Relocating for nursing school might be a good decision if you want to take advantage of an accelerated nursing pathway or have access to better clinical learning experiences. Before moving for nursing school, develop a reasonable budget, research tuition and living expenses, and explore housing options.
If you’ve decided to become a nurse, your next step is choosing where to earn a nursing degree. As you start your research, you might realize the best option for you might not be close by. Relocating for nursing school can expand your program options and help you find the right fit for your goals.
The University of Mount Saint Vincent supports students from near and far. With multiple program sites in and around New York City, our Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program provides an accelerated path to nursing. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you might be eligible to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing in as few as 16 months.
First, determine whether moving for nursing school fits your goals and circumstances. Then, evaluate your budget, housing, and transportation before planning the move.
Should You Consider Relocating for Nursing School?
Students consider moving for nursing school for several reasons, including:
- Better career options after graduation
- Access to programs with earlier start dates
- Finding a program that aligns with your values and goals
- Limited local nursing school options
Accelerated pathways offer another compelling reason to relocate. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you may be eligible for an ABSN program, which can shorten the time needed to earn a BS in nursing compared with a traditional program.
After completing prerequisites, you could earn a BS in nursing in as few as 16 months at Mount Saint Vincent. This rigorous program requires a commitment to coursework and study, but prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN with confidence.
What is an ABSN program, and is it right for you?
What to Consider Before Moving for Nursing School
As you plan your relocation, consider your budget, housing options, transportation, and other logistical factors.
Budgeting for Tuition, Housing, and Living Expenses
Finances are a primary consideration for most people planning to relocate for an ABSN program. Account for tuition and school fees, compare rental costs, and research how living expenses in your new city differ from those at home.
Federal student aid may help cover eligible costs. Scholarships and private student loans may help fill remaining gaps. Develop a realistic budget for living expenses during nursing school.
Researching Housing and Transportation
You must also consider housing and transportation costs. Will you need a car, or could you rely on public transportation? Would you be able to bring a car with you? Keep in mind that while you may be able to walk to your classes, you must have reliable transportation to attend clinical rotations.
If you enroll in Mount Saint Vincent’s ABSN program, you can choose from the five ABSN learning sites throughout New York City. You may want to live near one of our learning sites, but New York City’s excellent public transportation system can expand your housing options. Many residents rely on subways and buses rather than paying for a car. Consider homes near a subway or bus route.
Building a Support System
If your family is relocating with you, you may already have a strong support system. If not, build connections with your nursing cohort. Join or form a study group and make time to connect outside of classes and labs.
Nursing school will demand much of your time, but occasional breaks can help you recharge. Build connections outside school by joining a book club, recreational sports league, or another community group.
How to Prepare for Your Nursing School Relocation
Take the following practical steps to prepare for your nursing school relocation.
Create a Relocation Timeline
Begin by speaking with your admission counselor and choosing a realistic start date. Once you know when you need to arrive, create a relocation checklist and schedule each task around that date.
Visit Your New Community Before Moving
If possible, visit your destination before moving so you can view housing options in person and explore neighborhoods. It may also be helpful to visit program sites to familiarize yourself with your future commute.
Organize Important Documents
Keep important documents secure and accessible during your move. Confirm that you have the following:
- Birth certificate
- Identification documents
- Immunization record
- Insurance and banking paperwork
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
- Passport, if applicable
- Social Security card, if applicable
After moving, check whether you need to update your driver’s license with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Connect With Your Nursing School Before Classes Begin
If possible, connect with members of your nursing cohort before your first day of class. Getting acquainted early can help you develop a close-knit network that offers emotional support and practical assistance, including study groups, throughout the program.
Is nursing school hard? Learn what you can expect from the experience and how to succeed.
Is Relocating for an ABSN Program Worth It?
Only you can determine whether moving for nursing school is worthwhile for your circumstances. Consider these potential benefits:
More Program Options
A nursing school relocation can expand your options when no nearby school meets your needs. Even if a nursing school is within commuting distance, moving may be worthwhile if it does not offer an ABSN program. Relocating can help you choose a program that aligns with your values and provides rigorous nursing education.
Faster Path to Becoming an RN
Planning to relocate for an ABSN program can provide a faster path to becoming a nurse. Completing the prerequisites before enrolling in the program can give you time to plan your relocation and make logistical arrangements.
New Clinical Learning Opportunities
Another potential benefit of relocating for nursing school is access to new clinical learning opportunities. Clinical learning is essential to nursing education and career preparation because it provides hands-on experience with patient care and professional interactions.
During clinical rotations at Mount Saint Vincent, ABSN students gain confidence with nursing tasks and become comfortable in clinical environments. Our clinical partners include nationally renowned healthcare facilities such as Memorial Sloan Kettering, Mount Sinai Hospital, and NYU Langone Health. Students complete clinical shifts in practice areas including adult health, obstetrics, intensive care, and acute care.
Greater Career Flexibility After Graduation
Moving for nursing school may offer greater career flexibility after graduation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), New York ranks among the top five states with the most RNs employed in the country. The New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ Metropolitan Statistical Area employs the highest number of RNs compared to all other metropolitan areas in the country.
The area’s high RN employment and numerous healthcare facilities may offer nurses a range of career paths. Options can range from medical-surgical nursing to specialized fields, such as pediatric anesthesia.
Start Your Nursing Journey at Mount Saint Vincent
If you’ve decided to relocate for an ABSN program, the University of Mount Saint Vincent can support your next steps. Your dedicated admission counselor will provide personalized assistance throughout the admission process. The Mount focuses on educating the whole student through innovative nursing education that prepares graduates for modern challenges in the field.
Request information today and connect with an admission counselor to learn more about our ABSN program in New York City and Yonkers.