Compare Nursing Programs Side-by-Side
Not sure which nursing school is right for you? Compare up to 4 programs on tuition, NCLEX pass rates, GPA requirements, program length, and admissions details — all in one view.
How to Compare Nursing Programs
Choosing the right nursing program is one of the biggest decisions you'll make. Here's what to look at when comparing schools:
NCLEX Pass Rates
The single best indicator of program quality. Programs with consistently high first-attempt pass rates prepare students better for licensure.
See top programs→Total Cost of the Program
Don't just compare annual tuition — factor in program length, fees, and whether you qualify for in-state rates. A 2-year ADN may cost less total than a 4-year BSN.
Find affordable programs→Program Length & Format
Online, hybrid, or in-person? 12-month ABSN or 4-year BSN? Your life situation determines which format works. Compare time-to-degree alongside cost.
Browse online programs→Admissions Requirements
GPA minimums, prerequisite courses, TEAS or HESI scores — know what each school requires before you apply so you don't waste application fees.
No-exam programs→Acceptance Rates
Some nursing programs accept 90% of applicants; others accept fewer than 20%. Understanding selectivity helps you build a balanced application list.
Easiest to get into→Clinical Placements
Clinical rotations are where you learn real nursing. Compare whether schools arrange placements for you or leave you to find your own.
ABSN clinical info→Top-Rated Programs by Type
Programs ranked by NCLEX first-attempt pass rate. Select any two to start a comparison.
Top ADN Programs
View all ADN→Top BSN Programs
View all BSN→Top ABSN Programs
View all ABSN→Top MSN Programs
View all MSN→Top DNP Programs
View all DNP→Popular Comparisons
Common program types people compare when choosing a nursing path.
ADN vs BSN
2-year associate vs. 4-year bachelor's — both lead to RN licensure but differ in cost, time, and career opportunities.
ABSN vs Traditional BSN
Accelerated BSN in 12-18 months vs. traditional 4-year BSN. Best for career changers with a prior degree.
Online vs In-Person
Flexibility of online learning vs. hands-on campus experience. Many programs offer hybrid formats.
MSN vs DNP
Master's vs. doctoral nursing degree — both are advanced practice, but DNP is the terminal clinical degree.
Cheapest vs Top-Rated
The most affordable programs aren't always the worst, and expensive doesn't mean best. Compare value.
Programs by State
Compare nursing schools within your state or across state lines. See which states have the strongest programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I compare when choosing a nursing program?
The most important factors are NCLEX pass rates (which reflect program quality), total tuition cost, program length, format (online vs. in-person), entrance exam requirements, and GPA thresholds. Location and clinical placement support also matter if you need hands-on training.
What is a good NCLEX pass rate for a nursing program?
The national average NCLEX-RN first-attempt pass rate is around 87%. Programs above 90% are considered strong. Programs below 80% may face accreditation scrutiny. Compare pass rates over multiple years when possible, as a single year can be misleading.
How do ADN and BSN programs compare?
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs take about 2 years and are more affordable, often at community colleges. BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs take 4 years but open doors to leadership roles, higher pay, and Magnet hospitals. Both lead to the same RN license via the NCLEX exam.
Is an ABSN program worth the higher cost?
Accelerated BSN programs cost more per credit but let career changers earn a BSN in 12-18 months instead of 4 years. The faster time to earning an RN salary often offsets the higher tuition. Compare total cost vs. time-to-degree when deciding.
How many nursing programs can I compare at once?
NurseWay lets you compare up to 4 nursing programs side-by-side. You can compare tuition, NCLEX pass rates, GPA requirements, program length, format, entrance exams, and more — all in one view.
Does comparing programs on NurseWay cost anything?
No. NurseWay is completely free — no accounts, no hidden fees, no premium tiers. You can search, compare, and save nursing programs at no cost.
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