Step 7: Got in? Compare offers
Congratulations. Getting a seat is hard work. If you have more than one offer, or you’re deciding whether to say yes, take a little time to compare.
What to do
- Ask each program for its full cost, from orientation to graduation, in writing.
- Look at the program’s first-time NCLEX pass rates and tester counts over several years.
- Ask what share of students finish on time.
- Ask about clinical placements and schedules.
- Wait for your program’s own equipment list before you buy anything.
- Watch for onboarding tasks like background checks, immunizations and CPR certification.
How long it takes
Offer deadlines are set by each program. Varies; check with the school.
Typical costs
Deposits, uniforms, supplies and onboarding: Varies; check with the school. Our /accepted/ page shows examples from programs’ own published cost sheets.
Your SEAPHE tools
- You got in: decide and get ready
- NCLEX pass rates by school
- Program finder: filter programs by degree type and region.
Next step: Step 8, Graduate and pass the NCLEX.
Sources
- Pass rates: BRN, NCLEX Pass Rates, https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/passrates.shtml (Checked Oct 13, 2026)
- Program costs and onboarding examples come from each school’s own page, linked and dated on /accepted/.