Job Hunting Prior to Graduation/NCLEX?

[MiladyMalarkey, ASN, BSN]

Hopefully some recent new grads are on here and can explain how this works. I've heard many do get job offers with hospitals prior to graduation/passage of NCLEX. How does this work? I graduate in May. How soon do people start applying to new grad positions? How does that work?

I understand any offers are tentative upon passage of NCLEX. I'm a realist, I understand even if I start applying I likely won't get any offers, but, I'd like to start work as soon as I can after NCLEX, so doesn't hurt to try. Anyone have experience with this?

[AZBlueBell]

I started applying the month I was set to graduate, but several hospitals in the valley require a RN license number for the application to go through. Banner being the exception I believe. But even then, I believe it's rare for Banner (or anyone) to offer a job prior to passing NCLEX. But no, it never hurts to try!

[MiladyMalarkey, ASN, BSN]

Thanks AZBB, it gives me an idea of a jumping off point. I've no expectations but doesn't hurt to try.

[NurseMarie4297]

I know this was from a while ago but I’m in the same boat! Going to school in Texas but want to work in AZ when I graduate in May. In Texas most hospitals new grad position applications are only open from Jan-March but from what I’ve seen pretty much all the hospitals in Phoenix want you to wait until after you take your NCLEX. Which is stressful when trying to apply for jobs in two states with completely different application times! Anyways just to see, I applied to a few jobs (Mercy Gilbert, MIHS, Phoenix Children’s) and got rejected basically the next day probably because I checked that I didn’t have a license yet. My plan now is start applying to jobs in AZ after I take my NCLEX in June and to work as an RN at a summer camp here in Texas until I hopefully get an offer since I’m with you on wanting to work ASAP. Good in your search and finishing school!