Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to the ARNEC program?

Students can download the application packet from this website, or pick an application packet up at one of the ARNEC member institutions. Students should thoroughly complete the packet and submit it to the ARNEC member institution that they would like to attend.

When are applications accepted?

Deadline for applications is August 31st of every year for the following class that will begin in January.

How will I know if I was accepted into the program?

All applicants will receive a letter in the mail letting them know if they were or were not accepted. Students should receive a letter of admission status by mid-October.

Will I be able to work full-time or part-time while in the ARNEC program?

Some of our students maintain full-time status while others have chosen to drop to part-time status. The decision regarding employment status is up to the student. Students must allow ample weekly study time to be successful in the program.

How are clinicals planned?

Depending on the institution where you are a student, clinical rotations will take place either one Saturday or Sunday per week or a Saturday-Sunday combination every other weekend. Clinical sites are planned to take place as close to your community as possible, while still providing you with opportunities to learn and practice the roles and responsibilities of RN's.

Can I apply if I haven’t completed my PN/VN program yet?

ARNEC accepts applications from students completing a PN/VN program. If granted admission, the student must show proof of their LPN/LVN license by the end of the first week of class in January. If the student cannot do so, they must withdraw from the program so an alternate can move into their slot.

Can I apply to ARNEC if I was unsuccessful in another RN program?

Applicants who were enrolled in another registered nursing program must submit a letter of good standing from the dean/director of the program. In order to be considered in good standing, the applicant must be eligible for re-entry into the previous college’s nursing program. The letter of good standing must be mailed from the previous college’s dean/director directly to the Department of Nursing Program Chair of the college where the applicant is applying. If the applicant is unable to submit this letter, then the applicant may not be considered for admission.

If an applicant failed twice in a generic RN program, then later successfully completed an LPN/LVN/LPTN program, the applicant will be eligible to apply to the ARNEC program. However, should the applicant be accepted into the program, they will be allowed only one attempt in the program. The applicant’s transcript must show proof that they completed an LPN/LVN/LPTN program AFTER attempting the RN courses.

How can I prepare/study for the pre-entrance exam?

ARNEC strongly encourages applicants to prepare for the pre-entrance exam by studying an NCLEX-PN review book.