Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) share many of the same responsibilities, but RNs have a larger scope of practice and typically enjoy higher salaries and more leadership opportunities than LPNs. As a result, you may be interested in applying to on-campus or online LPN-to-RN programs.
The best LPN-to-RN bridge programs are affordable and flexible while still offering quality clinical experiences. Attending a top LPN-to-RN program ensures you gain the critical healthcare skills you need and are prepared to pass the NCLEX-RN.
Explore our rankings below of the best LPN-to-RN programs. We looked at factors like curriculum, affordability, and student outcomes to find the best options for aspiring RNs.
Featured Healthcare Programs
Top 10 LPN-to-RN Programs
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CCNE
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $559
Out-of-State | $938
Credits to Graduate: 108
Kent State's LPN and allied health to BSN divides coursework into prerequisite classes and a professional nursing sequence. This flexible structure allows you to easily fit in coursework with a busy schedule. If you want to kickstart your career, you can finish your BSN in four semesters by enrolling full time.
When submitting an online application, you'll need to show completion of high school biology, chemistry, and math. You must also have a minimum 3.0 GPA or a 2.7 GPA with a minimum score of 22 on the ACT or 1100 on the SAT.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,810
Out-of-state
$19,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,766
Out-of-state
$21,952
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,822
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Accreditation
Yes
#2 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Parkersburg, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $160-$221
Out-of-State | $358-$382
Credits to Graduate: 65
WVU Parkersburg offers an AAS in nursing that can shorten your path to becoming an RN. The accelerated LPN-to-RN program prepares you for RN licensure after just 16 months. You'll complete clinical nursing practicums under the supervision of experienced faculty.
A selective admissions process is just one reason this program makes our top-10 list. Your application must include transcripts from high school or a prior institution. You must also pass a pre-nursing exam, have a college GPA of at least 2.0, and hold an active LPN license.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,840
Out-of-state
$8,592
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,624
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Accreditation
Yes
#3 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Kettering College
Kettering, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit: $653
Credits to Graduate: 125
At Kettering, you can complete your BSN in just three years. The college's LPN-to-BSN program offers both a full-time and part-time schedule. Busy professionals can opt for part-time enrollment or an accelerated two-year track. You'll complete clinical experiences at local hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Applicants must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and C grades in general and science prerequisite courses. You must also submit transcripts from a completed LPN program and undergo several health and background checks.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,824
Out-of-state
$13,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$39,761
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
763
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Accreditation
Yes
#4 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Weatherford, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit: $220
Credits to Graduate: 33
SWOSU's online LPN-to-BSN completion program prepares current LPNs for professional and leadership growth in nurse education, orthopedics, nursing informatics, and nurse administration. You'll take classes in topics like nursing fundamentals, family health, acute and chronic care, and evidence-based practice.
To apply to this 12-month program, you must be an Oklahoma resident with a state-issued LPN license. You must also have a minimum 2.5 GPA and pass the required pre-nursing exams.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,368
Out-of-state
$13,478
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,294
Out-of-state
$12,966
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
4,898
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Accreditation
Yes
#5 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Williamsport, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $598
Out-of-State | $856
Credits to Graduate: 69
PCT's accelerated, three-semester LPN-to-RN program awards you an AAS in nursing. As a student, you can expect small classes with experienced faculty and hands-on experiences. The program also boasts above-average NCLEX-RN state pass rates.
To apply, you must have a Pennsylvania state practical nursing license and at least a 2.5 GPA. Admissions officers also factor in test scores, grades in transfer courses, and placement test results when reviewing applications.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,120
Out-of-state
$22,680
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,120
Out-of-state
$22,680
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,565
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Accreditation
Yes
#6 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
St. John's College-Department of Nursing
Springfield, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit: $795-$895
Credits to Graduate: 121
St. John's College of Nursing provides LPNs with a two-year pathway to a BSN. You can enroll full or part time, ensuring you have ample flexibility. The St. John's nursing simulation lab provides hands-on experience to prepare you for routine and unexpected situations on the job.
Admission requirements include transcripts, TEAS scores, a letter of reference, and the completion of all prerequisite courses. After finishing the Transition Pathway Course, you can earn 10 credits toward three required classes in the program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,850
Out-of-state
$23,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,488
Out-of-state
$16,488
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
118
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Accreditation
Yes
#7 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Mount Aloysius College
Cresson, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit: $660-$930
Credits to Graduate: 120
To accelerate your nursing career, consider the 2+2 nursing program at MAC. If you're already working as an LPN, you can pursue the LPN-to-RN/BSN pathway, which allows you to earn both an associate and bachelor's degree in nursing. Course requirements include nursing pharmacology, adult nursing, mental health nursing, and anatomy and physiology.
