What Is The Typical Timeline For Applying To Nursing School?

18–12 Months Out: Self-Assessment & Prerequisite Planning

The initial phase of the nursing school application journey, spanning 18 to 12 months before anticipated enrollment, is dedicated to thorough self-assessment and meticulous prerequisite planning. This crucial period sets the foundation for a successful application.

First, prospective applicants must identify the nursing program type and target schools that best align with their career aspirations. This involves deciding whether an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) for those with prior degrees, or an LPN/LVN-to-RN Bridge program is the most suitable path. Early research into various programs helps individuals understand their unique requirements, curriculum focus, and application cycles.  

Next, it is imperative to research specific prerequisite courses required by each target program. Nursing programs universally impose strict prerequisite course requirements, which often include a robust foundation in sciences and humanities. Common prerequisites frequently encompass four years of English (or college composition), three to four years of math (including algebra and geometry, or college-level math), and two to four years of science (including biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology I & II, and microbiology). Physics and computer science are also often recommended. Additionally, social studies or psychology courses, such as general psychology and lifespan psychology, are typically required. A critical consideration for some programs is the recency of science prerequisites; certain courses may need to have been completed within the past five years to be eligible for application.  

Once prerequisites are identified, individuals must plan their prerequisite completion. This involves determining whether these courses can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. It is important to recognize that pursuing prerequisites part-time or needing to retake courses due to unsatisfactory grades can significantly extend the overall timeline. A common requirement for both enrollment and progression in nursing programs is achieving a grade of “C” or higher in all prerequisite coursework. If prerequisites are taken at a different institution, verifying the transferability of credits to target nursing schools is an essential step to avoid delays.  

Concurrently, aspiring nurses should begin gaining healthcare experience, through volunteering or shadowing. Many competitive nursing programs, particularly BSN and ABSN tracks, highly recommend or even mandate hands-on healthcare experience. Some programs may require a minimum of 100 hours of concentrated experience within 12 months of applying, emphasizing the “intensity of experience” to ensure applicants have a realistic understanding of the breadth of the nursing role. This experience can be acquired through various avenues, including volunteering in hospitals or clinics, shadowing practicing nurses, or working in allied health roles.  

The speed and success of prerequisite completion emerge as the most critical initial determinants of an applicant’s overall timeline. The evidence explicitly states that “prerequisite coursework… can add time to your journey” and that “Part-time schedules or prerequisite gaps may add semesters to your timeline”. This establishes a direct causal link: if an applicant misjudges the number or difficulty of required prerequisites, or attempts to rush through them, they risk achieving lower grades, potentially falling below the common “C” minimum. This necessitates retaking courses, which in turn pushes back their application eligibility. The stipulation that certain science courses must have been completed within a five-year window further complicates this for applicants with older academic records, potentially requiring them to re-enroll in courses they have already passed. This situation highlights that the application process is not merely about fulfilling requirements, but about doing so strategically and successfully. The meticulous academic planning during this early phase, coupled with a realistic assessment of one’s capacity for accelerated study, especially for career-changers, is fundamental to avoiding significant delays later in the application journey.  

12–9 Months Out: School Research & Test Registration

As the application timeline progresses to 12 to 9 months out, the focus shifts to in-depth school research and strategic entrance exam registration. This period is vital for refining choices and preparing for critical admissions assessments.

A deep dive into school-specific requirements and deadlines is paramount. Prospective applicants should visit the websites and, if feasible, the campuses of their target nursing schools to gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique culture, curriculum, faculty expertise, and clinical placement opportunities. During this research, it is essential to identify precisely which entrance exams—such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2), or Kaplan Nursing Admissions Test (KNAT)—are mandated by each college under consideration. Applicants must also carefully note the specific application availability windows. For example, Clayton State University’s BSN program opens applications for Fall entry on January 1 and for Spring entry on August 1. Given the competitive nature of nursing school admissions and the limited space available in many programs, applying to more than one college is a prudent strategy to increase options.  

