2026 Best Nursing Schools with No TEAS or HESI Exams Requirement

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from enrolling in nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

You can expect a fully accredited and rigorous BSN curriculum that is identical to programs requiring entrance exams. The quality and content of your education are not determined by a school's admission policies but by national professional standards.

Accreditation bodies mandate a standardized core curriculum for all BSN programs. This ensures every graduate is prepared to pass the NCLEX licensure exam and practice safely and effectively. The system is designed to produce highly capable professionals, with the average competency level among nurses being exceptionally high.

Choosing a program without an entrance exam doesn't mean you're taking an easier route. It simply means the school has chosen to evaluate your potential based on your entire academic record rather than a single test score.

Where can I work with a degree from nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

Graduates with a BSN from a no-exam school can work in any healthcare setting that hires registered nurses. Here are five common workplaces for BSN graduates:

• Hospitals: The largest employment sector, offering roles in diverse specialties like emergency, critical care, and pediatrics.
• Ambulatory Healthcare Services: Includes outpatient clinics, physicians' offices, and surgical centers that provide scheduled care.
• Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: These settings focus on providing long-term care for elderly or disabled populations.
• Government: Federal, state, and local government agencies hire nurses for roles in public health, military service, and veteran care.
• Educational Services: Opportunities exist in schools and universities for health education, student wellness, and clinical instruction.

How much can I make with a degree from nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

Graduates from these programs can expect to earn an average of $87,868 per year, as pay is determined by market factors, not school admission criteria. Several key elements influence your specific earning potential.

• Geographic Location: Your location is a primary driver; while the U.S. average is around $42.24 per hour, nurses in high-demand states like California can earn over $64 per hour.
• Specialty: Specializing in a high-acuity field like a critical care unit can lead to an average salary of over $95,000, compared to other generalist roles.
• Years of Experience: Compensation grows with expertise, as an experienced RN can earn significantly more than an entry-level nurse, whose salary typically starts around $60,000.
• Work Setting: An outpatient surgical center, for example, may offer higher average pay than a residential care facility due to the different nature of the work.
• Further Education: Earning an MSN to become a Nurse Practitioner can dramatically increase your earning potential to over $120,000 a year.

List of the Best Nursing Schools with No TEAS or HESI Exam Requirement for 2026

1. California State University, Fullerton - Traditional BSN

California State University, Fullerton, offers a direct-entry BSN pathway that uses a holistic review process to evaluate applicants beyond traditional academic metrics. The program focuses on preparing students to serve the national nursing corps by developing both academic readiness and professional potential through a comprehensive curriculum.

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 24 units
• Total Tuition: $29,880 (in-state); $80,280 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. Drexel University - BSN-Co-op

Drexel University integrates intensive nursing science with significant real-world experience through its cooperative education model, offering one to three paid co-op placements. The curriculum is designed to produce practice-ready nurses who have a competitive edge in the job market, supported by extensive clinical affiliations and a high NCLEX pass rate.

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 181 credits
• Total Tuition: $247,368
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Northern Illinois University - B.S. in Nursing

Northern Illinois University provides a competitive, five-semester B.S. in Nursing program that is strongly focused on a student's academic foundation, particularly in prerequisite science courses. The curriculum prepares graduates as nursing generalists, emphasizing theory and clinical experience to ensure they are ready for direct and indirect patient care roles.

• Program Length: 5 semesters (approximately 2.5 years)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 91-94 credits
• Total Tuition: $42,968.88
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Oregon Health & Science University - B.S. with a Major in Nursing

Oregon Health & Science University offers a flexible B.S. program across five regional campuses, emphasizing hands-on clinical experience in diverse communities throughout the state. The curriculum is built on a competency-based model, providing students with seamless pathways to continue their education and advance their careers at a leading academic health center.

