Direct-admit BSN programs often publish an ACT floor or a preferred band, and some still ask for Science even though the enhanced Composite ignores it. Competitive nursing is usually a mid-20s to low-30s story plus a heavy science GPA later. Confirm the exact campus. A university's general admission ACT is not always the nursing college's ACT.
Typical patterns (planning only)
- Many state BSN direct-admit bands sit around the mid-20s and up.
- Honors or highly selective BSN tracks look more like low 30s.
- Some programs use TEAS or HESI later and barely mention the ACT.
Public-campus context: ACT scores for public universities.
Should you sit Science?
If the nursing college lists Science or a STEM score, sit it and send it when it is at least as strong as Math. If they never mention it, skip it and protect the Composite. What is a good Science score. Requirement list: colleges that require Science.
Test-optional nursing
Optional university admission can still hide a required score inside the nursing supplement. Read both PDFs. Submit only if the number helps: should you submit.
The bottom line
Use the nursing college's number, not the university average. Sit Science when they ask. Plan on grades in anatomy and chemistry doing more work than the Composite after you enroll.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.