Applying to Nurse Practitioner School

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Hello everyone,

I have a question about applying to Nurse Practitioner programs. I am currently enrolled in a second degree BSN nursing program and will be graduating in December 2015. I am planning to apply to NP school as soon as possible after graduation. My question is can you begin to apply to NP programs before you pass the state boards or do you have to pass the boards and have your licence before you apply? I will be applying to schools in PA. Thank you for your replies in advance.

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You need the RN license. You plan on workin as an RN while in school right?

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Yes I plan on working as an RN during school, I will be taking the boards as soon as possible after graduation, my question is if I could START the application process for NP school prior to taking my boards or if you have to wait until you have the licence in hand to start applying. Sorry for the confusion.

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I don't think so. One of the first questions usually addresses if you have your RN license ( For BSN to MSN at least).

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Probably the best thing you could do is contact the schools you are interested in and asking them directly.

This something that may vary from school to school. I would imagine you would need it before starting clinicals at the very least.

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I've also been applying. It seems that they all ask if you are an RN. Some schools even require that you have worked a minimum of 2 yrs as a rn......You can check different schools and look at admission requirements. Maybe you can find 1 that doesn't require this....but i haven't seen ne!

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Specializes in Adult Internal Medicine.

You have to have your RN license to participate in NP clinical rotations.

Sent from my iPhone.

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I believe you have to have your RN license to even apply.

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Having it in hand would at least make the process go more smoothly.

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Thank you all for the info! I'll graduate in December 2015 and take the boards soon thereafter. I would ideally like to begin applying to try to start the NP program the Fall 2016 semester. My number one choice is Penn State's FNP program which doesn't state a required amount of RN experience, they do require 2 years experience for their critical care option. I was just wondering if anyone else had any experience with a situation like mine and began the applicantion process prior to having their actual licence. I will contact the program directly and clarify with them. Thank you again for your input!

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I applied to MSN programs and have been accepted while still in school (I am also in an accelerated program). My acceptance is just contingent on passing the NCLEX.

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what is the best school online to get the NP degree?

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