What To Know About Applying to Nursing Schools (2023)

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October 10, 2019

What To Know About Applying to Nursing Schools (1)

By: Kathleen Gaines MSN, RN, BA, CBC

While there may be a nursing shortage, U.S. News & World Report states that nursing programs remain one of the most competitive programs in terms of gaining entry. As the nursing shortage continues, nursing programs remain selective as there are only a certain number of spots available.

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There are a handful of reasons why nursing schools have become increasingly competitive despite the ongoing nursing shortage including decreasing class size, aging nursing faculty, increase in the number of applicants, availability of clinical sites, and classroom space.

According to AACN’s report Enrollment and Graduations in Baccalaureate and Graduate Programs in Nursing, U.S. nursing schools turned away 75,029 qualified applicants for the 2018-2019 academic year.

Here are a few helpful tips for applying to nursing programs. It is important to remember that each program may have specific requirements, so check the program’s website or contact an admissions counselor with questions or concerns.

Nursing School Admission Requirements

The main requirement for applying to nursing school is a high school diploma or GED. Major universities require a minimum 3.0 GPA or better. The better the applicant’s GPA, the better the chances of getting into a top-notch program. Applicants without the minimum GPA should not apply as Universities will rarely consider the application. Hospital-based nursing programs and community colleges allow for lower GPAs.

Students will be required to take either the SATs or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) depending on the university of their choice. Prospective applicants are encouraged to purchase study guides, take review courses, and seek out additional help if needed. Individuals should confirm which exam is required by the program of their choice.

Once ready to apply, applicants will need to submit the following,

  • Official Transcript
  • Standardized Test Scores
  • Admission application
  • Essay
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Volunteer experience (preferably in healthcare)
  • Application Fee (fee can be waived if the application is submitted during the tour)
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) if applicable

Pay close attention to deadlines that are listed on the website and, if possible, submit the entire application early.

Applying early reinforces the applicant’s commitment, as well as his or her eagerness to enter the program. Furthermore, early application gives admission counselors time to contact you if there is a need for supplemental information. Some major Universities offer early acceptance to the nursing program and others offer rolling admission.

Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing encourages applicants to make sure their resume is updated and includes all leadership activities, volunteer history, education and work history, and publications or presentations.

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Volunteer Work

Not all universities require volunteer work, however it is encouraged by college admission counselors. Ideal prospective students should volunteer at a community clinic or hospital.

Volunteering not only gives an applicant experience and a view into the nursing profession, but it also looks good on an application. Furthermore, it allows students to know if nursing is the right career path with ample time to change plans if need be. It’s important to show nursing programs that you are invested in the healthcare industry and have the initiative to expand your knowledge even prior to nursing school. This will make your application more competitive amongst hundreds of other applications.

Students who wish to expand their volunteer resume can also join an organization such as the American Red Cross. While the majority of volunteers are needed internationally, the Red Cross does have local chapters with numerous volunteer opportunities.

One benefit of volunteering with the Red Cross is that they allow volunteers to tailor their experience towards their nursing career goals. For example, if a volunteer is interested in child health, there are opportunities to work in daycare and school settings. According to the American Red Cross website, additional opportunities for nursing students include teaching first aid, assisting with local blood drives, and providing disaster response.

Nursing School Interview Process

Applicants that pass the initial screening process will schedule an interview with an admission counselor, as well as several key members of the department. This interview doesn’t necessarily weed out candidates but it does allow a face to face interaction and an opportunity for students to explain why they would be a good fit for the program. It is important to know that not all nursing programs require interviews.

The interview is a chance for the applicant to sell themselves. Nursing program committee members want to know why a student would make a good nurse and be a positive representative of the program.

Other important things to remember during the interview process is,

  • Be up to date on current health stories
  • Prepare by practicing mock interviews
  • Know key facts about the nursing program and the university
  • Don’t lie, evade, or embellish during the interview

While the type of questions asked at nursing school interviews is expansive and differs for every program, most nursing school interview questions fall into one of the following categories:

  1. Traditional, open-ended
  2. Personality and involvement
  3. Behavioral
  4. Situational or ethical dilemma
  5. Current affair

A recent nursing school interview format that is gaining popularity among many nursing programs throughout the U.S. is the multiple mini-interview. This type of interview consists of 6-10 timed stations that the applicants rotate through within a two-hour time period. This allows students to meet nursing faculty and get to know more than just a few key individuals.

