Getting into nursing school takes more than just good grades. A strong letter of intent can make you stand out from other applicants. This document gives your application a personal touch and shows why you belong in the nursing profession.
Want to make your nursing school application shine? A well-crafted letter of intent might be the key to opening the door to your future career. The samples below will guide you through creating your own standout letter that captures your passion, goals, and unique qualities.
Sample Letters of Intent for Nursing School
These 15 sample letters will help you craft the perfect letter of intent for your nursing school application.
1. The Personal Journey Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for BSN Program Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
My path to nursing began at age 12 when my grandmother suffered a stroke. The nurses who cared for her showed such skill and compassion that I knew then what my calling would be. Today, I am writing to express my strong interest in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at [School Name].
With my recently completed prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology (achieving a 3.8 GPA), along with 200 hours of volunteer experience at [Local Hospital], I have built a solid foundation for nursing education. My time helping patients at the hospital has only strengthened my desire to provide care that treats the whole person, not just their symptoms.
Your program’s focus on evidence-based practice and community health aligns perfectly with my goal of serving underrepresented populations. I particularly admire your community health initiatives and would be excited to participate in these outreach programs.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your nursing program and the broader healthcare community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
2. The Career-Changer Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for the Accelerated BSN Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
After ten successful years as a high school science teacher, I am excited to apply to the Accelerated BSN program at [School Name]. My background in education has given me valuable skills in communication and instruction that I now wish to apply in a more direct care setting.
My decision to change careers was solidified during the pandemic when I volunteered at vaccination clinics. Working alongside healthcare professionals, I saw how nurses blend scientific knowledge with compassionate care. This experience, combined with my strong science background (including a B.S. in Biology), has prepared me well for the rigorous nature of your program.
What draws me to [School Name] is your reputation for producing graduates who excel in critical thinking and patient advocacy. I am particularly interested in your simulation labs, which I believe will help me transition my theoretical knowledge into practical nursing skills.
I appreciate your time in reviewing my application and would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications further.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
3. The Research-Focused Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for MSN Program with Research Focus
Dear Admissions Committee,
With five years of clinical experience as a registered nurse in pediatric care, I am applying to your Master of Science in Nursing program to advance my practice and research capabilities. My recent work on a quality improvement project reducing medication errors has sparked my passion for nursing research.
During my time at [Current Hospital], I have had the opportunity to implement evidence-based practices that directly improved patient outcomes. This experience has shown me the vital link between research and quality patient care. My undergraduate research thesis on pain management strategies was published in the [Journal Name], further confirming my aptitude for scholarly work.
Your program’s renowned faculty in pediatric nursing research, particularly Dr. [Name]’s work on childhood chronic illness management, strongly aligns with my research interests. I am eager to contribute to this field under such expert guidance.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining your community of nursing scholars.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
4. The Community Service Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Intent to Apply for BSN Program with Community Health Focus
Dear Admissions Committee,
My three years of volunteer work at [Community Health Center] serving low-income families has shown me the critical need for dedicated healthcare professionals in underserved communities. This experience drives my application to your Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Working alongside nurses who provide care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay has taught me the true meaning of healthcare equity. I have helped coordinate health fairs, vaccination clinics, and diabetes education programs, gaining valuable insights into community health needs. These experiences, combined with my strong academic background (3.7 GPA in prerequisite courses), have prepared me for the challenges of nursing education.
[School Name]’s emphasis on community health nursing and your required service learning components particularly attract me to your program. I am excited about the opportunity to further develop my skills in community-based care while receiving a top-quality nursing education.
I appreciate your consideration and look forward to potentially joining your program.
With respect,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
5. The Technology-Focused Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for DNP Program in Nursing Informatics
Dear Admissions Committee,
As healthcare technology continues to advance, I am eager to be at the forefront of this evolution by applying to your Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a focus on Nursing Informatics. My combined experience as a registered nurse for eight years and as a clinical systems analyst for three years uniquely positions me for this specialty.
In my current role at [Hospital Name], I have led the implementation of a new electronic health record system, trained over 200 staff members, and developed protocols that improved documentation efficiency by 30%. These achievements reflect my ability to bridge the gap between clinical practice and technology.
Your program’s cutting-edge simulation center and partnerships with leading health technology companies were key factors in my decision to apply. I am particularly interested in Dr. [Name]’s research on telehealth applications in rural communities, as this aligns with my professional goals.
