Applying w/o RN

[Nurse2075]

I was advised to start applying for jobs before graduation.

The on-line systems today ask you if you have a valid RN before they even let you submit an application.

Do you click yes to get through?

Seems dishonest, but how to I get them to look at my resume any other way??

Thanks!

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

It seems to be a trend in some facilities that they will not consider applications from an unlicensed graduate. It could be there is a lot of competition and it's a way to weed out applications or they may have been burned in the past with hiring GNs who went on to fail NCLEX and could no longer work as a GN.

I would not check a box stating that you have something you do not have. The employer could look at it as dishonesty and completely reject you as an applicant, even if you were to apply again after becoming licensed.

[Jaykalkyn, BSN, RN]

You are most definitely supposed to click no, that you do not possess the RN designation.

Are you applying for a new grad position? Facilities will recognize that you are a new grad. If you feel a way about it, when you attach your resume, include your anticipated graduation/test date. For example, in the education section, you can put: "University of Ohio, BSN expected 5/2015." You can also insert an estimated NCLEX test date. I included both on my resume as there was no place to add a comment in the hospitals online application system.

I just started my first RN position on cardiac stepdown unit. I've been there two weeks and have had the position secured since last October. Facilities plan well in advance for their staffing needs as graduation times approach. A lost of schools, most of them where I live, recommend that you start applying at the beginning of your last semester of nursing school; some even start the earlier than that. The majority of my graduating class of 25 had already secured positions well in advance of graduating and even passing the NCLEX.

Applying early is important, particularly if you are interested in a particular area. I had two offers in cardiac, which is what I wanted. I chose the one that I felt would give me the most experience and opportunity to learn.

I graduated in December so the number of new grads was far less than for May graduations. You definitely want to consider the timing as well.

Good luck in your search, now go out there and get that RN job!!!!!!