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Sample interview questions include,

  • Why do you want to be a nurse?
  • What do you feel like your greatest skill is that will allow you to be a great nurse?
  • Do you have any examples of when you needed to make a split second decision that impacted others?
  • Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?
  • Do you have any experience volunteering or working in the healthcare industry?
  • If you could change one aspect of your personality at the snap of your fingers, what would it be and why?
  • Tell me about a time when a barrier challenged your ability to communicate and how did you deal with that?
  • Do you think a physician should tell a patient they have 8 months left to live?
  • What is your opinion on physician-assisted death?
  • Would your decision to become a physician change if the US moved to a universal healthcare system similar to that of Canada?
  • Do you know the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
  • If you see a classmate stealing, what would you do?
  • A nurse at a clinical practicum site is acting unethically. What would you do?
  • What are some of your passions?

Check out this interesting article to find out more tips and tricks about nursing interviews.

Do Research

Many nursing programs receive more applications than the number of spots available. Unfortunately, this means that not everyone who applies will be accepted. Students can be put on a waitlist which means that if another accepted student does not wish to attend that program, the school will open up spots to applicants on the waiting list.

Other students, might get into the University but not the nursing program. This is often seen in large state schools such as Penn State University or The University of Alabama. These programs will encourage students to take basic liberal arts and science classes and then transfer to the nursing program after their freshman or sophomore year. This might not seem ideal to some students, but it does provide additional opportunities within top-notch nursing programs.

Paying for Nursing School

Let’s be honest, nursing school isn’t cheap. Most students require financial assistance and that is why it is important to speak to a financial aid representative at the University or community college to understand your options. Not everyone will qualify for all the different types of aid that are available but hopefully between scholarships, grants, and federal loans the cost of nursing school will be more manageable.

Here’s a more in depth breakdown of the different types of monetary aid that is available. Remember, research the different types of aid you may be eligible for and apply early.

Scholarships

A scholarship is an award of financial aid to a student to further their education. This money does not have to be repaid. There are a variety of different types of scholarships. These include

  • Merit-based
  • Need-based
  • Athletic
  • Student-specific (gender, race, religion, family, and/or medical history)
  • Career-specific
  • College-specific

Most scholarships will require letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and personal essays. Monetary amounts can be as little as $100 to as much as the cost of your education. You can apply to multiple scholarships as long as the school is on the approved list.

Grants

Grants are determined by financial need. They can be used to cover the cost of tuition, books, clinical uniforms and supplies, housing and educational supplies. When applying for grants they will inform how they are to be applied towards your education. The amount of money you are eligible to receive depends strictly on your financial situation.

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Typically grants do not have to be repaid as long as you graduate nursing school in the allotted amount of time. If you were to drop out there can be incurred costs.

Student Loans

Unlike scholarships and grants, loans must be repaid. Loans incur interest, so you will ultimately repay more than the initial amount of the loan. The exact terms of the loan will depend on the lender and other factors. There are several types of student loans.

The most common loans are Federal Student Loans. Federal student loans are a great option for most students for the following reasons:

  • They don’t have to be paid back while you’re in school.
  • They charge lower interest than loans from private lenders.
  • If you’re having trouble paying back your loan, there are programs you can qualify for to assist you.
  • You don’t need any credit history to get a federal student loan.

Two other fairly common loans are direct subsidized loans and direct unsubsidized loans more commonly referred to as Stafford Loans.

Direct Subsidized Loans

  • U.S. Department of Education loan
  • Must meet certain income requirements
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Government pays interest rate on loan while in schools
  • Pay back once graduated

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

  • U.S. Department of Education loan
  • Don’t have to meet income requirements
  • Student is responsible for accrued interest
  • Pay back once graduated

Federal Perkins Loan

  • Very low-income students
  • Lender is the education institution
  • Meet income requirements
  • School must have funds available, limited monetary amounts

Private Student Loans

From banks and credit unions

Very high interest rates

Payments required while in school

FAQ:

  • How to apply for nursing school?
    • Determine where you would like to attend classes? Do you want to live on campus? Do you want to live at home? Are you ready to move out of state?
    • Determine if you will be applying to a traditional four-year undergraduate program or a hospital-based/community college associates nursing program.
    • Research nursing programs that fit your goals based on location, financial ability, and career plans.
    • Set up college visits to determine if the programs are worth applying to. Make sure to meet with admissions counselors, members of the nursing faculty, and the financial aid department. ASK QUESTIONS!
    • Gather required documents and APPLY!
    • Once accepted, send the signed acceptance letter to the program and begin to prepare for your journey to become a nurse.
    • Apply for financial aid including scholarships, grants, and/or loans. Check outour scholarships pagefor more information about scholarships that are available to nursing students.
  • What GPA do you need to get into nursing school?
    • GPA requirements are set forth by the University that the nursing school is a part of. Generally, BSN programs will require a minimum of a 3.0 GPA while an ADN program at a community college may only require a 2.5 GPA.
    • Depending on the type of University some will require a minimum high school GPA of 3.2.
    • The GPA required to get into an Ivy League school nursing program such as the University of Pennsylvania may be different than the GPA needed to get into the University of Florida’s nursing program.
  • Can applicants apply to multiple nursing programs?
    • Yes! This is highly advised as undergraduate nursing programs are highly competitive. If accepted to several programs, you can then decide which is the best fit academically and financially.
  • How many years does it take to become a nurse?
    • A traditional Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) program will allow individuals to graduate in four years with their nursing degree.
    • For students that already have a bachelor’s degree in another field a BSN can be earned in as little as 12-18 months through an accelerated second degree program.
    • An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) can be earned in as little as two years through a community college or hospital based program.
  • What are the requirements to get into a nursing school?
    • The only requirement to apply to a traditional four year nursing program is graduating from high school or earning your GED. All other requirements are part of the application process. These include,
    • Successful completion of a high school diploma or GED
    • Minimum GPA
    • Admissions application
    • Personal essay
    • Personal interview
    • Teacher Recommendations
    • Volunteer experience (preferably in healthcare)
    • Application Fee
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) if applicable
    • Minimum SAT scores or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) (These will vary amongst Universities)
  • How do I pay for nursing school?
    • There are several different ways to pay for nursing school including scholarships, federal loans, and grants.
(Video) How to Apply to Nursing School - Step by Step

Kathleen Colduvell, originally with a degree in journalism, has worked in numerous hospitals over her eight years as a NICU nurse. Currently, she works at one of the leading children’s hospitals in the country in the NICU, PICU, and CICU and working as a Certified Breastfeeding Consultant.

FAQs

What To Know About Applying to Nursing Schools? ›

Your letter should also detail any healthcare experience and what drew you to nursing. Personal stories that convey passion and drive work well here. It's also helpful to highlight any past academic achievements; these accomplishments showcase how past progress will lead to future success.

How do I stand out for nursing school application? ›

Your letter should also detail any healthcare experience and what drew you to nursing. Personal stories that convey passion and drive work well here. It's also helpful to highlight any past academic achievements; these accomplishments showcase how past progress will lead to future success.

What questions to ask when applying for nursing school? ›

12 Questions to Ask Nursing Schools Before You Apply
  • Which degree should I pursue? ...
  • How long will the program take to complete? ...
  • How soon can I begin the program? ...
  • Is the program properly accredited and state-approved? ...
  • What are the admissions requirements? ...
  • Will I need to take any prerequisite courses to be eligible?
Aug 8, 2022

What do you need to know for nursing school? ›

What to Expect in Nursing School
  • You Have to Pass the NCLEX Exam. ...
  • Clinical Rotations Do Not Start Right Away. ...
  • Your Study Habits Will Change. ...
  • The Important Role Classmates Will Play. ...
  • Attendance Is More Than Mandatory. ...
  • You Must Find a Work-Life Balance. ...
  • Know You Are in Demand. ...
  • Medical Shows Will Be Ruined for You.
Feb 16, 2022

What qualities do nursing schools look for in applicants? ›

7 Things That Nursing Schools Look for in Applicants
  • Compassion. ...
  • Dedication. ...
  • Good Communication Skills. ...
  • Being a Lifelong Learner. ...
  • Being Organized. ...
  • Having High Academic Standards. ...
  • Preparation. ...
  • Make Your Nursing Dream a Reality in as Few as 12 Months with Mercer's ABSN.
Feb 16, 2022

What are the odds of getting into nursing school? ›

The average acceptance rate of nursing school programs in the US in recent years has been around 66%. Keep in mind that there are over 3,000 nursing school programs in the US offering various degrees and education opportunities for nursing.

What is a good GPA for applying to nursing school? ›

GPA requirements depend on the type of nursing program you want to apply for, but most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA or higher. However, due to the competitive nature of nursing programs, most schools prefer a 3.7 to 4.0 GPA.

