Becoming Competitive

Advice to Applicants from SRNAs

Sachi, CRNA

CRNA

June 12, 2023 · Updated July 12, 2026 · 4 min read

In This Article (8 sections)

No, You Shouldn’t Only Apply to One CRNA School
You’re Going to Mess Up (and That’s Good)
Your CRNA Application Essay: Make It Sound Like You
Don’t Be Scared to Talk to Faculty
AANA Events: Go. Just Go.
ICU: Your CRNA Prep Bootcamp
It’s Not All About Your GPA (Really)
Our Final Thoughts

Advice to Applicants from SRNAs? Here’s the deal. You’ll want to apply to multiple schools, connect with faculty, get active at AANA events, and wring every drop of learning from your ICU shifts. A well-rounded application matters. That’s what gets attention. 1000%.

Quick Answer

SRNAs say the most common mistake is only applying to one CRNA program. With 154 programs in The CRNA Club's database, each weighing GPA, leadership, and essays differently, apply to several schools, write a personal statement that sounds like you, and don't be afraid to contact faculty directly.

No, You Shouldn’t Only Apply to One CRNA School

Ever get that sick feeling after submitting, hoping your one dream school loves you back? Been there (waiting for emails while eating cafeteria fries, ugh). Thing is, every CRNA program has its own personality. Some love leadership, some want CCRN, some are.. just weird about essays.

Throw your net wide. Applying to several programs is the norm among the SRNAs we know, and it is the single easiest way to improve your odds. You get more chances. And you figure out which school’s vibe actually fits you. Our free Timeline Generator makes planning way easier. If you’re still lost on where to start, hit up CRNA School Requirements for all the details.

You’re Going to Mess Up (and That’s Good)

Remember the first time you missed an IV and wanted to crawl under the Pyxis? (We have battle stories. So many.) SRNAs say the biggest growth comes from those “oh crap” moments. Don’t obsess. Process, learn, move on. Progress is messy and totally not linear.

Try to have a “growth mindset.” Google it if you want. Or, way more relatable: listen to Ep 2, "3 things I would have done differently BEFORE applying to CRNA school." Seriously, we wish we had that pep talk sooner.

Your CRNA Application Essay: Make It Sound Like You

Let’s talk essays. This is not the time for stiff “I am passionate about anesthesia” stuff. Picture you at 3am in the break room, venting to your bestie over cold pizza. Why do you actually want this? What’s your real story?

Be honest. Weirdly specific is good. Your essay is where you get to sound human, not just like a GPA. If you need a kickstart, binge Ep 1: "What CRNA Schools are REALLY looking for in an applicant" and check our How to Become a CRNA guide.

Don’t Be Scared to Talk to Faculty

Reaching out to faculty feels awkward. We know. But it’s a big deal (not sorry for the cliché). Faculty can be your ICU buddy system for grad school. Start the convo, even if you overthink the email 15 times first.

Our biggest advice: network, network, network. The CRNA Club’s Learning Library lesson on Communicating Value Add literally teaches you what to say. We walk you through it. (Peep the free trial if you want.)

AANA Events: Go. Just Go.

Even introverts end up loving AANA events. It’s like speed dating for the CRNA world. You might meet a future mentor. Or at least learn which programs are serious about diversity, research, or… free snacks (priorities).

Awkward at first? Yes. Worth it? Also yes. Plus, if you want to seriously stand out, catch Ep 9: "3 Resume boosters for your CRNA School application." That episode is gold if you want to leave a mark.

ICU: Your CRNA Prep Bootcamp

ICU shifts are exhausting, but every single one is a shot to learn something boss-level. Vent settings. Pressor drips. Charting hacks. Sometimes just which snacks won’t kill your stomach at 2am.

Want real ways to boost your app? Hit up The CRNA Club’s Learning Library (the free trial is a lifesaver) for lessons on Certifications + Research + Leadership. It’s what gets you noticed beyond basic ICU time.

It’s Not All About Your GPA (Really)

Look, GPA matters, but it’s not the whole story. Programs want well-rounded humans. Leadership gigs, clinical projects, even random hospital committees. it all counts. Show them who you are outside the numbers.

Our Program Requirements lesson can help you figure out which of your random strengths actually look great on your app. The CRNA Club is all about highlighting your whole self, not just your stats.

For more information, check these trusted resources: Council on Accreditation (COA), AANA.

Our Final Thoughts

Here’s the truth, friend. This CRNA journey? It’s messy, stressful, and sometimes downright weird. But you’re not alone. Apply to more than one school. Learn from every mistake. Write an essay that sounds like you (not a robot). Say hi to faculty, even if your voice shakes. get into the ICU learning (snack tips included). And remember, The CRNA Club is cheering you on the whole way.

Feeling stuck? Try our free Timeline Generator. And come hang with us for support, real talk, and all the tips you never knew you needed. You got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I only apply to one CRNA program if it's my dream school?

No, you should apply to multiple CRNA programs since there are 154 accredited programs that each weigh applications differently. The CRNA Club emphasizes this is the most common mistake applicants make. Some programs prioritize leadership experience while others focus heavily on CCRN certification or personal essays. Each program has its own personality and evaluation criteria. Applying to several schools increases your chances of acceptance and helps you discover which program's culture actually fits your goals and learning style.

How many CRNA programs don't require the GRE anymore?

106 of the 154 CRNA programs we track don't require the GRE, and 36 still do, so standardized test prep is not a barrier at most schools. We can tell you how many programs require the exam because we track it. We can't tell you why each program dropped it, so check your own target list before you commit three months to studying for a test none of your schools want.

What should I actually write about in my CRNA school personal statement?

Write your personal statement like you're explaining your motivation to a close friend at 3am over cold pizza in the break room. Skip the stiff 'I am passionate about anesthesia' language and tell your real story with specific details. Think about what genuinely drives you toward this career path and include weirdly specific moments that shaped your decision. Your essay should sound human and authentic, not like a generic template. This is where you show your personality beyond just GPA numbers and clinical hours.

Is it worth reaching out to CRNA program faculty before applying?

Yes, contacting faculty directly is worth the initial awkwardness and can significantly impact your application success. Faculty connections often serve as your support system throughout the rigorous program. Start conversations even if you overthink the email multiple times before sending it. Networking with faculty helps you understand program culture and demonstrates genuine interest. According to guidance from The CRNA Club's resources, learning how to communicate your value effectively to faculty members is a teachable skill that many successful applicants master.

Do CRNA programs really care about activities beyond my ICU experience and GPA?

Programs absolutely want well-rounded candidates beyond just clinical hours, and 128 of the 152 programs that publish a minimum accept applicants with only 1 year of ICU experience. Leadership roles, clinical projects, and hospital committee participation all strengthen your application significantly. Your GPA matters but it's not the complete picture admissions committees evaluate. Programs look for candidates who demonstrate growth, leadership potential, and diverse experiences. Even seemingly random hospital involvement shows you're engaged in healthcare beyond just your bedside duties and can contribute to the profession in multiple ways.