Knowing how to apply for nursing school before submitting applications eases the process while setting you up for success. Nursing school applications are a multi-step process that involves research, speaking to an admissions counselor, and gathering all application materials. You may need to take an admissions test and complete prerequisites.
Applying to nursing school may require gathering documentation, submitting test scores, and writing a personal statement or admissions essay. Each nursing school maintains its own requirements for admission and procedures for applying, so you should always defer to the school’s instructions when learning how to apply for nursing school.
At Concordia University Texas, you can work with a dedicated admissions counselor while you navigate the application process for our Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track. Your counselor will walk you through each step: initial eligibility review, application submission, and the steps to take before starting the ABSN track.
Applying to nursing school is fairly straightforward. First, research your options and confirm your eligibility. Then, gather the needed documentation and submit your application.
Nursing School Application Checklist: What to Do Before You Apply
There are a few steps you should take before applying for a nursing program. You should:
- Ensure you can clearly articulate why you want to become a nurse. Expect to be asked this question during the application process.
- Research your degree options and decide which best suits you.
- Research your nursing school options.
- Understand the requirements to become a nurse, which include a degree and licensure.
Generally, the first step in the admissions process is to speak with a counselor to review requirements and determine if the program is right for you. At Concordia University Texas, you’ll be assigned a dedicated admissions counselor to help you navigate the process for the ABSN track. During the initial conversation, you and your counselor will:
- Ask and answer questions.
- Discuss your academic history.
- Confirm your eligibility to apply using your unofficial transcripts.
Your counselor may also explain how the nursing degree track works and give you an idea of what to expect.
Should you make a career change to nursing?
Step 1: Choose the Right Track for Your Goals
The first step to applying for a nursing program is researching your options. You could become a nurse after earning either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Most ADN degrees require two years to complete, during which students learn the fundamentals of nursing and patient care. A BSN is traditionally a four-year program and provides a more comprehensive nursing education. Graduates have the necessary foundation for pursuing career advancement later, as a BSN is the minimum degree requirement for graduate programs.
An ABSN condenses a four-year BSN education into a shorter amount of time. They are designed for non-traditional students who have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or college credits. In Concordia University Texas’s accelerated BSN track, students earn their BSN in as few as 16 months upon successful completion of prerequisites.
Keep in mind that some nursing schools are entirely onsite, while others are hybrid, such as Concordia Texas’s ABSN track, which means coursework is completed online and labs and clinical rotations are in person. It may help to create a list of your career goals and preferred timeline when choosing the best nursing school for you.
Step 2: Confirm You Meet Nursing School Requirements and Prerequisites
After creating a shortlist of nursing schools, review the admissions requirements. If you are applying to ABSN programs, make sure you meet the college credit or bachelor’s degree requirements and prepare to meet the prerequisite courses’ GPA requirements.
For example, Concordia University Texas’s ABSN track requirements include:
- A non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 credits
- A cumulative 3.0 GPA in prior college coursework or for a conferred degree
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in natural science prerequisite courses
- A score of 67% or higher on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) taken within the past three years
If you come close to qualifying, but your GPA is a little low, it’s still worth it to talk to an admissions counselor. You may be able to raise your GPA through prerequisite courses.
Step 3: Gather Transcripts, Test Scores, and Other Required Documents
After you’ve chosen the right nursing program for you, start gathering the required documents for your application. Consult your admissions counselor to determine what you’ll need. At Concordia University Texas, for example, you’ll need to submit your TEAS test scores and arrange to submit all official transcripts.
You may also need to complete prerequisite courses. While not a common admissions requirement for traditional BSN programs, prerequisites are an important part of the admissions process for accelerated programs, as they ensure that all students enter with the foundation needed for advanced science and nursing courses.
When applying to Concordia Texas’s ABSN track, your admissions counselor will review your transcripts and determine which prerequisite courses you must complete. They will help establish a timeline and continuously check in to ensure you remain on track. After completing these courses, arrange to have your grades submitted to the school if you do not complete them through Concordia University Texas.
Step 4: Complete Your Application
Many nursing schools use NursingCAS for the admissions process. NursingCAS is an application portal that enables you to apply to multiple nursing schools via a more streamlined process. Be sure to follow the individual instructions for each nursing school, if applicable.
Step 5: Write Your Personal Statement and Prepare for Interviews
Many nursing schools, including Concordia University Texas, require a personal statement or essay to be submitted along with the application. Your admissions counselor will help ensure that your essay meets topic requirements and all other specifications. Spend time fine-tuning your essay before submitting; you’ll want to ensure it reflects your genuine voice.
Some nursing schools may prefer or require an interview, which might be conducted in person or remotely. You can prepare for the interview by conducting a mock interview to practice answering common questions, such as “Why do you want to become a nurse?” and “Why did you choose this nursing school?”
Step 6: Determine How to Finance Nursing School
A nursing education is an investment, so it is likely you will need to take out student loans to cover tuition costs, supplies, and living expenses. It is essential to plan ahead. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available for each year that you’re in nursing school.
Private student loans and third-party scholarships are also available in addition to federal student aid. Consider all your options when developing a financial plan so you can find the right one that best sets you up for the future.
Concordia Texas’s financial office is available to answer questions and guide applicants through the process.
Follow the top tips for success in nursing school.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Apply for Nursing School
Your admissions counselor can help you stay on track during the application process; however, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes:
- Failing to research the nursing school thoroughly before applying
- Forgetting to proofread your admission essay
- Not following application instructions precisely
- Not preparing properly for the interview
- Not studying for the admissions test
You should also check with your admissions counselor to ensure your application is complete and you’ve provided all necessary documentation before submitting.
Final Checklist: How to Stand Out When You Apply for a Nursing Program
When applying to nursing school, it can be helpful to emphasize skills relevant to nursing, such as communication, empathy, adaptability, and time management. You should also strive to craft an authentic and unique admissions essay. Tell a story about why you decided to become a nurse instead of opting for a generic statement like, “I want to help people.”
Although healthcare experience isn’t necessary to apply to most nursing schools, having it may set you apart from the crowd. Look for volunteer positions or entry-level roles at local healthcare facilities to gain some experience.
Earn Your BSN at Concordia University Texas
At Concordia University Texas, prospective students are supported throughout the admissions process. Admissions counselors are always available to assist you with your application and answer any questions. Concordia University Texas prepares students to succeed through comprehensive coursework, nursing simulation labs, and clinical rotations.
Contact an admissions counselor today and discover how to apply to nursing school.