There is no fee to apply. While ACT and SAT scores aren't required, you might consider submitting them if you did well on the exams.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,090
Out-of-state
$23,090
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,300
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
2,806
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Accreditation
Yes
#8 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CCNE
Avg. Cost per Credit: $975
Credits to Graduate: 120
Davenport's pre-licensure BSN program qualifies you for the school's employment guarantee, which ensures all students find a job within six months after graduating.
You'll get training in cardiac life support while taking classes in subjects like introduction to health careers, nutrition in nursing, mental health nursing, and pharmacology. You'll also choose two specialties during your medical/surgical rotation. The four-year program accepts first-year students who can start taking nursing courses in their second year.
To apply, submit a free application online, along with your ACT or SAT scores and academic transcripts.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,320
Out-of-state
$19,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,696
Out-of-state
$15,696
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
6,127
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Accreditation
Yes
#9 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Blinn College
Brenham, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit: $420-$597
Credits to Graduate: 60
If you're licensed in Texas, you can turn your LVN licensure into RN licensure through Blinn's AAS program. This associate degree in nursing can prepare you for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings. With transferable credits, you may be able to shorten your time in this two-year program.
You'll learn about topics such as lifespan growth and development, leadership and management, and complex issues in adult health.
To apply, submit proof of licensure and official high school transcripts or GED scores. You must also be a Texas resident.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,450
Out-of-state
$8,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,220
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Accreditation
Yes
#10 Best LPN-to-RN Programs
Bluefield State College
Bluefield, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: ACEN
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $356
Out-of-State | $655
Credits to Graduate: 64
Bluefield's accelerated LPN-to-RN degree allows you to complete your coursework in one calendar year. After you pass the transition course and practicum with a grade of C or better, you'll earn 10 credits toward your degree.
Application requirements include a high school or college GPA of 2.8 or higher, an active nursing license, and a minimum C grade in high school algebra, biology, and chemistry. You'll also need a letter of recommendation from an RN familiar with your work. You'll also have to pass the ATI TEAS exam.
If you have at least one year of full-time employment in acute care, you'll get preference during the admissions process.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,488
Out-of-state
$14,352
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
1,243
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Accreditation
Yes
Reasons to Get Your LPN-to-RN
- Becoming an RN can make you more money — many RNs earn around $30,000 more per year than LPNs.
- RNs have greater autonomy and can make decisions to enhance patient outcomes.
- Becoming an RN brings you one step closer to becoming an advanced practice RN, an in-demand leadership role in nursing.
- RNs can work in specialized units, like neonatal or critical care.
How LPN-to-RN Programs Work
LPN-to-RN programs provide practicing LPNs with a shortcut to becoming an RN.
The program length will depend on whether the LPN-to-RN program leads to a diploma, associate degree, or bachelor's degree, lasting 1-4 years.
Approved LPN-to-RN bridge programs have many requirements, including on-site clinical hours and on-campus or online courses. Here are some examples of classes you may take:
- Pharmacology
- Care Across the Lifespan
- Role Transition
For admission into an LPN-to-RN program, you usually need a GED or high school diploma in addition to an LPN license.
Did You Know?
-
According to the 2020 National Nursing Workforce Survey, RNs represent the largest healthcare workforce, with more than 4.2 million registered nurses. -
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an annual average of over 200,000 job openings for RNs over the next decade. -
According to the BLS, the largest employers of RNs include hospitals, ambulatory care services, nursing and residential care facilities, and the government. -
Growth in telehealth and remote nursing will continue to give RNs more responsibilities, flexibility, and professional opportunities.
Why Accreditation Matters for LPN-to-RN Programs
It's important to know what accreditation is and why it matters. Accreditation can impact your access to financial aid, transfer credits, licensure, and ultimately employment.
Institutional accreditation should come from an agency approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
Programmatic accreditation is also important. As an aspiring RN, you should ensure your program holds accreditation from one of the following agencies:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Not only does programmatic accreditation verify the quality of a nursing program, but it also qualifies the program for board approval, examination, and licensure.
How Much Do LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs Cost?
