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How to apply to nursing school
As you might expect, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind when applying to nursing school. Here are some resources to get you on the right path!
Nursing degrees and programs
Not sure whether you should pursue an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor of Science? Take a look at what each degree may mean for your career path.
Nursing school accreditation
An accredited nursing school is one that meets and exceeds a certain standard of educational excellence as defined by the accreditation body. The accreditation organizations use the same set of criteria to accredit each nursing program type, for a certain period of time. There are two national organizations that accredit nursing programs.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
The ACEN is a voluntary, peer-review, self-regulatory process in which non-governmental associations recognize nursing schools or programs that meet or exceed the highest standards of education.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and nurse residency programs.
Why accreditation counts
Scholarships
Attending an accredited nursing school will enable you to apply for Federal and State funding.
Postgraduate degrees
You’ll be able to pursue an advanced degree at other accredited schools.
Job opportunities
Employers prefer to hire accredited nurses who are trained according to the nationally approved standards of education.
Entrance exams
Requirements vary from school to school, but for most, you’ll probably encounter one of these exams.
“TEAS”
The Test of Essential Academic Skills is a multiple-choice exam about subjects you learn in high school, like science, reading, English, and math. This is the test most nursing schools use, as it’s a reliable indicator of a candidate’s skills and knowledge.
“HOBE”
The Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test is similar to the TEAS, but it’s more comprehensive and holistic. It covers math, reading, critical thinking, test-taking skills, social interactions, stressful situations, and learning styles.
HESI A2
The Health Education Systems, Inc. Exam A2 is an online exam made up of one to 10 sections, ranging from high school subjects to more performance-related topics, such as personality and learning styles.