Following graduation from the VCU Master's program (or post-master's program), and PRIOR to practicing as an advanced practice nurse, you must be licensed by the state in which you intend to practice. Please read the following information carefully.

• To obtain initial licensure as an NP or CNS in Virginia, you must first pass a certifying exam in the area of your concentration in the Master's program (e.g., if your concentration was acute care, you are only eligible to take the certifying exam as an ACNP).
• To take the certifying exam, please review the requirements on the web sites of organizations offering exams (links to ANCC or AANP are found below). Forms, regulations and requirements change regularly; please make sure you use the current version of application materials.
• If forms require signatures, please bring them to the Adult Health and Nursing Systems Department Office. The office is located on the 3rd floor of 1100 E. Leigh St. Please include the completed application form requiring a signature and a copy of your unoffical transcript. The form cannot be processed without the required documentation. Please also include information about how you would like the form returned to you (via mail or pick up by you in person). You are responsible for submitting the completed application to the organization offering the exam.

Please note the following:

1. Forms are signed AFTER graduation is certified (usually 2 weeks after graduation)
2. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING ANY OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED BY EITHER THE CERTIFYING ORGANIZATION OR THE BOARD OF NURSING. The School of Nursing does NOT provide transcripts for licensure for advanced practice roles.
3. You are responsible for mailing the completed application with all required materials to the organization offering the certifying exam.
4. If you move out of Virginia and apply for advanced practice recognition in another state, you may be required to provide course syllabi, assignments, and records of clinical training. Please make sure that you maintain these records, as the School does not provide such documentation.
   

Web sites that may be of interest

ANCC: American Nurses Credentialling Center
AANP: American Association of Nurse Practitioners
Virginia Board of Nursing