If you still need help locating someone
After you understand your program’s rules, you can submit a matching request. Include specialty, state, hours, and dates so the review is useful.
Frequently asked questions
What is a nursing preceptor?
A nursing preceptor is a licensed clinician who supervises a student during a practicum or clinical rotation. The preceptor provides oversight, feedback, and documentation required by the student’s university.
How do I find an NP preceptor?
Start with your program’s current preceptor and site rules, then search among qualified clinicians in the required specialty and location. Many students also ask PreceptorFinder for help locating options after they understand those requirements.
Can I find a preceptor near me?
Location matters, but “near me” still depends on specialty, credential, site policies, and university approval. Some students need to widen the search radius or consider additional settings that still meet program rules.
What information do I need before I start looking?
Have your university name, degree track, required hours, specialty or population, preferred dates, and any site restrictions. Your practicum manual or course coordinator is the source of those rules.
How many clinical hours do I need?
Hour requirements vary by program, course, and specialty. Confirm the current number, the type of hours, and whether observation, simulation, or telehealth hours count with your university.
Can I use a private practice?
Some programs allow private practices if the preceptor’s credentials, patient mix, and site paperwork meet current rules. Others require specific facility types. Verify before you spend time on outreach.
Does my university need to approve my preceptor?
Yes, in virtually every U.S. nursing program the university—not the student and not PreceptorFinder—approves the preceptor and site.
How long does it take to find a preceptor?
Timelines vary widely by specialty, geography, season, and how complete your paperwork is. Start as early as your program allows. PreceptorFinder does not publish a guaranteed matching timeframe.
What happens after I submit a request?
PreceptorFinder reviews the information, may ask follow-up questions, and looks for preceptor options that appear to fit. You remain responsible for university applications, onboarding, and final approval.
Can PreceptorFinder guarantee university approval?
No. PreceptorFinder does not approve preceptors or clinical sites for any university and cannot guarantee placement or program acceptance.