Applying to a New Nurse Transition program

jfratian, DNP, RN, CRNA · Nov 16, 2014

I think you should start this summer, but the bare minimum is 6 months out. The AF NTP board is annually ~July, but realize that it is extremely competitive. You'll probably need >3.5 GPA to be competitive. Also understand that they don't take very many people, and that the civilian NTP program is the first thing on the chopping block. These days, all branches are cutting their numbers. The Army got rid of their program a while ago, and now only takes nurses with >2 years experience.

Dreaming1007 · Nov 19, 2014

I started talking with my recruiter the beginning of my senior year. Keep in mind that all the paperwork that needs to be completed (including recommendations) cannot be dated more then 6 months before the board meets. So my recruiter gave me all the paperwork to fill out and didn't date it until it was ready to be submitted. The process took about 4 months with MEPs and chief nurse interview but I would notify the people writing your recommendations ahead of time and give them a deadline.

The board that I went up against last year was about 300 applicants with 30 slots for med surg and like 15 for OB. I didn't think I would have a shot because you go up against some heavy hitters who look real good on paper but I am prior Air Force so I think that helped. Do not get discouraged though because the majority of the selectees did not have military experience, it was just a bonus of mine.

I say go for it! Good luck!