Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common nursing questions
Commonly asked questions about the UNM-V Nursing program.
Admissions
What GPA do I need?
You need a minimum 2.75 prerequisite GPA. All required prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
What prerequisites are required?
Prerequisites vary depending on whether you apply to the ASN or ASN + BSN Dual Degree pathway. Link to each curriculum worksheet here rather than placing every course on the FAQ page.
When can I apply?
Application dates for the 2027 admission cycle should be posted on the Admissions & How to Apply page after Nursing confirms them.
How competitive is admission?
Admission is competitive. UNM-Valencia admits approximately 24 students each year, with applicants ranked using a points-based selection process.
Entrance Exams
Which entrance exam do I take?
UNM-Valencia accepts either the HESI A2 or ATI TEAS. The HESI A2 requires a score of 75% on all required subtests and a 75% composite score. The ATI TEAS requires a score of 58.7% or higher.
Where can I take the entrance exam?
Contact the Nursing Program for current testing dates, registration information and testing policies.
Program Expectations
How many hours per week should I expect?
Nursing is a full-time, rigorous program requiring significant time for classes, studying, skills practice, labs and clinical experiences. Clinical and lab schedules vary and are not built around individual work schedules.
Can I work while enrolled in the Nursing Program?
Students may find it challenging to balance employment with program requirements. Classes, labs and clinical experiences are not scheduled around individual work schedules.
Where are clinicals?
Clinical experiences are assigned each semester at healthcare facilities used by the Nursing Program. Sites may be off campus and can be outside Valencia County.
After Admission
What supplies do I need?
View required supplies in the current Nursing Student Handbook.
What are the clinical requirements?
Review the Nursing Program Clinical Compliance document.
What should I expect during the first semester?
The first semester introduces foundations of professional nursing through classroom instruction, skills practice, studying and clinical preparation. Early skills include patient assessment, communication, safety, clinical judgment, basic nursing skills and professional nursing practices.
Transfer Credit & Advising
If I attended another school, will my credits transfer?
The Nursing Program Academic Success Coach can review your transcripts and help determine which courses may transfer. Courses requiring further evaluation may be reviewed with the Nursing Program Director.
What should I do first if I want to apply?
Begin by meeting with the Nursing Program Academic Success Coach to review entrance requirements and identify coursework you may need before applying.