The cost of an LPN-to-RN program can vary significantly.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual undergraduate tuition ranged from $3,900 at two-year public schools to $18,200 at four-year private schools in 2020-2021.
An LPN-to-RN program's degree level and length play a big role in its cost. For example, Florida Gateway College's one-year LPN-to-RN associate degree program costs $10,600, whereas the University of Arkansas's LPN-to-BSN program costs just under $22,000.
You also need to consider additional fees, such as:
- Labs
- Books
- Uniform and scrubs
- Clinical supplies
- Association dues
- Testing fees
- Drug screens
How Much Money Can You Make as an RN?
How much you make as an RN depends on where you live, where you work, and how much experience you have.
The median annual salary for RNs was $77,600 in May 2021, according to the BLS. However, that same year, the average annual salary was $124,000 in California but just $60,540 in South Dakota.
No matter where you work as an RN, you'll still likely enjoy a higher salary than you would as an LPN — LPNs earned a median salary of just $48,070 in May 2021.
If you decide to build on your LPN-to-RN experience and pursue a master's degree in nursing, you can expect another salary boost. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for advanced practice RNs was a whopping $123,780 in May 2021.
How to Become an RN in 3 Simple Steps
To become an RN, you'll typically need at least an associate degree in nursing, a passing score on the NCLEX-RN, and licensure. Here, we detail the steps you need to take.
Step 1: Earn an Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
The first step to becoming an RN is to get an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). While some states allow you to practice with an associate degree, many employers prefer candidates to have a bachelor's degree.
The lengths of RN programs can vary. Typically, though, it takes around two years for an ADN and four years for a BSN.
If you completed an LPN program, you might qualify for LPN-to-RN programs. That way, you can work as you complete your ADN or BSN degree.
This path can also help you save time on your bachelor's degree. On-campus and online LPN-to-RN programs often take only three years instead of the usual four.
Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), the NCLEX-RN tests you on your knowledge of nursing practices and procedures. It also challenges you to demonstrate your critical thinking and decision-making abilities.
LPN-to-RN programs do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to preparing you for the exam. If you need more prep, you can access study guides and practice tests online and in NCLEX-RN prep books.
Step 3: Apply for Licensure
After you pass the NCLEX-RN, you need to apply for licensure with your state's nursing board.
According to NCSBN, the licensing process typically requires you to:
- Complete an ADN or BSN program
- Take and pass the NCLEX-RN
- Pass a criminal background check
Every state maintains its own education and clinical requirements for RNs, so be sure to check your state's nursing board requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN-to-RN Programs
Yes, LPNs are real nurses, although their scope of practice is limited compared to that of an RN. LPNs provide medical care to patients in residential care facilities, hospitals, and doctor's offices. To become an LPN, you must complete an approved educational program and pass the NCLEX-PN before applying for state licensure.
LPNs will likely have an easier time in RN programs than students with no previous nursing education or experience. LPN-to-RN programs can also reduce the time you spend in school compared to those who pursue a BSN without first becoming an LPN.
LPN-to-RN programs can vary in length and depend on the credential being awarded. In general, LPN-to-RN bridge programs take about one year when leading to an associate degree and 2-3 years when leading to a bachelor's degree.
Yes, you can become an RN without a bachelor's degree. Many states allow RNs to qualify for licensure with an associate degree in nursing. A few states even allow you to qualify with just a diploma in nursing.
Check with your local nursing board to find approved nursing programs.
Compared to LPNs, RNs have more responsibilities, such as administering certain medications, performing and analyzing diagnostic tests, providing complex patient education, and operating advanced medical equipment. RNs can also specialize in an area of nursing that requires a higher level of patient care.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.
Next Steps
FAQs
Best LPN-to-RN Programs? ›
Taking the NCLEX-PN is unavoidable but if you have professional experience, you may be able to waive the LPN certification coursework. This is what's called "challenging the board," presenting them with evidence that you're qualified to take the test without a certification.
Can you challenge the Nclex RN as an LPN? ›Taking the NCLEX-PN is unavoidable but if you have professional experience, you may be able to waive the LPN certification coursework. This is what's called "challenging the board," presenting them with evidence that you're qualified to take the test without a certification.
How long is Excelsior LPN to RN program? ›Eight-week online classes. Weekly online lab experiences from one to two hours each week. Completion of clinicals in concentrated experiences. Completing 121 credits in one program—61 general education credits and 60 nursing credits.
