U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing (USAGPAN) - 2026

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Members are discussing the process of applying for the CRNA program, specifically for reservists, and the documentation and steps required for civilian applicants. They also touch on the importance of certifications like CCRN and GRE, as well as housing options for those with families. Additionally, there are questions about interview attire and shadowing experiences.

This years usagpan thread for questions, experiences and information about the CRNA program. 

Specializes in Travel ICU RN.
yzchitown said:

Hi, when you reapply, do you have to go through everything again? 

The only thing I didn't have to redo is the whole MEPS process, I believe completion of the process is valid for 2 years, although they did try to tell me that I had to go back to MEPS to get re-weighed, but we were able to complete that at a local recruiter office. All of the paperwork and documents needed filled out and signed again for army boards and the Baylor application. My recruiter just used the info from last year to complete my documents and had me sign them since nothing really changed. I had to redo my shadow/interview. Baylor kept records of my transcripts- so I didn't have to pay to have them sent again this year, but the rest of requirements on the application had to be resubmitted. I'm not sure if this is the same process others have been through, but this was my personal experience with reapplying this year. 

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Specializes in SICU/CVICU/NSICU.
Autumn Ellis said:

The only thing I didn't have to redo is the whole MEPS process, I believe completion of the process is valid for 2 years, although they did try to tell me that I had to go back to MEPS to get re-weighed, but we were able to complete that at a local recruiter office. All of the paperwork and documents needed filled out and signed again for army boards and the Baylor application. My recruiter just used the info from last year to complete my documents and had me sign them since nothing really changed. I had to redo my shadow/interview. Baylor kept records of my transcripts- so I didn't have to pay to have them sent again this year, but the rest of requirements on the application had to be resubmitted. I'm not sure if this is the same process others have been through, but this was my personal experience with reapplying this year. 

thank you!

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Specializes in Cardiac cath lab, critical care.
MikeyD said:

Congratulations to those who were accepted. 
Just for my own curiosity: did anyone get accepted who also applied last year? 
thanks

I was accepted this application cycle (Cohort 2026) and was not admitted last application cycle (Cohort 2025). As far as reapplying, the army recruiting side involved the normal amount of paperwork re-signing/re-doing forms, letters of recommendation with current dates/signatures, and updating security clearance/background check. On the Baylor-USAGPAN school application, I updated my resume, essay, 3-day shadow/interview, and fulfilled all optional requirements I lacked the previous application cycle (GRE and chemistry class).

If you asked me what helped, I'd have to say that there were a few things. Updating my resume to include a more descriptive reflection of my critical care experience based on COA's definitions, following directions for a one-page essay, and having all optional requirements completed. 

I agree with others that say to stick with it and reapply. Try to get as much feedback as you can regarding improvements you can make and don't let self-doubt and/or ego alter the changes that need to be made. I say this because when denied admission the previous application cycle, there was a period of frustration that I faced in having to spend the money to prepare and take the GREs and take the optional chemistry class. But a wise person told me that jumping through the hoops is what it takes to be competitive. It shows that you're willing and committed to doing all the things and more. So, please try again.

If any of the admitted people want to connect, please reply and we can figure something out. I was going to put my email here but the Google says only staff members can delete posts, yikes. 

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eky said:

I was accepted this application cycle (Cohort 2026) and was not admitted last application cycle (Cohort 2025). As far as reapplying, the army recruiting side involved the normal amount of paperwork re-signing/re-doing forms, letters of recommendation with current dates/signatures, and updating security clearance/background check. On the Baylor-USAGPAN school application, I updated my resume, essay, 3-day shadow/interview, and fulfilled all optional requirements I lacked the previous application cycle (GRE and chemistry class).

If you asked me what helped, I'd have to say that there were a few things. Updating my resume to include a more descriptive reflection of my critical care experience based on COA's definitions, following directions for a one-page essay, and having all optional requirements completed. 

