Find a cohort you can still apply to. Free printable residency tracker (PDF)
Apply to a graduate-nurse opening. Residency starts within eight weeks of hire.
No reviews yet
Start about six months before graduation. Some programs open earlier; use each employer’s application dates.
6 months before
Check application windows. Gather clinical experience, references and your expected graduation date.
Find residencies4–6 months before
Apply before graduation when the program allows it. Keep the cohort date and license deadline with each application.
Explore new grad jobs2–3 months before
Ask about overtime, a shadow shift, preceptor continuity and the schedule after orientation.
Prepare your questionsAround graduation
Coordinate NCLEX, the required license and your start date. Get relocation and repayment terms in writing.
Plan your licenseAdvocate describes a 6–9 month application runway for several regional RN programs. These milestones are a planning guide, not deadlines for every employer. See program calendars.
