Cannot get into RN school cuz I went to Special Ed

Published

Specializes in Geriatrics, Cath Lab, Cardiology,Neuro.

Hi everyone! I went to a "special ed" school thru high school on a IEP (Individualized Education Plan). I did take the sciences required for nursing school, however it is listed as "science" not chemistry or biology on my high school transcript. The school I want to go to will not accept my transcript. I did take biology at a community college, and the other pre-reqs like English and Psych. I did go thru and graduate from a Medical Assistant program because I cannot get into nursing school and wanted to learn the skills I will need to get my foot in the door. I have been a CNA for well over a year and half and worked as an Aide in Assisted Living for 6 months back in 2002. I am wondering what steps to take to get into RN school with my educational background! Help!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am really sorry you have to go through this. It seems really unfair especially since you completed all of the pre-reqs for your program. Although you already have a diploma and that "should" be good enough, would they look more favorably upon your transcript if you went back for a GED? Would they accept this? I know some colleges will accept a GED. But honestly I dont understand what their issue is, when they really should be looking at whether you gradated and you completed pre-reqs on a college level. Anyway Good Luck. You seem like you have the passion and drive and I truly hope that things work out for you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Do you have a standard or special diploma?

Your situation is more common than you may think. Some students are placed on a special diploma track as early as middle school. :banghead:

Consider meeting with an advisor to evaluate your situation. You may need to take the GED if you have a special diploma. Don't let your IEP deter you if you want to go to nursing school. You may have to jump through a few hoops though. Also, if you have an LD, you should also visit your school's student disability resource center to see what accomendations are available for you. Good Luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics, Cath Lab, Cardiology,Neuro.

I have a standard HS diploma, earned thru IEP. The nursing school I have in mind likes the fact I took my pre-reqs, and just need proof I took chemistry in HS. My transcript I obtained said "science" instead of chemistry. And once something is on a transcript, it is final. I am going to talk to some people and explain my situation. Thanks to everyone who responded to my post and thanks for the advice and help I need!!! Wish me luck!:nurse:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Oh I see. I've seen these situations as well. Good luck! Hopefully, the person who you will meet with can provide guidance.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

In my state the admissions requirements for community colleges state that as long as one is at least 18 years old one can be admitted. A high school diploma or GED is not required. You can take all of the required nursing prerequisites at the community college level and submit them for consideration. Then your high school record should not be of consequence. Of course, you will need to avail yourself of the available educational assistance at the community college so that you are successful in all of your classes, because you will still be competing with every other student who is trying to be admitted to the nursing program. Check this out with your community college to see if you can go this route.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in cardiology, psychiatry, corrections.

So the issue is that you don't have a chemistry credit? Your HS science class entailed chemistry but it doesn't state so? Am I understanding this correctly? Or are they holding the special ed against you?

I don't see what the problem is as long as you have a high school diploma, the required prerequisites and an acceptable GPA. Is it possible to take Chemistry at your college? I know it'll be a pain in the a$$ and more time and money spent, but if that's all you need, wouldn't it be worth it?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Maybe they are looking for a college level chem course? I bet if you took chemistry and then re-applied it would help your chances of getting in.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion