ACADEMIC PROGRAMS IN NURSING

HELPFUL HINTS FOR PREPARING GRADUATE SCHOOL APPLICATIONS

Applying to a graduate nursing program can be a lengthy and confusing process. Below are a few things that are very helpful to getting off to a good start. If you have any questions about nursing in general or graduate school, feel free to contact one of our admissions advisors--we're here to help.

What if I don't have a B.S.N.?

While the Bachelors of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) may be required by some graduate schools of nursing, other options exist. Here are some questions to ask a school you are considering:

	Do you have a bridge program (often called an R.N.-M.S.N. program) that will allow me quicker access to the graduate program?
	Do you have an entry option if I have a bachelor's degree in a major other than nursing so I don't have to get another bachelor's degree?
	Do you have an accelerated B.S.N. program that would allow me to get my B.S.N. more quickly so that I can start graduate school?

What about entrance exams?

Most graduate schools require some kind of entrance exam as part of the application process. Asking these questions will help you get a jump on this process:

	Do you require an entrance exam as part of the application process?
	If so, which exam is required and are there alternatives? (The GRE is commonly required, but some schools will accept the MAT as well. Some schools will even consider other tests like the MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, or DAT.)
	What test scores are considered acceptable for the approved test(s)?
NOTE: Most testing agencies only keep your scores for five years. If you've taken a test and are near that time limit, consider having your test score sent to schools of interest. This may save you from having to take the test again!

Do I need any prerequisites?

Some schools will require certain courses as prerequisites. These questions might be helpful:

	What prerequisite will I need to be admitted to your program?
	Are these courses required prior to applying or before starting the program?

Finally, just a few other suggestions:

	Contact the school's financial aid officer ASAP to find out how and when to start the financial aid process.
	Make sure the schools you are considering have the specialty areas that you want.
	Update your resume, because you will probably need to submit one as part of your application.

We hope these tips will help you better prepare for application to graduate school. Good luck!