When to Apply for New Grad Positions?

[nfoy09]

Hey everyone ! I am sure this question has been asked frequently however I was wondering when is the best time to start applying for a new grad position? I am currently a senior in will be graduating May 2016. I am not sure if I want to do residency or not, I know a few people who have done one and some who chose not to and love it either way. Former students of the program that I am in, started early (i.e. fall semester/thanksgiving break/christmas break) while others waited until the Spring. I know it is a matter of opinion but I would like to get other point of views.

I am located in South Carolina so I am pretty familiar with this area, so I was also wondering if you guys had any recommendations as far as hospitals/programs for a new grad in any location, I am not really set on just staying here and pretty open to other areas.

*As far as a certain area of nursing, I am not sure on where I would like to work I know it may be challenging to start in a special area as a new grad so I may be looking into starting on a medical/surgical unit.

Any information someone can offer will be greatly appreciated, thanks ! :)

[PVCCHoo]

Now.

Applications usually open up for nurse residency programs in the fall, interviews in winter and jobs secured by as early as January or February in some cases.

[nfoy09]

Thank you !

[Mommy_RN1211]

I am in Texas and graduate in December. Most of our major hospitals open residency programs to New Grads in October for a February start date. Other than residencies as a new grad it is pretty close to impossible to get a hospital job right out of school. I am not sure about any other market such as doctor office, schools, etc. Good luck!