How can I impress a nursing school interview? ›

How to Prepare for Nursing School Interview Questions: 11 Tips for Success
  1. Do Your Research. ...
  2. Demonstrate Confidence. ...
  3. Practice Your Elevator Pitch. ...
  4. Practice Answering Questions. ...
  5. Create a List of Questions to Ask. ...
  6. Come Prepared with Your Transcript. ...
  7. Dress Professionally. ...
  8. Take Time When Answering Hard Questions.
Aug 24, 2022

What should I say in a nursing school interview? ›

Talk about the things that excite you about being a nurse, taking care of patients, what you love the most about the job, and how you wish to make a positive impact on the lives of other people. If you have any relevant personal experience, make sure to include it in your answer.

How do you introduce yourself in a nursing school interview? ›

Use a personal story or two about a time when you demonstrated the qualities that would make you a good nurse. These could be experiences where you were able to exhibit your work ethic, personality traits, passion for health care, or compassion for others.

What is the hardest course in nursing? ›

Pharmacology. Pharmacology, or the study of medication, can seem scary because of the sheer scope of the course. "It becomes one of the hardest classes for nursing students due to the depth and amount of knowledge needed," says Megan Lynch, RN and instructor at Pima Community College.

What is the best major for nursing? ›

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The minimum requirement for many nursing positions these days is a BSN. The BSN is the best degree for those who want to prepare for future higher education and career advancement opportunities and launch a career as a: Registered Nurse.

What is the first thing you learn in nursing school? ›

One of the first things you will learn in nursing school is to ask questions. You will see that asking questions or reaching out for clarification and support is a common theme in nursing school. Remember, you are not alone in the journey, and once you graduate, you will be starting a gratifying career.

What makes you stand out from other applicants nursing? ›

New nurses should offer examples of their great work ethic, Berger said. Seasoned nurses can highlight their enthusiasm, experience and ability to immediately contribute, Berger added. They also can focus on their dedication to staying current and eagerness to embrace change.

What makes you stand out for nursing school? ›

Your nursing application should demonstrate an equal balance of knowledge and patient care skills. Nursing schools want students who are equally compassionate as they are smart. A strong foundation in patient care is more important than ever today, as many nurses work outside the traditional hospital environment.

What are four qualities that are desirable in a nurse? ›

What Makes Someone a Good Nurse?
  • Caring. ...
  • Communication Skills. ...
  • Empathy. ...
  • Attention to Detail. ...
  • Problem Solving Skills. ...
  • Stamina. ...
  • Sense of Humor. ...
  • Commitment to Patient Advocacy.
Feb 25, 2020

Is it common to get rejected from nursing school? ›

Thousands of nursing school applicants are rejected each year. Persistence and these strategies raise your chances of admission with your next application.

What's the easiest nursing degree to get? ›

As registered nursing degree programs go, the easiest one out there is the ADN. An associate's degree program can prepare you for a career as a registered nurse, but you should know that this degree meets only the bare minimum requirement for qualification as an RN.

Is it common to fail out of nursing school? ›

Nursing is one of the most desirable professions in the United States. So many students, for many reasons, are trying to become a nurse, but the road to becoming a nurse is not easy. The main bump in your path will be nursing school, where so many students fail every semester.

Can an average student become a nurse? ›

To start nursing school, you don't need any prior nursing experience or healthcare education. All you need is a high school diploma or GED. Once you are accepted, your journey to RN begins! You can become an RN in 2 to 4 years by studying for an associate's degree (ASN) or bachelor's degree (BSN).

What is the lowest GPA accepted to nursing school? ›

While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.

How hard is nursing school compared to other degrees? ›

But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.

What is your greatest weakness nursing school interview? ›

Reflect on your weaknesses

Spending too much time on paperwork. Paying too much attention to detail. Attempting to complete too many tasks at once. A lack of clinical experience, which may apply to recent graduates or new nurses.

What are the best qualities for nursing interview? ›

Patience, empathy, and a strong desire to help others are essential qualities for any successful nurse. In addition, good communication skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure are also key in this demanding profession.

What are the 6 C's of nursing interview questions? ›

Interviewee: Before your interview, you must ensure you understand the six Cs of nursing, which are: care, compassion, competence, communication, courage and commitment. It's not enough to say what they are – you need to share examples of when you've successfully exhibited all these traits.

What are the 6 C's of nursing? ›

The 6 Cs – care, compassion, courage, communication, commitment, competence - are a central part of 'Compassion in Practice', which was first established by NHS England Chief Nursing Officer, Jane Cummings, in December 2017.

