From many years of tough academics to clinical training and exams, it’ll push you mentally and physically. But each step gets you closer to an incredibly fulfilling career helping others during their most vulnerable moments. The emotional and personal rewards cannot be overstated. If you have the passion to take this challenging but meaningful path, read on to learn step-by-step how to properly prepare, choose the right nursing program, excel in nursing school, and land your first nursing job after graduation. It’ll be difficult but your caring nature and desire to improve lives will inspire you along the way.
Educational Requirements to Become a Nurse
To become a nurse, you need to earn a diploma, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree in nursing. The specific education and training required depends on the type of nurse you want to become.
Diploma or Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- To become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN), you can earn a diploma in nursing or an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN).
- An ADN typically takes 2-3 years to complete at a community college or vocational school. Coursework includes nursing classes as well as general education classes.
- With an LPN diploma or ADN, you can work as an entry-level nurse doing basic care under the supervision of RNs and doctors.
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
- A bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) takes 4 years to complete at a college or university. In addition to nursing classes, you take more advanced courses in areas like critical thinking, leadership, and public health nursing.
- A BSN prepares you for a wider range of nursing careers with more responsibility. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities now prefer candidates with a BSN.
- You can enroll in an RN-to-BSN program if you have an ADN and want to earn your BSN. These programs allow you to earn your BSN in just 2-3 years.
Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
- To become a nurse practitioner (NP), certified nurse midwife (CNM), certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or nurse educator, you need a master’s degree in nursing (MSN).
- An MSN typically takes 2-3 years of full-time study to complete. Coursework focuses on advanced nursing practices and theory. You also complete supervised clinical rotations.
- NPs, CNMs, and CRNAs have additional autonomy and higher pay. A nurse educator teaches nursing at a college or university.
Getting Accepted to a Nursing Program
To become a nurse, you first need to get accepted into an accredited nursing program. This typically requires meeting certain prerequisites like specific coursework, minimum GPA requirements, and entrance exams.
Meet the prerequisites
- Most nursing schools will require you to complete foundational courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics before applying. Make sure you understand what classes each school on your list requires and plan to take them in advance. Having these prerequisites under your belt will demonstrate your ability to handle the rigorous course load of a nursing program.
Maintain a high GPA
- Admission into nursing school is competitive, so aim for at least a 3.0 GPA or higher, ideally a 3.5 or above. Your grades, especially in the prerequisites, provide evidence of your capacity to grasp complex concepts and work hard.
Pass the entrance exams
- You will need to take either the SAT, ACT, or entrance exam specific to nursing like the NLN PAX-RN or HESI A2. These tests evaluate your critical thinking skills, comprehension, and aptitude for nursing. Study guides and practice tests can help you prepare to achieve a competitive score.
Visit schools and apply
- Once you meet the prerequisites and entrance exam scores, it’s time to visit potential schools, learn specifics about their programs, and find the best fit for you. When you’re ready, you will complete an application which typically involves an application fee, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and possibly an interview.
Getting into nursing school requires diligent preparation and hard work. But by planning, maintaining excellent grades, passing your entrance exams, and finding the right program for your needs, you will be well on your way to becoming a nurse.
Passing the NCLEX-RN Exam
To become a registered nurse (RN), you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This challenging exam tests your nursing knowledge and skills to ensure you’re prepared to provide effective care as an entry-level nurse.
The NCLEX-RN is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). It uses computer adaptive testing which means the questions get harder or easier depending on if you answer them correctly or not. The exam has between 75 to 145 questions and you have up to six hours to complete it.
To pass the NCLEX-RN, focus on studying topics like:
- Patient care and assessment
- Pharmacology
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Safe and effective care environment
- Physiological and psychosocial integrity
Use study guides, online practice questions, flashcards, and practice tests to prepare. Focus on applying critical thinking to determine the best answers. The questions on the actual exam will be application- and analysis-level, not just memorization.
When taking the exam:
- Read each question carefully and think through your answer
- Rule out incorrect options
- Make an educated guess if unsure
- Don’t linger on questions you can’t answer
- Take breaks if needed to refocus
Passing the NCLEX-RN on your first try demonstrates your competence and readiness to start your nursing career. Many new grad residency programs prefer candidates who pass on the initial attempt. Staying calm and confident, studying hard, and using effective test-taking strategies can help you join the ranks of registered nurses.
If you don’t pass on the first try, don’t get discouraged. You can retake the test up to 8 times per year. Re-focus your studying on areas of weakness and work to strengthen your knowledge and test-taking skills. With hard work and persistence, you’ll pass and be on your way to an exciting career as an RN.
Equip yourself for the journey to becoming a registered nurse with this comprehensive study guide. Featuring 600 test questions and detailed answer explanations, it's the essential tool for passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Start planning your nursing career today!
Getting Licensed as a Registered Nurse
To become an RN, you’ll need to earn a nursing degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you’ve completed an accredited nursing program, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. This national exam tests your knowledge and critical thinking skills to determine if you’re prepared to begin practice as an entry-level nurse.
Earn Your Nursing Degree
- Enroll in an accredited nursing degree program at a college, university, or nursing school. The most common paths are:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program which usually takes 2-3 years.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) which usually takes 4 years.
- These programs include both classroom education as well as supervised clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, or NCLEX-RN, is required for licensure as an RN in the United States and Canada. This challenging exam evaluates your ability to apply nursing concepts and knowledge to real-world patient scenarios.
- To prepare, study the nursing concepts and content areas likely to be covered on the exam. Take practice questions and work through simulation case studies. When you feel ready, register for the NCLEX-RN with your state’s nursing board. If you pass, you’ll receive your nursing license and can begin practicing as a registered nurse!
Consider Becoming Certified (Optional)
- Becoming certified in a nursing specialty is not required for licensure but can demonstrate your competence to employers and open up new career opportunities. Many nursing certifications require a certain amount of nursing experience in that specialty before you can sit for the certification exam. Popular nursing certifications include critical care, emergency, pediatric, psychiatric, and medical-surgical nursing.
Path to Nursing Success
Following these key steps—earning your nursing degree, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and becoming certified (if desired)—will set you on the path to an exciting and rewarding career as a registered nurse. Best of luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Educational Requirements to Become a Nurse?
To become a nurse, you typically need to earn a diploma, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree in nursing. The specific education and training required depend on the type of nurse you aspire to become.
How Do I Get Accepted into a Nursing Program?
Getting accepted into a nursing program usually requires meeting prerequisites like specific coursework, maintaining a high GPA, and passing entrance exams such as the SAT, ACT, or nursing-specific tests like the NLN PAX-RN or HESI A2.
What Is the NCLEX-RN Exam, and How Do I Pass It?
The NCLEX-RN is the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, a challenging exam that tests nursing knowledge and skills. To pass, focus on studying topics like patient care, pharmacology, and safe care environment. Practice with study guides and online resources, and employ effective test-taking strategies.
What Steps Do I Need to Take to Become a Licensed Registered Nurse (RN)?
To become an RN, you must earn a nursing degree, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtain licensure. Consider pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing, then prepare rigorously for the NCLEX-RN exam to demonstrate your readiness for practice.
Are Nursing Certifications Necessary for Career Advancement?
While not mandatory, nursing certifications can enhance your credentials and open up career opportunities. Consider certifications in specialties like critical care, pediatric, or psychiatric nursing to showcase your expertise and dedication to professional development.
