Admission Criteria

Applicants are required to show evidence of the following:

• No GRE required
• A master’s degree in nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from a school accredited by the ACEN, CNEA, or CCNE.
• A master’s degree program GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
• Current unencumbered Florida or multi-state RN license and an active APRN license throughout the program.
• Current national certification as a nurse practitioner.
• International students or students whose native language is not English are required to pass one of the following tests with a satisfactory score of:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):
    • Computer-based: 213
    • Paper-based: 550
    • Web-based: 80
    • iBT Speaking Component: 26
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS):
    • Overall score: 6.5
    • Speaking Component: 7
  • Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): Overall score: 79
  • Successful completion of the University of Florida English Language Institute Program. International students or students whose native language is not English with unsatisfactory scores on the TOEFL and TOEFL iBT Speaking Component, IELTS, or MELAB; unsuccessful completion of the UF English Language Institute Program; or an unacceptable score on the verbal part of the GRE must achieve an acceptable score on an essay administered by the Academic Written English Program at UF.
• Students must be U.S. citizens, legal U.S. residents, or hold valid visas.

Student Sponsorship: This program does not qualify for F-1 or J-1 student sponsorship. Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrants who are otherwise physically present in the U.S. and in a status that allows for full or part-time students may pursue this program.

Important notification: All admitted nursing students, regardless of campus status, must complete a background check, mandatory immunization verification (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Influenza, Tetanus, Tuberculosis), fingerprinting*, and drug screening. The College of Nursing follows CDC guidelines and adheres to the safety regulations of our clinical partners. Additionally, all students must provide proof of current health insurance. Upon admission into the program, students will be given the steps to complete this process.

* Students must disclose any arrests or criminal charges in their UF Program application. Upon disclosure, further information may be requested. All students must undergo a new background check, fingerprinting, and drug test. Disclosure of arrest or conviction information may impact your admission to the Nursing Program.

Application Process

Exciting news! The NursingCAS application for the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 MSN to DNP track is officially open for submission. All application requirements must be received by the deadline to be eligible for admission consideration. The MSN to DNP application deadlines are as follows:

• Fall 2025 application deadline is June 1, 2025.
• Spring 2026 application deadline is November 1, 2025.

This is your chance to propel your nursing career to new heights. Don’t let this fantastic opportunity pass you by. Take the next step toward your dream career in nursing today!

The application process for the MSN to DNP program is two-part. All applicants are required to complete the following:

• Submit the University of Florida Professional Program Application
  • Please refer to the University of Florida Office of Admissions website for general admissions information.
• Submit the NursingCAS application for the University of Florida MSN to DNP program.
  • Submit your response to questions specified on the NursingCAS site, three letters of reference, a CV, or a resume.
  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended are submitted with the NursingCAS application.
  • Please refer to the NursingCAS website for further instructions.

Student Testimonials

Why a UF Nursing DNP?

Rachael Joyner

I chose to enroll at the University of Florida because of its reputation as having a top-ranked DNP program. I knew I would be getting a great education from a university that is known for excellence nationally. Also, I appreciated the online format, which allowed me to continue working as a nurse practitioner while I finished the program.

WHY A UF NURSING DNP?

Natalie Merino

I enjoyed the faculty and new friends I have met and gotten to know over my time in the program. Sometimes when you're in an online program, it can feel lonesome, but the people I have met really helped make the difference.

WHY A UF NURSING DNP?

Denay Davidson

I always wanted to get this final degree. I recently became in charge of the medical assistant training program at my company, and I’m 100% sure what I’ve learned from this program is the reason I’m where I am today.