How to apply before being licensed?

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I'm about to graduate and I feel like all my classmates are already applying for jobs. I just don't know how they are applying without having my delemia.... All of the major hospitals around here only take applications online, but there are screening questions. One question is "are you a licensed nurse." Well, not yet, so obviously I won't mark yes, but then the application is not considered because the answers didn't meet their criteria. Any advice on how to apply for jobs before passing my NCLEX?

Thanks in advance!

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Just read the job posting to make sure that having NCLEX completion is not a requirement (usually isn't) and apply. They will know you are in school based on your application. When you get that question -- just mark "no" that you are not licensed. I applied for jobs starting in May / June for a August graduation. I started getting first interviews in July / August and starting working in October. Don't wait until after graduation or you will likely miss the boat on some residencies. Start looking online for the residencies in your area and know their timelines. Some will open the applications and cut them off unexpectedly. So when one opens up -- apply. Make sure to also download a cover letter (specific to that position) along with your resume. This will make you stand out and gives you an opportunity to touch upon things that make you a strong candidate that may not be in your resume.

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Just read the job posting to make sure that having NCLEX completion is not a requirement (usually isn't) and apply. They will know you are in school based on your application. When you get that question -- just mark "no" that you are not licensed. I applied for jobs starting in May / June for a August graduation. I started getting first interviews in July / August and starting working in October. Don't wait until after graduation or you will likely miss the boat on some residencies. Start looking online for the residencies in your area and know their timelines. Some will open the applications and cut them off unexpectedly. So when one opens up -- apply. Make sure to also download a cover letter (specific to that position) along with your resume. This will make you stand out and gives you an opportunity to touch upon things that make you a strong candidate that may not be in your resume.

Thank you for the great advice! I do not think there are any residency programs this time of year in my area, unfortunately. I hope to be employed by the time they start in summer.

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Specializes in Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

One hospital in my area asked that screening question. HR specifically told us to mark yes, so we wouldn't be automatically denied by the system. Call the HR of the hospital and ask them how they want you to fill it out.

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One hospital in my area asked that screening question. HR specifically told us to mark yes, so we wouldn't be automatically denied by the system. Call the HR of the hospital and ask them how they want you to fill it out.

Yes, this is exactly what I'm talking about, getting automatically dumped out of the system. Thanks for your help!

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