Grand Canyon University vs Northern Arizona University
ABSN programs compared — side-by-side on NCLEX pass rates, tuition, admissions, and format.
At a glance
Side-by-side details
Best value in each row is highlighted.
| Grand Canyon University Accelerated BSN | Northern Arizona University Accelerated BSN | |
|---|---|---|
| Program type | ABSN | ABSN |
| Format | hybrid | in person |
| Location | Phoenix, AZ | Flagstaff, AZ |
| Length | 16 months | 16 months |
| NCLEX pass rate | 82% | 93.9%BEST |
| Acceptance rate | 70% | 91.0%BEST |
| Avg accepted GPA | 3.1 | — |
| Min GPA | — | — |
| Entrance exam | HESI | HESI |
| Total tuition | $45,000 | $979BEST |
| In-state tuition | $45,000 | — |
| Out-of-state tuition | $45,000 | — |
| Clinical placement | arranged | — |
| Accreditation | CCNE | CCNE |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has a higher NCLEX pass rate, Grand Canyon University or Northern Arizona University?
Northern Arizona University's ABSN program has the higher first-attempt NCLEX pass rate at 93.9%, compared to 82% for the other program. NCLEX pass rates are the single best signal of how well a program prepares students for licensure.
Which is cheaper, Grand Canyon University or Northern Arizona University?
Northern Arizona University is the more affordable option at roughly $979, compared to $45,000. Factor in residency status, financial aid, and program length when deciding — total cost matters more than annual tuition.
Are Grand Canyon University and Northern Arizona University the same type of program?
Both are ABSN programs, so they award the same credential. Compare them on NCLEX pass rate, tuition, length, and location to find the better fit.
How do I decide between Grand Canyon University and Northern Arizona University?
Start by ruling out programs you can't get into (compare your GPA against each school's admissions stats), then weight what matters most — NCLEX pass rate for quality, total tuition for cost, length for time-to-degree, and format (online, hybrid, in-person) for lifestyle. Use NurseWay's free intake to get a personalized fit score for both.
Want a personalized fit score?
Take the free 3-minute intake and we'll rank both programs against your GPA, location preferences, and budget.