The fall semester has started for nursing students across the country. Some students are already becoming well acclimated to their studies, and others are getting ready to apply for a program in the near future.
For those who are currently getting ready to apply, this special Back to School article is worth a read. Here’s a list of application tips from nursing school admissions reps and NursingCAS staff. Whether you’re in the early stages of selecting a program or actively filling out an application, these tips are sure to set you up for success.
What to Do Before Applying
Doing research and finding the perfect program is just as important as completing the application itself. Taylor Jaczko, AACN’s Director of Student Recruitment and Application Services, shared inspiring words for students embarking on the application process:
- Find your best-fit program: Finding the right program for you is a critical step - and your best-fit nursing school might not be the one with the highest ranking or name recognition! Enrolling in a program where you feel genuinely supported, challenged, and prepared will set you up for long-term success in your nursing career. Be sure to explore your options and consider your own personal preferences in aspects like clinical opportunities, teaching style, and classroom culture when identifying programs of interest.
Nursing school admissions advisors from Anderson University offered this key tip for students preparing to apply:
- Connect with schools early: One of the qualities that makes Anderson University so special is our passion for hospitality. That's why our tip for applicants is to reach out for help and ask questions! We want to hear from you and get to know you. Please let us walk through this process with you.
NursingCAS Operations & Education Manager, Katherine Avery, gave another strategy for exploring schools:
- Keep an eye out for opportunities to learn more about potential nursing programs: Schools want to talk to their applicants! Check your programs’ websites for any in-person or online information sessions and check out the NursingCAS Events Calendar to see if there are any schools hosting events that you would be interested in attending.
During the Application Process
After finding programs that meet your needs, the process of submitting your application can begin. Nursing admissions staff from Rosalind Franklin University shared the following tips for students to keep in mind during the application process:
- Be honest and authentic: Admissions committees value genuine experiences and personal growth. Focus on your journey rather than trying to write what you think reviewers want to hear.
- Ask questions: Attend information sessions, connect with admissions, and clarify requirements before applying. Being informed helps you submit a stronger application.
- Stay organized: Create a checklist of application requirements, deadlines, and supporting documents. Staying organized helps reduce stress and ensures nothing is overlooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While working on your application, be aware of common mistakes. No one is perfect but knowing what to look for helps make your application the best it can be.
Rosalind Franklin University shared these mistakes to avoid:
- Waiting until the last minute: Last-minute submissions can lead to technical issues, incomplete applications, or missing documents.
- Not explaining academic challenges: If you've overcome setbacks or have an upward academic trend, use the application to provide thoughtful context.
- Overlooking proofreading: Grammar, spelling, and formatting errors can distract from your qualifications. Review carefully before submitting.
Let NursingCAS Guide You in Your Application
Explore thousands of programs, prepare your application, and to submit to multiple programs at once with NursingCAS. Want to learn more? You can find further guidance on NursingCAS and the application process in our upcoming Preparing and Strengthening Your NursingCAS Application webinar on September 22 at 2:00 p.m. ET.