Frequently Asked Questions

Nurse Residency Program FAQs 

  • When can I apply for the New Graduate Nurse position?
  • For application dates, please visit the HR Nurse Residency website here.
  • How long is the application window open for?
  • New Graduate Nurse positions are only posted for ONE week. For application dates, please visit the HR Nurse Residency website here.
  • Which departments hire New Graduate Nurses?
  • Departments hire based on operational needs of the hospital. A list of specialties that have hired New Graduate Nurses in the past can be found here.
  • Can I apply for the New Graduate Nurse position before taking the NCLEX or successfully passing the NCLEX?
  • Yes, you may apply without having sat for or passed the NCLEX; however, you MUST have proof of successfully passing the NCLEX by the program START date.
  • I am graduating with an ADN. Am I eligible for the New Graduate Nurse Residency Program?
  • Yes, if you are enrolled in a BSN program, please include on the application.
  • I obtained a BSN from an ADN/LVN-to-BSN program. Am I eligible for the New Graduate Nurse Residency Program?
  • Yes, if you have NOT worked under your RN license. You are not eligible if you have ever worked as an RN.
  • I passed the NCLEX exam but will not be graduating until next year from a BSN/MSN program. Am I eligible for the New Graduate Nurse Residency Program?
  • No, you would not be eligible for the Nurse Residency Program. All applicants must have graduated from an accredited nursing program, even if they have a RN license.
  • I will be graduating from a nursing program outside of California. Am I eligible for the New Graduate Nurse Residency Program?
  • Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements. Additionally, you are highly encouraged to apply for California licensure at the time of your NCLEX because you must have a California RN license by the program start date (a temporary California RN license is acceptable). If you do not have your California RN license by the program start date, the offer will be withdrawn due to lack of licensure to practice in California. For more information or questions, check the California Board of Registered Nursing website.
  • I have a BSN from another country. Am I eligible for the New Graduate Nurse Residency Program?
  • You are eligible to apply for the program if you graduated from a nationally accredited nursing program. You can determine if your program is accredited by checking the CCNE or NLNAC databases. Please contact Jennifer Mazzucca at jmmazzucca@ucdavis.edu if your school is not listed in either of these databases.
  • Will you accept an IP (Interim Permit)?
  • No, UC Davis Health does not accept Interim Permits. You will need proof of passing the NCLEX prior to the program start date.
  • Once applications are submitted, what is the next process?
  • The entire process from submitting an application to job offer may take three to five months, depending on the program start date:

    1.  Submit application during the one-week application period with all required documentation. Note: Applications cannot be updated after the job posting window has closed.
    2. Once the final filing date for the position closes, all applications are reviewed and screened for completeness and eligibility. This review takes approximately two weeks.
    3. After pre-screening is completed, qualified candidate applications are sent to hiring managers for review.
    4. Hiring departments will contact candidates to schedule an interview with the hiring manger and additional stakeholders.
    5. After interviewing, top candidates will complete a reference check.
    6. Contingent offers of employment are typically made five weeks prior to the program start date.
    7. Upon offer acceptance, individuals will be required to successfully complete a background check, pre-employment physical examination and drug screen prior to the program start date. They will also be required to submit proof of California RN licensure.
  • What are the benefits of working at UC Davis Health?
  • UC Davis Health benefits package includes:

    1. If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC.
    2. High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs.
    3. UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family.
    4. Extensive Maternity and Paternity Leave Benefits.
    5. Annual Tuition Remission and Discounts for eligible positions.
    6. Paid time off for Professional Development Training.
    7. Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth.
    8. Wellness and on-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services.
    9. Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, disability, short/long term disability, pet insurance, and legal coverage.
    10. UC Davis cares about building a community, which is why we provide resources to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion as well as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to support our staff.
    11. Learn more about our benefits and eligibility rules around our benefits here.
  • What are some Employee Diversity Resources?
  • Please visit here for more information.
  • How to live your best life in Sacramento?
  • Please visit here for more information.