Is Retaking Nursing Prerequisites a Good Idea After Failure?

Many individuals who have struggled in nursing school wonder about their options after failing to complete a BSN or ASN program. The question often arises: Is it wise to repeat the prerequisite courses and apply to a different school?

Why Reinventing the Wheel May Be Hard

Once you have failed out of one nursing program, it becomes quite challenging to be admitted to another. This is largely due to the fact that nursing schools are subject to strict regulations and evaluations. Schools aim to maintain high NCLEX success rates, and any drop in these rates can bring severe repercussions.

Nursing Schools’ Approach to Evaluations

Nursing schools are evaluated based on the performance of first-time NCLEX takers. If a school’s pass rate dips below 85%, it is likely to face probation by the state’s Board of Nursing. Persistent low pass rates could lead to decertification and the school losing its state approval to operate. This stringent regulation is a significant factor in why nursing schools are highly selective about admissions.

Admission Requirements Beyond Prerequisites

When you look at the prerequisites needed for matriculating into a Nursing program, you might see a 3.0 GPA requirement listed in the course catalog. However, in practice, these schools usually expect a much higher GPA, often close to 4.0, to even be considered. Additionally, entrance exams and personal interviews are common requirements. With a high number of aspiring students vying for limited spots, nursing schools prioritize weeding out potential applicants early in the process.

Exploring Alternative Paths

Given the challenges, consider these alternative options:

LPN/LVN Programs

One viable path is to enroll in an LPN/LVN program, which may be less stringent than an RN program. After successfully completing an LPN license through passing the NCLEX-PN, you can pursue an LPN-to-RN program, thereby gaining a foothold in the nursing field.

Conclusion

Failing nursing school can be disheartening, but it's important to acknowledge the unique challenges nursing programs face, especially concerning NCLEX pass rates. While retaking prerequisites and applying to a different school may not be the easiest route, looking into LPN/LVN programs can provide a more feasible path forward.

Good luck!