Are you wondering if earning a nursing degree is feasible with a GED diploma? Numerous colleges and universities across the United States accept GED graduates.
With your GED, you have the opportunity to pursue higher education in nursing, provided you meet the admission requirements and complete the necessary courses to obtain your nursing credentials.
How to Obtain your GED Diploma
The GED exam consists of four separate modules, each covering a distinct subject: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Literacy (Language Arts). You can complete these modules individually, one at a time.
With dedicated and effective study, you could be prepared to pass the tests in just a few weeks.
The timeframe may vary based on your current educational background, but by concentrating on the necessary GED topics and taking multiple practice tests, you should be able to achieve your goal.
We offer comprehensive practice test questions for all the subjects:
- GED Science Practice Test
- GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Test
- GED Social Studies Practice Test
- GED Math Practice Test
Good grades are essential due to the increasing competitiveness of nursing assistant program admissions. Schools seek the most qualified candidates with a strong grasp of math, chemistry, and human anatomy.
Read more: How to Get a GED.
What are the Best Nursing Schools for Someone with a GED?
Several reputable nursing institutions accept GED holders, offering paths to a rewarding career in healthcare. Top options include the University of Phoenix, which provides online nursing degrees with flexible schedules.
The City University of New York (CUNY) has various community colleges with strong nursing programs. Additionally, Western Governors University offers accredited online nursing degrees, ideal for those balancing work and study.
Many state universities, like the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Florida, also accept GED graduates, often with additional prerequisites.
Researching each institution’s admission requirements and support services can help you find the best fit for your educational and career goals.
How to Get Into Nursing School
For many aspiring nurses, gaining admission to nursing school is a dream come true, though the process can seem overwhelming.
We’ve outlined the complete journey to nursing school, covering everything from prerequisites and requirements to the steps you’ll need to follow. Continue reading to discover how to secure a place in your top-choice nursing program.
1. Earn Your GED
To enroll in a nursing degree program, you need to be either a high school graduate or have obtained your GED.
This requirement applies to any nursing program you wish to apply to, whether it’s a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program.
2. Meet all Nursing School Requirements
Whether you’re applying for an ADN or BSN nursing program, all schools mandate specific prerequisite courses. These courses, typically taken during high school, provide the foundational knowledge required for more advanced college-level classes.
Nursing School Prerequisites:
If you have a GED and are interested in pursuing a nursing degree, you’ll need to meet specific prerequisites, which can vary depending on the program and institution. Here’s a general overview of common requirements:
- Completion of one year of high school biology with a grade of C or higher
- Completion of one year of high school chemistry with a grade of C or higher
- Completion of two years of college-preparatory math with a grade of C or higher
- A GPA of 2.75 or above for the ADN program, or a GPA of 3.0 or above for the BSN program
- SAT scores or TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
It’s essential to research the specific requirements of the nursing programs you’re interested in, as they can vary. Make sure to reach out to the admissions offices of the schools you’re considering for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Requirements can differ depending on the nursing program, so it’s crucial to consult with an admissions counselor before applying. Generally, BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs have more stringent prerequisites compared to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs.
Lastly, many nursing programs also have entrance exam requirements. While there are no nursing entrance exams, most will require passing scores on tests such as the TEAS, HESI, or both for admission.
3. Explore Nursing Programs
It’s crucial to determine which type of nursing program aligns with your interests. As you evaluate accredited institutions, consider the following questions:
- Are you drawn to a large public university in an urban area, or would you prefer a smaller private college in a rural location?
- Can you live on campus, or will you need to commute?
- Are you aiming for an ADN or BSN nursing program?
- How do you plan to finance your education?
- Are you open to relocating, or do you prefer to stay close to home?
- Do you currently hold an LPN or LVN license?
- Would you rather enroll in an online program or attend classes in person?
A significant choice is between an ADN and a BSN program. As BSN programs become more prevalent and the demand for new graduates with a bachelor’s degree increases, associate degree nursing programs are losing popularity.
4. Decide on Your Financing Plan for Nursing School
College can be expensive, and nursing programs are no exception. Most students need financial support, so it’s crucial to consult with a financial aid representative at your university or community college to explore your options.
While not everyone will be eligible for all forms of aid, scholarships, grants, and federal loans can significantly ease the financial burden of nursing school for many students. For more details, check out How to Pay for Nursing School.
5. Submit Your Application
Each nursing program has its own set of admission packets and required information. Many universities nationwide accept the Common Application or Universal College Application.
Consulting with an admissions counselor about using these forms can help save time and money.
Nursing School Application Requirements:
- Official transcripts from high school and any college-level coursework
- Standardized test scores
- Admission application
- Personal essay or statement letter
- Letters of recommendation
- Volunteer experience (preferably in healthcare, ideally involving patient care)
- Application fee
It’s advisable to apply to multiple nursing programs since these programs are highly competitive. Being accepted into several programs allows you to choose the one that best fits your academic and financial needs.
6. Pass Your Admission Interview
The interview provides an opportunity for the applicant to showcase their strengths. Nursing program committee members seek to understand why a student would excel as a nurse and positively represent the program.
Embrace this kind of pressure, as you will encounter it again after earning your RN license if you apply for nurse practitioner programs or other advanced degree programs.
Key Points to Keep in Mind for a Successful Interview:
- Stay informed about current health news.
- Prepare by practicing mock interviews.
- Familiarize yourself with key facts about the nursing program and the university.
