I want to take Grandpa's ashes back to the Phillipines. Is it too risky to delay starting a new grad program?

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Hello! I just graduated nursing school with my BSN this January and am looking to take the NCLEX within the next month. I want to apply to new grad programs. However, I have an important trip in July to bring my grandpas ashes back to the Philippines. This has been planned years in advance and I definitely do not want to miss it. I know that some programs only accept nurses within 6 months of graduating, while some accept within a year of graduating. The reason I'm choosing not to even apply now is because I know these programs are very strict with their schedule and that asking for time off wouldn't be feasible. Is it too risky to delay starting a new grad program? Do you have any advice for someone in my position? Thank you!

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Congrats on your graduation, and good luck with your NCLEX! Condolences on your loss.

Most residencies accept new grads up to one year after graduation so that the timing could work. Residencies also start at different times of the year, so it's possible you can find one that begins in the fall and fits your schedule.

The variables include:

  • Your location. Where you live and how competitive the hiring market for new grads is in your location.
  • Organization's flexibility. How flexible the hiring organization is. You are correct, typically a chunk of time off is not allowed during the first couple of months of your residency. However, every organization makes its own rules and exceptions regarding time off, and you don't know until you ask. It also depends on how long you plan to be gone.

What I recommend you do is start applying and interviewing. An organization with residencies in both the Summer and the fall might hold a spot in their fall residency for you, especially if you interview well. Waiting until after July to start applying reduces your opportunities.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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