MSN Application Requirements 

NURSING@SIMMONS

COVID-19 Application Requirements Notice

During these unsettling times, Simmons remains dedicated to supporting student success. In line with our historic commitment to progress and educational access, we believe that knowledge drives the innovations of tomorrow. Our online programs remain open to continue to prepare future leaders who will make a difference in their fields and communities.

In light of the unprecedented challenges we are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering increased flexibility to aid applicants to the January and March 2021 cohorts.

Transcripts: The admission committee accepts unofficial transcripts for application review if official transcripts cannot be obtained. Upon enrolling, please request to have all official transcripts submitted by the start of classes so that your time in the program is not disrupted.

Letters of Recommendation: Recommendations are important to our application review process. Should you be unable to provide letters of recommendation from the required sources, reach out to your admission counselor to discuss potential alternatives.

Test Scores: If testing sites are closed and you are unable to take a test needed for admission, we will evaluate alternatives on a case-by-case basis. In lieu of the TOEFL, we will accept Duolingo scores.

We are dedicated to preparing future leaders to make a difference in their communities. If you encounter any other difficulties while completing your application, our admission team is here for you. Do not hesitate to reach out to your admission counselor at any time.

At Simmons, we take a holistic approach to reviewing applications. We consider your personal, professional, and academic experiences as a whole in order to evaluate your preparedness and potential for success in the program.

View application deadlines.

In order to be considered for admission to the Nursing@Simmons MSN program, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university with a preferred GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Current unencumbered and unrestricted U.S Registered Nurse (RN) license
  • Successfully completed (with a grade of 83 or better) a three-credit course in statistics and a three-credit course in health assessment. If you do not meet this requirement, please contact an Admission Counselor to discuss other options for fulfilling this requirement.
  • Current résumé
  • One- to two-page personal statement
  • Transcript(s) of your academic record
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score, if your native language is not English. The School of Nursing TOEFL code is 3761. The TOEFL is waived for applicants who have graduated at the bachelor’s or master’s level from a regionally accredited U.S. Institution or post secondary institution abroad that is recognized by the Ministry of Education in the host country in English-speaking countries only.

The General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required, but if you feel GRE scores will strengthen your application, please contact an Admission Counselor at 1-855-461-7466.

Résumé

Your résumé should include:

  • Educational background including institutions, degree(s) awarded, degree(s) in progress, dates of degree(s) awarded, and/or anticipated date of receiving degree(s)
  • Relevant employment history, including:
    • Job title (including unit), job description, and relevant duties performed
    • Employment dates of each position
  • Community service or volunteer experience
  • Any awards, publications, presentations, and memberships
  • Evidence of leadership and career progression

Personal Statement

You must submit a one- to two-page essay discussing the following:

  • Your career goals
  • How your specific clinical experiences have prepared you for the Family Nurse Practitioner role
  • Why Nursing@Simmons is the best fit for you and how the program will assist you in reaching your professional and educational goals

Transcripts

Sealed, official academic transcripts must be received by mail from all postsecondary institutions you have attended, including community colleges, even if a degree was not obtained.

Many schools issue transcripts electronically, either through their own web services or through vendors. If this option is available through the institutions you attended, please specify that your transcript(s) be sent to Application Services or select Simmons University – Nursing@Simmons if listed as an option through the vendor. This will expedite the delivery of your transcript(s) and the completion of your application.

All coursework from non-U.S. institutions must be evaluated by World Education Services, International Education Research Foundation, Education Credential Evaluation, or AACRAO International Education Services. Please allot additional time in the application process to have your transcripts evaluated by these organizations.

Please have official transcripts and other official application materials mailed to:

Simmons University
Application Processing Center
Nursing@Simmons
PO Box 30096 [015-002]
College Station, TX 77842

Please note: To be considered an official transcript, the transcript must be sent directly from your institution(s) or through an electronic transcript vendor retained by that institution. Transcripts submitted by enrolled or prospective students are considered unofficial documents, even if they are in a sealed envelope provided to you by the issuing university.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required, and all must be written within one year of the date of submission. Letters must be submitted by:

  1. A current clinical supervisor or nurse manager who has direct knowledge of your skills in the clinical setting and how those skills will translate into the Family Nurse Practitioner role.
  2. A professor, faculty member, or academic advisor who can provide a meaningful assessment of your academic record. If you have been out of school for five years or more, a nurse educator or clinical instructor can provide the academic recommendation.
  3. A practicing clinical nursing professional, or APRN, who has served as a mentor and can address your abilities as a nurse and your potential to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. 

NOTE: Nursing@Simmons is in the process of receiving approval from some states. An Admission Counselor can help you determine the program’s status in your state.

For detailed information about program requirements, accreditation, student support services, and the interactive virtual campus, refer to the Nursing@Simmons MSN information sheet

Request more information to learn more about our program or speak with an Admission Counselor at 1-855-461-7466.