Four steps to get started with getting into a nursing program

Over the past eight years, I have worked with hundreds of college students aspiring to transfer into nursing programs. As you may know, this is not always an easy path.

From completing the correct nursing program prerequisites to earning competitive grades, there are many potential pitfalls along the way. Through my experience, I’ve found that one of the most effective ways to navigate this journey is by creating a solid plan. 

The goal of this nursing program guide is to provide a clear, structured pathway for any college student interested in gaining admission to a nursing program.

Students who choose to follow this guide — regardless of where you are in their collegiate journey — will have a clearer understanding of the steps needed to reach their goal of becoming a nursing student and future nursing professional. 

Though this is not an exhaustive list of all the steps a prospective nursing student should be taking, it will serve great as a starting off point.  

Step 1: Research Nursing Programs 

🔎 Identify a range of nursing programs that align with your goals and interests, including: 

• 2 Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs 

• 2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs 

• 2 Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs 

☑️ For each nursing program you’re considering, gather the following information: 

• What is the application deadline? 

• What are the application requirements? 

• What is the length of the program? 

• What is the tuition cost? 

• Are clinical placements assigned automatically, or do students need to find their own? 

• What is the NCLEX pass rate for graduates? 

• What academic and support resources are available (e.g., tutoring, mentoring, advising)? 

• Are there any other questions specific to your interests or needs? 

Step 2: Meet with Your Academic Counselor or Advisor 

Schedule a meeting with your academic counselor or advisor to create an Education Plan (also known as an Ed Plan) that maps out when you will complete the prerequisites for the programs you identified above. 

💡 Here are a few tips for academic success: 

• Avoid overloading your schedule with too many science courses in one term, as your performance in these classes is critical to your competitiveness. 

• Discuss when you expect to complete your prerequisites, so you can plan your application timeline accordingly. 

Step 3: Understand Your Financial Commitments 

Check in with university financial aid offices, or if you are a part of Making Waves, meet with your Financial Services Counselor, or FSC, to discuss the cost of the programs you’re interested in. 

Keep in mind that private and for-profit colleges are generally more expensive than public institutions.

💰 Here are a few considerations for planning your cost and cost of attendance for nursing programs: 

• How much of the cost will be covered by scholarships, including the Making Waves Scholarship if you have one? 

• What financial support or aid is available for students entering an entry-level MSN program? 

Step 4: Plan for the TEAS Exam 

Research and select potential dates and locations for taking the Test of Essential Academic Skills, known as the TEAS exam. 

🏆 Here are some tips for success for the TEAS exam: 

• Do not rush into this test — it requires significant preparation. 

• Allow yourself a few months to study effectively. 

• By identifying a target test date, you can develop a structured and realistic study timeline. 

➡️ Here are some additional resources for the TEAS exam: 

• Still wondering what the TEAS exam is exactly? Find out more here. 

• Register for the exam here. You can either take it in-person or online.