New Grad RN Jobs FAQs

How much do new grad nurses make?

New grad nurse salary varies by location, level of education and type of healthcare facility. When looking for nursing positions, you should also consider factors like the area’s cost of living and the facility’s benefits packages, as those can also impact the compensation you receive. Register now, then search all our new grad opportunities to find your perfect match. (Hint: Once you’re logged in, filter by “Permanent” employment type, then select “Accepting New Grads” to narrow down your search.)

Can you be a travel nurse as a new grad?

To qualify for a travel nurse or per diem position, Aya Healthcare requires you to have at least one year of experience in your specialty. However, Aya has a variety of permanent jobs available for new grad nurses.

How long are you considered a new grad nurse?

In healthcare, especially nursing, the term “new grad” generally refers to RNs who recently completed their education and are in their first year or two of post-graduation work.

How can I get a job as a new grad nurse?

Register today and log in to search and apply for new grad nurse jobs. You’ll have a dedicated recruiter to help you through the entire process, including prepping you for interviews, facilitating salary negotiation, securing offer decisions and more.

When should new grad nurses apply for jobs?

New graduate nurses may start applying for jobs as soon as the NCLEX is scheduled. Some facilities will interview prior to you passing the exam, while others prefer to wait until after. Your dedicated recruiter will know which facilities you should apply to and when, and will ensure you’re on track with any qualifications required by the facility.

What are new grad RN programs?

Often called nurse residency programs, new grad RN programs are structured transition programs designed for recent nursing school graduates. These programs provide additional support and training to help new nurses smoothly transition from the academic setting to professional practice. Key features of new grad RN programs include mentorship, orientation to the healthcare facility, specialized training and ongoing education. The goal of these programs is to enhance your clinical skills, critical thinking and confidence as a new grad nurse. These programs are typically offered by hospitals and healthcare organizations, aiming to nurture the professional development of entry-level nurses and improve patient care outcomes.

How long should a new grad nurse stay at their first job?

The ideal duration for a new grad nurse’s first job depends on your individual circumstances and career goals, but it is often beneficial to stay for at least one to two years to gain valuable experience, build confidence and establish a solid foundation. This will also allow you to develop clinical skills and adapt to the demands of the profession. Of course, others may choose to explore new opportunities earlier, seeking different specialties or settings. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal growth objectives, job satisfaction and the alignment of the current position with your long-term career goals.

Where can I learn more about working as a new graduate nurse?

At Aya Healthcare, we understand what it’s like to work as a new grad nurse. Our expert recruiters and support specialists work closely with the nation’s top hospitals and healthcare systems so we can help you thrive in your next professional adventure. If you have any questions about being a new grad nurse or what will be required of you during your job search, our team can get you the information you need.

What certifications are commonly held by new graduate nurses?

To become a new grad nurse, you’ll need to have a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification and an active nursing license in the state you’d like to work. Other certifications may be required depending on the facility, your speciality and the unit you wish to work in. At Aya Healthcare, our expert team of support specialists can work with you to know what certifications you need for the jobs you’re interested in and can help you find and sign up for classes near you. We even offer reimbursement for some certification courses.