Top 11 Factors Nursing Students Consider When Applying to Programs | Survey 2023

The paradox of choice arises for students when it comes time to consider what nursing programs and schools to apply to. First and foremost is determining the outcome of the education—are you looking to become a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or continue education into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)?

Once defining their goals, students must then pick which program among the types suits their preferences best. Some prioritize budget or proximity of the school to their home, others want to look for a school further away for a full campus life experience, and some might look for schools with top-notch research and educational healthcare settings around them because this could mean better practicum placements.

Reasons for selecting programs will vary based on individual needs and preferences. However, our recent survey compiled hundreds of answers to distinguish which factors are most commonly prioritized by prospective nursing students.

Why Nursing Students Select Programs | Survey Data

AllNurses took the liberty to proactively reach out and survey nursing students across the US and Canada. Based on their responses, here is a list of the top things they considered when selecting programs.

1. Cost (tuition, housing) — 12%
2. High pass rates for licensing (NCLEX) and/or certification exams — 10.8%
3. Location — 10%
4. Academic reputation — 9.6%
5. Availability of financial aid and scholarships — 9.2%
6. Length of time to obtain degree — 8.0%
7. Flexibility of schedule — 5.6%
8. Curriculum — 5.2%
9. Campus and surroundings — 4.8%
10. Nursing clinicals location — 4.8%
11. Availability of online courses — 4.4%

Related: 10 Cheapest Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs in 2023

The remaining 16.4% of selections were split among national rankings, grads moving on to top grad schools, graduation rate, specific accreditation, job prospects, and student-faculty ratio.

The Schools & Programs Feedback survey is currently live. Updates will take place as more survey data becomes available.

The survey is open to participants who have completed or are currently enrolled in nursing school. Those who take part will have the chance to win one of three $300 Amazon gift cards.

• If you've completed, or are enrolled in, an Associated Degree Program 
  Start Here
• If you've completed, or are enrolled in, an RN to BSN Program 
  Start Here
• If you've completed, or are enrolled in, a Bachelor's Degree Program 
  Start Here

Contest Rules

1. Only complete one survey for each degree program you've enrolled in and/or completed. You can complete multiple surveys in total, with each completion adding your name another time to the raffle pool. For example, if you've completed an ADN program and an RN to BSN program, you could complete the designated survey for each.
2. Winners will be selected randomly from all participants. Winners will be contacted by email or via direct message. To receive one of the prizes, degree status (graduated or enrolled) may be confidentially verified.
3. The contest ends on May 31, 2023.