1. Gather all of your identification documents

You will need proof of identification when applying to schools.

This may include official documents such as a state issued identification card or a Driver’s license, proof of U.S. citizenship or a green card. It is important to check the expiration date on all documents before submitting them with your application. 

2. Request official transcripts and all previous education certificates

Most colleges will require proof of high school education or its equivalent.

If you have taken any college level courses you may want to request an official transcript of your records to submit with your application. Keep in mind you will want to submit any official transcripts in an unopened envelope or have them mailed directly to the institution to which you are applying; once they are opened they are considered unofficial.

3. Ask for recommendations

Were you the favorite employee at your last job? Are you still in contact with your favorite High School teacher? Ask someone who knows your work ethic to write a recommendation letter.

You will want to ask someone who has worked closely with you previously or someone who is in a leadership position. Some examples may include:

• A supervisor from your current or former employer
• A leader of an organization you are affiliated with such as a coach of a team
• A mentor or teacher

4. Request immunization records

If you are applying to a nursing school and will be visiting health facilities you will most likely be required to present evidence of good physical health and documentation of fitness to work in health care along with immunizations. Requesting your shot records from your health care provider can help you identify which immunizations you may already have or may need to schedule once accepted into the program.

5. Make a list of questions

There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting a nursing school. Make a list of questions to ensure you have all the information you need to select the school that is right for you.

Visiting the school’s website may assist with finding answers to questions you have or identifying things you may want to learn more about. Don’t forget to ask important questions such as the school’s NCLEX pass rate.

6. Research financial aid options

It’s never too early to plan for your college education. Many schools have representatives to assist with the financial planning process.

FAFSA's studentaid.gov website allows you to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for assistance.

Keep in mind there may be other options for financial aid as well. You may want to add that to your list of questions for potential schools of interest. 

7. Look for scholarships

Every penny counts! Start researching scholarships that you may qualify for while you are applying to nursing schools. This may also assist with helping find the school that is the best fit for you!

8. Take advantage of resources the school offers

Even before you are a student, many schools offer resources to help you get started such as tutoring for entrance exams, computer labs with printing access, and more.

Visiting the campus while preparing to apply will also give you a feeling for what it may feel like to be student at the campus.

9. Don’t be late!

Make a timeline for yourself to ensure you have everything in place to apply for schools before deadlines. Applying early may give you extra time to gather documents and in some cases may even help you avoid being put on a wait list. 

 10. Organize your documents

Organization is a key component to success not only in school but once you become a nurse. Start healthy habits now and they may assist you throughout your nursing journey.

Having all your nursing school application documents in one place such as in a binder or file can help make items easily accessible whenever you may need them. 

Are you ready to apply for nursing school?

Request your free admissions kit today by filling out the form below or by visiting our Admissions page.

Get a Free Admissions Kit