What state has the easiest LPN program? ›- University of Arkansas Community College - Morrilton, AR. ...
- Annenberg School of Nursing - Reseda, CA. ...
- Bolivar Technical College - Bolivar, MO. ...
- Athena Career Academy - Toledo, OH. ...
- Professional Skills Institute - Maumee, OH. ...
- Herzing University - Birmingham, AL.
An LPN or LVN program usually takes around a year to complete, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). What makes an LPN or LVN preparation program the easiest type of nursing education you can pursue is its focus on training for basic nursing services only and its quick completion time.
How many people fail the LPN NCLEX? ›All nursing students dream of graduating and passing the NCLEX. Unfortunately, more than thirteen percent of NCLEX-RN candidates fail the exam on their first attempt.
How many times can you fail the NCLEX LPN? ›If they fail, they'll need to wait 45 days before retesting. After failing three times, though, they'll need to complete a board-approved remediation program before the next retake. test-takers have six attempts to pass in total.
How long is Ivy Tech LPN to RN program? ›Once admitted to the program, an Associate of Science in Nursing degree can be achieved in 4-5 semesters, or about two years. LPN to ASN students must maintain a current, active, unencumbered Indiana Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license throughout the duration of the LPN to ASN program.
Is a degree from Excelsior College respected? ›Excelsior University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Is Excelsior RN program accredited? ›Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The bachelor's, and master's degree programs in nursing at Excelsior College are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) (May 2021).
What are the hardest classes in LPN school? ›
What nursing classes SHOULD I fear? Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Anatomy & Physiology each have a well-earned reputation for being difficult to pass. Some students may find Cardiology, Chemistry, or even Mental Health especially trying.
What state pays LPN the most? ›1. California
No surprise here: California is also the highest-paying state for registered nurses (RNs) and among the highest-paying states for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Likewise, California tops our list of the highest-paying states for LPNs, with an average annual salary of $65,140.
10th Percentile: $35,570 per year; $17.10 per hour. 25th Percentile: $42,060 per year; $20.22 per hour.
What is the hardest nursing class to take? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.
What is the hardest nursing semester? ›Without question, the most difficult semester for me was the last semester of my junior year in nursing school. I attended a 4-year BSN program, and that particular semester included three classes that were very content-heavy, as well as the corresponding clinical hours for those classes.
Is 90% chance of passing NCLEX good? ›Specifically, nurse educators viewed students with predicted probabilities of passing the NCLEX-RN/NCLEX-PN greater than 90% as “on track” and therefore “low risk.” Nurse educators further categorized students with predicted probabilities of passing NCLEX-RN/NCLEX-PN between 80% and 89.9% as having “moderate need of ...
What state has the lowest NCLEX pass rate? ›9, 2022. Last year, 63.88 percent of registered nursing students passed the NCLEX, down from 64.79 percent in 2021 and 68.92 percent in 2020. Florida has had the lowest NCLEX pass rates in the country since 2017, according to The Tampa Bay Times.
Has anyone got 75 questions on NCLEX and failed? ›While it is certainly possible to fail the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN evaluation in only 75 questions, this rarely happens because most nursing students are far more prepared than they believe they are.
Which state has the hardest NCLEX exam? ›None. There is no “easy” state to take the NCLEX. The NCLEX is a national exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Because it's national, the NCLEX will be the same regardless of what state you choose to take it in.
What does it mean if you get all 145 questions on NCLEX? ›
Does 145 questions on NCLEX mean you failed? No, if you answer all 145 questions on the NCLEX, that does not mean you fail. In fact, if you answered 145 questions and each question was progressively more challenging, then that is a good sign that you passed.
What happens if you don't pass NCLEX after 3 years? ›If you have not passed the NCLEX by the three-year anniversary of your graduation, you will have to attend a nursing education program before you may take the exam again.
What is the shortest time to become LPN? ›It can take as few as 12 months to earn a diploma in practical nursing, as opposed to approximately 2-3 years to earn an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing (ADN/ASN or BSN).
What is the shortest practical nursing program? ›- Galen College of Nursing, St Petersburg.
- Academy for Nursing and Health Occupations, West Palm Beach.
- Sheridan Technical Center, Hollywood.
- First Coast Technical College, St Augustine.
- Withlacoochee Technical College, Inverness.
