Best Nursing Schools for Transfer Students – The Complete 2025 Guide (U.S. + Global)

Transferring into a nursing program is a major life step that many students take deliberately — to lower costs, rebuild GPA momentum, access stronger clinical training, or move from an ADN toward a BSN.

The right transfer destination protects your earned credits, minimizes extra semesters, places you in meaningful clinical settings, and positions you to pass licensure on the first try. But not all nursing programs treat transfers equally.

This long-form guide gives you a practical, step-by-step roadmap plus an expanded, carefully curated list of transfer-friendly nursing schools (U.S. and global).

You’ll get: clear transfer pathways, how to evaluate programs, an application timeline, example email templates, 30+ school profiles with the most relevant transfer details, a scoring rubric to compare options, and an FAQ section that answers the questions transfer students ask most.

Read this if you want a publication-quality resource to plan a confident, efficient transfer into nursing — and to avoid the common pitfalls that can add semesters or cost.

Why This Guide Matters For Transfer Students

Transfer students usually bring one or more of the following to the table: general education credits, science prerequisites, an ADN (with RN licensure), or partial university coursework. Good transfer programs:

• Protect those credits through clear articulation agreements.
• Offer bridge courses or bootcamps to close small knowledge gaps.
• Provide targeted advising, early clinical placements, and NCLEX preparation.
• Understand nontraditional student needs (working students, parents, veterans).

When you compare programs, prioritize transfer transparency and supports over prestige alone. A top-ranked program with opaque transfer rules could delay graduation; a modestly ranked program with excellent articulation agreements will often save you time and money.

How to use this guide

1. Read the transfer pathways and step-by-step timeline first.
2. Use the checklist and rubric to evaluate schools.
3. Review the school profiles and shortlist 6–8 institutions.
4. Request unofficial credit evaluations and compare results.
5. Apply and follow the timeline section precisely.

Transfer pathways explained (what each route mens for you)

• 2+2 (Community College → University BSN): Complete ~60 credits (general education + prerequisites) at a community college, then transfer into the university’s BSN cohort for the final two years. Best when there is an explicit articulation agreement guaranteeing admission when criteria are met.
• ADN → BSN (RN-to-BSN): For licensed RNs who hold an ADN. Often offered online/hybrid with block credit awarded for ADN coursework and clinical competency; completion times vary (12–24 months typical).
• Direct Transfer into Pre-licensure BSN: If you have some college credits (not necessarily an ADN), you may transfer into the pre-licensure BSN. Expect that nursing courses must usually be completed at the awarding institution.
• Second-Degree Accelerated BSN (ABSN): For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. General education credits transfer; intensive nursing coursework completed in 12–24 months.
• International Credential Transfers: Students who want to move between countries will usually need credential evaluation (e.g., WES), additional prerequisites, and sometimes supervised clinical hour verification or language testing.

What makes a nursing school transfer-friendly? (practical checklist)

• Published articulation agreements or guaranteed transfer programs.
• Online credit equivalency/transfer calculators or pre-evaluation services.
• Dedicated transfer liaison or advising office.
• Clear science currency rules (e.g., A&P within 5–7 years).
• Clinical placement support (school arranges sites and preceptors).
• Bridge courses or summer bootcamps for science refreshers.
• Flexible delivery options (evening, weekend, hybrid) for working students.
• Evidence of good licensure outcomes (NCLEX or equivalent pass rates above national average).
• Transfer student orientation and peer mentoring.

Step-by-step transfer plan (18–6 months before start date — detailed timeline)

18 months out

• Decide your pathway (ADN→BSN, 2+2, ABSN, direct transfer).
• List 8–12 target schools (local + out-of-state + global if applicable).
• Gather course descriptions and syllabi for all completed courses (science labs especially).
• Research articulation agreements at your community college and target schools.

12–15 months out

• Request unofficial transfer evaluations from 2–3 top target programs (many schools provide this service).
• Confirm prerequisite currency and any required lab work.
• Start or continue healthcare experience (CNA, phlebotomy, medical scribe, volunteer hours).
• Draft a transfer personal statement that explains: why transfer, what you bring, readiness for clinical work.

9–12 months out

• Finalize prerequisite scheduling to ensure all required courses are completed before application deadlines.
• Secure at least two references (science instructors, clinical supervisors).
• Prepare transcripts and official documentation for credential evaluation if studying internationally.

6–9 months out

• Complete application packages (transcripts, references, personal statement).
• Apply for bridges/bootcamps if offered by the target program.
• Plan finances: research scholarships specifically for transfer and RN→BSN students; apply for FAFSA if in the U.S.

