Should I apply before I graduate to AF? Or do you have to have degree in hand?

Specialties Government

Published

Hello,

I am graduating with my BSN in May. I am hoping to get into the AF. I have heard the paperwork takes a long time. Should I appy sooner, or after I get my degree?? I'm not sure how this works, and would appreciate information from someone who has done the process.

Thanks!

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start the process asap. get in touch with a health care recruiter if you haven't already and get the paperwork going. there's really no point in waiting because there is a lot you can get done before you have your degree. good luck!

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Specializes in Psych NP.

You're going to want to get started right away. If you haven't already, visit Airforce.com and go to Explore Opportunities then Healthcare Opportunities section; you can check out the page for nurses under "Careers" and get a better feel for what to expect. Also there is a link on the top that says Recruiter, you should be able to find a local recruiter office using that (specify that you need a Healthcare recruiter).

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Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.

ksk, get in there now. There is more paperwork than one can possibly imagine. Start getting it all together and see a recruiter now. Ensure you find a nursing recruiter. I started this process in June 09. I thought I'd go in January. I still have no word. And I was on top of my paperwork. I suggest you look for a job as a new grad while you wait, just don't share that you are working on the AF and don't sign any contracts. lol.

Good luck.

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My other concern with applying now is I have 13 lbs to drop until I make the weight as listed on the height/weight chart. I'm working out like crazy and dropping weight very quickly. Can I apply now, or do I have to get that duck in a row first?

Also, to apply, do I go see the healthcare professions recruiter for that? He's 4 hours away from my home, so if some of this can be done by mail/fax/email, that would be good to know! :)

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Specializes in LTAC/ ICU.

Don't worry about the weight issue just yet. They will have to set you up for MEPS which is the military entrance processing system physical and that is when it will matter, but that may be 2 months away. Go ahead and contact a recruiter and they will usually come to you or maybe a nursing school close to you where you can meet. The paper work is lengthy and mind blowing at best but don't let it overwhelm you. If you have any questions with any portion of the paper work, flag it before you fill it out incorrectly and contact the recruiter for help. Any portion of the health screening you answer yes to, you will have to have extensive medical documentation to support (so, this is something you can begin working on ASAP). It is a long process and will take you about a year to complete. So, stay focused on your current life and do get a job. I wouldn't recommend informing your new employers of your AF application process, because there is always a chance you won't get selected and you don't want to miss out on other employment opportunities. I hope this helps a little.

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Most recruiters won't start the heavy paperwork until you lose the weight. Sounds as if you're having a lot of success so keep at it - and stay on your recruiter!

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