When should I start applying for NP jobs?

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Hello everyone,

I am will be graduating from my FNP program in early May 2012. I am wondering when would be a good time to start applying for jobs, sending resumes, etc. I plan to take the AANP exam in late May. In general, do employers prefer for you to have your diploma and certification in your hand or are they willing to wait for a month (or longer) if you are the right person for the position? I don't have a lot of experience in searching for jobs... I was active duty when I graduated with my BSN and my other positions over the past 20 years have been through recommendations and word of mouth. What has your experience been when looking for your first NP position?

Thanks!

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Specializes in CTICU.

I graduate in April 2012 and will be interviewing soon for a job. If hired, they take you on as an RN and teach you the ropes until you pass your exam and switch over to NP job.

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Specializes in Community Health.

I'm not sure you will be able to take your certification that fast? I was told it takes a while to 1) get transcripts to send to the certification center 2) 30 days or so for them to get back to you and 3) another couple weeks to get a date to take the test. I may be wrong. I also graduate in May so if you can test that fast, let me know how. Lol

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

When I graduated in May 2006, I took the ANCC CNS exam as quickly as humanly possible. I graduated May 12th, and tested July 5th.

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Specializes in cardiac.

Yes, prepare yourself now for a wait financially and mentally! I graduated in August and won't test until December. My job will start "hopefully" beginning of January. The earliest I could have was end of October. At this point it feels like it will never end! Everyone keeps asking me why I'm STILL studying, I graduated already!

I did start the interview process over the summer though (I didn't search much, I had work and clinical rotation connections and knew it was the job I wanted).

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I graduate in May'12 too and I plan to apply during May/June while I am preparing for boards. I plan to take boards latest by July. So hopefully, 3 months will be enough to apply jobs and interview. I cross my finger though cause it is hard to find a job these days. The ones that hire prefer "experienced" ones first.

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