CRNA School Requirements (2026)
Every accredited nurse anesthesia program shares a core set of requirements — and then differs on the details that decide where you apply. Here’s what’s universal, what varies, and where to find the programs that fit your profile.
The universal baseline (every program)
- BSN (or equivalent) and an active, unencumbered RN license
- ~1 year minimum of adult ICU / critical-care experience
- Minimum GPA of about 3.0 (3.5+ is competitive)
- BLS + ACLS, and usually PALS, certification
- Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an interview
What varies program to program
- GRE: ~45 of 149 require it. See no-GRE programs →
- CCRN: ~64 of 149 require it. See programs without CCRN →
- Shadowing: many require documented CRNA shadowing hours (some quite specific).
- Prerequisites: chemistry, statistics, and A&P recency rules differ widely.
- Cost & format: cheapest programs · hybrid options
Frequently asked
Do all CRNA programs require the CCRN?
Most do — about 64 of 149 programs require the CCRN. A handful accept other critical-care certifications or waive it; see our no-CCRN list.
How many CRNA programs require the GRE?
Roughly 45 of 149 require the GRE; the other 104 don't. Several waive it above a GPA cutoff.
What GPA do you need for CRNA school?
A 3.0 minimum is nearly universal, but competitive applicants typically have 3.5+. Some programs weight your last 60 credit hours or science GPA more heavily.
How much ICU experience do you need?
One year of adult critical-care experience is the typical minimum, but most admitted applicants have more — and high-acuity experience (drips, vents, devices) matters more than raw years.
Build an application that actually stands out
The free CRNA guide covers the three things that matter most — and gives you a look at the deadline tracker.