• Program Length: 3 years (9 terms)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 180 credits
• Cost per Credit: $442 (in-state); $811 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Samuel Merritt University - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Samuel Merritt University offers a two-year BSN program that prepares students for leadership roles by blending rigorous theory with extensive hands-on clinical practice. The curriculum is dedicated to transforming healthcare by prioritizing empathy and serving underserved populations, producing graduates highly preferred by employers for their professional readiness.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 67 units
• Cost per Credit: $788
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides a competitive BSN program that critically evaluates applicants on their academic performance, essays, and commitment to service. The curriculum is designed to produce leaders in the nursing profession, with a strong emphasis on performance in science courses to build a solid clinical foundation.

• Program Length: 5 semesters (approximately 2.5 years)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
• Total Tuition: $17,547.50 (in-state); $107,880 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. University of South Florida - BSN Pathways

The University of South Florida offers multiple BSN pathways, including traditional, accelerated, and freshman-direct entry, to meet the needs of a diverse student body. The College of Nursing is focused on preparing the nurses of tomorrow by implementing evidence-based clinical practice and advancing nursing science within a major academic health center.

• Program Length: 4-5 semesters
• Required Credits to Graduate: 67 credit hours
• Cost per Credit: $211.19 (in-state); $611.39 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. University of Tennessee Health Science Center - BSN Program

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center utilizes an innovative concept-based curriculum for its traditional and accelerated BSN pathways, focusing on key ideas like safety and ethics. This approach is designed to develop high-level clinical reasoning, which is demonstrated by the program's excellent 98.8% first-time NCLEX pass rate.

• Program Length: 12 months (Accelerated) or 4 semesters (Traditional)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 50-60 credit hours
• Total Tuition: $9,023-$13,535 (in-state); $25,715-$38,571 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How long does it take to complete a nursing program at nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirements?

A traditional BSN program typically takes four years for a first-time college student, while an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program for those who already have a bachelor's degree in another field can be completed in 12 to 18 months.

The time saved by choosing a no-exam school is in the pre-application phase, as you can avoid the 2-4 months often spent studying for an entrance test. This allows career-changers to explore the fastest way to become a nurse and aspiring students to focus entirely on their prerequisite coursework.

This time commitment is a worthwhile investment, as the BSN has become the standard for entry into the profession. Data shows that a bachelor's degree is the most common level of nursing education, with 51.1% of the workforce holding this credential. This validates the choice to pursue a BSN as the most direct path to a stable and successful nursing career.

How do nursing schools without TEAS or HESI exams compare to traditional programs?

In terms of curriculum, clinical experience, and career outcomes, nursing schools that do not administer TEAS or HESI exams are equivalent to traditional programs. The only significant difference lies in their admissions philosophy, where they evaluate candidates using a holistic review instead of a standardized test score.

This guide will compare the key aspects of no-exam nursing programs with those of traditional nursing programs.

No-Exam Nursing Programs

These programs attract students who have a strong, consistent academic record but may not perform well on high-stakes tests. The admissions process places a strong emphasis on your GPA, performance in science prerequisites, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. This approach allows schools to build a diverse class of students whose potential is measured by years of hard work rather than a single test.

Traditional Nursing Programs

These programs use entrance exam scores as a key data point to screen a large volume of applicants. While they also consider GPA and other factors, a low test score can often disqualify a candidate early in the process. This method is viewed by some as a more standardized approach to assessing academic readiness for a rigorous nursing curriculum. For some strategic applicants, there are even advanced options to consider, such as direct entry MSN programs for non-nurses online.

What is the average cost of attending nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

The average cost of attending a nursing school with no TEAS or HESI requirement is comparable to traditional programs, with average total tuition around $72,000 for in-state public universities and $111,000 for private institutions. These are the official tuition figures before financial aid. The final cost you pay is often much lower once scholarships and grants are taken into account.

The total cost can vary dramatically, with some programs costing as little as $14,000 and others exceeding $247,000 for the entire degree. This wide range underscores the importance of researching individual schools and understanding that financial aid, which is explored in the next section, plays a crucial role in making your nursing education affordable.

