Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an approved entry-level nursing degree
Become a Registered Nurse (RN) and pass the NCLEX-RN
Gain clinical experience as an RN, typically in critical care settings (commonly 1–2+ years)
Apply to a Nurse Anesthetist program (CRNA)
Meet admission requirements for CRNA school (commonly BSN, RN license, critical care experience, minimum GPA, required coursework such as anatomy/physiology/chemistry and statistics, and standardized test requirements if applicable)
Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a CRNA focus
Pass required clinical anesthesia training during the CRNA program
Graduate from the CRNA program
Pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) for nurse anesthetists
Obtain state licensure/authorization to practice as a CRNA (requirements vary by state)
Maintain certification and licensure through continuing education and required renewals