New Grad Program

NurseKatie08, MSN · Aug 20, 2008

I am graduating in December and was wondering how far in advance should I fill out the application for licensing to take the NCLEX. Also, when I should start to apply for the new grad programs?

In terms of new grad programs, I would call the hospitals that you are interested in, in order to clarify their application requirements. New grad programs can be quite competitive. The best way to get information about when to apply is to go straight to the source and ask.

In terms of applying for NCLEX/licensing, I would check with your school & your state BON. I graduated on May 17th, and had to wait until the end of May to pick up my paper work from the school, and had it overnighted to my BON. Once I received my ATT (about 2-3 weeks later, which I'm sure varies state to state), I scheduled my boards as early as I possibly could, which in my case was about 2 months after I graduated. Others in my class haven't tested yet. It's all personal preference. If you prefer to test early, check with your school and see how early your paper work will be verified. I'm not sure about policies in other states, but here in MA, you can't actually send in the application for your license until after the school registrar stamps the school seal indicating that you've actually completed your requirements.

The most you can do right now is probably to call/check websites of hospitals you are interested in for more information about the application process.

Good luck with your last semester, and for your sake, here's hoping your area doesn't have as bad a nursing glut as mine does--I've been job searching since February, and licensed since July & still don't have a job.

curliegirl80RN · Aug 20, 2008

I also graduate in December and have contacted a few hospitals with this same question. One hospital told me that I'd have to get my application in by October 15th in order to be eligible for the new grad programs starting in January. I haven't heard back yet from the other hospitals.

3KittiesRN · Aug 20, 2008

Hi there! What state are you in?? I am in CA and I sent my application to the BON in mid April, I graduated in May. In CA you are allowed to take NCLEX before your transcripts get to the BON, they just won't issue results.

As far as new grad programs, I suggest calling the hospitals you are interested in and find out. Make sure you have a great cover letter and resume and send it to them during your last semester. Depending on the hospital you may have to send additional documents. Start applying during your last semester! New grad programs are very competetive, esp. here in CA. I wish you luck!!

Oh yeah, and this is my opinion, take the NCLEX as soon as you can!!

becembrie · Aug 20, 2008

Our new grad programs start in January and August. I know for the January program they begin accepting applications in September. I agree with the others. Call or visit some local hospitals to find out what they suggest.

Good luck.

mjick · Aug 20, 2008

I live in Southern California. Thanks for the advice all! I will start calling hospitals in the morning to find out specifics on their new grad programs.

nursejenni08BSN · Aug 20, 2008

I'm from CA too, northern CA, and my school cleared us with the BRN to take the NCLEX once we passed the ERI, and then once we were graduated they sent our transcripts.... But I would start filing out the application to the BRN as soon as possible.... you have to also get fingerprinted and have a background check completed, as well as attach a passport photo so I would get on that ASAP... as for new grad programs, every hospital is different, but you should prepare your resume and cover letter now, as well as start filling out the online profiles for hospitals that you are interested in working for.... generally this is always part of the application process and that way you can be ready for when they are ready to accept applications for new grad programs.. And yes CA is HIGHLY competetive for New Grad positions. Good luck on your final semester.... your running your last lap of the big race and the finish line is near....