How to write the best personal statement for nursing school? ›

7 Tips to Write an Effective Nursing School Essay
  1. Plan Your Nursing School Essay. ...
  2. Make Yourself Stand Out. ...
  3. Share Your Dreams. ...
  4. Show that You Care about People. ...
  5. Explain Your Qualifications. ...
  6. Tell the Admissions Committee Why You Want to Go to Their School. ...
  7. Have a Friend Edit Your Essay.
Sep 15, 2022

What is the hardest part of nursing interview question? ›

The hardest part about answering why you want to be a nurse is that you need to be honest, without sounding trite. “I just want to help people” is a phrase that has been heard far too often in nurse job interviews.

How do you rock a nursing interview? ›

Nursing Interview Tips
  1. Know where you're going. Healthcare facilities are often big and confusing. ...
  2. Dress professionally. Professional attire tells interviewers you take them and the job seriously.
  3. Rehearse your nursing interview questions. Don't just prep answers. ...
  4. Pamper yourself. ...
  5. Listen and take notes.
Mar 21, 2023

What answer should I give for tell me about yourself? ›

Every good answer to “tell me about yourself” should consist of: Work - This should make up about 80% of your answer. Focus on your previous experience and accomplishments here. Academic - 10-15% of your answer should then be about your academic background (university, academic achievements, etc.).

What is the easiest class in nursing school? ›

There are several prerequisite courses that will be dog-easy for the majority of students.
...
The Easiest Classes in Nursing School
  • Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
  • Humanities.
  • Intro to Speech (or Communication)
  • English Composition.
  • History.
  • Using Information Technology.

What state pays RN the most? ›

In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Is nursing school harder than med school? ›

However, don't take it for granted that nursing school will be much easier than medical school, especially in an accelerated format. Both offer a unique set of challenges and demand the utmost in student commitment and work rate.

How is algebra used in nursing? ›

Also Nurses use algebra for drawing up IV mediations in liquid form. For example if you are giving 2mg of Morphine and the vial is a 4mg vial you have to be able to calculate the right dose. Another way that math is used is by converting between systems. Most measurements in meditation are based on the metric system.

What college has the highest Nclex pass rate? ›

#1: Duke University

Duke also graduates 120-150 students each year from its accelerated bachelor of science in nursing program. These students have passed the NCLEX exam at a stellar 98% first-attempt rate over the past decade.

What are your expectations of the nursing program? ›

Students are expected to learn a large amount of information and new skills quickly. However, being successful in nursing school requires much more than doing well on homework assignments and tests. In order to meet these requirements, students are expected to employ these techniques during their course of study.

How do you survive the first semester of nursing school? ›

10 Study Tips That Will Make Nursing School Easier
  1. Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
  2. Study a little every day. ...
  3. Focus on the material covered in class. ...
  4. Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
  5. Form a study group. ...
  6. Skim-read first. ...
  7. Use outside sources. ...
  8. Know your learning style.

How do I get through my first year of nursing? ›

Here are a few tips to help you survive and thrive during your first year as a nurse:
  1. Ask questions. One of the best ways to learn as a new nurse is to ask lots of questions. ...
  2. Get to know your coworkers. ...
  3. Take time to relax. ...
  4. Learn how to prioritize. ...
  5. Set realistic goals. ...
  6. Stay positive.
Sep 7, 2017

How do you survive the first year of nursing school? ›

10 Tips on How to Survive Nursing School
  1. Get to know your professors early in the semester. ...
  2. Review every single test you get back. ...
  3. READ YOUR BOOKS! ...
  4. Get your assignments done early. ...
  5. Get organized!!!! ...
  6. Find good study habits. ...
  7. Study during your breaks. ...
  8. Self-care is so important for nursing students.
Jan 14, 2020

What are the weakness of a nurse? ›

Examples of common nursing weaknesses our experts say they hear include: Paying too much attention to detail. Wanting to do everything at once. Spending too long on paperwork.

What questions to ask in a nursing interview? ›

Good questions to ask in a nursing interview
  • What is your culture like here?
  • What is the management style?
  • How do you like working here?
  • What kinds of qualities are you seeking?
  • What medical record systems will I be using?
  • What type of orientation or training do you provide?
  • Who will I be reporting to?
Mar 10, 2023

What do nursing schools look for in letters of recommendation? ›

This letter should contain information pertaining to the applicant's qualifications, positive attributes, and previous nursing experiences. This letter may be written by a teacher at the nursing school the individual attended in order to get acceptance into a residency program or for any nurse seeking a recommendation.

