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. 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