Shelly Said:

Need advice! wanting to apply for a nursing diploma...?

We Answered:

Officially there is no minimum age (due to an EU ruling) but many uni's list 17 & a half as the minimum age you can apply. You'll need 5 GCSE's at C grade or above. Maths & English are a must & a lot of uni's like you to have Science too. You've got English & Science, have you got the Maths? If not then some uni's will accept Numeracy Level 2 instead, that only takes 4-8 weeks.

Nursing is extremely competitive, particularly at the moment as there's been a 75% increase in applicants this year. Next year looks set to be equally competitive. A lot of people, particularly mature students are rushing to apply for the diploma before it's phased out because it offers a better bursary. Also with the current economic climate many people are wanting to retrain as nurses as they believe it offers job security. Consequently the uni's can afford to be fussy with their applicants.

That said you're doing the right thing in getting some work experience & that will really help your application. Attrition rates are high on nursing courses & one reason for people leaving is they just didn't realise what nursing involves. By getting work experience you're showing commitment & hopefully you'll be going into nursing with your eyes open.

If you go into the forum on this site http://www.studentnurse.org.uk/ you will find past & present students who will be willing to give you advice on their respective uni's. I go to Brighton so I'm afraid I can't help you on your uni choices. You'll also find advice on writing a killer personal statement, you'll need that because your P.S. is half the battle! Plus advice on interviews, bursaries, accommodation, placements etc.

I also suggest you start reading the Nursing Times & Nursing Standard. Both are available in WH Smiths, I subscribe because it's a bit cheaper & they come to your door. I guarantee you at interview they will ask, "Are you familiar with current NHS issues?". The magazines will keep you aware of issues & the sooner you start reading the more knowledgeable you will sound. :-)

Uni's are already offering places for the 2011 intakes to those who missed out on the 2010 intake so the sooner you get your application in the better.

Good luck!