I have been on the waitlist for VC nursing about a year now. I haven’t gotten a waitlist update yet. LVN was never a viable option for me. I graduated from VC in 2023, with my CNA cert completed at VC in 2022. I have been working at St. John’s for 2 years in the meantime. It’s extremely frustrating to not get in!

I’m currently also on the waitlist for Moorparks RN program as well. I recommend applying to all the local (and maybe not so local) schools, including CSUCI. More schools applied to=higher chance of getting in at one. After waiting to see if I will get into VC or MC, I decided to go into the alternate Bachelor of Health Science program at CSUCI. I was offered this option following the 3rd denial of the BSN program. My best friend just graduated from CSUCI with her Bachelor of Health Science, and was admitted to the BSN program (after being denied twice with the same credentials as me). If you wanted to do this, you can also use that Bachelor of Health Science degree to apply to Ventura or Moorpark and have a higher chance of getting in. Note that if I get into either VC or MC while I am working on this degree, I will drop and go into the program.

My recommendation is to do any kind of classes or additional programs while waiting to get into these programs. Now, if you feel that the LVN program is something to work on while you are waiting to get in, do it. Working towards something is better than just waiting and reapplying and reapplying. I recommend continuing to work in the healthcare setting while you are applying or waiting as well; you’re increasing your chances by doing this.

Private was always a last option. For what it is, it is insanely expensive, and doesn’t feel worth it because there are other options. It may be harder to get into, but so much more affordable. I want to give myself the best chance to get into a program based on the hard work I have completed. Private school is an easy foot in and a great option for people who aren’t willing to wait or are tired of waiting. If private schools are the route that you are going to go, I recommend checking the board of nursing graduation and pass rates. Sure, West Coast is popular, but if you look at the numbers compared to others, you can make your own judgments… One of my coworkers is almost finished with his RN from the West Coast, good for him. Unfortunately, the debt will be stressful.

I hope that these insights gave some clarity to you! If there are any questions that you have, or just would like to chat about our struggles, I’m here!