The NCLEX-PN exam has 75-145 items, and you are given up to five hours to complete the exam. There is no time limit for NCLEX-PN questions, but be aware of your pacing as you move through the exam so that you don't exceed your total time.
What is the Excelsior College controversy? ›A group of former Excelsior College students have sued the institution over its online associate degree program in nursing, claiming the self-paced, competency-based curriculum clashes with an expensive and "subjective" clinical exam.
What are the cons of the Excelsior Scholarship? ›- The program does not cover room and board for residential students. ...
- Books are not covered. ...
- Miscellaneous fees are not covered, and these are often in the $3,000 range at residential SUNY colleges and universities.
Excelsior College changed its name to "Excelsior University" on August 1, 2022.
Which states do not accept Excelsior Nursing degree? ›California and Maryland will not license Excelsior's nursing graduates and nursing boards in thirteen other states have restrictions or additional training requirements for Excelsior graduates, including Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Vermont, Virginia and ...
Did Excelsior Nursing lose accreditation? ›June 24, 2021
To acknowledge receipt of the teach-out plan for all students affected by the College's decision to voluntarily withdraw the accreditation of the associate nursing program from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
What is the acceptance rate for Excelsior? ›
Excelsior is a private, online college. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 0 undergraduate students. The Excelsior acceptance rate is 100%. Popular majors include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Business.
Is there a lot of math in LPN? ›All nursing revolves around a few basic math skills – adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing decimals, fractions and whole numbers, and converting numbers from the English system to a metric one, among them.
How to survive LPN school? ›- Get to know your professors early in the semester. ...
- Review every single test you get back. ...
- READ YOUR BOOKS! ...
- Get your assignments done early. ...
- Get organized!!!! ...
- Find good study habits. ...
- Study during your breaks. ...
- Self-care is so important for nursing students.
- Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
- Humanities.
- Intro to Speech (or Communication)
- English Composition.
- History.
- Using Information Technology.
- LVN LPN. Salary range: $59,500-$85,500 per year. ...
- RN and LPN. Salary range: $54,500-$80,500 per year. ...
- LVN Home Health. Salary range: $54,500-$71,000 per year. ...
- Clinic Lpn. Salary range: $41,000-$64,500 per year. ...
- LVN. Salary range: $47,500-$64,500 per year. ...
- LPN Private Duty. ...
- LPN Medical Assistant.
- As a licensed practical nurse (LPN) working in urgent care, you will be part of the team providing treatment for emergency room patients. ...
- This job is one of the highest-paying LPN positions, with a median salary of $62,265 per year. ...
- The top ten highest paying cities for urgent care LPNs are:
- Travel Nurse.
- Certified Medical Assistant.
- Neonatal Nurse (NICU)
- Nurse Anesthetist.
- Critical Care Nurse.
- Medical Biller/Coder.
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
- Cannabis Nurse.
- Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) ...
- Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) ...
- Become a Nurse Midwife. ...
- Advance in Nurse Leadership. ...
- Begin travel nursing assignment. ...
- Change Nursing specialties. ...
- Relocate to a higher paying state. ...
- Make sacrifices.
Let's compare their average salaries to find out who makes more LPNs or RNs. According to March 2022 data, registered nurses earn more than licensed practical nurses, making $34 per hour. Meanwhile, LPNs make $22 per hour. This means that the average annual salary of an RN is $70,335, while that of an LPN is $46,282.
Is it common to fail nursing class? ›
Many nursing schools require a minimum grade of roughly 80% to actually pass, as well. By the time you realize you aren't doing well enough to be successful in the course, the choices can be pretty limited. Failure happens all the time. It happens every day...
What is the hardest nursing test? ›Preparing to take the NCLEX is enough to make just about anyone nervous. It's a difficult exam, and a major stepping stone in your career as a registered nurse. Remember that most people pass the NCLEX on the first try. However, preparation and confidence are key to passing.
What percentage of nursing students fail? ›Nursing school is difficult and will be hard to pass. Most students pass their nursing program, so you can too. How many nursing students fail? According to the National League of Nursing, the dropout rate for nursing programs in the United States is around 20%.
What's the easiest nursing degree to get? ›As registered nursing degree programs go, the easiest one out there is the ADN. An associate's degree program can prepare you for a career as a registered nurse, but you should know that this degree meets only the bare minimum requirement for qualification as an RN.
