how many schools to apply to

Published

I am worried about being rejected from all the programs I apply to because I keep hearing about how hard it is to get into a nursing program. So far my list of schools I'm going to apply to consists of:

SF State

CSU East Bay

Chabot

City College of SF

College of San Mateo

Evergreen

Ohlone

De Anza

Should I add schools outside of the area/state? Or should I expect to get into at least one of these programs? I have a BA and I'm currently working on my prereqs at a community college. I'm planning to apply next winter. Anyone else apply to most/all of these schools?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

It depends on you, I know California is extra competitive so if you are willing to move, then it might be worth considering applying out of state.

Personally, I'd apply to schools that I really, really want to go to. For me, this means only applying to 1 school for the upcoming fall. I'm not the usual student though so I'm ok if I don't get in.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

@ baystudent

this sounds more of a question to ask in ca nursing programs - helping you be a better nurse

i'd apply to as many as i want to attend. you could apply to many more than that to increase your chances. it looks like you've made a list of the schools you want to attend. i'd start with that list and see what comes of it. :)

good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Primary Care; Child Advocacy; Child Abuse; ED.

I know how you feel! I only applied to one school. I believe the school I am going to is the one I was looking for. It is based gpa mine is higher than lowest person last semester. Less people apply in the spring so I hope I have a good chance!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You should never expect to get into a program even with a high GPA and TEAS score. Depending on the budget cuts or amount of students, the way the schools evaluate applicants may change. I currently live in California and do not want to go out of state, so I applied to all of the Cal states that I qualified for in terms of pre-reqs and other requirements. Although costs may add up, it is worth it to have applied to as many colleges as possible especially since BSN programs are getting a lot more competitive. Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think the key is to apply to as many schools as possible, and your college list looks pretty good to me :)

Also, if you don't mind going ADN route apply to a least one school that have a wait list, this way at some point you'll be guaranty the entry. De Anza college RN program for example have a wait list, it's a little more work to be eligible to apply there, but at the end you have a piece of mind knowing that if nothing else you have a back up plan. Good Luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion