jpt007, to the best of my knowledge, there is no difference at all no matter if apply after associate or after getting BSN. The thing would matter if you had to apply for H1B which is not the case with RNs. Green card for RNs doesn't descriminate on this basis. Therefore I suggest you no to waste you time for getting BSN. You can always complete BSN after joining the job. Your company pays for the tuition, etc as well.

good luck