I agree with others that say to stick with it and reapply. Try to get as much feedback as you can regarding improvements you can make and don't let self-doubt and/or ego alter the changes that need to be made. I say this because when denied admission the previous application cycle, there was a period of frustration that I faced in having to spend the money to prepare and take the GREs and take the optional chemistry class. But a wise person told me that jumping through the hoops is what it takes to be competitive. It shows that you're willing and committed to doing all the things and more. So, please try again.

If any of the admitted people want to connect, please reply and we can figure something out. I was going to put my email here but the Google says only staff members can delete posts, yikes. 

I think that really goes to show that when they get a ton of packets that all look the same it's those optional things that are going to be discriminators. 
 

congrats, nice to see all those folks who did the extra work be rewarded. 

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Specializes in Travel ICU RN.

@MikeyD I have so many questions now regarding PCS and timeframes, my recruiter is not that same one as last year and he doesn't know the answers. Would you be able to answer some of my questions or do you know someone who may be able to help? 

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Autumn Ellis said:

@MikeyD I have so many questions now regarding PCS and timeframes, my recruiter is not that same one as last year and he doesn't know the answers. Would you be able to answer some of my questions or do you know someone who may be able to help? 

It has been so long since I have helped someone with the initial entry PCS. I know there are still some folks in the chat that are recent who may chime in (hopefully). This has definitely been addressed in last years chat if it's still in the ether. 
 

that being said your recruiter should be able to help with the transportation office once you get cut orders. You will move to San Antonio and then go to fort sill Oklahoma for DCC (direct commission course) which is about a month. Then back to San Antonio for BOLC (basic officers leadership course). Then start phase 1 still in San Antonio. 
 

that's the vague order. I believe folks usually leave at the end of January or early February unless I am remembering incorrectly. 

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Specializes in CVICU, CCU, Paramedic.

There may be someone from the FY25 cohort on here that just went through this but I can tell you how it was in FY24. Just know that everything I mention is only what I experienced and may be different from what you end up doing.

There was a bit of radio silence after the acceptance notification. That is just the nature of the beast because at this point, the program is at the mercy of HRC who will actually cut your orders. I got my orders in November if I am remembering correctly and here is how the timeline worked out.

January =  Report to San Antonio and do some in processing with the program for about 2 weeks.

February = DCC in Fort Sill, OK.

March - Late April/early May = BOLC

First week of June = Start of class.

I worked my last day in my civilian ICU on December 22nd (you know, to enjoy the holidays).I have a family so we moved everyone down at the beginning of January. They did what they could to get us set up in Fort Sam to get us into all the systems, especially pay. That being said, prepare now for a gap in pay from leaving your civilian job and your first paycheck. You start being paid as of your report date on your orders but it can take a few weeks for that pay to hit your account. We were fortunate and most of us got paid after those first two weeks but we encountered MANY other new officers in the Army that waited a month or more for their first check. You get back pay when that happens but it's still inconvenient. I would plan for 30-45 days without pay but just know if you run into an issue, there are multiple programs that provide financial assistance if you need it.

DCC is all in Oklahoma. You go there for the whole month and that is unaccompanied meaning it is only you (and your classmates) going. Once DCC is over, you come back to San Antonio for BOLC. For us we left DCC on Friday and started BOLC on Monday so no real gap. BOLC was nice because you get to go home to your own bed each night since it is at JBSA and that is where we're assigned.

At the end of BOLC there was a 3 week gap where some people just reset and got ready for the program and others took some vacation. The amount of time you have and whether you will be approved to take leave is up to the training schedule and the leadership but they were pretty understanding with us.

Most of that was vague but it has to be since stuff changes year to year as far as training schedules go. If you have any specific questions I can answer them to the best of my ability.

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Specializes in Travel ICU RN.
RNMedic553 said:

There may be someone from the FY25 cohort on here that just went through this but I can tell you how it was in FY24. Just know that everything I mention is only what I experienced and may be different from what you end up doing.

