If I'm moving to the US from Canada... some pre-CRNA questions

[blackberrypatch]

Hello, I am a high school student and I am planning to be a CRNA in the future. I have a few questions about the process, and I would really appreciate some help =)

I live in Canada (BC), and I am planning to go to the University of British Columbia to get my BScN. However, I would like to live in the US in the future. When should I move to the US? Right after my undergrad so I can get ICU experience in an American setting (and can shadow some CRNA's)? Or maybe after my one year in the ICU?

In my move to the US, what are the tests or certifications I have to pass as far as nursing goes, and how long will they take after I graduate with my bachelor's? Also, how long does citizenship application take? I plan to move permanently.

I've looked at some colleges for CRNA training, and they require state certification for nursing. Also, I have to be accepted into the college before applying for the CRNA program. Since I don't live in the US, can someone please name a few good programs in areas with relatively low costs of living? I will be living solely off student loans.

I have more questions if someone wants to let me pm them or ask them here. These are my main questions. Thank you for reading!

[mmc-rockstar]

Wow, I am impressed with your ambition at such a young age Blackberry. Unfortunately I don't have too many answers to your quesitons, but here's some of what I do know. When you work in the US you will most likely take the board exam in whatever state you live in (So that would be good to do asap after graduating) At this point you will have your state certification (license) and can start getting ICU experience. You do not need to be accepted to the University before applying to CRNA school (same process). As for cost, the cheapest I know of is Mayo in Rochester, MN. Just a thought, you may consider moving to the US on a student VISA, perhaps in MN....working for Mayo as a new grad...and applying to their program. ( Just food for thought) Good luck to you and remember to keep those undergrad grades up, you will have more options that way!!!

[blackberrypatch]

Thank you for replying, mmc-rockstar. I do realize that I may be jumping the gun on this one, and that I could just as easily find out that being a CRNA is not for me. However, I really do have to make it out to the US first!

One question, after nursing school in Canada, should I take the NCLEX? Or should I take it the US? Also, is the Mayo Clinic cheaper in terms of tuition costs or is the surrounding area at a lower cost of living?