When did you start applying for nursing positions and how long after graduating did you take the NCLEX?

Start applying in your last semester. Most hospitals will fill their new grad slots before graduation so they know how many to plan for orientation. Most will not let you start until you have passed boards so take them as soon as you can sign up for them. The information is still fresh anyway and research shows the further out from school the person is the less likely to pass. Now working without a license may change due to covid but you need to go ahead and take NCLEX ASAP so you better your chances to pass.

I took the Nclex one month after graduating and accepted a job in mental health before passing. They let me work under another nurse and was making the same hourly as I did after passing. I suggest taking it close to graduation so everything is fresh in your mind and utilize UWorld. That’s the only app I used to study and passed in 76 questions my first time!

I took my NCLEX 4 months after graduation. The day I found out I passed I started applying EVERYWHERE! Got a job 4 months later. Guess 4 was my number 😉

I started applying for new grad residencies when I started my last semester of nursing school. Had several offers contingent on graduation. I took NCLEX 9 days after receiving my ATT (1st test date available to me after receiving my ATT).