How much experience necessary for ABSN

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Specializes in Student.

I am a recent college graduate and am planning on applying to an accelerated nursing program. I have heard mixed things about the amount of experience necessary to gain admission to this type of program. As an undergrad, I worked as a peer health educator, volunteered in a psychiatric facility, and worked in a research lab. I am currently assisting on a clinical research study and am also working at a COVID testing facility. I guess what I'm wondering is if admissions staff is looking for more long term experience as something like a CNA or and EMT, or is it still worth my while to apply now? Any advice would be appreciated!

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Specializes in NICU.

My cohort varied drastically in the previous BS degree they had. Anthropology, Business, Athletic Training, Sports Fitness, Psychology. My first degree is Aviation Administration. There is no pre-requisite experience that is required to get into an ABSN program. Healthcare experience will help you once you get into the program.

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I think you're good. Apply away! You do have varied experiences in healthcare.

You didn't mention how long you've had at each experience, which might make a difference. For example, was each experience one day only? Or was it a year or so for a few of them? If you had at least 6+ months for some of your experiences, I think you're more than qualified in terms of experience.

Just make sure your GPA is up to par!

Good luck!

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most students in my ABSN cohort had 6-12 months healthcare experience. I felt I had a lot more than most and I only worked as a CNA for less than 18 months

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