[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to nursing school, review the different program requirements, complete any prerequisites, and gather your transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical volunteering experience can help strengthen your application, so consider helping out at a local hospital, community health organization, or nursing home.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs interview applicants to assess motivation and fit, so research the program, dress professionally, and be prepared for the interview questions.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Thinking about a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/best-specialty-career-choices-for-nursing/”]nursing career[/hen-ui-link] but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. The demand for nurses is strong. The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates there will be more than 166,100 new [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurse (RN)[/hen-ui-link] jobs between 2024-2034.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This page guides you through applying for nursing school, explores degree and diploma options — including bachelor’s, master’s, and online pathways — and helps you choose the best program for your goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”Nursing is a meaningful and rewarding career, but it also comes with emotional and academic challenges,” said Brandi Jones, MSN-Ed, RN-BC, a nurse educator and NurseJournal contributor. “Before applying, take time to reflect on your why and how you handle pressure and change. Admissions can be competitive, so be prepared for possible setbacks. Your motivation and resilience will help carry you through the application process and the nursing profession.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Read on to take your first steps toward a rewarding future in nursing.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Do Before Applying to Nursing School[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Carefully examine your target programs’ academic prerequisites before applying. Several important steps include collecting your high school and college transcripts and securing letters of recommendation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”Start by reviewing each program’s requirements and deadlines,” Jones advised. “Keep a spreadsheet or checklist to help you stay organized. Begin collecting your transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and immunization or health records early, as these can take longer to gather than you might expect. Focus on doing well in science courses like anatomy and microbiology, as they are foundational for nursing courses, and your grades in these carry a lot of weight in applications.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Nursing School Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Requirements vary by program level and institution, so it’s essential to review each school’s guidelines carefully before applying to nursing school. Some programs may be more competitive and require additional documentation or higher academic standards.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Below are common requirements you may need to meet when applying for nursing school:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Completed application form[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]High school diploma (for undergraduate programs) or bachelor’s degree (for graduate-level programs)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Minimum GPA, often ranging from 2.5-3.5, depending on program competitiveness[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Personal essay or statement of purpose, outlining your interest in nursing and career goals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letters of recommendation, typically from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Documentation of volunteer or healthcare-related experience (optional but recommended)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Entrance exam scores, such as the TEAS, HESI, or other standardized tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Application fee, which varies by school[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admissions interview, required by some programs as part of the selection process[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Understanding these expectations early can help you stay organized and strengthen your application.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Nursing Volunteer Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most nursing programs do not set a strict minimum number of volunteer hours, but many recommend or prefer applicants to have at least 100 hours of relevant experience. These hours can strengthen your application by showing commitment to healthcare environments.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some competitive BSN or direct-entry MSN programs may informally expect more extensive experience, especially if you lack a healthcare employment history. Programs typically value:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Volunteering in hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Red Cross or other community health organizations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Community service with a healthcare or caregiving focus[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other healthcare volunteer opportunities, including overseas healthcare missions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Check individual school guidelines, as program expectations vary widely and may be listed as “recommended” rather than “required.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Nursing School Applicant Interview[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some nursing programs include an admissions interview with faculty or admissions staff to better understand your motivation, communication skills, and readiness for a career in nursing. While some interviews are held on campus, many schools now offer virtual interviews for added convenience.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Though interviews can feel intimidating, preparation is key. Expect to answer questions that explore your interest in nursing, your problem-solving abilities, and how you align with the program’s mission. Prepare to discuss personal experiences, ethical scenarios, and your professional goals. To make a strong impression:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Arrive early (or log in early if virtual)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Dress professionally[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Research the program and its values[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Be familiar with current trends in nursing and healthcare[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following are common questions nursing school faculty may ask during your interview.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Why did you choose nursing as a career?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How do you handle stress or high-pressure situations?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What are your short- and long-term career goals?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How do you plan to balance the demands of nursing school?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Tell us about a time you showed compassion or leadership.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Why did you apply to this nursing program specifically?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How would you handle a situation where a patient refuses care?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What do you think are the biggest issues in healthcare today?[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]By preparing thoughtful responses and practicing aloud, you can enter your interview with confidence and professionalism.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Pick a Nursing Career Path[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”Nurse” is an umbrella term that encompasses several distinct professions or roles: RN, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/lpn-lvn/”]licensed practical or vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)[/hen-ui-link], and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each role has different responsibilities, education requirements, and scope of patient care, making it important to choose the right fit for your goals. The key, Jones said, is being intentional about meeting those goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”If you’re undecided, choose a program with a wide range of clinical experiences,” Jones said. “Exposure to different specialties can help you find your fit. Look at class sizes, support services, and flexibility, like full-time vs. part-time or hybrid formats. Focus on the overall environment and how well it aligns with your lifestyle and learning needs.