Admission Requirements

Admission to the Practical Nursing program is competitive, and the number of students admitted in each cycle is limited by the number of faculty and clinical placements available. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Complete admission and selection criteria are published in the Nursing Program Information Sheet and the 2026-2027 Nursing Student Handbook under Program Information.

Minimum Requirements to Apply

1. Unconditional admission to Trenholm State Community College, with a Trenholm State student number (A number).
2. A completed nursing program application submitted through the online application by the posted deadline, including unofficial copies of all college transcripts, the ACT or TEAS score report, and the ACCS Essential Functions form.
3. All general education prerequisite courses completed with a grade of C or higher and posted on the transcript at the time of application. Courses in progress are not accepted. Required courses: BIO 103 Principles of Biology I (must be completed before BIO 201), BIO 201 Anatomy and Physiology I, BIO 202 Anatomy and Physiology II, ENG 101 English Composition I, MTH 100 Intermediate College Algebra or a higher-level mathematics course, PSY 210 Human Growth and Development, SPH 106 or SPH 107, and ORI 101 Orientation to College (required unless the student transfers in 12 or more credit hours).
4. Minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA, and minimum 2.50 GPA in the required general education courses. Students with no prior college coursework must have a minimum 2.50 high school GPA (GED accepted in lieu of a high school transcript).
5. Official ACT composite score of 18 or higher (national or residual) or a TEAS score of 58 or higher. Scores must be no more than three years old at the application deadline. ACT SuperScores are not accepted. The writing component of the ACT is not required.
6. All mathematics (MTH) and science (BIO) prerequisite courses completed within five years of the application deadline.
7. Good standing with the College and with any institution previously attended.
8. Ability to meet the Alabama Community College System Essential Functions for nursing students, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Selection

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements are ranked using a point system. Points are awarded for grades earned in the required general education courses and for ACT or TEAS scores. Additional points may be awarded for an earned health care credential (for example, Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, EMT or Paramedic, Phlebotomy, EKG Technician, or Patient Care Technician) and for health care work or volunteer experience, as described in the Nursing Program Information Sheet. Higher GPAs and higher ACT or TEAS scores improve an applicant’s ranking. The Nursing Admissions and Selection Committee reviews and scores complete applications after the deadline, and decisions are made by the Dean and the Director of Nursing Programs.

After Acceptance

Admitted students complete credentialing through the College’s clinical compliance vendor before the first day of class. Requirements are completed at the student’s expense and include a physical examination, immunizations and titers, a two-step TB skin test, a drug screen, a criminal background check, American Heart Association BLS CPR certification, health insurance verification, and the Essential Functions form signed by a physician or nurse practitioner. Students also complete ATI Launch during the six weeks before the first nursing semester and purchase uniforms before orientation. Details are provided in the acceptance letter and at orientation.