FAQs
Direct Admission Frequently Asked Questions
What is Direct Admission?
Direct Admission allows applicants to earn a guaranteed placement into the professional nursing program after completing 1 year of pre-requisite courses.
Who is eligible for the Direct Admission Process?
Any high school senior who is admitted as a first-time, full-time freshman and has declared nursing as a major.
How many students are accepted as Direct Admits?
The number of students accepted as direct admits varies from year to year and is determined by the number of qualified applicants.
What are the important dates/deadlines I should be aware of?
- December 15 – Application deadline
- Kaplan Admissions Test + Virtual Interview Day
- Testing times and details to be announced
- mid-February – Decisions sent via email
What is the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test (KNAT)?
It is a 91-question, online, multiple-choice test that evaluates the basic reading, math, writing, and science skills of students seeking entry into a nursing program leading to licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Meazure Learning is used to proctor the online exam.
Applicants register for the KNAT and will take the exam on their own time within a testing window as communicated by the School of Nursing.
When do applicants take the KNAT?
Specific dates, times and other details/instructions will be shared with the student via email at a later date.
Do all applicants take the KNAT?
Based on the review of initial application materials, the KNAT will be offered to qualified applicants.
Are there resources or study materials to prepare for the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test?
Applicants may consider purchasing the study guide: Kaplan Nursing School Entrance Exam (available through Amazon or other book retailers)
Does Direct Admission to the School of Nursing allow me to complete the nursing program early?
No, accepted applicants are guaranteed a spot in the nursing program starting sophomore year as long as they meet the direct admission progression requirements. It will take students 4-years to complete the program.
If I’m admitted as a direct admit, will there be any requirements to maintain that admission status?
Yes. Requirements will be provided to applicants at the time of the admission offer.
What happens if a student applies to the Direct Admission program but is not accepted?
Due to the number of applicants for Direct Admissions and number of spaces available, not every applicant will be offered Direct Admission. We encourage students to apply for Standard Admission as there is no negative impact for not getting Direct Admission.
I have been Directly Admitted to another nursing program and am currently enrolled as a freshman at that College/University. Will NDSU accept my direct admission status if I transfer?
No. Eligible applicants are first-time, full-time freshman students.
How do I confirm that my application was received?
You will receive a confirmation statement on your screen when you submit your application. Additionally, an email receipt of submission will be sent to your email address listed on the application.
Do you require applicants to be a Certified Nursing Assistant to apply?
No, applicants do not have to be a CNA to apply.
What costs are associated with the Direct Admission Process?
- KNAT: $50
- Meazure Learning: $29
- Background Check: $51
*Note that these costs are subject change*
**Information about additional costs will be communicated once accepted to the professional nursing program.