Background check help

[BLieve13]

I'm applying to a nursing program in NJ, I'm a concerned that my background will disqualify me, I have a dwi from 8 years ago and 2 misdemeanors as well. I have an associates and bachelors degree as well. I hate justifying myself, but I'm a good hearted person, I took responsible and paid the price. I'm currently doing prerequisites for nursing. Anyone from NJ and have been in a similar situation? Any advice would help me out a lot.

[crazydoglady89]

I would highly advise that you check your hopeful nursing programs website for more information regarding the background check. One of my schools had a PPT slide deck that detailed each of the requirements. I remember one particular slide spelling out the background check and things to be mindful of/what they are looking for. Maybe you can ask your school if they have any of this information available?

[VerticalHorizon]

It all depends on the program, I would set up a meeting with them to talk about it in person when you apply. For what it's worth I knew two people who had a DUI on their records from several years back in my graduating class.

[LoveJRenee, BSN, RN]

In addition to checking with your school of choice, more importantly, you should also check with your state board to see if you would even qualify to sit for the NCLEX. I too had a DUI many years ago so before I started my pre reqs I looked on my state board website to see what the requirements are. They required that I fill out a form and submit all this paperwork from my case. Then they reviewed it (took about 1 month) and mailed me a letter stating that I would be eligible to sit for the exam and i would need to keep that letter they sent me and present it with my application when i register for the NCLEX. Im in texas. i would imagine that other states have a policies and procedures for this.