3 months out

• After acceptance: attend transfer orientation, meet your academic advisor, and map clinical placement schedules.
• Confirm any on-campus residency or simulation lab obligations.

Start date

• Get oriented, connect with your transfer peer mentor (if available), and begin clinical placements with clear scheduling.

Practical documents to prepare now

• A folder with official/unofficial transcripts and course syllabi.
• A one-page resume emphasizing healthcare exposure and science coursework.
• A concise writing sample (1–2 page clinical or lab memo) to show analytical writing.
• Copies of certifications (CNA, CPR/BLS, phlebotomy, EMT) and licensure if applicable.
• Contact details for 2–3 academic/clinical references.

How to request an unofficial transfer evaluation – sample email

Subject: Unofficial Transfer Credit Evaluation Request — [Your Full Name], [Current College]

Dear [Transfer Advisor Name],

I’m planning to apply to the BSN program at [University Name] for the [Term, Year]. I currently attend [Your College] and have completed the following courses: [list course codes & titles]. Could you please provide an unofficial evaluation of how these credits would be applied toward your BSN curriculum?

I can provide syllabi and transcripts. I appreciate any early guidance on prerequisites I should complete prior to application.

Thank you for your time,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone] | [Email] | [Student ID at current college]

Comparison rubric: How to score programs (100-point scale)

• Transfer transparency & articulation: 25
• Clinical partnerships & placements: 20
• Dedicated transfer supports (advising, bootcamps): 15
• Outcomes (licensure pass rates, employment): 15
• Flexibility (online/hybrid/part-time): 10
• Geographic/personal fit & affordability: 15

Score each candidate school and rank top 3–5 for application focus.

30+ Best Nursing Schools for Transfer Students (U.S. + Global)

Below are concise profiles for 40 institutions known for transfer pathways or strong support for transfer students. Each profile highlights what matters most for transfers: articulation agreements, transfer options (ADN→BSN, 2+2, ABSN), advising, clinical networks, and special notes.

Note: Specific GPA cutoffs, seat counts, and NCLEX percentages change yearly — always verify with the program. Where appropriate, the profile notes commonly reported expectations and strengths rather than exact figures.

United States

1. University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

• Transfer strengths: statewide articulation agreements with Washington community colleges; offers BSN & RN→BSN; strong hospital partnerships (Harborview, UW Medical Center).
• Transfer tip: Request pre-evaluation and confirm clinical scheduling flexibility.

2. University of Michigan — Ann Arbor (MI)

• Transfer strengths: structured BSN completion tracks, robust simulation labs, strong research opportunities.
• Transfer tip: Emphasize science GPA and get faculty recommendations early.

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (NC)

• Transfer strengths: extensive community college partnerships in NC; strong NCLEX outcomes; global health opportunities.
• Transfer tip: Ask about reserved seats for state community college partners.

4. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA, CA)

• Transfer strengths: prioritizes California community college transfers through UC pathways; access to top clinical sites.
• Transfer tip: Be competitive — aim for strong A&P performance and meet UC transfer unit requirements.

5. University of Washington — Tacoma/ Bothell & other regional campuses (WA)

• Transfer strengths: regional campus options ease access for local students; community college articulation.
• Transfer tip: Regional campuses often have different seat capacities — inquire early.

6. Arizona State University (ASU, Tempe, AZ)

• Transfer strengths: highly transfer-friendly BSN and RN→BSN routes; strong online options; large articulation network.
• Transfer tip: ASU’s online RN→BSN is attractive for working RNs.

7. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC, IL)

• Transfer strengths: formal agreements with Illinois community colleges; multiple campus clinical sites.
• Transfer tip: Use UIC’s pre-evaluation service and meet deadlines early.

8. University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin, TX)

• Transfer strengths: strong clinical partnerships across the Austin area, 2+2 pathways in the state.
• Transfer tip: Verify any state residency preferences and articulation agreements.

9. Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)

• Transfer strengths: large intake with RN→BSN and pre-licensure transfer options; strong hospital network.
• Transfer tip: OSU may publish typical transfer GPA ranges — match or exceed them if possible.

10. University of Florida (Gainesville, FL)

• Transfer strengths: state system articulation and clinical ties across FL; robust online options for RN→BSN.
• Transfer tip: Florida community college agreements can guarantee consideration when criteria are met.

11. University of Pittsburgh (PA)

• Transfer strengths: partnership with UPMC; various transfer pathways and strong clinical exposure.
• Transfer tip: UPMC ties facilitate clinical placements and potential employment pipelines.

