If you’ve decided to apply for nursing school, congratulations! Applying to nursing school is a big deal. This is an exciting step, but there is a lot to do in preparing your application, and the process may seem intimidating. The important thing right now is to pace yourself and to take on each part of the application one at a time.
Now that you’ve committed to applying to nursing school, follow these steps to stay on track and submit a successful application.
Determine Your Goals
Before even starting the application, the first step is to decide what your short- and long-term goals are. What do you want to accomplish in the next couple of years? What are your long-term education and career goals? Making these decisions early will help guide your nursing journey, including the schools you choose, the type of programs you apply for, and more.
Create Your NursingCAS Account
Now that you’ve defined your goals, the next step is to start your application - and the easiest way to do so is through NursingCAS. NursingCAS simplifies the application process by enabling you to research and select programs, provide application materials, and submit to all your programs of interest with a single, streamlined application. Visit the NursingCAS application, choose your start term, and create an account to get started.
Explore Schools
One of the most important steps in applying to nursing school is to decide which schools you’d like to apply to. This is the time to find the programs that are the best fit for you. By creating a NursingCAS account, you can start exploring our database of nearly 300 schools and 2,600 programs, and review their requirements. Even if you already have an idea of what schools you want to attend, this is still an excellent resource. You may be surprised at what you discover and which schools stand out!
Learn More About Your Selected Schools
This is the time to learn more about your schools of interest. Review their programs, learn about the campus environment, and note their program requirements and application deadlines. Make connections by contacting admissions advisors, talking to current and former students, and attending an information session. Upcoming webinars and admissions events hosted by NursingCAS member schools are updated frequently on the school events calendar.
Prepare Your Application Materials
Now is the time to start filling out your application. Start compiling your transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, or any other materials. Note that every program will look a little different and will have varying application and admissions requirements. It’s very important to ensure you are clear on the instructions and requirements for each component of the application. Always check the Applicant Help Center for answers to FAQs. Finally, review your materials for accuracy before submitting.
Submit Your Application
All that’s left to do is submit your application! When you submit through NursingCAS, the application information you’ve provided gets sent to your selected schools all at once. Hit that submit button and then let out that sigh of relief. You should feel proud of yourself for getting this far!
Completing your nursing school application brings you one step closer to achieving your education and career goals. It all begins with filling out your application with NursingCAS. Find out more about the application process during our upcoming webinar, Preparing and Strengthening Your NursingCAS Application, on Wednesday, April 28, at 2:00 p.m. ET.