Pathways to RN Licensure: Education and Exams Explained

The journey to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) begins with education and ends with licensure. While it may seem straightforward, aspiring nurses face several decisions along the way, from selecting the right program to preparing for rigorous exams. This blog unpacks the essential steps to licensure, helping prospective nurses plan a successful path into the profession.

Choosing the Right Educational Path

There are three main entry-level educational paths to becoming an RN. Each varies in length, depth, and career impact.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Typically completed in 2 to 3 years.
Offered at community colleges and some vocational schools.
Focuses on clinical skills and patient care.
Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Best for: Students who want to enter the workforce quickly and pursue further education later.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A 4-year degree offered by colleges and universities.
Includes clinical training, nursing theory, research, leadership, and public health.
Required by many employers for specialty roles and advancement.

Best for: Those seeking a broader foundation, leadership opportunities, or graduate education.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

For individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
Intensive programs lasting 12 to 18 months.
Prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN.

Best for: Career changers looking for a fast route into nursing.

The NCLEX-RN: National Licensure Exam

Regardless of education path, all aspiring RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

What the Exam Covers:

Safe and Effective Care Environment
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Psychosocial Integrity
Physiological Integrity

Format and Structure:

Computer-adaptive format
Between 85 and 150 questions
Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and chart-based questions

Preparation Tips:

Use NCLEX practice tests and review courses.
Study over time rather than cramming.
Focus on clinical judgment and critical thinking, not memorization.

State Board of Nursing Requirements

Licensure doesn’t stop at the NCLEX. Each U.S. state has its own Board of Nursing that oversees licensure. After passing the exam:

Submit an application to your state board
Provide transcripts and background checks
Pay required licensing fees
Stay current with state-specific continuing education requirements

For example:

Florida RNs must complete 24 CE hours every renewal cycle.
Georgia RNs may need CE, competency exams, or practice hours depending on their situation.

Always check with your state’s Board of Nursing to ensure compliance.

Advanced Preparation: BSN vs. ADN

While both ADN and BSN graduates become RNs, healthcare trends increasingly favor BSN-prepared nurses. Research shows BSN-prepared nurses are associated with better patient outcomes, fewer medication errors, and improved quality of care.

Some employers, especially Magnet hospitals, now require or strongly prefer a BSN.

References:

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (2024). NCLEX-RN Test Plans. https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex/testplans.htm
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2023). The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice.https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/fact-sheets/impact-of-education