12. University of Minnesota (Twin Cities, MN)

• Transfer strengths: accepts community college transfers; strong simulation and lab facilities.
• Transfer tip: Confirm science course currency and lab equivalency.

13. Rutgers University (NJ)

• Transfer strengths: multiple campuses with nursing; strong agreements with NJ community colleges.
• Transfer tip: Regional clinical sites include major hospital systems in the NY/NJ metro area.

14. University of Maryland (Baltimore, MD)

• Transfer strengths: local hospital network (UMMC); RN→BSN and traditional transfer options.
• Transfer tip: Professional advising helps transfers manage clinical schedules in dense urban sites.

15. Texas Woman’s University (TX)

• Transfer strengths: large nursing program with many transfer options and online RN→BSN.
• Transfer tip: Known for accommodating working nurses and family commitments.

16. Northeastern University (Boston, MA)

• Transfer strengths: ABSN and experiential learning (co-op and clinical immersion).
• Transfer tip: Highlight prior healthcare experience to stand out in selective ABSN cohorts.

17. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD)

• Transfer strengths: accepts strong transfer applicants into various tracks; unmatched clinical research opportunities.
• Transfer tip: Highly competitive — strong science GPA and research/clinical experience recommended.

18. Emory University (Atlanta, GA)

• Transfer strengths: significant clinical affiliations; transfer options for select applicants.
• Transfer tip: Consider Emory’s emphasis on population health in your application narrative.

19. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (Aurora, CO)

• Transfer strengths: integrated clinical sites and physician networks; transfer and RN→BSN options.
• Transfer tip: Confirm pre-req timeline and simulation lab scheduling.

20. University of California system (multiple campuses — e.g., San Diego, Davis)

• Transfer strengths: UC system has formal transfer pathways for California community college students; each campus has specific articulation agreements.
• Transfer tip: Use ASSIST (or campus transfer tools) to map course equivalencies.

Canada

21. University of British Columbia (UBC)

• Transfer strengths: accepts college/university transfer credits; bridge programs for diploma graduates; strong clinical networks across Vancouver.
• Transfer tip: Internationally recognized; confirm provincial licensing requirements after graduation.

22. University of Toronto (U of T)

• Transfer strengths: competitive but accepts transfer students with sound academic records; strong research and clinical partnerships.
• Transfer tip: Ontario colleges often have established transfer agreements — check the specific pathway.

23. McGill University (Montreal, QC)

• Transfer strengths: bilingual environment, established transfer routes for Quebec colleges and other provinces.
• Transfer tip: Language requirements may apply for non-French speakers in Quebec’s clinical settings.

United Kingdom & Europe

24. King’s College London (KCL, UK)

• Transfer strengths: accepts students with prior credits after detailed course equivalency review; strong NHS clinical placements.
• Transfer tip: Make sure you meet NMC (Nursing & Midwifery Council) registration requirements for the UK.

25. University of Edinburgh (Scotland)

• Transfer strengths: reputable nursing program with occasional entry points for transfer students; robust clinical opportunities in the NHS.
• Transfer tip: Check residency and program length differences for international transfers.

26. University of Amsterdam (Netherlands)

• Transfer strengths: offers nursing science tracks and accepts transfers with clear syllabus mapping.
• Transfer tip: Language of instruction and clinical practice requirements vary — confirm English-taught options.

Australia & New Zealand

27. University of Sydney (Australia)

• Transfer strengths: evaluates international credits and offers pathways for diploma-to-degree transitions.
• Transfer tip: Australian Nursing & Midwifery Board requirements may affect how clinical hours are credited.

28. University of Melbourne (Australia)

• Transfer strengths: accepts relevant tertiary credits with careful mapping; strong clinical networks.
• Transfer tip: Early contact with the program is recommended for international applicants.

29. University of Auckland (New Zealand)

• Transfer strengths: regional diploma-to-degree bridges; strong community and hospital placements.
• Transfer tip: Check NZ Nursing Council rules for registration and transfer validation.

Asia & Middle East

30. National University of Singapore (NUS)

• Transfer strengths: global reputation, selective credit transfer, clinical placements in Singapore’s hospitals.
• Transfer tip: Competitive; ensure coursework aligns with Singapore Nursing Board expectations.

31. University of Hong Kong (HKU)

• Transfer strengths: credit evaluation for qualified overseas students and strong hospital affiliations.
• Transfer tip: Clinical requirements and language cues may apply for certain rotations.

32. American University of Beirut (Lebanon)

• Transfer strengths: regional leader in nursing education; accepts qualified transfer students into defined entry points.
• Transfer tip: Confirm regional licensing compatibility if you intend to practice outside the Middle East.

