Application Process
When to apply?
| Starting Term | Priority Application Deadline | Application Period |
| Summer 2024 | Feb 1 | October 1, 2023 – April 15, 2024* |
*The priority application deadline is Feb 1. If there is space still available, applications will remain open until April 15. Applications are pooled and reviewed following the Feb 1st priority deadline. If there is space still available, applications will remain open until April 15.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete an online application
Applicants can fill out an online application at https://illinoisstate.edu/apply/graduate/
All materials will be submitted as part of your GradCAS application. Make sure you have the following materials ready to upload to your application.
- Unofficial transcripts from all schools of higher education attended, other than ISU. Official transcripts will be required if accepted into the program.
- Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Two to three page, double-spaced essay outlining educational and professional goals
- Copy of RN and APRN licenses
- Copy of national certification from ANCC or AANP
Applicants who reside in Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri and Iowa have the benefit of paying In-State tuition at Illinois State University.
Step 2: Submit references
Note two professional or academic references in the online application. The form linked below will be available to your references to submit electronically through the online application.
The references should be from persons qualified to assess the applicant's potential to succeed in the certificate program. These references must be nursing faculty from the student's masters in nursing program or a master's prepared nurse.
When are decision made?
A pplications received by the February 1st priority application deadline will be reviewed and eligible applicants will be interviewed in late February and early March. Admission status will be communicated by late March/early April. The application will remain open after the priority filling deadline and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until target enrollment has been met.