16 Common Nursing School Interview Questions & Answers

TheCommuter, BSN, RN

There are many reasons to pursue a nursing career, including making a difference in the lives of others, job stability and growth, having a diverse career path with many specialties to choose from, lifelong learning, professional development, and more.

Suppose you're planning to submit applications to nursing programs. In that case, you probably already know that most reputable schools of nursing will require you to undergo an interview with the nursing program director, assistant director of nursing education, nursing department chair, or some other similarly titled official. The interviewer wants to understand your sense of presence or lack of interpersonal skills, realism, problem-solving capabilities, moral fabric, and views on conflict resolution.

To guide you through this process, we've outlined some of the educational paths for nurses and provided some questions you might be asked during a typical nursing school interview.

Table of Contents

Types of Nursing Schools
Common Interview Questions
How to Pick a Nursing School

Types of Nursing Schools

There are several different pathways to becoming a nurse. Here are some of the common routes:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The BSN program is a four-year undergraduate degree program offered by colleges and universities. It provides a comprehensive education in nursing theory, clinical practice, and leadership skills. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse (RN).

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): The ADN program is a two-year program offered by community colleges and technical schools. It focuses on the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed to become an entry-level registered nurse. After graduation, ADN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

Diploma in Nursing: Hospitals or healthcare facilities typically offer this program. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Upon completion, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam. While less common today, diploma programs still exist in certain regions.

Accelerated BSN Programs: Designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, accelerated BSN programs provide a fast-track route to earn a BSN. These programs typically take around 12 to 18 months to complete.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to RN Programs: LPNs who wish to become RNs can enroll in LPN to RN bridge programs. These programs build upon the practical nursing knowledge and experience of LPNs, allowing them to earn an ADN or BSN and become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Online and Hybrid Programs: Many nursing programs offer online or hybrid (combination of online and in-person) options to accommodate students' needs. These programs provide flexibility and allow students to complete coursework at their own pace while still meeting clinical requirements.

Second Degree or Direct Entry Programs: These programs are designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and want to pursue a career in nursing. They offer an accelerated curriculum to earn a BSN or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

It's important to note that each state's nursing board has specific requirements for licensure, so aspiring nurses should research and ensure they meet the specific criteria for their desired state of practice. Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can provide further opportunities for specialization and advanced nursing roles.

Most Common Nursing School Interview Questions

Students may encounter several questions during nursing school interviews, but the 16 below are some of the most common.

1. Tell us why you'd like to become a nurse

An answer to this question that has become cliche and overused throughout the years is, "I want to help people!" Be honest but specific. Furthermore, the interviewer will not want to hear that you want to be a nurse because your mother, aunt, and maternal grandmother were nurses.

2. What are some of your hobbies or passions?

The answer to this question can give the interviewer more profound insight into the applicant's interests. This question has no incorrect answer because we all enjoy different pastimes. One applicant might like cooking, whereas another may be an avid musician. Again, be honest and forthright.

3. If you see a classmate stealing, what would you do?

This question was formulated to assess your moral compass and ethical views. Here's a clue: the interviewer does not want to hear that you will keep quiet about the situation.

4. A nurse at a clinical practicum site is acting unethically. What would you do?

This question also assesses your moral compass and ethical viewpoints. While the interviewer will not want you to remain quiet about the situation, he or she probably will not want you to skip the chain of command.

Related: 10 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2023

5. What are your strengths?

This question has no correct or incorrect answer because we all have various strengths to bring to the table. Some candidates are excellent orators, whereas others have the uncanny ability to soothe peoples' anxieties. Some people are great at problem-solving, while others are outstanding at solitary pursuits such as reading and computer skills.

6. What are your weaknesses?

First of all, every single person in existence has one or more weaknesses. However, for this upcoming interview, you will want to present one or two socially acceptable weaknesses and an action plan to address them. Also, please refrain from uttering cliche phrases such as "I work too hard!"

7. What would your previous bosses or classmates say about you?

The answer to this question will give the interviewer insight into your perceived work ethic and other peoples' perceptions of you. Direct quotes will convey your point strikingly well. "My current supervisor, Jane Smith, would describe me as a dependable employee who never calls out."

8. Why do you want to be admitted into our nursing program?

You can shine when you show the interviewer that you have conducted prior research about the school. "This nursing school has produced many fine nurses since it first graduated its first class in 1978, and I would be honored to receive my nursing education here."

9. What would you do if you struggled in a nursing course?

The answer to this question attempts to assess your resourcefulness and inclination to proactively seek help as needed. Students who take ownership of their learning and speak up when they are not understanding are preferred over those who passively wait for events to transpire. In other words, the interviewer wants to understand your coping skills during rough times.