Africa & Latin America

33. University of Cape Town (South Africa)

• Transfer strengths: competitive program with accepted transfers via course equivalency review; strong clinical exposure in public hospitals.
• Transfer tip: Confirm South African Nursing Council (SANC) registration pathway for international or foreign-trained students.

34. University of São Paulo (Brazil)

• Transfer strengths: large public university with nursing faculties that sometimes accept transfers within Brazil’s higher-education framework.
• Transfer tip: Language and national registration requirements apply.

How to read these profiles and act

• Shortlist 6–8 schools across “sure bet”, “reach”, and “stretch” categories.
• For each, request an unofficial evaluation and confirm prerequisites and residency rules in writing.
• Use the rubric to score and compare.

Maximizing credits: Technical Tips

• Provide detailed syllabi: labs, weekly schedules, learning objectives, and exams. Credit evaluators use content mapping, not just course titles.
• Ask for course equivalency in writing. Some schools will issue a provisional transfer evaluation before you apply.
• Use “block credit” options: many RN→BSN programs award block credit for prior clinical competency rather than requiring course-by-course mapping.
• Check residency requirements: some programs require a minimum of 25–45% of degree credits to be completed at the awarding institution.

Clinical placement realities for transfer students

• Clinical slots are scarce and scheduled months in advance. Programs that place students directly are far superior to those that require transfers to find their own preceptors.
• Ask how clinical rotations are prioritized: do native students get preference? Are there separate cohorts for transfers?
• Confirm immunization, TB, background checks, and CPR/BLS requirements well before your start date — these often delay placements.

Common transfer mistakes and how to avoid them

• Mistake: Waiting until after acceptance to ask about credit transfer.
  Fix: Request pre-evaluations 6–12 months before applying.
• Mistake: Assuming all science labs automatically transfer.
  Fix: Provide full lab syllabi and verify equivalency.
• Mistake: Underestimating clinical scheduling conflicts.
  Fix: Discuss availability (work, family) with the transfer advisor and confirm clinical hours before you accept an offer.
• Mistake: Applying only to one program.
  Fix: Apply to multiple programs across different tiers.

Funding, scholarships and options for transfer students
(what to look for)

• Institutional transfer scholarships specifically for community college students or RN→BSN learners.
• Employer tuition assistance for working RNs.
• State or regional healthcare workforce scholarships contingent on service commitments.
• Federal aid options where applicable — check residency and enrollment status for eligibility.

Writing a transfer personal statement – structure that works

1. One-line hook: your reason for transferring (positive framing).
2. Brief academic background: key coursework and grades relevant to nursing.
3. Clinical and volunteer experiences: concrete examples and what you learned.
4. Why the target school: specific programs, clinical partners, or transfer supports that match your goals.
5. Commitment and conclusion: readiness for the BSN clinical environment and professional goals.

FAQs:

Q1: What is the quickest pathway from ADN to BSN?
A1: RN→BSN online or hybrid programs often allow the fastest completion (12–18 months) because they award block credit for clinical competency and focus on upper-division coursework. Look for accredited programs with articulated RN credit.

Q2: Will my A&P courses transfer if I took them 8 years ago?
A2: Many programs require anatomy and physiology to be completed within the last 5–7 years. If yours are older, expect to retake or take a bridge course. Ask the program about refresher options.

Q3: Do I need to be an RN to transfer into BSN?
A3: Not always. Many schools accept pre-licensure transfer students who still need nursing courses; others (RN→BSN) are specifically for licensed RNs. Choose the pathway that fits your current credentials.

Q4: How many credits will a university accept from community college?
A4: It varies widely. Some accept up to 90 lower-division credits, others require a minimum residency (e.g., 30–45 credits) at the university. Confirm each school’s policy.

Q5: Are transfer students less likely to get clinical placements?
A5: Not necessarily. Programs with robust clinical partnerships plan for transfers. Ask admissions how placements are assigned and whether transfers compete equally or have reserved slots.

Q6: Can international coursework transfer to U.S. nursing schools?
A6: Yes, but you’ll generally need a formal credential evaluation (WES/ECE) and detailed syllabi. Some programs require additional coursework or supervised clinical hours for equivalency.

Q7: Does transferring affect NCLEX preparedness?
A7: It can — transferring into a program with strong simulation labs and NCLEX supports helps. Programs with high licensure pass rates typically have effective curricula and prep resources.

Q8: Are ABSN programs transfer-friendly?
A8: ABSN programs accept applicants with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. They often accept general education credits but will expect applicants to have completed certain science prerequisites prior to entry.