Once the required exams are identified, the next critical step is to register for entrance exams (TEAS/HESI A2). Applicants must consult each target school’s specific TEAS/HESI A2 registration and testing policy. This includes understanding accepted test options (remote or in-person), the number of attempts allowed, any mandatory waiting periods between attempts, and the minimum scores required for application eligibility. Creating an ATI or Evolve account, as required by the respective testing services, is necessary for registration and accessing scores. Applicants should also be mindful of specific eligibility periods for exams; for instance, the HESI A2 exam has two eligibility periods annually (January 15 to May 15 and June 15 to October 15), allowing up to two attempts per period.  

Simultaneously, it is advisable to begin preparing for these entrance exams. The TEAS and HESI A2 typically cover core academic areas including reading, English language usage, mathematics, and science. Aspiring students should aim for competitive scores, with some institutions encouraging a minimum of 70% in each category and advising scores in the 80s for a stronger, more competitive application. Utilizing official study materials and practice exams provided by the testing organizations is highly recommended for effective preparation.  

Finally, during this period, applicants should identify potential recommenders. Think carefully about individuals who can provide strong, professional references. Ideal recommenders include teachers, athletic coaches, managers, or mentors who can genuinely speak to an applicant’s qualities and potential as a future nursing student. It is generally advised to avoid using personal connections, such as family members or close friends, as professional references.  

The strategic timing of entrance exams is a significant factor in the application process. The evidence indicates that taking these exams “at least two months before their application deadline” provides crucial “buffer time to retake the exam if they are not satisfied with their score”. This is not merely about taking the test, but about strategically timing it to allow for performance improvement. For instance, the HESI A2 exam has a two-week waiting period for retesting within the same eligibility period , and TEAS exams can be rescheduled for a fee with 48 hours’ notice. Some schools may also impose limits on the number of attempts or require in-person proctoring. A suboptimal score on a competitive entrance exam can significantly impede an application’s strength. By building in this buffer time, applicants can maximize their chances of meeting competitive score requirements, thereby reducing stress and preventing delays if a retake becomes necessary. This approach transforms the act of “taking the test” into a deliberate strategy aimed at “achieving a competitive score,” which is vital for distinguishing oneself in a competitive applicant pool.  

9–6 Months Out: Testing, Volunteering, Financial Prep

The period from 9 to 6 months out is a critical window for executing on earlier plans, focusing on entrance exams, solidifying healthcare experience, and initiating comprehensive financial aid preparations.

During this time, applicants should take their entrance exams (TEAS/HESI A2). It is advisable to schedule the first attempt within this window to allow for potential retakes. When preparing for the exam, individuals should ensure their computer system meets the specific requirements for remote exams and that they have a valid, government-issued photo ID readily available. Upon completion of the TEAS exam, a preliminary score is typically received immediately, with finalized scores becoming available within three business days. Generally, one complimentary transcript is included with registration, which should be promptly sent to the chosen nursing school(s).  

Concurrently, aspiring nurses should continue or complete their volunteering or healthcare experience. If the minimum required hours or desired depth of experience has not yet been met, this period is crucial for accumulating additional hours. This hands-on experience not only demonstrates a genuine commitment to the nursing profession but also provides invaluable insight into the day-to-day realities and diverse roles within healthcare.  

A significant component of this phase is to begin comprehensive financial aid research, starting with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA typically becomes available on October 1st each year. It is critically important to complete this application by priority deadlines, which can be as early as March 2nd for institutions like UCLA or March 28, 2025, for the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). Meeting these early deadlines is essential for “optimum consideration for limited financial aid resources” and need-based scholarships. In parallel, applicants should actively research and apply for nursing-specific scholarships. Many institutions offer their own scholarship applications with specific deadlines (e.g., UIC’s Nursing Scholarship Application is due March 28, 2025). Additionally, organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) provide scholarships for both baccalaureate and graduate nursing students.  

The interdependence of financial aid and application deadlines is a crucial aspect of overall planning. The FAFSA becomes available in October, and priority deadlines for federal aid and institutional scholarships can occur as early as December or March. This means that financial planning is not a separate, post-acceptance step, but a concurrent and early application process. Failing to meet these priority deadlines can result in missing out on “limited financial aid resources” and institutional scholarships, which could significantly impact the affordability and feasibility of attending a preferred nursing program. This emphasizes that the financial aid application is as time-sensitive as the program application itself. Students should integrate it as an essential component of their 18-month timeline, as proactive financial planning can substantially reduce the overall cost of education and broaden the range of affordable program options available to them.  

