When Should I Apply To Nursing School?

Posted On May 2,2019

Prospective nursing school students often wonder when the optimal time is to submit their application. Though there is certainly a concrete deadline for applications that must be met, it is a mistake to wait until the last minute to fill out and submit all the necessary paperwork. When in doubt, it is always better to have your nursing school application submitted as early as possible.

Why It Makes Sense to Apply Early

The logic in applying to nursing school early rather than waiting until the deadline nears is that there are detailed requirements for admission. It is not enough to fill out an application and submit it by the deadline. Plenty more preparatory work is necessary. Those who are in high school will have to complete an array of academic requirements. Nursing school candidates should have a strong background in science, math and English. There will likely be a number of prerequisite courses that must be taken before beginning the nursing program.

You will also need some time to search for the proper nursing program and find scholarships. Take some time to review nursing school options. Do not choose a nursing school unless it has the proper accreditation. Accreditation indicates the program’s coursework has been endorsed by the state board of nursing.

The Application Process Takes Time

Once you have found the accredited nursing program ideal for you, it is time to start the application process. This process will take some time so it is better to start now rather than leave it until the final weeks or days before the deadline. Reach out to the admissions office to find out what, exactly, is required in the application process. Do not blindly apply to the nursing school simply because the deadline for applications looms. Take some time to visit the campus, check out the school for yourself and get a true sense as to what it would be like to be a nursing student in the institution’s nursing program.

Learn More about Athena's Nursing Program

The application process requires more than filling out a multi-page form. It is also necessary to provide SAT/ACT scores, transcripts and possibly an essay or personal statement. The purpose of a personal statement is to provide the school with additional information about you and your desire to attend the institution in question. It will likely take at least a few days or a few weeks to gather all of these materials, write the essay, fill out the application and so on. Start this process right now so you do not end up cutting corners at the end to meet the application deadline. The worst thing you can do is rush through the application, overlook guidelines, and fail to provide all supplemental materials.

The Strategy Behind Applying Early

A large part of the reason why those who work at college admissions departments recommend applying early is such eagerness shows the applicant has a true passion for the curriculum. A nursing school application submitted ahead of time with all the necessary supplemental materials is a clear sign you are reliable, prepared and ready to work. Applying early also makes sense as it provides more time for the admissions department to reach out to you if any other supplemental materials are necessary.

The Clock is Ticking

Do not wait one more day to get the ball rolling on your nursing school application. Get on top of this project as soon as possible, organize all the proper documents, and write down all the relevant deadlines well ahead of time. Start preparing now and you won’t have to scramble at the last minute in an attempt to get your nursing school application in on time. Contact us today to schedule a tour and talk to our admissions office. We’ll help you get on the right track to beginning your new career as a nurse!