Prospective Student Information
Can YOU be a Nurse?
Generally, to be a nurse in the US, there are a few requirements that you should know about.
- You must be proficient in the English Language. At WKU School of Nursing, we check this using the TOEFL exam. Please see this link for the requirements.
- You must graduate from a qualifying nursing program. Our WKU nursing programs all meet this requirement.
- You must pass the NCLEX-RN exam after graduation to obtain license to practice as a registered nurse (RN). All of our pre-licensure programs prepare you to pass this exam.
- You must pass a criminal background check and have no prior felony convictions, and no misdemeanors related to the practice of nursing. This last is determined on a case by case basis, if you have questions about this, please contact us and we will review your information. You also will be subjected to random drug screens to assure that you are not using drugs during the nursing program and at most places that employ nurses.
- You must have a valid Social Security Number.
- You must meet basic health and safety requirements to participate in clinical rotations. This includes routine childhood vaccinations, annual flu shots, TB testing and COVID vaccinations. You must also have the minimum physical, mental and emotional capabilities to perform nursing tasks in a variety of clinical settings. Please see this link for more information.
- You must apply for a license in at least one state. This license can then be transferred to any other state in the US, by applying to the relevant state board of nursing. In addition to graduating from a qualified nursing program and passing the NCLEX licensure exam, each state may have additional requirements for licensure. Common requirements are fingerprints, criminal background checks, drug screen etc. Some states require additional continuing education hours on specific topics and may require the applicant to pass an online quiz on those topics to demonstrate competency. These additional requirements will be outlined on the board of nursing's website for each state, and may change on a yearly basis. Please see the relevant state's board of nursing website for additional details.
WKU School of Nursing Resources
How to Select a Nursing Program - Critical Information for Students and Parents
Selecting a Nursing Program - Chart Resource, including Transfer coures Equivalency resources
Student Policies, Handbooks, & Forms
Next Steps
Apply for Admission at WKU - This allows WKU to assign you an advisor, who you can work with to select the right nursing program for you. For more information about our programs, including entry requirements and course progressions, click on the Degress & Programs link at the top of this page.