Thank you for reviewing my application. I would be honored to discuss how my background aligns with your program’s objectives.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
6. The New Graduate Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for Entry into the BSN Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
As a recent high school graduate with a passion for science and helping others, I am excited to apply to [School Name]’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. My volunteer experience as a hospital junior volunteer over the past two years has confirmed that nursing is the right path for me.
During my high school years, I maintained a 3.9 GPA with a focus on science and mathematics courses. I also served as president of the Health Occupations Students of America club, where I organized blood drives and health awareness campaigns. These experiences have given me leadership skills and a basic understanding of healthcare settings.
What attracts me to your nursing program is its hands-on approach from the first semester and the high NCLEX pass rates of your graduates. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to learn in your state-of-the-art simulation labs.
I appreciate your consideration and am looking forward to beginning my nursing journey at your institution.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
7. The Military Background Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for Accelerated Nursing Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
After eight years as a combat medic in the United States Army, including two deployments, I am ready to transition my medical training and battlefield experience into a nursing career through your accelerated nursing program. My military service has given me unique perspectives on healthcare delivery under challenging conditions.
During my service, I provided emergency care for combat injuries, managed a field medical station, and trained junior medics. These experiences taught me to stay calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and work effectively within a team. My military training in trauma care and my Associate’s degree in Health Science provide a strong foundation for nursing studies.
I am drawn to [School Name] because of your support for veteran students and your program’s emphasis on emergency and trauma care. The accelerated format will allow me to build on my existing skills while quickly moving toward my goal of becoming a registered nurse.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my unique background to your program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
8. The International Perspective Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for MSN Program in Global Health Nursing
Dear Admissions Committee,
Having worked as a registered nurse in three different countries over the past six years, I am applying to your Master of Science in Nursing program with a concentration in Global Health. My experiences providing care in diverse healthcare systems have given me a unique perspective on global health challenges.
My nursing career began in [Home Country], where I worked in a rural clinic with limited resources. I then joined Doctors Without Borders, serving in [Country] during a disease outbreak and later in [Country] at a refugee camp. These experiences taught me to adapt nursing care to different cultural contexts and resource constraints while maintaining high standards.
Your program’s focus on global health policy, cross-cultural communication, and sustainable healthcare solutions perfectly aligns with my career goals. I am particularly interested in your international clinical placement opportunities and the chance to learn from faculty with extensive global health experience.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to contributing my international perspective to your program.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
9. The Specialization-Focused Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
With four years of experience as a registered nurse in pediatric oncology, I am applying to your Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program to advance my ability to provide specialized care to children with complex medical needs. My current role has shown me the critical importance of advanced practice nurses in pediatric care.
Working at [Children’s Hospital Name] has given me extensive experience in administering treatments, educating families, and providing emotional support during difficult times. I have become particularly skilled in pain management for young patients and have led a unit initiative that improved pain assessment protocols. These experiences have prepared me for the advanced clinical training your program offers.
I am attracted to your program because of its strong focus on family-centered care and the opportunity to train in specialized pediatric settings. The research being conducted by your faculty in pediatric palliative care especially interests me as this aligns with my future career goals.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of furthering my education at your institution.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
10. The Healthcare Administration Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Intent to Apply for MSN in Nursing Administration
Dear Admissions Committee,
As a registered nurse with six years of experience, including two years as a charge nurse, I am applying to your Master of Science in Nursing program with a focus on Nursing Administration. My recent experiences managing staff and resources have sparked my interest in healthcare leadership.
In my current role at [Hospital Name], I supervise a team of 15 nurses, coordinate patient care, and serve on the hospital’s quality improvement committee. These responsibilities have given me insight into the challenges of healthcare management and the importance of strong nursing leadership. I have successfully implemented a new staff scheduling system that improved work-life balance while maintaining quality care.
Your program’s comprehensive curriculum covering healthcare economics, organizational behavior, and quality management particularly appeals to me. I am also drawn to your faculty’s expertise in healthcare policy and the opportunity to complete an administrative practicum.
Thank you for reviewing my application. I am looking forward to developing the skills needed to lead nursing teams effectively.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
11. The Mental Health Focus Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
My five years as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric facility have shown me the tremendous need for qualified mental health providers. This experience drives my application to your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program.
Working with patients experiencing acute mental health crises has taught me the art of therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and medication management. I have developed special expertise in caring for adolescents with dual diagnoses and have completed additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. My current role also involves close collaboration with psychiatrists and social workers, giving me a solid understanding of interdisciplinary mental healthcare.