6–3 Months Out: Gather Documents & Write Personal Statement

As the application submission window approaches, the 6-to-3-month mark demands focused attention on gathering all necessary documents and meticulously crafting the personal statement. This period is crucial for assembling a strong and complete application package.

A primary task is to request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. It is advisable to allow at least one month for these institutions to process the requests and for the transcripts to be evaluated for transfer courses. NursingCAS, a centralized application service, specifically recommends requesting transcripts five weeks before the application submission deadline. It is important to note that official transcripts must typically be sent directly from the issuing institution to the receiving school or application service. The transfer credit evaluation process itself can take an additional two to four weeks after official transcripts are received and any commitment or deposit is made.  

Concurrently, applicants should formally request letters of recommendation. This involves reaching out to the professional references identified earlier, such as teachers, managers, or mentors, who possess a strong understanding of the applicant’s capabilities and potential as a nursing candidate. When making the request, it is important to ask if they are genuinely willing to provide a strong recommendation, giving them the option to decline if they do not feel comfortable doing so. Provide recommenders with all necessary details, including the specific programs and schools to which the applicant is applying, any particular qualities or experiences to highlight, and a clear due date for submission, ideally at least two weeks before the application deadline, or even one to two months in advance. A polite follow-up within a week if no response is received is also a good practice. Expressing gratitude for their time and effort is essential.  

This period is also dedicated to drafting and refining the personal statement or essay. This critical component serves as the applicant’s opportunity to articulate their passion for nursing, share their personal story, highlight relevant qualifications (including soft skills and volunteer experience), and explain why they are specifically interested in that particular school. Applicants should thoroughly read the essay guidelines, plan their essay structure, and aim to make their narrative distinctive. Allocating ample time for writing a well-structured and carefully planned statement is crucial. After drafting, it is highly recommended to set the essay aside for a few days before rereading it with fresh eyes. Seeking feedback from trusted mentors or individuals with strong writing skills, such as an English teacher, for proofreading grammar and mechanics is also invaluable. Utilizing grammar-checking tools can further enhance the essay’s quality.  

Finally, applicants must proactively prepare for background checks and immunization requirements. Many nursing programs mandate a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and a drug test. These often have strict deadlines, sometimes requiring completion weeks or even months before the program’s start date (e.g., two weeks prior, or by August 15 for Fall entry). Immunization requirements are extensive and typically include documented proof of immunity for Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Varicella (chickenpox), and Tetanus-Diphtheria (Tdap, usually within the last 10 years). A two-step TB skin test is often required initially, followed by annual updates, and an annual flu vaccine is common. Physical exams must generally be completed within twelve months prior to program entry. Additionally, current CPR certification (specifically Healthcare Provider level from organizations like the American Heart Association or American Red Cross) is almost universally required. These health requirements are not merely administrative hurdles; they are mandatory for participation in clinical placements, which are integral to nursing education.  

The “administrative” requirements, such as immunizations, background checks, and official transcripts, often have significant lead times that can be underestimated. Immunizations, for example, may necessitate multiple doses over several months (e.g., Hepatitis B vaccinations ), and the processing of titers (blood tests confirming immunity) can also take time. Background checks and fingerprinting similarly have varying processing periods and strict deadlines relative to the program start date. Official transcripts, which must be sent directly from institutions, typically require a minimum of one month for processing and evaluation. Failing to proactively manage these seemingly bureaucratic tasks can derail an otherwise strong application, even if academic and exam requirements are met. An applicant could be accepted into a program but then be unable to enroll or participate in crucial clinical experiences due to unmet health or background requirements. This situation highlights that the application process extends beyond academic readiness to encompass meticulous logistical preparedness, demanding proactive engagement with healthcare providers and administrative offices well in advance.  

3–1 Months Out: Submit Applications & Prepare for Interviews

As the application timeline enters its final crucial phase, typically 3 to 1 months before the program start, the focus intensifies on submitting applications and preparing for potential interviews.

