Which grad school?

[freedom22]

I am applying to grad school for the Spring semester and need some help deciding what to do. I have 2 schools in my area. One is an average university, the program is relatively easy, but they offer only one FNP program and no other NP programs. So if I decide to switch programs... I'll have to start from scratch again.

The other is an Ivy League university, and I really want to go there. They have many NP programs and I may end up doing a dual major. HOWEVER, they require me to complete the GREs. Most likely, I wont have it done by the deadline and will have to wait untill the summer or next Fall to apply.

Should I just go with the first one? Or start studying for the GREs????

Your opinion will be GREATLY appreciated!

[iteachob, MSN, RN]

If I'm not mistaken most graduate schools of nursing will require the GRE, so I'd recommend studying for and taking it no matter where you go. Furthermore, if you ever decide to go even further (PhD), they, too, require GRE scores for admission.

It (the GRE) is not so bad. It's been awhile, but as I recall, the math was no more than HS level algebra/geometry. I just had to review it and do a little practice. The verbal section.....much tougher; lots of obscure vocabulary and analogies. It really depends where your strengths lie. I did very well after preparing for about 2-3 months. Mostly, I took endless practice GRE's (probably only about 10, but it seemed endless) out of several GRE practice exam books. I then focused my study on my weaker areas, made a lot of vocabulary flash cards, and just steadily improved before finally taking the exam.

Good luck with whatever you decide!