Direct Admit Program for First-Year Students

Virginia Wesleyan University's BSN Direct Admit program offers incoming freshmen a streamlined path to becoming a Registered Nurse.
When you're accepted into this program, you'll have guaranteed entry into the nursing major—giving you peace of mind and a clear trajectory toward your healthcare career goals.

How Direct Admit Works

The process is straightforward:

  • Apply to VWU and meet our admission standards.
    Submit your application to Virginia Wesleyan University with a minimum high school GPA of 3.25.
  • Meet the BSN-specific application requirements.
    Submit your BSN Direct Admit application materials by the posted deadline, including a personal statement, a letter of recommendation, and resume.
  • Complete nursing prerequisite coursework.
    Fulfill nursing prerequisites either through dual enrollment courses during high school or while at VWU, maintaining a minimum 3.30 GPA in these required courses.
  • Receive your guaranteed nursing major placement.
    Once you've met all requirements, you'll have a reserved seat in the BSN program—no need to reapply or compete for limited spots later.

Your Direct Admit Advantage

Immediate clarity on your academic path.
Unlike traditional pre-nursing tracks where students must apply to the nursing program after completing prerequisites, Direct Admit students know from their first semester that their place in the BSN program is secured upon meeting the clearly defined requirements.

Flexible prerequisite completion.
Whether you're completing nursing prerequisites through dual enrollment while still in high school or taking them during your first year at VWU, you have options that work for your educational background.

Early clinical exposure.
Begin gaining hands-on patient care experience sooner than students at many other institutions, building confidence and clinical judgment from the start of your nursing education.

Integrated liberal arts foundation.
Your nursing education is enriched by VWU's commitment to the liberal arts and sciences. You'll develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, communication skills, and cultural competence—all essential qualities of exceptional nurses.

Dedicated mentorship and support.
Benefit from close relationships with nursing faculty who will guide you throughout your undergraduate journey, from your first year through graduation.

Preparation for professional success.
Our curriculum is designed to prepare you not only to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure examination but to thrive as a compassionate, competent healthcare professional.

Why Choose VWU's Direct Admit Program?

The partnership of Sentara College of Health Sciences and VWU's personalized educational approach with Sentara's 130+ years of nursing education excellence. You'll learn on VWU's Virginia Beach campus while gaining clinical experience in Sentara's renowned healthcare facilities.

As a Direct Admit student, you'll move seamlessly from your liberal arts coursework into advanced nursing courses, accumulating 900 clinical hours—far exceeding standard requirements—and graduating fully prepared for the challenges and rewards of professional nursing.

Admission Requirements & How to Apply

  • 3.25 cumulative high school GPA
  • Application for admission to Virginia Wesleyan University.
    Note:  While you may begin both applications, no action will be taken regarding your Direct Admit BSN application prior to your admission to Virginia Wesleyan.
  • Direct Admit BSN application which includes a 250-word personal statement, and a resume.
  • One letter of recommendation must be submitted on behalf of all applicants. The letter can be from anyone who you feel knows you well and can speak to your accomplishments in high school and your potential to succeed in a rigorous living and learning collegiate environment.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Visit our admissions page for specific deadline information and a complete list of nursing prerequisite courses.