Admission
Admission to Samuel Merritt University’s online MSN-FNP program is competitive, but within your reach. There are strict guidelines for entering the program, but the effort is worthwhile. Samuel Merritt University has a rich tradition of educating skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals and a reputation for strong academics, outstanding faculty, state-of-the-art facilities and a deep commitment to the community.
Application Deadlines
We offer three start dates per year for the online MSN-FNP. Application deadlines for each term are as follows:
Summer term – Apply by March 1
Fall term – July 1
Spring term – November 1
Where You Can Study With Us
Our online program is approved for nurses licensed and residing in:
Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, Texas*, Virginia
Due to clinical and state compliance requirements, authorization for offering the online MSN-FNP program is being sought on a state-by-state basis. If the state you reside in is not on the list, it means authorization is not yet in place. Check back periodically for state approvals.
*Samuel Merritt University (SMU) is not regulated in Texas under Chapter 178 of the Texas Education Code; the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) approves and regulates SMU’s programs in California where the University is physically located and where it has legal authorization to operate; SMU’s student grievance policy, process, and procedures can be found on page 146 of the Student Handbook.
Criteria for Admission to the Online MSN-FNP Program
Admission to Samuel Merritt University’s online MSN-FNP program is competitive. Applicants are considered for admission based upon the following criteria.
- Must be an unencumbered RN (registered nurse) with a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) in an approved state.
- RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing may still apply and will be evaluated for the MSN degree program on a case-by-case basis.
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in BSN and/or Bachelor coursework is recommended, but not required. A GPA less than 3.0 will require a letter of explanation.
- Prior RN experience is preferred, but not required.
- Proficiency in English (both spoken and written) is mandatory for success in the program.
- If you are an international student, you may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination.
- You must achieve a minimum score of 100 on the internet-based TOEFL.
Nursing CAS
You can apply to SMU through the Central Application Service for Nursing Schools (NursingCAS). You will also need to submit:
- Official transcripts from other educational institutions
- Two letters of reference
Alumni Application
Samuel Merritt University Alumni students are invited to apply using the Alumni Application Academic Year 2023-2024. If you have questions regarding this application, contact Rudy Torres, Assistant Dean of Admissions - rtorres@samuelmerritt.edu
Alumni Application PDF
If you don't have an active SMU Email Account, please complete the PDF form with attachments and send it directly to rtorres1@samuelmerritt.edu