What attracts me to your program is its strong emphasis on psychopharmacology and diverse clinical placements across the lifespan. I am particularly interested in your faculty’s research on trauma-informed care approaches, as this aligns with my professional interests.
I appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
12. The Rural Healthcare Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for Family Nurse Practitioner Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
Growing up in a rural community with limited healthcare access has given me firsthand understanding of the critical need for primary care providers in underserved areas. This background, combined with my three years of nursing experience, motivates my application to your Family Nurse Practitioner program.
As a registered nurse at [Rural Hospital Name], I have gained broad clinical skills out of necessity. In our small facility, I regularly care for patients across the lifespan, from newborns to elderly patients. I have become adept at triaging emergencies, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating transfers to larger facilities when needed. These experiences have prepared me well for the comprehensive role of a family nurse practitioner.
Your program’s focus on rural health issues and telehealth delivery models particularly appeals to me. I am committed to returning to a rural community after graduation to help address the primary care shortage that affects so many small towns across our state.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of developing the advanced skills needed to serve rural populations.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
13. The Educational Background Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for Nurse Educator Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
With seven years of clinical nursing experience and a growing passion for teaching, I am applying to your Master of Science in Nursing Education program. My recent role as a preceptor for new nurses has shown me the profound impact that skilled educators have on nursing practice.
In my current position at [Hospital Name], I have developed and implemented training programs for new staff, created evidence-based practice guidelines, and mentored nursing students during their clinical rotations. These experiences have given me insight into adult learning principles and effective teaching strategies. My background in critical care nursing provides me with valuable real-world examples to bring into the classroom.
I am particularly attracted to your program’s comprehensive curriculum that balances educational theory with practical teaching applications. The opportunity to complete a teaching practicum in both academic and clinical settings will prepare me for the diverse roles nurse educators play.
Thank you for reviewing my application. I look forward to potentially joining your program and developing the skills needed to shape the next generation of nurses.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
14. The Patient Experience Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Letter of Intent for BSN Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
My journey to nursing began as a patient. After spending three months in the hospital following a serious car accident, I experienced firsthand the profound difference that skilled and compassionate nursing care makes. This personal experience is the foundation of my application to your Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Since my recovery, I have worked as a patient care technician for two years, completed all prerequisites with a 3.85 GPA, and volunteered 150 hours at a community clinic. These experiences have confirmed my desire to become a nurse and have given me practical knowledge of healthcare settings. My perspective as a former long-term patient gives me unique insight into patient needs and concerns.
What draws me to your program is its holistic approach to nursing education and emphasis on patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in your simulation labs that provide hands-on learning opportunities before clinical placements.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of turning my personal experience into professional expertise that can benefit others.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
15. The Second-Degree Student Letter
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Nursing School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Application for Accelerated Second-Degree BSN Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and three years of experience as a social worker, I am now seeking to expand my ability to help others by applying to your Accelerated Second-Degree BSN program. My background in mental health has shown me the critical connection between physical and psychological wellbeing.
My work at [Social Services Agency] has involved close collaboration with healthcare professionals, giving me insight into the nursing role and confirming my desire to provide more direct care. My psychology background has developed my communication skills, empathy, and ability to work with diverse populations—all valuable assets in nursing. Additionally, I have completed all nursing prerequisites with a 4.0 GPA, demonstrating my academic readiness for your rigorous program.
I am drawn to your accelerated program because of its intensive clinical experiences and the opportunity to apply my previous education to a new healthcare role. Your school’s high NCLEX pass rates and job placement statistics were also significant factors in my decision to apply.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique background to your nursing program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
Wrap-up: Sample Letters for Nursing School
Creating an effective letter of intent is an important step in your nursing school application process. Each of these sample letters highlights different backgrounds, experiences, and goals, showing that there are many paths to a nursing career. As you craft your own letter, focus on your unique story and genuine passion for nursing.
The best letters clearly explain why you want to become a nurse, what qualifies you for nursing school, and why you have chosen that specific program. Take time to research each school you apply to so you can mention specific aspects of their program that attract you.
Your letter of intent gives admissions committees insight into who you are beyond grades and test scores. Use this opportunity to let your personality and commitment to nursing shine through. With a thoughtful, well-written letter, you can make a lasting impression that strengthens your entire application.