Acceptance into the Chester County Intermediate Unit Practical Nursing Program is based on the following set of requirements:

Pre-Admission Testing

A key component of the admissions process is the ability to earn a passing grade on the ATI TEAS Test. This is a nationally recognized exam frequently used for thousands of nursing school applicants. The test measures basic academic skills - Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, Science and English, and helps to predict success in a nursing program.  Applicants who score low on the test generally have difficulty with the academic course material while those who score high tend to do well in nursing programs. 

Minimum TEAS score of 45% overall must be achieved on the TEAS Test. If student scores less than 60% on the math component, a pharm prep course will be required for the student to take for a fee, prior to starting class at the CCIU. The pre-entrance exam is administered online through ATI.

Clearances & Certifications

• Maintains required CPR certification from the point of enrollment through the program.
• Has a PA Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse History Clearance and an FBI Fingerprint Services report will need to be obtained through our Castlebranch Portal and the resulting record will be evaluated by the director of the program on an individual basis.
• Has evidence of legal immigration or citizenship to be eligible. We do not enroll students with F-1 immigration status.
• Mandatory drug screening is required for acceptance and each year in the program.

Personal Qualifications

The course is open to any interested person who:

• Is a legal resident of Pennsylvania. (Residents of other states will be considered for admission; however, cost of tuition is increased for out of state residents.)
• Is a high school graduate with an official transcript from an accredited school or its equivalent (e.g. GED).
• Must have completed two math courses (one that is algebra) and two sciences with labs while in high school.
• Is in good health.  Health-related enrollment requirements also apply.  See pre-enrollment/enrollment health policy in the Student Handbook for details.
• Is of good moral character.
• Has a sincere interest in learning.
• Manifests ability to learn as indicated by application, essay and transcripts.