A CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) is an advanced practice registered nurse who administers anesthesia and related care. CRNAs are the largest group of anesthesia providers in the US, practicing in every setting where anesthesia is delivered.

How long does it take to become a CRNA?

Becoming a CRNA typically takes 7-9 years: 4 years for a BSN, at least 1-3 years of ICU experience, and 28-36 months in an accredited CRNA program. As of 2025, all CRNA programs award a doctoral degree (DNP or DNAP).

What GPA do I need for CRNA school?

Most CRNA programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, with competitive applicants typically averaging 3.3-3.5 or above. Some programs have higher minimums. Science GPA is weighted heavily in admissions decisions.

How many CRNA programs are there in the US?

There are 156 COA-accredited CRNA programs in the United States as of 2026. They span all regions, from large university programs to community-based clinical programs.

What GPA do you need for CRNA school?

Most CRNA programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, with many competitive programs preferring 3.2 or higher. Science GPA requirements are typically the same. Use our GPA calculator to see how you compare across all 156 COA-accredited programs (as of March 2026).

How much ICU experience is needed for CRNA school?

Most CRNA programs require a minimum of 1-2 years (12-24 months) of critical care ICU experience as an RN. Many competitive programs prefer 2+ years in a high-acuity unit such as CVICU, SICU, or MICU.

How long is CRNA school?

CRNA programs typically run 28-36 months (about 2.5-3 years) and result in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Master of Science degree. All programs must be COA-accredited.

How many CRNA programs are there?

There are 156 COA-accredited CRNA programs in the United States. Boost CRNA maintains a searchable, up-to-date database of all programs including requirements, tuition, and deadlines.

Is the Boost CRNA platform free?

Yes — the core tools including program search, GPA calculator, CRNA News, and community access are free with no credit card required. Advanced tools including AI mock interviews, full profile review, and application tracking are available on Core and Pro plans.

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156 COA-accredited CRNA programs tracked·~8% avg. acceptance rate nationally·36 mo typical program length·$220K+ median CRNA salary (BLS 2024)·58,000+ CRNAs currently practicing in the U.S.·#1 advanced practice nursing salary rank·100% of programs require ICU experience·3 min to get your free Candidacy Assessment·156 COA-accredited CRNA programs tracked·~8% avg. acceptance rate nationally·36 mo typical program length·$220K+ median CRNA salary (BLS 2024)·58,000+ CRNAs currently practicing in the U.S.·#1 advanced practice nursing salary rank·100% of programs require ICU experience·3 min to get your free Candidacy Assessment·

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GPA, ICU tier, certifications, research — CRNA programs weigh all of it differently. Our free 3-minute Candidacy Assessment scores your profile across every dimension and tells you exactly what to fix before you apply.

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Three steps forward

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Step 01

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Step 02

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Filter 156 CRNA programs by your stats, location, deadline, and tuition. Save the ones that fit.

Step 03

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Overall GPA

3.82

Science GPA

3.74

Chemistryscience4crA

Anatomy & Physiologyscience4crA−

English Composition3crB+

GPA calculator

Track overall and science GPA separately — the way CRNA programs actually evaluate your transcript.

ICU experience

Clarity

Keywords

AI Feedback

Add hemodynamic monitoring specifics — programs want to see vasopressor management experience.

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Specific, actionable feedback on your CRNA application resume — not generic tips you’ve already read.

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Georgetown University

Washington DC · 28 mo · 3.0 min GPA

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Baylor College of Medicine

Houston TX · 27 mo · 3.0 min GPA

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Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore MD · 36 mo · 3.2 min GPA

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Program search

Filter 156 CRNA programs by GPA, ICU requirements, location, tuition, and deadline.

sarah_l2h ago

Just got my interview invite from Georgetown! 18 months ICU, 3.7 GPA. Happy to share my timeline.

mike_k5h ago

Anyone applied to Baylor this cycle? Wondering about their typical response timeline.

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