The primary task is to submit applications. Utilizing centralized application services like NursingCAS can significantly streamline this process, allowing applicants to apply to multiple nursing programs with a single comprehensive application. NursingCAS offers a recommended timeline, suggesting that applicants finalize and submit their applications two weeks before the official deadline. It is essential to be acutely aware of specific program application windows; for instance, Lehman College’s Traditional and Accelerated Generic nursing programs have a March 15th application deadline.  

Concurrent with submission, applicants must be prepared to pay application fees and any supplemental fees. NursingCAS charges a base fee (e.g., $60 for the first undergraduate program, $80 for the first graduate program), with additional fees for each subsequent program applied to through the service. It is important to note that some individual nursing programs may also levy their own supplemental fees, which must be submitted directly to those programs, as NursingCAS does not process them. While fee waivers may be available, they are typically limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.  

For competitive programs, an invitation to interview is a critical step. Applicants should prepare thoroughly for interviews. If invited, interviews are a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate suitability for the program. Preparation should include practicing responses to common interview questions and gaining a deep understanding of the specific program’s values, mission, and curriculum. Dressing professionally for the interview is also important. Interview invitations are typically extended a few weeks after application submission; for example, Clayton State University sends interview invitations in mid-to-late March for Fall applicants and mid-to-late October for Spring applicants.  

The financial cost associated with the application process, particularly when applying to multiple programs through NursingCAS and potentially paying supplemental fees directly to schools , can accumulate rapidly. This financial consideration might inadvertently lead applicants to limit the number of schools they apply to, which could, in turn, reduce their overall chances of acceptance into any program, especially highly competitive ones. This situation highlights the necessity for applicants to budget not only for future tuition but also for the application process itself. It implies a strategic decision-making process where individuals must carefully balance the desire to maximize their acceptance chances by applying to numerous schools against the financial implications of multiple application fees. Researching acceptance rates and the competitiveness of specific programs becomes even more crucial in this context, enabling applicants to make informed decisions about where to invest their application fees most effectively.  

Post-Submission: Tracking Portals, Waitlists, and Decision Letters

The period immediately following application submission is characterized by anticipation and continued vigilance. While the bulk of the application work is complete, several crucial steps remain to ensure a smooth transition to enrollment.

Applicants should diligently monitor their application portals. This includes regularly checking both the NursingCAS portal and the individual application portals of each school to which they have applied. These platforms are the primary channels for updates on application status, requests for additional information, and, ultimately, decision notifications.  

It is also important to understand waitlist procedures. Many competitive nursing programs maintain waitlists, and applicants may find themselves in this status. If waitlisted, it is beneficial to understand how the particular school’s waitlist operates and what, if anything, can be done to improve one’s position. This might include submitting updated grades, providing documentation of additional healthcare experience, or sending a letter of continued interest.

Finally, applicants must be prepared to respond promptly to decision letters. Notification of admission decisions typically arrives a few weeks after interviews, such as early April for Fall applicants and early November for Spring applicants at Clayton State University. A critical point to note is that many offers of admission are conditional. The research explicitly states that a “Conditional Invitation to the Traditional BSN track email has deadlines that MUST be met. The invitation is Conditional, meaning if a student does NOT meet the deadlines, then the offer for admission could be revoked”. These conditions often pertain to submitting final transcripts, completing in-progress prerequisite courses with satisfactory grades, or fulfilling remaining health clearances and background check requirements. Promptly accepting or declining offers, and immediately addressing any stated conditions, is essential to secure enrollment.  

The “conditional” nature of acceptance letters underscores that the application journey does not conclude with an offer of admission. There are frequently post-acceptance requirements that must be met, such as the submission of final transcripts, successful completion of any in-progress prerequisites, and adherence to health clearances and background check mandates. These are not mere suggestions; they are non-negotiable conditions that, if unmet, can lead to the revocation of an admission offer. This highlights that the entire application process, from initial planning to actual enrollment, demands sustained vigilance and proactive engagement. It reinforces the necessity for meticulous organization and strict adherence to all deadlines, not just those preceding the initial application submission, to ensure a seamless transition into the nursing program.  

Factors That Can Shift Your Timeline

While the 18- to 24-month timeline provides a robust framework, several factors can significantly alter an individual’s application journey. Recognizing and proactively addressing these variables is key to maintaining progress.

