Admissions Resources for Xavier University
Applying to an online program is an important step. Whether you are exploring nursing, criminal justice, a post-master’s certificate, or Xavier University’s MSN/MS dual degree, this page helps you understand what to prepare before you apply.
Use this guide to review application steps, program-specific requirements, transcript instructions, deadlines, accreditation, state authorization, and applicant resources for our online programs.
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Application Deadlines and Start Dates
Application deadlines and start terms vary by program, so it is important to plan ahead and review your selected program page carefully before applying. Some Xavier University online programs offer multiple start opportunities throughout the year with specific due dates.
Applying early can help you avoid last-minute transcript delays, recommendation requests, licensure verification issues, or other application requirements that may take time to complete. If you are considering a nursing program, additional planning may be helpful for practicum coordination and state-specific requirements.
Before applying, check your selected program page for:
- Current application deadline
- Available start term
- Whether the program offers fall-only, spring-only, or multiple starts
- Any program-specific timing requirements
How to Apply to Xavier University Online Programs
Choose Your Program
Review the Nursing Programs and Criminal Justice Programs hubs before applying.
Review Admissions Requirements
Check the individual program page for degree prerequisites, GPA expectations, work experience, licensure requirements, statistics coursework, references, résumé/CV requirements, essay requirements, and any test-score rules.
Prepare Your Application Materials
Common materials may include:
- Free online application
- Official transcripts
- Résumé or CV
- Personal essay or goal statement
- Professional recommendations
- Proof of RN licensure, where required
- Work experience documentation, where required
- Test scores, if required or needed
- International transcript evaluation, if applicable
- TOEFL or IELTS, if applicable
Submit Transcripts
Official transcripts should be sent directly from all colleges or universities attended.
Mail transcripts to:
Xavier University
ATTN: Admission Processing Center
3800 Victory Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45207-5131
Electronic transcripts:
xuadmit@xavier.edu
Request Information If You Are Unsure
If you are not sure which program fits your background, request information before applying.
Nursing Admissions Snapshot
Applicants to Xavier University online MSN programs generally need:
Unencumbered United States RN license in the state where practicum experiences will be completed
Minimum 1 year of nursing experience; 2 years preferred for strong candidates
BSN from an accredited college or university nursing program
- Undergraduate statistics course with a grade of C or better
- Strong applicant GPA of 3.0
- Current résumé or CV
- Personal essay or goal statement
- Professional recommendations
- No GRE or other admission test required for graduate nursing programs
Applicants who do not have a BSN cannot be accepted into Xavier University online MSN programs and should consider the MSN direct entry as a second degree – MIDAS Program.
Applicants to Xavier University’s online DNP generally need:
- MSN from an accredited nursing program, or BSN from an accredited nursing program plus a master’s degree in a related field
- Unencumbered United States RN license in the state where practicum experiences will be completed
- Minimum 1 year of nursing experience; 2 years preferred for strong candidates
- Basic statistics course with a minimum grade of C
- 3.0 GPA preferred
- Graduate-level Epidemiology with a grade of C or better before entering the second year; conditional admission may be considered to allow time to complete requirements
- Résumé or CV
- Personal statement
- Professional references
Applicants to Xavier University post-master’s nursing certificate programs generally need:
- MSN from an accredited nursing program
- Unencumbered United States RN license in the state where practicum experiences will be completed
- Minimum 1 year of nursing experience, with 2 years preferred for some certificates
- Strong applicant GPA of 3.0, or program-specific GPA pathway
- Statistics coursework where required
- Official transcripts
- Professional recommendations
- Résumé/CV and personal essay or goal statement for some certificates
Criminal Justice Admissions Snapshot
Applicants to Xavier University’s online MS in Criminal Justice generally need:
- Free online application
- Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
- Two letters of recommendation from professional references
- 2.7 cumulative undergraduate GPA, or 2.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA with 5 years of work experience in criminal justice or a related field
- GRE, MAT, or LSAT scores only if needed for applicants who do not meet GPA requirements
Applicants to Xavier University’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Criminal Justice Administration generally need:
- Free online application
- Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
- Two letters of recommendation from professional references
- 2.7 cumulative undergraduate GPA, or 2.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA with 5 years of work experience in criminal justice or a related field
- GRE, MAT, or LSAT scores only if needed for applicants who do not meet GPA requirements
Credits earned in the certificate may be applied directly toward Xavier University’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice, giving you a head start on a full graduate degree.
