How To Prepare For The Application Process For Nursing Schools?

Answer 1

Nursing schools have a strict set of criteria for admission, as do nursing programs. One important thing for prospective nursing students to remember is that admission into a college does not guarantee admission to the nursing program also. Nursing programs are separate and must be applied for separately. Whether applying to a nursing program or nursing school, there are several steps prospective students should take that will ensure admission.

Educational Requirements

Students applying to nursing schools will need to obtain a high school diploma or GED before submitting an application. Taking additional prerequisite college-level Algebra, Biology, English and Psychology are also very helpful, but usually not a requirement for admission.

Test Scores

Nursing schools and programs have a minimum standard for SAT or ACT scores. Some students may not have had an opportunity to take these tests in high school, but still may take them. Earning a score between 16-20 is acceptable for most programs. If a student cannot afford these tests, COMPASS and Accuplacer tests should be taken at a local community college; they qualify as a substitute for the SAT and ACT, most being transferable.

Check Past Records

Students with a conviction record will need to review their convictions, dates and requirements of various schools before submitting an application. Some convictions may be eligible to be cleared; prospective students should check with an attorney about this.

Vaccinations

For nursing schools which accept students on a points-based system, students with vaccinations will receive more points. Vaccinations for Hepatitis, Tetanus or DTaP and Bacterial Meningitis are highly recommended for professions exposed to communicable diseases.

Letters & Essay

Prospective students should write a 500-word essay in MLA format with a cover page stating why they chose nursing and what they feel will be their contributions, as well as personal goals. Also students should gather at least 4-5 professional letters of reference.

Transcripts & FAFSA

Students should submit transcript requests to any high schools or colleges previously attended. Also a FAFSA financial aid form should be filled out at FAFSA.gov for those requiring financial aid; this application will allow the student to enter up to 10 nursing schools to receive the data.