Applying to NP Programs Senior Year

[csat]

Hi everyone,

I will be a senior in a BSN program this fall. I also intend on applying to PMHNP programs this fall. I have a great GPA, GRE, relevant experience, letters of rec, statement of purpose, but I was just curious if any of you know if applying prior to graduation and taking the NCLEX will seriously jeopardize my chances of admission. Also, should I apply as soon as the application opens during the fall, or wait until winter recess? If any of you have any insight, suggestions, or personal experiences I would love to hear them.

[csat]

Shibaowner and direw0lf, thank you, so much. Your advice is a breath of fresh air amidst, what seems to be, the majority of allnurses. All of the programs I am applying to do not require RN experience. My only concern is that the programs may perceive accepting to be a "risk" since I will not take the NCLEX until April; if I fail, it may be too late for the school to fill my seat, thereby reducing the schools' enrollement, yield, and funding. Thankfully, however, this route does appear very feasible, and I agree, w0lf, it seems more schools are now welcoming this path, especially top programs.

Finally, w0lf, can you PM me? I tried, but don't know how.

[hooliebug, BSN, RN]

I would wait until after you graduate from your BSN program and pass the NCLEX before applying to graduate programs. Many graduate programs require potential students to have a current unencumbered license to apply, and you'd look pretty foolish if, for whatever reason, you fail the NCLEX and have to explain that to a selection committee. My advice: slow you roll, wait until winter.