50 and making a dream come true.

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I have attempted to get into nursing some 15 or so years ago. I wanted to be a doctor growing up, but once I realized the amount of schooling it requires, I decided nursing is the next best bet. I got thru most of the pre-reqs and then found myself having premature babies and it was just too much stress. I quit and waited for life to settle down. That time is now! I am a bit worried about my age and getting hired after school. This is a main goal as part of my bucket list. My husband is now diabled and its my turn to give back. I want this..I can taste it! As a youth I don't think I took school seriously, but I know this is a new beginning for me and my husband. My question is; is a age a major issue, when it comes to accepting people in the nursing program? Or does grades speak for themselves?

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Specializes in EMT since 92, Paramedic since 97, RN and PHRN 2021.

44 and am in nursing school. There are laws protecting people from discrimination due to age, and other things, when it comes to things like that.

If that's what you want to do, go for it. I did!

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I'm turning 46 and I'm applying to nursing school in January. I'm going to be close to 50 when I finish. Go for it!!!!! I'm finally living for me. I think we have life experience and could be an asset. I'm excited for you!!! God luck!!!

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I'm 44. I start in the fall.

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Specializes in Hospice, Palliative Care.

Good day, TigerLiley:

I started my prerequisites at age 50; I'm now 52 and in my 3rd semester of RN school. Attitude, professionalism, effort, and grades all work into the picture.

Go for your dream.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

There are all sorts of 50+ year old people. Make sure that you come across as one of the high-energy, physically strong, open to new ideas & experiences, confident, capable .... etc. ones. Never let them see you creak!

I won't kid you. Age is ALWAYS a factor in a job search & age discrimination is nearly impossible to prove. New grads in many parts of the country are finding it difficult to land that first hospital job, especially if they don't have a BSN. But there are many non-hospital settings in which nursing jobs are available.

Wishing you all the best in your nursing education journey.

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Thank you for that down to earth response. I'm not a dreamer per se and knew age does play a part in job searching. I will take your tips to heart and run with them:yes:

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A lot of my classmates were in their late thirties, forties, fifties...and I'd even venture to say one or two in their sixties :) age should definitely not be a hinderance!

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Thank you for this article. For a minute thought I was being stupid for tackling this again at 50. I will be taking the Kaplan at Baker College Auburn Hills this summer. I am so terrified, as it's been 8 yrs since I took A&PI I&II. Any help you can offer would be grately appreciated.

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Thank you all for your positive comments. I am a bit scared of starting school now, but I know I can do it one class at a time. I will be going full time in the fall, I just mean I will tackle it step by step. Good luck to you all!

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The local nursing school that came in for clinicals had a man that was mid 60's close to 70. No one has to know how old you are.

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I went to school for my LPN when I was 50 and will graduate in 5 months with my RN at the age of 56. I plan on bridging to my BSN through an online program. I feel such a sense of accomplishment to have raised 3 boys and then do something this major for myself. Don't ever let age stop you. The last thing I want to do is have regrets at the end of my life.

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