6 Tips for Going Back to School for Nursing

Tips for Going Back to School for Nursing

1. Prepare Yourself Mentally to Be a Nursing Student 

Going back to school is exciting. However, it can also bring up some anxieties related to academics, clinical situations, financial concerns, and time management. Start by recognizing that these feelings are normal and can be managed with the right mindset and tools. 

Setting realistic expectations and focusing on your strengths can help curb self-doubt and propel you toward success. Acknowledge and plan for the challenges of balancing school with personal life, and seek support from peers and mentors. Sharing your goals with those close to you can provide reassurance and build confidence in your ability to achieve your goals.

2. Get Familiar With the Nursing Programs Out There — and Choose the One for You

If you are wondering how to choose a nursing school, first you must evaluate the options available based on your goals and needs. The most common paths to RN are traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, and accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs.

If you already have a Bachelor of Science in any field you may be eligible for an ABSN program, which can help you become a nurse in as few as 12-18 months. ABSN programs build on previously earned college credit and are a popular choice for career changers. 

Once you’ve determined what kind of nursing program you wish to pursue, you can begin researching what specific program fits your needs. There are many factors to consider, but you can start by researching and assessing these key factors:

• Accreditation: Find out whether the program is accredited and tailored to meet the quality standards that allow for licensure eligibility. 
• Modality: Evaluate the curriculum structure to determine its suitability with how you learn and what you want to achieve career-wise. 
• Duration: Different programs offer varying timeframes to complete your degree. If you have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and are seeking to transition to nursing, the accelerated nursing program gives you a condensed timeline and targeted curriculum. 
• Clinical experience: Consider the level of clinical opportunities available for each program. Hands-on clinical hours will prepare you to thrive in a real-world nursing environment.

3. Research Financial Aid for Nursing School and Other Funding Options 

Another hurdle when planning your future in nursing is figuring out how to pay for nursing school. The cost of a nursing school program can vary greatly depending on factors such as tuition rates, fees, and location. The average cost of tuition for a BSN degree can range from around $10,000 to over $200,000 or more. Fortunately, options are available to help offset the expenses, including scholarships, grants, and loans. 

To find financial aid for nursing school, start your search by exploring scholarships and opportunities specifically tailored to nursing education. For example, many professional nursing organizations, foundations, and healthcare institutions offer scholarships for nursing students. There are also nursing-specific databases and online resources that provide a wide range of opportunities based on academic achievement, financial need, diversity, and specific areas of interest within nursing. 

It is also important to consider the financial aspect of the program you choose. ABSN programs are academically rigorous and time-consuming, and most discourage their students from trying to work while in nursing school. They also get students into the field working faster than some other programs. Traditional BSN programs spread the work out over a longer period of time so some students may be able to work while they take classes. This makes financial planning an essential part of going back to school for nursing. Be sure to inquire with your program about scholarships, loans, and financial aid, while considering your options for outside support.

4. Learn Time Management and Study Skills 

Another way you can prevent stress before going back to nursing school is by brushing up on time management and organization techniques. Between balancing coursework with clinical rotations and trying to maintain a personal life, creating time for your commitments can be difficult. Set aside time to plan every week and create a study schedule that incorporates breaks and time for personal activities.

Quick Study Tips for Students Going Back to School for Nursing

To make your study time more effective and productive:

• Create a Study Schedule. Use a planner or app to block out dedicated times for each subject, assignments, and review. Consistency is essential when attempting to master complex material.
  
  
• Form a Study Group. Collaborate with peers to share notes, quiz each other, and work through challenging topics. Group discussions can help reinforce knowledge and provide different perspectives.
  
  
• Use Active Learning Techniques. Instead of passively reading, engage with the material. Create flashcards, draw concept maps, and practice NCLEX-style questions to apply what you’ve learned.
  
  
• Prioritize Understanding Over Memorization. Nursing isn’t just about recalling facts—it’s about critical thinking and applying knowledge. Focus on truly understanding concepts like pathophysiology and pharmacology rather than rote memorization.
  
  
• Practice Time Management. Nursing students must balance classes, clinicals, and personal obligations. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable pieces and working through them one at a time can help reduce burnout.
  
  
• Simulate Real-Life Scenarios. Practice applying theory from your classwork to practical situations. Reviewing case studies or role-playing patient care scenarios with classmates can help build and reinforce your nursing skills.
  
  
• Stay Organized. Keep all your materials, notes, and assignments in a single place. Digital tools like organization apps or physical folders or binders can help you quickly access what you need while studying.
  
  
• Review Material Regularly. Don’t cram before exams. Making time for regular review sessions will keep key concepts fresh. 
  
  
• Take Care of Yourself. Your brain works best when you’re rested and healthy. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise, and make sure to take breaks during study sessions to avoid mental fatigue. Self-care is essential for success in nursing school.

5. Build a Going Back to School Support System

Never underestimate the power of strong social support during critical life transitions. The people who understand your goals and have your back will be your best resources while you navigate going back to school. You can begin to build a support system by connecting with classmates, joining professional nursing associations, and seeking guidance from mentors.

Making connections with peers and mentors helps to support your future goals as well. By networking during your education, you can build relationships with professionals in the nursing field and continue benefiting from that support throughout your entire career.

6. Reduce Nursing Student Stress by Practicing Self-Care

As you jump into a nursing program, it's important to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Self-care is crucial for managing the demands of the program. Make sure to carve out time for exercise, even if it's just a quick walk or some stretching.

Fuel your body with nutritious food. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine, like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Additionally, you must find and maintain a balance between work, school, and personal life. Set realistic expectations for yourself to prevent burnout.

Time spent recharging with family and friends is an essential form of self-care. 

Take the First Step: Apply to BAYADA’s Accelerated Nursing Program

If you already have a bachelor’s degree or college credit, the TESU Accelerated BSN BAYADA Scholars Track at Cooper University Health Care offers a unique path to fast-track your career in nursing. The program can help you earn your BSN in as little as 15 months and maintains an impressive a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate*. Students benefit from individual support through a 1:1 mentorship program with experienced instructors and have the unique opportunity to build their nursing skills at a Level I Trauma Center.

For more information, visit TESU Accelerated BSN Bayada Scholars Track at Cooper University Health Care.

*TESU has achieved impressive first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates of 100% in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2023. The school’s first-time NCLEX-RN exam pass rate for its Accelerated BSN program graduates ranks in the top 4 percent of all BSN programs in the country.