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4”]While a certified nursing assistant (CNA) has “nurse” in the name, they don’t have the same level of education and training. However, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/cna/”]becoming a CNA[/hen-ui-link] and getting work experience can help you gain employment and experience in the healthcare world and determine whether a career there is right for you.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to nursing school, consider your long-term goals. Are you pursuing bedside care, leadership, education, or advanced clinical practice? Each career track has different educational and licensure requirements and goals. For example, LPNs require less training than RNs and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]APRNs[/hen-ui-link] must earn a master’s or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/”]doctoral degree[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses may choose to specialize after becoming licensed RNs or during graduate-level education. Specialization isn’t something most students decide in school, but it’s helpful to start thinking about the populations or settings that interest you most. These might include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Pediatrics:[/hen-ui-text] Working with infants, children, and adolescents[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Geriatrics:[/hen-ui-text] Supporting aging populations with chronic or age-related conditions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Critical Care:[/hen-ui-text] Providing urgent care in ICUs or emergency departments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Oncology:[/hen-ui-text] Caring for patients undergoing cancer treatment[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing:[/hen-ui-text] Addressing emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric conditions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Women’s Health:[/hen-ui-text] Focusing on reproductive and gynecological care, often as a nurse midwife or NP[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In the short term, focus on identifying the type of nurse you want to become — LPN/LVN, RN, or APRN — and the education path your choice requires. Choosing a specialty can wait until you have gained clinical experience and know what interests you most. However, identifying your initial interests can help guide your school selection and long-term planning.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choose a Nursing Degree Type[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Defining your career goals is key to selecting the right nursing degree. Each credential offers a different scope of practice, level of responsibility, and salary potential. Below are the most common nursing degree and certification types, from entry-level roles to advanced practice positions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: 4-12 weeks[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Certificate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: CNAs support patients with daily living activities like bathing, eating, and mobility. They work under the supervision of licensed nurses.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: Nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: Many use the CNA role as a stepping stone to becoming an LPN or RN.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Licensed Practical Nurse / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: 12-18 months[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Diploma or certificate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: LPNs/LVNs provide basic nursing care such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with wound care.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: Hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: You may choose a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]nursing bridge program[/hen-ui-link] to an RN license[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: Two years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Associate degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: ADN-prepared RNs deliver direct patient care, administer medications, and coordinate with healthcare teams.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: Hospitals, outpatient centers, home health care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: RNs may choose to pursue a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree through [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/best-online-rn-to-bsn-programs/”]RN-to-BSN bridge programs[/hen-ui-link] for improved employment potential as most employers prefer BSN-prepared RNs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: Four years (or 12-24 months for RN-to-BSN bridge program)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: BSN-prepared nurses take on broader responsibilities, including leadership, case management, and public health roles.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: All healthcare settings[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: Required for entry into most graduate nursing programs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: Two years post-BSN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: MSN nurses often specialize as nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNS), nurse educators, or administrators.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: Clinics, hospitals, universities, leadership positions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: You may pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for advanced practice or executive roles.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Duration: 3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credential: Doctorate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What They Do: DNP programs train nurses in advanced clinical practice, systems leadership, and healthcare policy. They may work as NPs, nurse anesthetists, or in executive roles.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where They Work: Hospitals, private practices, healthcare organizations, academia[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next Steps: Terminal degree in nursing, though you choose to pursue additional certification in sub-specialties.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Choosing the right degree depends on your timeline, interests, and long-term goals. Whether you’re entering the field as a CNA or planning for a doctorate, each step builds a foundation for a rewarding nursing career.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]FAQ: How to Apply for Nursing School[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How do I stand out on my nursing school application?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To stand out on your nursing school application, highlight any healthcare experience, academic achievements, and your passion for patient care. Include volunteer work, leadership roles, and a compelling personal statement that reflects your commitment to nursing and long-term goals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”When should I start applying for nursing school?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start applying to nursing school at least 6-12 months before you hope to start. Deadlines vary by program, so research early. Use this time to gather transcripts, write your personal statement, and complete prerequisites or entrance exams like the TEAS, if required.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What GPA will get you into nursing school?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most nursing schools require a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0, but competitive programs often prefer applicants with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Strong grades in science and prerequisite courses can boost your chances of admission. Check individual program requirements before applying.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Why is applying to nursing school so hard?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Applying to nursing school is competitive because there are limited spots in most programs, strict GPA and prerequisite requirements, and a rising demand for nurses. Applicants may also need to complete entrance exams, essays, and interviews.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]