Before You Begin
Applying to the VN Program
Applying to the Vocational Nursing program at High Desert Medical College requires commitment and preparation. Each step in the process is designed to ensure you are academically ready and clinically eligible before beginning hands-on training.
The application process includes multiple academic and clinical requirements. While it is thorough, our team will work closely with you to ensure you understand each step and complete all requirements successfully.
VN Admissions Process
What to expect, step by step
Follow these five steps as you work toward enrollment in the Vocational Nursing program.
During this appointment:
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Admissions will review the Vocational Nursing program in detail
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Program expectations and time commitment will be discussed
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You will receive instructions for completing required entrance exams
The following items are required to move forward with testing:
Required Documents
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card
- Proof of High School Diploma or GED
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Minimum score required: 55%
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Maximum of 3 attempts per year
TEAS Mastery Hub App – As part of the HDMC Vocational Nursing application process, you will receive free access to the TEAS Mastery Hub app. This exclusive resource includes videos and practice questions to help you prepare for the TEAS exam. You must earn the minimum required score before moving to the next step.
We also recommend the Official ATI TEAS Study Guide 2026-2027 9E.
FREE TEAS Tutoring Sessions
All campuses offer FREE TEAS Test tutoring based on campus-specific content. Please contact admissions to find out more. We also offer a TEAS ATI Overview and Q&A every Thursday via Zoom. Click here to find out more.
After passing the ATI TEAS exam, Admissions will schedule your interview with the Director of Nursing. This interview is required for admission consideration into the Vocational Nursing program.
After successfully completing the Director of Nursing interview, the following items must be submitted:
Health Documents & Immunizations
- Physical exam completed using the official HDMC form
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Immunizations/Tests
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MMR
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Tdap
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Polio
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Hepatitis B
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Varicella
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TB test — TB Gold, two-step TB, or chest x-ray
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Seasonal Flu shot
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COVID-19 vaccine and boosters
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Additional Requirements
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Background check
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Drug screen
Please note that the required drug screen includes testing for cannabis (marijuana/THC). Cannabis products, including edibles, gummies, vapes, oils, and other THC-containing products, may result in a positive drug test. A positive drug screen may affect your ability to meet program and clinical requirements.
All clinical and compliance requirements must be completed and approved prior to starting the program. Missing documentation may delay your start date.
After completing all admissions steps, passing your exams, finishing your interview, and submitting all required clearances, you are ready to enroll.
Once approved:
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You will complete your enrollment paperwork
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Your official start date will be confirmed
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You will prepare to begin classroom and clinical training
Prepare for the ATI TEAS
You don’t have to prepare for the TEAS on your own. HDMC provides resources designed to help VN applicants study before taking the exam.
TEAS Mastery Hub
VN applicants receive free access to a TEAS Mastery Hub app. We also recommend obtaining a TEAS Study Guide.
Free TEAS Tutoring
HDMC campuses offer free TEAS tutoring on select topics. We also offer a weekly ATI TEAS Overview & Q&A session on Zoom.