C=degree

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

How do you feel about the statement in the title?I am a second term nursing student. Not the super star straight A student, usually B student. I have never been surrounded by so many type A, super competitive people in my life and tbh, it can be very off putting to be in that type of environment all the time.I have come to accept the fact that I will never be the A student and have become comfortable with less. What is your take on straight C or B students entering nursing? What is your take on students who try hard but don't make A's?Have employers made a big deal out of your gpa?

[PinkNBlue, BSN, RN]

C is average. I do much better in clinical and on the floor, showing what I am capable of as opposed to standardized exams. I was never a good test taker so I really don't think it matters as long as you meet the requirements and you show you're competent. I know some very 'book smart' people that were terrible in clinical, because nursing is grey, not black and white.

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

C is average. I do much better in clinical and on the floor, showing what I am capable of as opposed to standardized exams. I was never a good test taker so I really don't think it matters as long as you meet the requirements and you show you're competent. I know some very 'book smart' people that were terrible in clinical, because nursing is grey, not black and white.

Do employers really care about GPA or just nclex?

[That Guy, BSN, RN, EMT-B]

Grades are not a reflection of knowledge. And no, my grades have never hurt me.

[ORoxyO]

I didn't have a single person ask about grades when I interviewed. They did ask for transcripts with my final paperwork to make an offer official, but offers were already on the table.

[PinkNBlue, BSN, RN]

Same situation as ORoxyO. I already got the job but they wanted my official transcripts. The only thing they care about for NCLEX is that you passed.

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

Thanks for responses. Nursing and jobs have just gotten to be super competitive lately and I was wondering if employers are starting to use grades as a way to weed out applicants.

[PinkNBlue, BSN, RN]

I haven't heard of any employers doing that. I think they're aware that just because you have a 4.0 GPA doesn't mean you're the best candidate for the job. It's the whole picture. :)

[netglow, ASN, RN]

I have filled out applications where I've been asked my GPA for every degree earned, as well as how many years it took to gain the degree, start date and end date. It depends on the academic calibre of the place hiring. I have also been asked if I had my transcripts with me, I have. Copies were made.

I've also filled out applications that are corporate and want a nurse. These always want GPA (the one's I've filled out anyway).

I've filled out applications for licensure additionally in the state next to mine. They asked if I passed the NCLEX on the first testing.

[Despareux]

I often hear people say to nursing students they wouldn't want to be a patient of a nurse who didn't receive all A's in school. So I guess it does matter to those who do not understand the sacrifices and dedication that is put into becoming a nurse.

We were told in school that passing NCLEX is what matters most. GPA is usually only needed if you haven't graduated yet.

[TiffyRN, BSN, PhD]

I personally have never been asked for a GPA, just proof of licensure. I can understand that in the last couple of years employers are looking for any way to plow through dozens of applications and maybe GPA would help them cull the apps. From what I know, GPA is only important if one has aspirations for advanced practice, otherwise, C=pass. My personal experience with my fellow nursing students was that GPA had nothing to do with floor skills. The only person in my class not to pass NCLEX on the 1st attempt had average nursing course grades (B's) and above average clinical skills. She passed on her 2nd attempt.

I am enrolled in BSN classes (with no aspirations for higher degrees) and it's hard to remember that a C is all I really need.

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

I personally have never been asked for a GPA, just proof of licensure. I can understand that in the last couple of years employers are looking for any way to plow through dozens of applications and maybe GPA would help them cull the apps. From what I know, GPA is only important if one has aspirations for advanced practice, otherwise, C=pass. My personal experience with my fellow nursing students was that GPA had nothing to do with floor skills. The only person in my class not to pass NCLEX on the 1st attempt had average nursing course grades (B's) and above average clinical skills. She passed on her 2nd attempt. I am enrolled in BSN classes (with no aspirations for higher degrees) and it's hard to remember that a C is all I really need.

As much as I would like to go to grad school in the distant future, I think having straight B's will be a major disadvantage.