Additionally, interviewers will not be particularly fond of candidates who tend to externalize their problems. "I got a D grade in anatomy because I had a bad professor," is a statement that may or may not come from a candidate who copes by externalizing personal problems.

10. What would you do if you had a conflict with a professor?

When asking this question, the interviewer attempts to ascertain your maturity level, interpersonal skills, and approach to conflict resolution. Mature students will try to resolve conflicts without escalating the issue too high on the chain of command. In other words, attempt to resolve the issue with the professor before running to the director of nursing education, nursing department chair, or dean.

11. Tell us why you'd be the best candidate for our nursing program.

This is the time to sell all of your positive qualities. Show the interviewer that you would be an asset to the nursing school. Convey that you will be a future asset to the nursing profession. Communicate your enthusiasm. Point out that once you start a venture, you will not abandon it until the mission is accomplished.

12. Do you have any questions for us?

Now is the time to ask questions about scheduling, exit exams, clinical practicum sites, and any reasonable question about the nursing program that has piqued your interest. You may appear to lack interest or curiosity if you do not have one question to ask the interviewer.

Related: 10 Best Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs in 2023

13. What is your proudest achievement to date?

As with previous questions, this one has no incorrect answer. Some candidates would say that their prior MS degree in mechanical engineering was their proudest achievement. Others will say that starting a family has given them the greatest sense of pride and an enhanced understanding of the human experience. You will also want to discuss why the achievement created a sense of pride.

14. What qualities do you think a good nurse should possess?

The answer you furnish will give the interviewer a sense of your realism or idealism and your presupposed views on nurses. Nurses should be competent, intellectually curious, and able to perform under pressure. However, the answer to this question should entirely reflect your opinions.

15. What would you do if a patient or family member threatened you?

The answer you furnish will give the interviewer a sense of your ability to deal with emotionally-charged situations and think outside the box to address interpersonal conflicts. Preferably, the interviewer will want you to convey your maturity and ability to de-escalate the problem before it boils over.

16. Do you have dependable transportation?

In addition to classroom attendance, students must travel to various clinical practicum sites. Dependable transportation is vital during nursing school. For most of us, this means we drive a vehicle in good condition.

How to Pick a Nursing School

Choosing the right nursing school and program requires careful consideration and research to ensure it aligns with your goals, interests, and personal circumstances. While going through the interview process, keep in mind that although you're mostly being asked the questions, it's also a good opportunity to gauge whether the school is the best fit for you. Although it will be different for everyone, some key considerations are:

Accreditation
Program Options
Location
Faculty and Resources
Cost and Financial Aid
Reputation and Success Rate
Continued Education Opportunities

Ultimately, finding the right nursing school and program involves conducting thorough research, visiting campuses if possible, talking to current students and alumni, and carefully considering your personal preferences and goals.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN

Here are some other, less common questions you might be asked during a nursing school interview:

1. Do you have a support system? If so, who?

2. Do you have children?

3. Are you able to fulfill the physical requirements of your clinical rotations?

4. What would you do if you knew you were running late for class or clinical?

5. Do you know what type of nursing you want to do?

No Stars In My Eyes

Gads! No wonder people get nervous over this process! I've been in the field for 45 years and it makes me nervous just reading the questions and thinking how I might respond to them. To be honest I have absolutely no memory of my own interview questions or responses. My attention was completely affixed by the DON's appearance; she was imposing as ....well, fill in the blank. Her hair was an artfully colored, rigid helmet topped by a huge winged nursing cap. Her makeup precisely and generously applied. Her white uniform starched to the gills and it would not DARE have one single crease not pressed into it by her iron. She was stern, but practiced at giving an aura of warmth and interest. She didn't frighten me, but she did inspire a certain awe at the conviction she had about her position in life: Mighty! Whew! She probably would have become incensed if she knew I kind of felt sorry for her, as I could not picture her as a normal person with an ordinary life: this was a woman who NEVER sat on a toilet!

I'm sure she was different from my impression of her and she really was a genuine human being. She never had to worry about being remembered , though. I would love now to hear other students' impressions of her. I wonder what kind of nurse she was. I wonder whatever became of her? She's probably as long gone as her 'type' has been from nursing for a long while now.

Sorry, didn't mean to hijack the thread! I just went off into the Land Of Long Ago while contemplating The Interview!

sjalv

I've always thought my school was peculiar in that it doesn't have interviews for admission. That's not to say it isn't hard to get into; it's the only ADN program within a 50 mile radius. There's constantly a waitlist. But we still don't do interviews for some reason.