For nurses planning advanced practice careers, understanding how to transition from BSN to CRNA is equally important, as it helps anticipate additional educational costs, prerequisites, and the investment required to reach this high-level, specialized role.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

Numerous financial aid options are available for students enrolling in these nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement, as funding is not tied to a school's admission testing policy. With more than 96% of undergraduate nursing students receiving some form of aid, you can confidently explore these resources to help fund your education.

Here are the primary types of financial aid to consider:

• Federal Grants: These are need-based funds from the government that you do not have to repay, such as the Pell Grant.
• Scholarships: Merit-based awards from schools, private organizations, or government entities that recognize academic achievement, leadership, or other criteria.
• Student Loans: Federal and private loans are available to cover tuition and living expenses, which must be repaid with interest after graduation.
• Work-Study Programs: These federally funded programs allow students to earn money through part-time jobs to help pay for educational expenses.
• The FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the single most important application, as it determines your eligibility for most forms of federal, state, and institutional aid.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

The admission requirements for nursing schools without entrance exams are designed to provide a comprehensive view of your potential for success. Because these schools use a holistic review process, your academic performance and personal qualities are critically important.

Here are the common requirements you will need to prepare:

• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with special attention paid to your grades in science courses.
• Prerequisite Coursework: You must complete specific courses with a strong academic record. These typically include Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, General Chemistry, and Statistics.
• Personal Essay: A written statement explaining your motivation for pursuing a nursing career and why you are a good fit for the program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your character, work ethic, and academic abilities.
• Resume or CV: A summary of your work experience, volunteer activities, and any healthcare-related background you may have.

What courses are typically offered in nursing schools without TEAS or HESI exams?

The courses offered in nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement are standardized by accrediting bodies to ensure every student receives a comprehensive education and is prepared to pass the NCLEX. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of nursing.

You can expect to take the following types of core courses:

• Fundamentals of Nursing: This course introduces the core principles of patient care, safety, and the nursing process.
• Pharmacology: Students learn about different classes of drugs, their mechanisms of action, and safe medication administration.
• Health Assessment: This course teaches the skills needed to perform comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural patient assessments.
• Medical-Surgical Nursing: A cornerstone of the curriculum, this course covers the care of adult patients with a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses.
• Maternal and Pediatric Nursing: These courses focus on the specialized care of childbearing women, newborns, and children through adolescence.
• Community Health Nursing: This course explores nursing roles in public health, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention in diverse populations.

This standardized curriculum is designed to prepare you for the realities of the profession. The skills you learn in these courses are directly applicable to the largest employment sector for nurses, with 58% of all RNs working in hospitals.

For those already working in healthcare, understanding pathways like surgical tech to RN can help leverage existing experience and accelerate entry into the registered nursing workforce.

What types of specializations are available in nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

While you do not select a formal major, you can begin exploring areas of interest that can lead to future specialization. Here are the primary ways you can explore specializations during your BSN program:

• Clinical Rotations: You will complete supervised clinical experiences in various settings, such as critical care, pediatrics, and labor and delivery.
• Nursing Electives: Some programs offer elective courses that allow for a deeper dive into specific topics like geriatric care, palliative care, or nursing informatics.
• Senior Preceptorship: This capstone experience involves working one-on-one with an experienced RN in a clinical area of your choice.
• Student Nurse Externships: You can apply for paid summer positions in specialty units to gain focused, hands-on experience.
• Post-Graduate Fellowships: After graduation, many hospitals offer residency or fellowship programs to help new nurses transition into specialized fields.

Think of your BSN as the essential foundation for your career. It is the starting point for a journey of lifelong learning, with many nurses choosing to advance their education to move into specialized or leadership roles. In fact, 40.20% of RNs who earned a second degree chose to pursue an MSN.

For those interested in end-of-life care, these pathways also help answer practical questions like how much do hospice nurses make, highlighting the financial potential of specialized nursing roles.

How to Choose the Best Nursing Schools with No TEAS or HESI Exam Requirement

Choosing the best nursing school requires looking beyond admission policies to the factors that directly impact your success as a student and future nurse. A great program provides strong academic and clinical preparation to ensure you are ready for licensure and practice.

Focus on these key criteria when evaluating your options:

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the ACEN or CCNE to be eligible for licensure.
• NCLEX Pass Rate: Look for a school with a high first-time pass rate, as this is a direct measure of how well it prepares students.
• Clinical Placement Quality: Investigate the quality and variety of the program's clinical rotation sites and partnerships.
• Student Support Services: Consider the availability of resources like tutoring, faculty mentorship, and career counseling.
• Program Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total net price of the program after grants and scholarships are awarded.
• Future Educational Goals: Consider how the BSN program aligns with your long-term ambitions, as there are many accessible graduate programs, including some of the easiest MSN programs to get into.

What career paths are available for graduates of nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirements?

Graduates from nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement are qualified for a wide range of career paths that extend far beyond the traditional hospital bedside. This degree serves as a flexible foundation for a dynamic and rewarding career in many different sectors.

Here are five popular career paths for BSN-prepared nurses:

1. Medical-Surgical Nurse

This role involves providing direct care to adult patients with a variety of medical conditions or who are preparing for or recovering from surgery. It is the foundational specialty for many nurses and offers a broad range of clinical experiences.

Median salary: $77,600 per year.

2. Emergency Room Nurse

ER nurses thrive in a fast-paced environment, treating patients with acute illnesses or injuries. They must be skilled in rapid assessment, triage, and managing critical situations, working closely with a team of emergency medical professionals.

Median salary: $78,500 per year.

3. Pediatric Nurse

Specializing in the care of children from infancy through adolescence, pediatric nurses conduct wellness check-ups, administer immunizations, and treat common childhood illnesses. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools, collaborating closely with families.

Median salary: $77,600 per year.

4. Public Health Nurse

These nurses work to improve the health of entire communities by focusing on education, disease prevention, and access to care. They often work for government agencies or non-profits, addressing issues like immunizations and health disparities, creating many different community health nurse jobs.

Median salary: $75,900 per year.

5. Home Health Nurse

Home health nurses provide one-on-one care to patients in their homes. This role requires a high degree of autonomy and involves tasks like wound care, medication management, and patient education for a variety of chronic conditions. As for how much does a home health nurse make, here's the answer: 

Median salary: $78,200 per year.

What is the job market for graduates of nursing schools with no TEAS or HESI requirement?

The job market for graduates with a BSN is exceptionally strong, with employment for registered nurses projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This robust demand is driven by an aging population's increasing healthcare needs and a wave of retirements from the current nursing workforce, ensuring a high degree of job security for new graduates.

This national demand translates into abundant opportunities across the country, giving you flexibility in your career and life planning. As you prepare to enter the job market, you can strategically research the best places for nurses to live, which often combine high demand with a good quality of life. Ultimately, your BSN from an accredited program is your ticket to a stable, in-demand, and rewarding lifelong career.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Nursing Schools with No TEAS or HESI Exam Requirement

What are the opportunities for online advancement in nursing education?

With the evolving landscape of nursing education, online pathways are emerging as a vital complement to traditional classroom and clinical experiences. Many institutions now provide flexible formats that cater to working professionals and those balancing personal commitments. These programs are designed to integrate seamlessly with a nurse’s hectic schedule, enabling continuous professional development without compromising quality. Additionally, specialized online offerings can serve as a springboard for career advancement; for example, consider the benefits of an easy RN to BSN program online to bolster your qualifications and improve job prospects.

What support services contribute to student success in no-exam nursing programs?

Nursing schools that waive the TEAS or HESI exams often bolster their academic programs with comprehensive student support systems. Institutions provide robust academic advising, targeted tutoring, and NCLEX preparation workshops to help bridge theory and clinical practice. Additionally, many programs offer mental health resources, career counseling services, and simulation labs that enhance practical skills in controlled environments. This integrated support framework not only reinforces academic concepts but also prepares students to excel in high-pressure clinical settings. For those considering advanced practice options, learn what is the easiest DNP program? to explore seamlessly aligned pathways for professional growth.

Other Things You Should Know About Nursing Schools with No TEAS or HESI Exam Requirement