Q9: How much healthcare experience is recommended for transfer applicants?
A9: Any hands-on healthcare experience (CNA, phlebotomist, scribe, volunteer in clinical settings) strengthens your application; 200–500 hours is a helpful benchmark though requirements vary.

Q10: Should I prioritize in-state schools for transfer?
A10: In-state public schools often have articulation agreements and lower tuition; they are a sensible primary target for many transfer students.

Q11: Can I work while completing an accelerated BSN?
A11: ABSN programs are intense and full-time; working is usually not feasible. RN→BSN or part-time BSN options better support employment.

Q12: What if the school says my credits transfer as electives only?
A12: Elective credit reduces your overall unit requirement but may still leave you needing key prerequisites. Prioritize schools that map credits to required nursing prerequisites when possible.

Q13: How do I compare NCLEX pass rates between schools?
A13: Compare the school’s recent 2–3 year NCLEX pass rate to the national average. Programs consistently above the national average are preferable.

Q14: Are online RN→BSN programs reputable?
A14: Many online RN→BSN programs are reputable and accredited; ensure the program is regionally accredited and designed for working RNs.

Q15: What supports help transfer students succeed academically?
A15: Dedicated transfer advising, early access to simulation labs, peer mentorship, tutoring specifically for nursing skills, and embedded NCLEX review increase success.

Q16: How important is program accreditation for transfers?
A16: Essential. Accreditation (CCNE, ACEN, or equivalent internationally) ensures education quality and licensure eligibility. Never enroll in a non-accredited nursing program if your goal is licensure.

Q17: If I transfer mid-semester, how do clinical placements work?
A17: Mid-semester transfers are complex; most programs require students to begin at the standard cohort start. Some universities support mid-term entries for RN→BSN, but clinical coordination can be tricky.

Q18: Are there scholarships specifically for transfer nursing students?
A18: Yes. Many institutions and foundations offer scholarships targeted at community college transfers, RN→BSN learners, and underrepresented students in nursing. Check institutional transfer scholarships and state nursing workforce grants.

Q19: How should I prepare for transfer interviews (if required)?
A19: Be ready to discuss your clinical experience, reasons for transfer, science coursework performance, and how you will manage clinical schedules. Provide examples of teamwork, resilience, and patient-centered care.

Q20: When is the best time to request transcript evaluations?
A20: As soon as you have an initial short list — ideally 9–12 months before application deadlines — so you can plan prerequisite completion.

Q21: What if I’m a parent or working full-time — can I still transfer?
A21: Yes. Look for programs offering part-time, evening, weekend or hybrid formats and robust student supports for caregivers and working adults.

Q22: Do schools waive prerequisites for life experience?
A22: Rarely. Most nursing programs require formal coursework for key sciences. Documented clinical experience may strengthen your application but won’t replace required prerequisite credits.

Q23: How do I verify a school’s clinical partners?
A23: Ask admissions for a list of clinical sites used in the past 2–3 years and the approximate percentage of students placed in each. Strong programs will have stable partnerships with teaching hospitals.

Q24: Does undergraduate research help transfer applications?
A24: It can — research demonstrates analytical skills and commitment to evidence-based care, which are attractive to competitive programs.

Q25: How will Brexit, immigration rules, or national regulations affect international transfers?
A25: Policy changes can affect visa processing and registration rules. For international transfers, consult the program’s international admissions office and national nursing regulators early.

Final checklist: 10 things to do immediately

1. Gather syllabi and unofficial transcripts into a digital folder.
2. Identify 8–10 programs that are geographically and academically realistic.
3. Request pre-evaluations from 2–3 top programs now.
4. Confirm prerequisite currency and plan to retake any outdated sciences.
5. Schedule time to gain or document 200–500 hours of healthcare exposure.
6. Draft a concise transfer personal statement and two tailored reference requests.
7. Apply for transfer scholarships and employer tuition assistance if applicable.
8. Use the comparison rubric to rank your shortlist.
9. Confirm your schedule can meet clinical rotation times; adjust work/family plans.
10. Prepare immunizations, background checks, and CPR/BLS certification in advance.

Conclusion:

Transferring into nursing is a strategic move that many students successfully make each year. The difference between a smooth transition and a delayed graduation is largely about preparation: selecting transfer-friendly programs, documenting coursework with detailed syllabi, asking the right questions, and planning a realistic timeline for prerequisites and clinical scheduling.

Focus your search on programs that publish articulation agreements, provide provisional credit evaluations, and offer robust clinical placement and transfer supports.

Apply broadly, document everything, and use this guide’s checklist, rubric, and email templates to save time and reduce risk.