Dual Degree Admissions Snapshot
Authorization, Licensure, and International Applicants
State Authorization
Xavier University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements as an approved Ohio NC-SARA institution. Through this participation, Xavier is authorized to offer distance education programs to students located in all states (except California which is not currently a member in SARA). As an accredited, non-profit postsecondary educational institution, Xavier is exempt from California regulations related to the licensing of online postsecondary education offered to California residents. Therefore, Xavier University distance education programs can be offered in this state.
Before applying, refer to the State Authorization section of our About Us page to confirm whether your selected program is available in your state.
Licensure and Certification
None of the graduate nursing programs offered by Xavier University include nursing licensure. RN licensure is a prerequisite for admission to these programs. The online nursing programs are designed to prepare graduates to sit for national board certification exams in their chosen specialty.
Before applying to any nursing program, review:
- State licensure requirements
- Certification exam eligibility
- Practicum or clinical requirements
- Whether the program is approved in the state where you plan to complete practicum experiences
- Whether the program aligns with requirements in the state where you plan to practice
International Applicants
Xavier University welcomes students from outside the United States to enroll in online programs. However, some countries may not formally recognize foreign online degrees, and students are responsible for determining whether the degree will be recognized in their country of residence or any country where they plan to work. International students may need a third-party course-by-course transcript evaluation, TOEFL or IELTS if English is a second language, and may have additional application requirements.
International students in the United States cannot enroll in an online degree program to fulfill F-1 or J-1 visa requirements.
Accreditation and Academic Quality
Accreditation is an important consideration when choosing an online program. It helps you understand institutional quality, program standards, transferability considerations, and whether a program may support professional or academic goals.
Xavier University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Accreditation serves the public by assuring and continuously improving the quality of higher education.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Xavier University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneacreditation.org).
Tuition and Financial Aid
If you are exploring ways to fund your education, we can help. Visit our Financial Aid Resources page to explore available options, including financial aid, scholarships, employer tuition assistance, and other opportunities available to eligible students.
Support for Xavier University Online Students
Online students need clear communication, reliable academic support, and access to resources that help them stay on track.
Xavier University online students may interact with admissions representatives, faculty, academic support teams, and student services throughout their program. Support may include help with application questions, program selection, online learning expectations, and next steps after admission.
If you are still comparing options, request information before applying. If you already know which program fits your goals, review that program’s admissions requirements and prepare your materials.
Your next step:
Xavier University Online Admissions FAQs
degrees.xavier.edu includes Xavier University online nursing programs (master’s, post-master's certificates, and doctoral), criminal justice programs (master’s and post-baccalaureate certificate), and an MSN/MS dual degree — the only one of its type offered in the United States.
If you’re interested in furthering your education in an area that’s not listed above, you can view Xavier’s full suite of online offerings here.
Yes. Xavier University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Xavier University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneacreditation.org).
None of the graduate nursing programs offered by Xavier University include nursing licensure. RN licensure is a prerequisite for admission to these programs. The online nursing programs are designed to prepare graduates to sit for national board certification exams in their chosen specialty.
Official transcripts should be sent directly from all colleges or universities attended.
Mail transcripts to:
Xavier University
ATTN: Admission Processing Center
3800 Victory Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45207-5131
Electronic transcripts:
xuadmit@xavier.edu
Yes. If you are still deciding which program fits your goals, request information before applying.
Use the program overview pages to compare options:
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you know which Xavier University online program fits your goals, review the admissions requirements on the program page and prepare your application materials.
If you are still comparing options, start with the program hubs or request information.
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