Best Time to Apply for Jobs?

[ColleenT]

I'll be graduating in mid May 2016, and I'm wondering: When is the ideal time to send out my applications to hospitals?

I've heard mixed things from instructors and HR departments, and I know it often depends on what the particular hospital hiring page says; but is January a good time? Should I try earlier like December? Or should I go for closer to graduation, like March?

I'm not sure if this matters, but I'll also be moving out of state to start my career.

[RN403, BSN, RN]

The earlier the better. I would start connecting with nurse recruiters and inquiring about new graduate nurse residency programs. If you can find a new grad nurse program in your area, you might find that the application session is opening soon or right around the new year.