There was a bit of radio silence after the acceptance notification. That is just the nature of the beast because at this point, the program is at the mercy of HRC who will actually cut your orders. I got my orders in November if I am remembering correctly and here is how the timeline worked out.

January =  Report to San Antonio and do some in processing with the program for about 2 weeks.

February = DCC in Fort Sill, OK.

March - Late April/early May = BOLC

First week of June = Start of class.

I worked my last day in my civilian ICU on December 22nd (you know, to enjoy the holidays).I have a family so we moved everyone down at the beginning of January. They did what they could to get us set up in Fort Sam to get us into all the systems, especially pay. That being said, prepare now for a gap in pay from leaving your civilian job and your first paycheck. You start being paid as of your report date on your orders but it can take a few weeks for that pay to hit your account. We were fortunate and most of us got paid after those first two weeks but we encountered MANY other new officers in the Army that waited a month or more for their first check. You get back pay when that happens but it's still inconvenient. I would plan for 30-45 days without pay but just know if you run into an issue, there are multiple programs that provide financial assistance if you need it.

DCC is all in Oklahoma. You go there for the whole month and that is unaccompanied meaning it is only you (and your classmates) going. Once DCC is over, you come back to San Antonio for BOLC. For us we left DCC on Friday and started BOLC on Monday so no real gap. BOLC was nice because you get to go home to your own bed each night since it is at JBSA and that is where we're assigned.

At the end of BOLC there was a 3 week gap where some people just reset and got ready for the program and others took some vacation. The amount of time you have and whether you will be approved to take leave is up to the training schedule and the leadership but they were pretty understanding with us.

Most of that was vague but it has to be since stuff changes year to year as far as training schedules go. If you have any specific questions I can answer them to the best of my ability.

Thank you so much for the info!!

I plan on renting a house off base, currently trying to figure out the best way to go about it. How soon did everyone find out where their phase 2 sites were going to be? 

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Specializes in CVICU, CCU, Paramedic.

Almost my entire class lived off-post. I would recommend areas North and/or East of San Antonio. Several of us lived in the Converse area and had good experiences. Just know that I-35 can be a nightmare of a commute. You can see what your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) will be for San Antonio if you just Google "BAH calculator". It is all based on your rank, whether you have dependents, and the zip code that you have orders for which will be 78234 for JBSA. 

You get that entire amount monthly and can use as little or as much of it as you want to for housing expenses (rent, utilities, etc). Some people rent cheap and can keep the excess and some people lived in places that used all of their BAH for just rent. In general, most people were able to find housing that was cheaper than what they received in BAH. Here's how my wife and I went about it. We visited San Antonio before Christmas and went house hunting. We just applied with an occupancy date that was right around our report date. We were able to find somewhere and roll right into it. If you are unable to find housing before you get to San Antonio, don't stress. You will also be able to get reimbursed a set rate for a set number of days in a hotel while you secure housing called Temporary Lodging Expenses (TLE) that you can use during your PCS move. For instance, if you need to stay in a hotel for 10 days after you arrive in San Antonio before your housing is available, you pay for that hotel bill up front and the Army reimburses you per day up to a certain amount each day. We used this with our move to phase 2 and stayed in hotels 15 days while our on-post house was getting ready. There is a maximum number of days buy that can vary so just read your orders carefully.

As for phase 2, from what I gather the timeline is different each year as they have to make sure how many students each site can take which changes year to year based on the previous number of students they had as well as changes in the hospital (like an OR being remodeled). So I don't have a definitive answer for you. They will keep you all posted on phase 2 and I would be very surprised if you didn't have an answer before Christmas of phase 1. This seems like a long time away (trust me, I felt the same way) but the time flies by and you'll be searching for housing for phase 2 before you know it.