Prerequisite Completion Pace

The pace at which prerequisite courses are completed is a fundamental determinant of the overall application timeline. These foundational courses are essential for building the academic readiness required for nursing school. If an applicant chooses to study part-time, needs to retake courses due to grades falling below the common “C” or higher requirement for eligibility , or possesses older credits that do not transfer or meet specific recency requirements (e.g., science courses completed more than five years ago ), their timeline will inevitably extend.  

The management of prerequisites can have a direct and cascading effect on the entire application process. Failing to complete prerequisites on time or achieving grades below the required minimum (typically a “C” or above ) directly delays an applicant’s eligibility to apply to nursing programs. This, in turn, pushes back the entire application cycle, potentially forcing the applicant to wait another six to twelve months for the next admission period. The “five-year rule” for certain science courses means that even previously completed courses can become invalid, necessitating re-enrollment and additional time and expense. This situation highlights that prerequisites are the absolute bedrock of the nursing school application. Any misstep in this initial phase creates a significant ripple effect, delaying not just the application submission but potentially the entire start of a nursing career. This underscores the critical need for early and accurate prerequisite planning, including verifying recency requirements and having a contingency plan for potential retakes.  

Transfer Credit Evaluation

For many applicants, particularly those with prior college coursework or second degrees, the transfer credit evaluation process can influence the timeline. The evaluation of transfer credits typically takes two to four weeks after official transcripts are received and any commitment or deposit is made. Credits are assessed based on academic rigor standards and their alignment with the nursing curriculum of the target institution. A minimum grade of “C” or better is commonly required for credits to be accepted. Furthermore, some schools impose age limits on credits, particularly for science prerequisites like Anatomy and Physiology II and Pathophysiology, often adhering to a “five-year rule.” If credits are older than this limit, they may not be accepted or might require the applicant to pass a “Challenge Exam” to demonstrate proficiency.  

The process of evaluating transfer credits can become an unexpected bottleneck. While applicants might assume their prior college credits will seamlessly transfer, the evaluation process itself can consume several weeks. More critically, specific institutional requirements, such as minimum grades (“C” or better ) and credit recency (e.g., a five-year limit for science courses ), can invalidate previously earned credits. This often compels students to retake courses, directly extending their overall timeline and potentially increasing their educational costs. This situation underscores the importance of proactive engagement with admissions counselors and the early submission of transcripts for evaluation. Taking these steps can help mitigate the risk of unforeseen delays caused by transfer credit issues.  

Clinical Placement Availability

The availability of clinical placements is a critical, yet often challenging, factor that can significantly impact a nursing student’s progression. Securing clinical sites is absolutely essential for completing the required hands-on clinical hours, which are a cornerstone of nursing education. A pervasive shortage of preceptors (experienced nurses who supervise students) and delays in executing contracts with clinical facilities—which can take four to six months or even longer—can profoundly affect a student’s educational progress.  

There is “fierce competition for limited clinical rotation spots,” particularly in regions with numerous nursing programs. While nursing schools typically provide support through clinical placement teams, students may still need to be proactive. This could involve initiating their search for placements six to nine months in advance, leveraging professional networks, and being open to non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends) or traveling outside their immediate geographic area to secure a spot. The consequences of delays in securing clinical placements are substantial: “extra terms mean more tuition,” which directly inflates educational costs. Furthermore, it leads to “delayed entry into the workforce,” resulting in lost wages, and can also cause “increased student loan interest” for those relying on unsubsidized loans.  

The systemic challenge of clinical placements presents significant financial and emotional burdens. The evidence clearly points to a “preceptor shortage” and “fierce competition” for clinical spots. This is not an isolated issue affecting only individual students but a widespread problem within nursing education. The ramifications of failing to secure a placement extend beyond a mere delay in graduation; they trigger a cascade of financial penalties, including increased tuition and lost earning potential, alongside considerable mental fatigue and burnout. This situation implies that while schools may have a “Clinical Placement Team” , prospective applicants should critically evaluate a program’s clinical placement success rates and the robustness of its support mechanisms before applying. It represents a hidden, yet profound, risk to an applicant’s overall timeline and financial well-being. This highlights the necessity for applicants to be proactive in their clinical search if the school’s policy permits, and for institutions to be transparent about potential placement challenges and their strategies for addressing them.  

