Applying for jobs before getting the RN?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Rehab.

Hello :)

I just graduated today! Yesterday was my final, and I passed so today is technically my graduation day (even though pinning isn't until next week). I've been applying to a few jobs here and there, but I'm wondering - am I wasting my time? I'm taking the NCLEX at the end of this month, because I have to take a review course first. So obviously I mention that in my cover letter and resume. Did any of you start applying for jobs in between graduation and RN licensure?

By the way, I do not live in a state that allows graduate nurses to practice. So I wouldn't be able to start until I get my RN, I just want to get the ball rolling.

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I am actually in the same position. I don't think that it is a waste of your time, but state in your cover letter which review course you are registered for as well as the date of the NCLEX exam. Congrats on graduating as well! Class of 2011 :)

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Specializes in PICU, Sedation/Radiology, PACU.

YES, YES, YES!! Start applying now! I started applying months before my graduation date (next week!) and I was hired in April even though I can't start until I get my license in June. You don't want to be behind the game- be ahead of it! Applications are being accepted for many RN positions right now and you don't want to wait for those spots to be filled. Chances are, you will have taken the NCLEX before you finish the interview and hiring process.

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Specializes in "Wound care - geriatric care.
YES, YES, YES!! Start applying now! I started applying months before my graduation date (next week!) and I was hired in April even though I can't start until I get my license in June. You don't want to be behind the game- be ahead of it! Applications are being accepted for many RN positions right now and you don't want to wait for those spots to be filled. Chances are, you will have taken the NCLEX before you finish the interview and hiring process.

You are a lucky one! I think for the most of us they are not even considering hiring without the NCLEX. That's because the competition is so fierce that they are looking for anything to eliminate candidates and that's one easy item off the list.

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I applied to positions a few weeks before graduating (I freaked out about not having a job hahah)........ For one of the positions, HR called back, asked if I had my license, and then told me to call back when I do

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Hemodialysis.

I would definitely get the resume and C.V. ready and start sending them out. Like previous poster's mentioned list your graduation date and that you will be taking your NCLEX in May/June etc. Some facilities will want you to already have your RN before they will even look at you but not all are this way. Good luck applying and showing that NCLEX who is boss.

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Specializes in Ortho/Neuro (2yrs); Mom/Baby (6yrs); LDRPN (4+yr).

Definitely start applying! Just because you won't be able to participate in patient care until you have your license doesn't mean you won't be able to start work before getting it (orientations, training, etc.). I started applying in February and just took my final 2 days ago. Most of the hospitals I spoke with (in IL) started taking application for May graduates in Feb/Mar and have already filled their open spots. Early action is why I'll be starting my new job on June 20, even though I just mailed in my license app 2 days ago. They just want me to have my ATT by the time I start work, so they know I may not be fully licensed just yet.

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How do you apply when you do not have your license? Do you just find a job for an RN that you like, fill out the application and put 000000000 as the license number? One hospital here has a new grad application but I don't know how to apply for the others.

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