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Specializes in Travel ICU RN.
RNMedic553 said:

Almost my entire class lived off-post. I would recommend areas North and/or East of San Antonio. Several of us lived in the Converse area and had good experiences. Just know that I-35 can be a nightmare of a commute. You can see what your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) will be for San Antonio if you just Google "BAH calculator". It is all based on your rank, whether you have dependents, and the zip code that you have orders for which will be 78234 for JBSA. 

You get that entire amount monthly and can use as little or as much of it as you want to for housing expenses (rent, utilities, etc). Some people rent cheap and can keep the excess and some people lived in places that used all of their BAH for just rent. In general, most people were able to find housing that was cheaper than what they received in BAH. Here's how my wife and I went about it. We visited San Antonio before Christmas and went house hunting. We just applied with an occupancy date that was right around our report date. We were able to find somewhere and roll right into it. If you are unable to find housing before you get to San Antonio, don't stress. You will also be able to get reimbursed a set rate for a set number of days in a hotel while you secure housing called Temporary Lodging Expenses (TLE) that you can use during your PCS move. For instance, if you need to stay in a hotel for 10 days after you arrive in San Antonio before your housing is available, you pay for that hotel bill up front and the Army reimburses you per day up to a certain amount each day. We used this with our move to phase 2 and stayed in hotels 15 days while our on-post house was getting ready. There is a maximum number of days buy that can vary so just read your orders carefully.

As for phase 2, from what I gather the timeline is different each year as they have to make sure how many students each site can take which changes year to year based on the previous number of students they had as well as changes in the hospital (like an OR being remodeled). So I don't have a definitive answer for you. They will keep you all posted on phase 2 and I would be very surprised if you didn't have an answer before Christmas of phase 1. This seems like a long time away (trust me, I felt the same way) but the time flies by and you'll be searching for housing for phase 2 before you know it.

I am going to need to start shopping for new electronics soon for school. What did you/the majority of your classmates have as far as laptops/ tablets go? Will I need a laptop and tablet? I know some schools encourage students to steer away from Apple products because they can be incompatible sometimes with certain programs. I would prefer to have Apple products since that's what I'm used to, have you heard of anyone having issues using Apple products for the Army and Baylor? Do you recommend something else? 

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Specializes in CVICU, CCU, Paramedic.

You 100% have to have a laptop. All quizzes and exams are taken on your personal laptop in class. A tablet is up to you but I highly recommend it. You'll be killing a TON of trees if you want to print everything off but that's an option as well.

We had a ton of Apple users. The only issue that I know that anybody ran into was they would occasionally have problems loading images on exams. But the instructors would always just post the image on the projector. Other than that, no issues. I used a Windows laptop and an iPad and it worked great. Still using the iPad for my care plans. 

I liked Notability for a note taking app. Easy to download slides and write notes one them. Some people used Goodnotes and liked it. It's really up to you. 

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RNMedic553 said:

You 100% have to have a laptop. All quizzes and exams are taken on your personal laptop in class. A tablet is up to you but I highly recommend it. You'll be killing a TON of trees if you want to print everything off but that's an option as well.

We had a ton of Apple users. The only issue that I know that anybody ran into was they would occasionally have problems loading images on exams. But the instructors would always just post the image on the projector. Other than that, no issues. I used a Windows laptop and an iPad and it worked great. Still using the iPad for my care plans. 

I liked Notability for a note taking app. Easy to download slides and write notes one them. Some people used Goodnotes and liked it. It's really up to you. 

I will echo all of these comments. I used apple products exclusively and had no issues at all. Highly recommend a tablet of some sort. I also used notability and recorded some lectures so I could listen to them while grocery shopping etc. 

 the tablet was nice for reading while also walking in the treadmill etc. however, my buddy just had a laptop and it was fine. 
 

everyone is different but my battle rhythm was to take Friday after class off. Study Saturday and Sunday morning. Meet my friends at the climbing gym and climb then quiz each other endlessly until we were perfect. 

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