when to apply for nurse residency programs

**NICU Guy, BSN, RN** · Feb 1, 2018

I was wondering when I should start submitting applications? Should I only apply to residency programs before graduation, if so how far in advance?

Most hospitals will put a job opening of "New Grad Residency" or have a section on their website about the program and the application procedure.

Should I wait to apply to hospitals that do not have residency programs until after I graduate?

Some hospitals' job boards will allow you to apply without a license. Most will have a question on your online application like "Do you have a license for this position?". If you answer "No", then it will close out your application as either "Does not meet qualifications" or "No longer under consideration".

llg, PhD, RN · Feb 2, 2018

You have to ask the particular programs that interest you. Each employer has its own preferred timeline.

Also, don't limit yourself to only those hospitals that use the term "residency." That is the fashionable term right now -- but not every good hospital is using it. If a hospital seems appealing, ask about their orientation programs for new graduates. I've known some hospitals that have used the term "residency," but whose programs were terrible -- and I have known other hospitals not to use that term who offered new grads great orientations. Look at the substance of the orientation programs -- not the fancy titles and slick advertising materials.

Good luck