Farawyn

Can they ask you if you have kids? Thought that was a no no.

Great list! The only one I have a comment for is #1!

I think they DO want to hear that you have strong nurse role models in your family and that has influenced your decision in a positive way to pursue nursing. It lets the interviewer know that you, as a prospective nursing student, may know more of what to expect as a nurse than someone without anyone close to them in the profession.

Farawyn

No Stars In My Eyes said:

Gads! No wonder people get nervous over this process! I've been in the field for 45 years and it makes me nervous just reading the questions and thinking how I might respond to them. To be honest I have absolutely no memory of my own interview questions or responses. My attention was completely affixed by the DON's appearance; she was imposing as ....well, fill in the blank. Her hair was an artfully colored, rigid helmet topped by a huge winged nursing cap. Her makeup precisely and generously applied. Her white uniform starched to the gills and it would not DARE have one single crease not pressed into it by her iron. She was stern, but practiced at giving an aura of warmth and interest. She didn't frighten me, but she did inspire a certain awe at the conviction she had about her position in life: Mighty! Whew! She probably would have become incensed if she knew I kind of felt sorry for her, as I could not picture her as a normal person with an ordinary life: this was a woman who NEVER sat on a toilet!
I'm sure she was different from my impression of her and she really was a genuine human being. She never had to worry about being remembered , though. I would love now to hear other students' impressions of her. I wonder what kind of nurse she was. I wonder whatever became of her? She's probably as long gone as her 'type' has been from nursing for a long while now.

Sorry, didn't mean to hijack the thread! I just went off into the Land Of Long Ago while contemplating The Interview!

I love this.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN

Farawyn said:
Can they ask you if you have kids? Thought that was a no no.

For pre-employment interviews, asking whether the applicant has children is blatantly illegal. However, for nursing school interviews, the interviewer is allowed to ask about children and whether arrangements for daycare have been made if the kids are that young.

Farawyn said:
Great list! The only one I have a comment for is #1!
I think they DO want to hear that you have strong nurse role models in your family and that has influenced your decision in a positive way to pursue nursing. It lets the interviewer know that you, as a prospective nursing student, may know more of what to expect as a nurse than someone without anyone close to them in the profession.

Your point regarding having nurses in the family is salient. However, this would theoretically mean that those of us without nurses in the family might be at a keen disadvantage.

Farawyn

Yyyyeeeeeaaaa, BUT they may have something else great going on that I don't!

My mom and my best cousin are both nurses, and they have been amazing strong role models for me throughout my career.

Then again, my interview was in 1991. I barely remember it! I'm sure things have changed.

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN

No Stars In My Eyes said:
Gads! No wonder people get nervous over this process! I've been in the field for 45 years and it makes me nervous just reading the questions and thinking how I might respond to them. To be honest I have absolutely no memory of my own interview questions or responses. My attention was completely affixed by the DON's appearance; she was imposing as ....well, fill in the blank. Her hair was an artfully colored, rigid helmet topped by a huge winged nursing cap. Her makeup precisely and generously applied. Her white uniform starched to the gills and it would not DARE have one single crease not pressed into it by her iron. She was stern, but practiced at giving an aura of warmth and interest. She didn't frighten me, but she did inspire a certain awe at the conviction she had about her position in life: Mighty! Whew! She probably would have become incensed if she knew I kind of felt sorry for her, as I could not picture her as a normal person with an ordinary life: this was a woman who NEVER sat on a toilet!
I'm sure she was different from my impression of her and she really was a genuine human being. She never had to worry about being remembered , though. I would love now to hear other students' impressions of her. I wonder what kind of nurse she was. I wonder whatever became of her? She's probably as long gone as her 'type' has been from nursing for a long while now.

I knew that woman. She still wore the little short cape over her whites when she came to work in the winter.

No Stars In My Eyes

GrnTea said:
I knew that woman. She still wore the little short cape over her whites when she came to work in the winter.

Yes! It was black with red trim, a high collar; and she carried her cap in a special little plastic box made just to do that very thing!

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN

No Stars In My Eyes said:
Yes! It was black with red trim, a high collar; and she carried her cap in a special little plastic box made just to do that very thing!

Was this at MAH in the late 60s? Or are/were there more of them out there?

No Stars In My Eyes

GrnTea said:
Was this at MAH in the late 60s? Or are/were there more of them out there?

Cambridge, Mass. in 1970.(and I forgot to add that she was 'Miss',not a Mrs. or a Ms.)

There were still enough of them out there, many as Supervisors; scare you to death when they'd just *appear* on your floor, y'know?