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Step 7: Got in? Compare offers

Congratulations. Getting a seat is hard work. If you have more than one offer, or you’re deciding whether to say yes, take a little time to compare.

What to do

  • Ask each program for its full cost, from orientation to graduation, in writing.
  • Look at the program’s first-time NCLEX pass rates and tester counts over several years.
  • Ask what share of students finish on time.
  • Ask about clinical placements and schedules.
  • Wait for your program’s own equipment list before you buy anything.
  • Watch for onboarding tasks like background checks, immunizations and CPR certification.

Data you can use to compare

The BRN publishes each program’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate every year. Statewide, 15,874 first-time testers took the exam in 2024–25, and 90.2% passed (BRN pass-rate tables, via SEAPHE’s program data, fetched Oct 13, 2026). Each SEAPHE program page shows five years of results, tester counts and a five-year tester-weighted average (a SEAPHE calculation from BRN tables).

A few things help you read these numbers fairly:

  • Look at several years. One year can move a lot, especially in a small program.
  • Check the tester count. SEAPHE marks programs with fewer than 20 first-time testers.
  • Know the BRN standard. The BRN’s standard for programs is a 75% first-time pass rate (16 CCR § 1431).
  • New programs may not have results yet. A missing rate means no testers yet, not a good or bad result.

Two school examples

Onboarding steps vary by program. These two are programs on our /accepted/ page whose wording we rechecked on the school’s page on Oct 12, 2026.

  • Fresno Pacific University (BSN). “Successful completion of background check and drug screen by May 1. Meet immunization requirements and compliance” (Fresno Pacific, checked Oct 12, 2026).
  • Westcliff University (BSN). Lists clinical admission requirements: “Clean background check, CPR certification, Proof of immunizations, Proof of health insurance and clinical clearance” (Westcliff, checked Oct 12, 2026).

Both ask for a background check and immunizations. They differ on timing, and one adds health insurance. Ask each program for its list and due dates.

How long it takes

Offer deadlines are set by each program. Varies; check with the school.

Typical costs

Deposits, uniforms, supplies and onboarding: Varies; check with the school. Our /accepted/ page shows examples from programs’ own published cost sheets.

Common mistakes

  • Comparing tuition only. Ask for every cost from orientation to graduation.
  • Reading one year of pass rates. Look at several years and the tester counts.
  • Buying equipment too early. Programs issue their own lists. Some require a specific color or a school-branded set.
  • Missing onboarding dates. Background checks, immunizations and CPR can have due dates before classes start.
  • Letting an offer deadline pass. Note each program’s reply date as soon as you get the offer.

Your SEAPHE tools

Next step: Step 8, Graduate and pass the NCLEX.

Open “You got in”

FAQ

How do I compare nursing school offers?

Ask each program for its full written cost, look at several years of first-time NCLEX pass rates with tester counts, and ask about on-time completion and clinical placements.

What is a good NCLEX pass rate for a program?

The BRN’s standard for programs is 75% for first-time testers. The statewide rate was 90.2% in 2024–25. Look at several years and the number of testers.

What should I do before my first day?

Follow your program’s onboarding list. It often includes a background check, immunizations and CPR or BLS certification. Wait for the program’s equipment list before you buy.

Sources