Getting into nursing is very competitive. To improve your chances of success you need to research nursing, demonstrate commitment and show motivation. Preparing your application to the highest standard takes time and effort. This timeline illustrates the milestones to consider in your preparations:
24 months before starting a nursing course: Consider your academic options. Do you need to choose full-time courses such as ‘A’ levels and BTECs or are part-time courses such as ACCESS more appropriate?
20 months: Plan any necessary work experience. Do you need to gain care experience or will any work experience with people be sufficient?
16 months: Undertake research into nursing and the different fields. This helps identify your options.
14 months: Think about attending open days and UCAS events. Visiting potential universities helps you plan your choices.
12 months: One-year academic courses are available for mature candidates. Consider enrolling now.
10 months: Prepare your UCAS application, develop your personal statement and seek out appropriate referees.
8 months: If your application is accepted you’re invited to selection events and interviews. This can be a busy time meeting admissions tutors and other candidates.
6 months: Should any universities have made offers, this is the time for you to make your decisions. Picking your first choice and reserve university can be challenging.
2 months: The results of your exams are published and universities confirm your offers. If you didn’t quite make the grade for your first choice, seek other universities.
0 months: If all has gone to plan, it’s time to go to university; your career starts here!
