Frequently Asked Questions
Thank You For Considering Our Program
We're so glad you're interested in joining us! Our program starts once a year in late August. We've gathered some of the most common questions and their answers to help you on your journey.
Applying to Our Program
What does the application process look like?
We’ve worked to make the application process as straightforward as possible. You can get started by following these steps:
Please note that the deadline to submit all application materials is January 31st at 4 PM.
What are the requirements to apply?
We require Algebra, Biology, and Chemistry as prerequisites. These can be completed at either the high school or college level.
What is the minimum grade needed to transfer credits?
To transfer any college-level courses, you'll need to have earned a grade of C or higher. For prerequisites completed at the high school level, a grade of 65 or higher is required. Please note that we do not accept credits from Sophia Learning or StraighterLine.
Corequisite Courses and Credit Transfers
What other classes do I need for nursing school?
While we focus exclusively on the nursing curriculum, there are other Corequisite courses needed to earn your associate degree. Although we don’t require you to complete all of them before you apply, we strongly recommend you finish as many corequisite courses as possible before starting the program.
These courses can be taken at any accredited institution. For your corequisite courses to transfer, you must earn a grade of C or better. You can view all the required corequisite courses in the gray blocks on our Curriculum Outline.
How long are my corequisites good for?
Only three courses have a time limit: Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, and Microbiology. These courses are valid for 5 years after completion.
Financial Aid and Program Cost
Do you accept Financial Aid?
Yes! After you're accepted into our program, we will provide you with a financial aid application. If you have any questions, please contact Pat Brundige at BrundigeP@ellismedicine.org.
How much does the program cost?
For a detailed breakdown of the program's costs, please refer to our catalog.
Can Ellis Medicine help me with tuition?
Yes! Ellis Medicine offers several options to help with tuition. After one year of employment, you may be eligible for scholarships and tuition reimbursement. They also have a Tuition Waiver program for students who agree to work for Ellis Medicine after they graduate. To learn more, please reach out to Caitlyn Poole at PooleC@ellismedicine.org.
Additional Questions
Do you offer a bridge program for LPNs?
At this time, we do not offer a bridge program for LPNs.
Do you require an admissions exam?
As of 2025, we no longer require an admissions exam for our program. We look forward to seeing your application!
Do you have a direct admit process?
Graduates from the SUNY Schenectady Nutrition AS or Health Studies Certificate programs with a GPA of 2.75 or above are eligible for direct admission to the Belanger School of Nursing at the next admission cycle, provided they earned a grade of C or higher in all general education coursework. Those with a GPA below 2.75 are considered for general admission.