Program Overview

Introduction to the Practical Nursing Certificate Program

The Practical Nursing Certificate Program is designed for prospective nursing students who must be admitted to both the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) and the Nursing program. The application process begins with admission to BMCC, followed by the completion of pre-requisite courses, and then consideration for admission to the Nursing program.

Admission Criteria

To be eligible for the Nursing program, prospective students must meet the following criteria:

• Meet all general admissions requirements to BMCC.
• Complete the five required prerequisite courses:
  • ENG 101
  • PSY 100
  • MAT 104
  • CHE 121
  • BIO 425
• These courses can only be repeated once for a higher grade to be considered for admission.
• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5; the lowest acceptable grade in any one of the required prerequisite courses is 'C'.
• Note: The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program (PTAP) may not cover a repeated required prerequisite course.

Nursing Program Policies

Transfer Credit

HESI A2 Nursing Admission Test

Students interested in entering the BMCC Nursing Program must take the HESI A2 Nursing Admission Test, administered by the Department of Nursing. HESI A2 Nursing Admission Test scores from other nursing schools will not be accepted. This examination may be taken for a maximum of two times but not in the same semester.

HESI A2 Exam Schedule

• Fall Admission: The BMCC HESI A2 Nursing Test is generally given in May. BMCC students can apply between January and May 15th annually. Students are allowed to perform the HESI before the pre-requisites are final, but pre-requisites must be completed by the end of the Spring Semester.
• Spring Admission: The BMCC HESI A2 Nursing Test is generally given in December. BMCC students can apply between August and November 15th annually. Pre-requisite courses must be completed before taking the HESI.

Application Deadline

• Fall Admission: May 15th
• Spring Admission: November 15th

Additional Information

The BMCC Testing Office offers free prep classes to help students prepare for the CUNY tests in reading, writing, and mathematics.