scenarios builds familiarity with ethical and interpersonal themes. Access The Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank online for 100+ scenarios and 300+ expert responses to simulate this structure.
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Start Practicing FreeCurriculum at Howard University School of Nursing
The Undergraduate Nursing BSN curriculum divides into lower and upper divisions. You complete prerequisites in the lower division before advancing.
- Upper-division focuses on clinical nursing roles with academic integrity policies preparing students for professional practice.
- Electives available in summer before senior year or fall/spring senior semesters.
- Direct-entry BSN allows sophomore-year nursing coursework without separate applications.
Matriculated students describe a structured path emphasizing hands-on preparation. Participate in consortium opportunities as a fully admitted degree-seeking student meeting GPA standards.
Howard University School of Nursing Campus and Facilities
Located in Washington, DC, Howard University operates as the preeminent HBCU, often called the "Mecca." Nursing students access facilities supporting clinical training and research.
Students report that experiences depend on individual engagement in this vibrant environment. The program upholds strict academic dishonesty policies, aligning with professional nursing standards.
How to Prepare Your Howard University School of Nursing Application
Start by mapping prerequisites to meet the 3.0 GPA thresholds six months before upper-division deadlines. Submit your $83 application fee with transcripts promptly.
- Schedule your English Casper test from the listed dates, aiming for distribution by January 26, 2026.
- Practice 50+ Casper scenarios using The Bright Doctor's web-based Casper Question Bank to master 3.5-minute typed responses.
- Leverage The Bright Doctor's Current Med Student Mentorship for insights on HBCU nursing culture and direct-entry strategies.
- Review lower-division plans on the official site; contact admissions for consortium eligibility as a degree-seeking student.
Non-traditional applicants with families highlight balancing coursework—build a timeline around your 3.51+ GPA goal. Use the Application Material Hub on The Bright Doctor platform to organize essays and prerequisites.
Master Your Casper & Medical School Interview
Practice with The Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank featuring 100+ scenarios with expert answers, plus AI Interview Simulator and personalized mentorship from current medical students.
Start Practicing FreeFrequently Asked Questions About Howard University School of Nursing Nursing-Undergraduate 2025-2026
Does Howard University School of Nursing require Casper for undergraduate nursing 2025-2026?
Yes, the English Casper test is required; distribute by January 26, 2026. Test dates run from May 14, 2025, to January 13, 2026, with no ID needed.
What is the minimum GPA for Howard University undergraduate nursing upper division?
Achieve 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.0 science GPA. Competitive applicants exceed these, such as 3.51 in recent undergrad work.
Are there direct-entry options in Howard University School of Nursing BSN?
Yes, direct entry lets you start nursing coursework sophomore year, avoiding separate applications after prerequisites.
What prerequisites are needed for Howard University nursing upper division?
Complete all lower-division courses per the academic plan, supporting 3.0 science GPA. Official transcripts confirm completion.
Is an interview required for Howard University School of Nursing undergraduate admissions?
No interview data is specified; focus on GPA, prerequisites, Casper, and application materials like the $83 fee.
Can international students apply to Howard University undergraduate nursing?
Check the official site for international eligibility, as prerequisites and Casper apply universally; HBCU focus prioritizes U.S. pathways.
What electives are available in Howard nursing BSN?
Take electives summer before senior year or fall/spring senior semesters after successful prerequisite completion.
How competitive is Howard University School of Nursing undergraduate program?
As an HBCU BSN with direct entry, competitiveness hinges on 3.0+ GPAs and Casper; students note it's what you make of the Mecca experience.