Can I be a nurse with a 2.5 GPA? ›Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
What state is the easiest to become a nurse? ›- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
Some students find every course challenging, while others find the pre-requisites challenging but have no issues once in nursing school. Let me give you an example—when I was in nursing school, I found OB to be incredibly hard. I can still remember studying for those exams and not having the information make any sense.
Will nursing school ever get easier? ›Nursing school will have semesters that are easier than others. The good news is that the longer you are in nursing school, the easier it gets. The coursework may remain about the same, but it will get easier due to: The fact that you'll be used to it after a semester or two and you'll know what it takes to succeed.
What is harder paramedic or nursing? ›Paramedics are more highly trained than LPNs, however, the 1,200 to 1,800 hours of schooling a paramedic receives is lower than the two to four years it usually takes to become an RN. The paramedic's duties are mainly concerned with delivering emergency care to patients prior to arriving at the hospital.
Can LVN challenge the RN boards? ›In California, a prospective LVN can challenge the board and sit for the LVN licensing exam- without having to go through an approved, formal LVN program.
Can you challenge the NCLEX-RN exam? ›
You can either challenge the NCLEX or get an ADN, a BSN, or pass one of the few remaining diploma programs in the country.
Can you challenge the NCLEX without going to nursing school? ›Candidates can take the NCLEX-PN exam without an undergraduate degree in nursing or a healthcare-related degree. For instance, if an individual holds a degree in Economics, they can still apply for the NCLEX-PN, provided they first complete a related diploma or certificate course required to sit for the exam.
Can I challenge my NCLEX results? ›Candidates with reason to believe that a discrepancy exists in the scoring and reporting of their test results may appeal within 30 days of notification of their scores via certified letter/US Postal Service, Fax or online appeals form to the Certified Nurse Life Care Planner (CNLCP®) Certification Board.
How do I pass the RN NCLEX after failing? ›- Acknowledge the fact that you were unsuccessful. ...
- Find out the NCLEX retake policy for your state. ...
- Consider talking with your former nursing instructor. ...
- Understand why you failed NCLEX the first time. ...
- Familiarize yourself with the NCLEX content areas.
Candidates who do not pass the NCLEX after three times must complete a board-approved remedial training before their fourth attempt.
Does LVN need to pass NCLEX? ›In order to become an LVN, or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). If you are considering a career in Vocational Nursing, this post will be a great resource for you as you prepare for this test.
Can you fail the NCLEX-RN with 76 questions? ›To pass the NCLEX RN or PN, test takers must correctly answer at least 75 questions (the minimum amount).
How many times can you attempt NCLEX-RN? ›If you happen not to pass the exam, you can retake it after 45 days. And if you are wondering how often you can take the NCLEX, the NCSBN retake policy allows for a retake eight times a year, ensuring 45 exam-free days between each test.
How many questions can you get wrong on the NCLEX and pass? ›Failing the test can result in not answering the minimum amount of 70 questions within the allotted time. You can answer the first 69 questions correctly, but you will automatically fail the exam if you don't reach number 70.
Are nursing school exams harder than NCLEX? ›Unlike nursing school exams, which test for knowledge, the NCLEX tests your ability to apply and analyze situations using the nursing knowledge you gained in school. Logic and critical thinking, rather than rote memorization, are emphasized in this test—making it much more difficult and comprehensive.
What disqualifies you from taking the NCLEX? ›
Immediate disqualifiers are as follows: Major misdemeanor conviction for crimes involving weapons, violence, embezzlement, dishonesty, misappropriation, fraud or sex crimes. Any felony conviction. More than one drunk driving or related conviction in the past three years.
Do all nurses have to pass the NCLEX? ›All nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) before they can work as Registered Nurses. It's stressful to think that passing one exam can control your future.
Can employers see if you failed NCLEX? ›Can Future Employers See How Many Times You've Taken the NCLEX? Employers typically can't see how many times you've taken the NCLEX. Even if they can, it's unlikely to matter as much as you think. Facilities are more concerned with you having an active, unencumbered nursing license.
Is it rare to fail NCLEX in 75 questions? ›While it is certainly possible to fail the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN evaluation in only 75 questions, this rarely happens because most nursing students are far more prepared than they believe they are.
How do I pass NCLEX after failing 2 times? ›- Step 1: Determine Why You Didn't Pass. ...
- Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Exam. ...
- Step 3: Schedule Study Time. ...
- Step 4: Take Test Preparation Courses. ...
- Step 5: Find a Study Partner or Study Group.