How to Strengthen an NP School Application

GPA

Student applicants can show dedication to the nursing profession through their past academic success. Having a high GPA in undergraduate studies is lucrative. Most schools have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, but realistically expect a 3.5 GPA or higher. Student nurses who plan to continue their education and become an NP, should focus on excelling in their nursing courses while in undergraduate.

Work Experience

Various NP schools require work experience as an RN. Although there are no specific hours required, having at least 1 year of experience is recommended. Students who have practiced as a nurse before entering NP school will have an advantage compared to those without experience. This is because the hands-on patient experience has already exposed them to a plethora of medications, complex scenarios, and disease management.

Through work experience, future NP students have utilized critical thinking skills and practiced effective communication. They have learned to collaborate with other staff and patient families. Depending on the specific NP program a nurse is interested in, they should try to have some relevant work experience. 

For example, if a nurse is interested in applying to a psychiatric NP program, they should work in a mental health facility prior. An added bonus is to obtain certification in that specialty as a nurse. For instance, a nurse can use their clinical experience and skills to become a certified addiction registered nurse.

Volunteer Experience

It can be challenging to find time to volunteer while working as a full-time nurse or student.  However, NP schools seek out students who volunteer because it shows compassion, leadership, and civic engagement. Volunteering in a healthcare facility shows dedication to the profession. It gives nurses the opportunity to explore different specialties to discover their passion.

Yet, volunteering does not only need to be in the medical field. Any type of community service will demonstrate an applicant’s desire to serve others, and they will likely grow from their involvement. Volunteer experience can strengthen an NP school application because it demonstrates long-term commitment and character. It shows the admissions committee that the applicant’s values align with the school’s culture and mission to serve the community.

References

When applying to NP schools, it is required to provide at least two to three letters of recommendation. References are ideally from work supervisors or previous nursing professors.

NP schools use recommendation letters to evaluate an applicant’s work ethic, classroom presence, and attributes. They are looking for specific anecdotes and concrete evidence of students’ potential and resilience for their program. These letters of recommendation should illustrate the applicant’s intellectual curiosity, leadership and collaboration experience, and integrity.

Nurses should avoid asking for letters of recommendation from people they do not have a relationship with. This type of letter would be generic and not provide the type of information the application committee is seeking. If the applicant’s GPA is not competitive, perhaps they can have this letter shine some light on challenges they faced while in undergraduate.

Interview

NP schools typically require an in-person or virtual interview. Interviews are conducted by faculty members or administrative leaders. Applicants should be well-prepared for the interview and practice interview questions beforehand. They need to familiarize themselves with the mission of the nursing college and incorporate parallels of that mission into some of their answers.

This is a good opportunity to expound upon the resume provided. Applicants should highlight the skills and experiences that will allow them to be successful in the program. They must articulate their short-term and long-term goals and how the NP program will help them achieve them. For example, one of their goals can be to increase access to primary care in rural areas or provide better health outcomes for geriatric communities. They can discuss research topics that interest them and if there are any possible mentors at that college.

Lastly, applicants must portray a professional and well-groomed appearance. They are expected to speak eloquently and demonstrate open communication skills. They should maintain good eye contact and a positive demeanor.