What are 5 values that a nurse must possess? ›

Caring is best demonstrated by a nurse's ability to embody the five core values of professional nursing. Core nursing values essential to baccalaureate education include human dignity, integrity, autonomy, altruism, and social justice. The caring professional nurse integrates these values in clinical practice.

What are the Big Five personality traits nurse? ›

Nurses' Personality Traits: The Big Five Model
  • Extroversion. This factor reflects the degree to which people interact with others and their levels of comfort and assertiveness in these situations. ...
  • Agreeableness. ...
  • Openness. ...
  • Conscientiousness. ...
  • Neuroticism. ...
  • Engaging Coping Strategies. ...
  • Disengagement Coping Strategies.
Jul 1, 2022

What is your strength and weakness in nursing interview? ›

You should not just name your strengths and weaknesses in clinical practice and that's it. Try to always elaborate on your answer. Explain how the strengths should help you provide an excellent care to the patients, and ensure the interviewers that you want to improve on your weaknesses.

How do you stand out in a nursing school interview? ›

Nursing Interview Tips
  1. Know where you're going. Healthcare facilities are often big and confusing. ...
  2. Dress professionally. Professional attire tells interviewers you take them and the job seriously.
  3. Rehearse your nursing interview questions. Don't just prep answers. ...
  4. Pamper yourself. ...
  5. Listen and take notes.
Mar 21, 2023

What should I put on nursing application? ›

Table of contents
  1. Contact info.
  2. Professional Summary.
  3. Skills and areas of expertise.
  4. Licensure, certifications and credentials.
  5. Work history.
  6. Education.
  7. Awards, accomplishments, and affiliations.
  8. Saving and naming your resume.
Jan 18, 2023

What is the best answer to why do you want to be a nurse? ›

While answering, state what first inspired you to choose nursing as a profession. Talk about the things that excite you about being a nurse, taking care of patients, what you love the most about the job, and how you wish to make a positive impact on the lives of other people.

What are good answers for why I want to be a nurse? ›

I love working with other people and knowing that I'm part of a work-family. Nurses come together to share their workload in a way that I find encouraging. I would love to be the kind of person who can be counted on by my colleagues, and who has a good support network as part of the job.”

Can you get rejected from nursing school? ›

Thousands of nursing school applicants are rejected each year. Persistence and these strategies raise your chances of admission with your next application.

What qualities make a successful nursing student? ›

Top 10 skills nursing students need to succeed
  • Confidence. ...
  • Ability to connect the dots. ...
  • Critical thinking. ...
  • Relation-based care. ...
  • Leadership. ...
  • Lifelong learning. ...
  • Think like a nurse. ...
  • Work well with colleagues.

What is the most important thing to learn in nursing school? ›

Communication Skills: An Essential Part of Nursing School

Essential nursing skills like direct and effective communication, combined with good organization, can help you master a variety of tasks and improve the experience of a patient while he or she is under your care.

How do you rock a nursing school interview? ›

Insider tips for acing your nursing school interview
  1. Consider the interview an opportunity. ...
  2. Sell yourself. ...
  3. Know the school. ...
  4. Be prepared. ...
  5. Don't pass the buck. ...
  6. Be professional. ...
  7. Think ahead.

What is a good weakness to say in a nursing interview? ›

Examples of common nursing weaknesses our experts say they hear include: Paying too much attention to detail. Wanting to do everything at once. Spending too long on paperwork.

What is your strongest skill as a nurse? ›

The key to being a successful nurse is communication.

Communication skills are one of the most important requirements of a nurse's job—both following directions and communicating with patients and families. Patients who are sick or suffering often are not in a position of strength to speak up for themselves.

What makes a good nursing application essay? ›

Kindness, empathy and caring are important qualities in nursing and a strong application essay showcases those attributes. Consider choosing a personal story that highlights how you innately demonstrate those qualities throughout your life and how they inspire and motivate you to choose a career in nursing.

How do I make my nursing school essay stand out? ›

7 Tips to Write an Effective Nursing School Essay
  1. Plan Your Nursing School Essay. ...
  2. Make Yourself Stand Out. ...
  3. Share Your Dreams. ...
  4. Show that You Care about People. ...
  5. Explain Your Qualifications. ...
  6. Tell the Admissions Committee Why You Want to Go to Their School. ...
  7. Have a Friend Edit Your Essay.
Sep 15, 2022

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