Photo of Nursing Students in Perioperative Nursing Elective Course

Application Preparation for KCON BSN Admission

Presented by the Kirkhof College of Nursing, Office of Student Services

Welcome! Whether you are applying to the Second-Degree or Traditional BSN Program, this page is your hub for guidance, confidence, and clarity. We know applying can feel overwhelming, and this space is here to support you every step of the way.


Four Components

Student Profile

The Student Profile is a structured form that invites you to reflect on your skills and impact across different parts of your life. You’ll share your experiences in areas like:

  • Leadership
  • Exposure to healthcare
  • Life experiences
  • Extracurricular involvement

Download the Student Profile form on the Application Homepage

It is less about how many things you've done and more about how they've shaped you.

Personal Statement

You’ll respond to an open-ended prompt in 650 words or less that invites you to reflect deeply on what has shaped you, and how that connects to your decision to pursue nursing.

Download the Personal Statement Prompt & Instructions on the Application Homepage

The personal statement is not just another assignment. Tell the story only you can tell - that's what will stand out. This is your chance to reflect on:

  • How your life experiences have prepared you for nursing
  • What drives you to care for others
  • Why this career path feels purposeful to you

Prerequisite GPA

Your application will include both (1) Overall GPA: All college courses you’ve completed and (2) Prerequisite GPA: Only the designated pre-nursing courses

Minimum Requirements:

  • 2.7 overall GPA
  • 2.7 prerequisite GPA
  • C or better in all prerequisites
  • No more than 3 total repeats (max 2 in BIO, BMS, or CHM)

Interview

This is your opportunity to share your story again, and again, and again!

  • 15-minute interview
  • 1 nursing faculty member + 1 community partner
  • 5 questions: some behavioral, some reflective
  • You’ll discuss your motivation, experiences, and values

GVSU Student Resources

ACADEMIC

ADVISING

  • Schedule an Advising Appointment to make sure you on track in preparing for your application
  • Attend an Application Preparation and Interview Preparation session hosted by the Office of Student Services (information will be emailed to all eligible GVSU pre-nursing students when available)

INTERVIEW

  • Career Center Interview Resources
  • Big Interview is GVSU's online tool that allows you to record yourself in practice interviews. Practice nursing interview sample questions by logging in.
  • Simulated Interviews allow you to develop powerful interviewing strategies through a practice one-on-one interviewing session and receive constructive feedback from a Career Center advisor. Schedule an appointment through HandshakeAvailable for GVSU Undergraduate students ONLY.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR


Transfer Student Resources

Transfer students are strongly encouraged to utilize resources and get involved with clubs and organizations at their home institution while preparing to apply to the nursing program. 

RESOURCES:



Page last modified April 16, 2025