Choosing to become a nurse is a life-changing decision. Whether inspired by a personal experience or driven by the desire to help others, pursuing a nursing career is an incredibly rewarding yet challenging path. Deciding to go to nursing school, applying, taking entrance exams, getting accepted, and preparing for the journey are all critical steps in shaping your future as a healthcare professional. Here’s a detailed guide on each stage of the process.
Deciding to Apply to Nursing School
Deciding to apply to nursing school can be both exciting and daunting. Nursing isn’t just a career; it’s a commitment to caring for others in some of their most vulnerable moments. Before making this decision, you should consider whether you’re ready for the academic rigor and emotional demands of nursing school.
For many, the decision stems from personal experiences. Perhaps you’ve been inspired by a family member who’s a nurse, or you’ve witnessed first-hand the impact nurses make in healthcare settings. Others are drawn to the stability, job prospects, and varied career paths nursing offers.
Research is your best friend at this stage. Look into the different types of nursing programs available. For instance, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs generally take two years, while Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs take around four. BSN programs tend to offer more advancement opportunities but take longer to complete. It’s important to weigh your circumstances—family, work commitments, and finances—before making this decision.
Applying to Nursing School
Once you’ve decided to pursue nursing, it’s time to navigate the application process. The first step is researching schools that align with your goals, whether that’s proximity, program length, or reputation. Most nursing programs have specific requirements, so it’s crucial to understand what each school expects from applicants.
Start by ensuring you meet the prerequisites for your chosen programs. These often include coursework in biology, chemistry, and anatomy, as well as general education requirements like English and math. Many programs also look at your GPA, particularly in science-related courses.
When you’re ready to apply, prepare to gather a host of materials. Most nursing schools require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and sometimes a personal statement. In your statement, take the opportunity to share your passion for nursing and explain why you’re a good fit for their program. Highlight any relevant healthcare experience, whether it’s volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a nurse, or working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Experience can help your application stand out.
Be mindful of deadlines—nursing schools often have strict cutoff dates for applications. Applying early can also give you an edge in competitive programs.
Taking the Entrance Exams (HESI A2 & TEAS)
Many nursing programs require you to take an entrance exam, like the HESI A2 or the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). These exams assess your readiness for nursing school by testing your knowledge in areas like math, reading comprehension, grammar, and science.
The HESI A2 consists of nine subject areas, including math, reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and various sciences like biology and chemistry. It also includes a personality profile section to evaluate whether you have the right attitude and emotional intelligence for nursing.
The TEAS is similar, covering reading, math, science, and English. However, the specific subjects and question formats can vary slightly between the two exams.
Preparation is key for both. Study guides, online practice tests, and even prep courses can help you familiarize yourself with the material. Many students find that focusing on weaker areas (like science or math) helps improve their scores. Remember, some schools place significant weight on entrance exam scores, so the effort you put in here can directly impact your acceptance odds.
Getting Accepted into Nursing School
After applying and taking your entrance exams, comes the waiting game. Nursing school admissions can be incredibly competitive, so it’s important to stay positive and prepared for multiple outcomes.
If you’re accepted, congratulations! This is a huge accomplishment. Many schools will send out formal acceptance letters with additional instructions, such as completing a background check, submitting immunization records, and registering for classes.
In some cases, you may be waitlisted. If this happens, don’t lose hope. Reach out to the admissions office and express your continued interest in the program. Some students on the waitlist are later admitted when spots open up.
If you’re not accepted, don’t be discouraged. It’s not uncommon to reapply to nursing school, especially in competitive areas. Use the time to retake any entrance exams, gain more healthcare experience, or strengthen your application in other ways. Persistence often pays off in the end.
Preparing to Start Nursing School
Once accepted, the real adventure begins. Preparing for nursing school is a critical step in setting yourself up for success. First, it’s essential to get organized. Nursing school can be intense, so having a solid plan for managing your time, finances, and support systems is crucial.
Financial Preparations
Nursing school can be expensive, especially BSN programs. Look into financial aid, scholarships, and grants early on. Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for nursing students, and it’s worth applying to as many as you qualify for. Consider speaking with a financial advisor to map out how you’ll pay for tuition, books, uniforms, and other supplies.
Time Management
Nursing school demands a significant time commitment. From classes and labs to clinical rotations and study sessions, managing your time efficiently is crucial. Invest in a good planner or use digital tools to organize your assignments, tests, and clinical schedules. It’s also important to balance school with your personal life—self-care is key to preventing burnout.
Gather Your Supplies
Many nursing schools will provide a list of required materials. This might include textbooks, scrubs, stethoscopes, nursing shoes, and other supplies. Some schools also require students to have health insurance or proof of vaccinations, so be sure to check your school’s specific requirements.
Mental Preparation
Mentally preparing for nursing school is just as important as gathering physical supplies. Nursing school can be challenging—emotionally, academically, and physically. You’ll be learning how to provide care in high-pressure environments, which can be stressful. It’s helpful to connect with others who have been through the process, such as current students or recent graduates. They can offer invaluable insights and advice on what to expect.
In addition to managing stress, cultivating a growth mindset will serve you well. You won’t know everything at first, and that’s okay. Be open to learning, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re a natural part of the process.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to go to nursing school and working through the application process, entrance exams, and acceptance is a huge commitment, but it sets you on the path to a rewarding career. With preparation, persistence, and a passion for helping others, you can successfully navigate the journey. Nursing is about more than just learning skills—it’s about developing compassion, resilience, and a deep understanding of patient care.
So, if you’ve decided to pursue nursing, you’re already on your way to making a meaningful impact in the world. Stay focused, stay determined, and remember that every challenge you face will bring you one step closer to your goal of becoming a nurse.
Nursing Wise | Student Nursing Blog 