What preceptors do
A preceptor orients a student to the practice, supervises clinical work at an appropriate level, models professional communication, and completes the evaluations the university requires. The time commitment varies by program and hour total.
You are not replacing faculty. You are providing workplace supervision while the school remains responsible for the academic course.
Become a Preceptor
Submit licensure, specialty, setting, and availability.
Learn moreRequirements
What universities commonly look for—and what you should verify.
Learn moreHost students
Day-to-day expectations when a student is in your clinic.
Learn moreOpportunities
How PreceptorFinder communicates student needs.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
Who can become a preceptor?
Eligibility depends on state licensure, national certification when required, years of experience, specialty match, and each university’s current rules. PreceptorFinder cannot declare that a person is eligible for a specific program.
What qualifications are required?
Most NP programs look for an actively licensed clinician in the relevant specialty, often with a graduate degree and a defined period of practice. Always compare your credentials with the student’s current practicum manual.
What types of students can I precept?
Some clinicians host BSN students, others host MSN or NP students, and some host both. Capacity, setting, and university affiliation rules all affect what is possible.
How does PreceptorFinder work for preceptors?
You submit a profile. The team reviews it and may contact you if a student’s needs appear to align with your setting, specialty, and availability. There is no automatic assignment.
How do I submit my information?
Use the Become a Preceptor form. Include licensure states, specialty, setting, and any limits on student type or schedule.
How are students matched?
Matching is a review process based on the student’s stated requirements and the preceptor’s information. It is not an automated guarantee and does not replace university approval.
What documentation may be required?
Universities commonly request a CV or resume, license verification, certification, a preceptor agreement, and site information. Some sites also require onboarding, background checks, or affiliation agreements.