- Be honest and straightforward during the interview.
Though the questions asked at nursing school interviews can vary widely, they generally fall into the following categories:
- Traditional, open-ended
- Personality and involvement
- Behavioral
- Situational or ethical dilemmas
- Current affairs
7. Wait for the Arrival of Acceptance Letters
This stage of the application process is the most challenging. After conducting your research and submitting your application, all that’s left to do is wait. Some nursing programs have rolling admissions, while others send out acceptance or rejection letters at predetermined times.
How to Make Your Nursing School Application Stand Out
Getting into nursing schools is highly competitive, but there are strategies to enhance your chances and distinguish yourself from other applicants. Here are three ways to stand out and position yourself for success.
1. Volunteer
Not all universities and colleges require volunteer work, but college admission counselors strongly encourage it. Ideal prospective students should consider volunteering at a community clinic or hospital.
Volunteering provides valuable experience and insight into the nursing profession and enhances an application. It helps students determine if nursing is the right career path, giving them ample time to adjust their plans if necessary.
Demonstrating a commitment to the healthcare industry and a proactive approach to expanding your knowledge before nursing school can make your application more competitive among many others.
Students looking to enhance their volunteer experience can join organizations such as the American Red Cross. Although most volunteers are needed internationally, the Red Cross has local chapters offering numerous volunteer opportunities.
A key benefit of volunteering with the Red Cross is the ability to tailor the experience to align with nursing career goals. For instance, those interested in child health can find opportunities in daycare and school settings.
According to the American Red Cross website, other opportunities for nursing students include teaching first aid, assisting with local blood drives, and providing disaster response.
2. Become a Certified Nursing Assistant
Learn How to Become a Certificate Nursing Assistant (CNA) as it can significantly enhance your resume as a prospective nursing student by providing valuable work experience.
The educational requirements for becoming a CNA are typically completed in just a few months and offer valuable insights into the healthcare field. Moreover, working as a CNA can help offset the costs of nursing school. Many individuals begin their nursing careers as CNAs.
3. Know Why You Want to Be a Nurse
It might seem straightforward, but understanding your passion for nursing is crucial. Most nurses can pinpoint the exact moment they decided to pursue this career and articulate their specific reasons.
It’s essential to grasp, at a fundamental level, why nursing resonates with you or why you believe it does.
During interviews, application committees will seek a clear and concise explanation of your interest in the nursing field.
Having a strong sense of why you want to become a nurse will also keep you motivated during challenging coursework in microbiology, human anatomy, and other general education subjects.
While the nursing school application process can be competitive and stressful, maintaining a positive outlook is key. If you are determined to make nursing your career, you’ll find a way to succeed.
Nursing Specializations
Most nurses start their careers in general medicine and healthcare. However, many choose to specialize in various areas, which may require different levels of education and certification. Specializations include:
- Nephrology
- Gynecology
- Neonatology
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Transplantation
- Critical Care
- Emergency and Trauma
- Orthopedics
- Obstetrics
This list is not exhaustive, as nurses can also work in fields like women’s health, public health, and family practice. Nursing plays a crucial role in any setting where ongoing care is needed.
When applying for a nursing position, expect employers to conduct a thorough review of your educational and personal background, particularly for roles in healthcare and education.
FAQs
Is the GED test Harder than High School?
The GED test is not necessarily harder than high school; rather, it assesses a broad range of knowledge and skills typically covered in high school. The test includes subjects like math, science, social studies, and language arts, often at a more conceptual level.
While high school education provides a structured environment with continuous support, the GED requires test-takers to apply their knowledge independently.
Preparation can be demanding, especially for those out of practice with academic testing. Ultimately, difficulty can vary based on individual preparation and familiarity with the subjects tested.
Is it Hard to Become a Nurse at 40?
Becoming a nurse at 40 is entirely feasible and can be a fulfilling career change. While the path may present challenges such as balancing studies with other responsibilities and adapting to new technology, many mature students successfully transition into nursing.
Experience in other fields can provide valuable skills, and age often brings maturity and resilience. With dedication, support, and effective time management, you can overcome these hurdles and embark on a rewarding nursing career.
What does GED Stand for in Education?
GED stands for General Educational Development. It is a series of tests designed to measure proficiency in standard high school subjects. Successfully passing the GED tests certifies that an individual has high school-level academic skills.
The GED is often used by those who did not complete traditional high school education but wish to earn a credential equivalent to a high school diploma.
How to Stand Out in a Nursing School Application?
To stand out in a nursing school application, highlight relevant experience, such as volunteer work or internships in healthcare settings. Showcase your academic excellence with a strong GPA and high standardized test scores.
Write a compelling personal statement that demonstrates your passion for nursing, resilience, and commitment to patient care. Obtain glowing recommendations from professionals in the field. Additionally, emphasize unique qualities or experiences that differentiate you, such as leadership roles or overcoming significant challenges.
Ensure your application is meticulously completed and submitted on time, reflecting your attention to detail and organizational skills.
What is the Fastest I Can Get my GED?
To get your GED as quickly as possible, start with a solid study plan and utilize Prepsaret’s high-quality GED Test Prep resources . Practice consistently, focusing on your weak areas and taking practice tests to identify areas for improvement.
Stay motivated by setting small goals and rewarding yourself when you achieve them, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep and a balanced diet. Seek help when needed, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your study group or a GED tutor for support.