Military or International Credentials

Applicants with military or international credentials face specific requirements that can influence their application timeline.

For individuals aspiring to become military nurses (commissioned officers), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an advanced nursing degree from an accredited institution is required, along with passing the NCLEX. The application packet process for military nursing can be extensive, often taking approximately one year from the initial submission to final approval by the commissioning board. This extended timeline must be factored into overall planning.  

For internationally educated nurses seeking licensure in the U.S. (as an RN or LPN), a specialized “Nursing Course Analysis” from a credential evaluation company is typically required. This detailed, course-by-course evaluation translates foreign education into U.S. academic terms, identifies clinical hours, and provides U.S. grade and credit hour equivalencies. This process ensures that the academic background aligns with U.S. standards and can be the “deciding factor between timely approval and frustrating delays”. Required documents for this evaluation include official transcripts from nursing schools, a copy of the diploma or degree, and certified English translations if the original documents are not in English. Often, official documents must be sent directly from the international institution to the evaluation company.  

For internationally educated nurses, a “Nursing Course Analysis” is often a mandatory prerequisite before they can even apply for U.S. licensure or admission to a nursing program. This is not a minor administrative detail but a foundational requirement. The process involves submitting official transcripts and potentially certified English translations , each of which can have its own significant lead times for processing and verification. This adds a substantial, mandatory pre-application phase for international applicants, potentially extending their overall timeline by several months. It means they cannot simply submit their foreign transcripts; they must first undergo a specialized, detailed evaluation process to ensure their academic background is properly understood and accepted by U.S. licensing authorities and educational institutions. This underscores the critical need for international applicants to begin their planning much earlier to accommodate this crucial, time-consuming step.  

Tips for Staying on Track

Navigating the extensive nursing school application timeline requires diligent organization and proactive strategies. Implementing effective planning tools and habits can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of success.

Create a master spreadsheet with deadlines

A master spreadsheet is an invaluable organizational tool for any aspiring nursing student. It centralizes all critical information and deadlines, providing a clear, at-a-glance overview of the entire application process. This tool allows applicants to track requirements, submission statuses, and important notes for each school effectively.  

A comprehensive spreadsheet should include columns for:

• School Name: The specific institution to which an application is being submitted.
• Program Type: Differentiating between ADN, BSN, ABSN, LPN-to-RN, etc.
• Application Open Date: When the application portal becomes accessible.
• Application Deadline: Categorized by Priority, Regular, and Final deadlines.
• Prerequisite Completion Deadlines: Dates by which all required courses must be finished.
• Entrance Exam Dates: Scheduled dates for TEAS, HESI A2, or other required tests.
• Score Submission Dates: Deadlines for official exam scores to be received.
• Recommendation Letter Due Dates: When letters from recommenders are expected.
• FAFSA/Scholarship Deadlines: Critical dates for financial aid applications.
• Transcript Request Dates: When official transcripts were requested.
• Immunization/Background Check Deadlines: Dates for health records and background clearances.
• Interview Dates: Scheduled interview appointments.
• Decision Notification Dates: When admission decisions are expected.
• Status: A dynamic field to track application progress (e.g., Applied, Accepted, Denied, Waitlisted).
• Notes: A section for specific reminders, follow-up actions (e.g., “Need A&P II,” “Follow up with Prof. Smith,” “Conditional offer – need to submit final transcript by X date”).

Using a spreadsheet for the application timeline transforms it into a powerful risk management tool. By centralizing all deadlines and requirements, an applicant can proactively identify potential conflicts, such as multiple exam dates scheduled too closely or a recommender’s vacation coinciding with a critical submission deadline. It also allows for the tracking of dependencies, ensuring that one task (e.g., sending transcripts) is completed before a subsequent task (e.g., submitting the full application) can proceed. This proactive approach empowers the applicant to take control of a complex, multi-faceted process, significantly reducing the likelihood of preventable errors that could derail their application.

Build in buffer time for retaking entrance exams

It is a common occurrence for applicants not to achieve their desired score on the first attempt of an entrance exam. Therefore, strategically planning for potential retakes is a highly recommended approach.  

This strategy involves:

• Early Testing: Taking standardized exams at least two months before the application deadline provides a crucial window to retake the exam if the initial score is not satisfactory.