Connecticut LPN to RN Guide

1. Why Advance from LPN to RN in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers outstanding opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to advance to Registered Nurse (RN) status. Here's why thousands of Connecticut LPNs make this career move every year:

• Significant Salary Increase: Connecticut RNs earn an average of $88,530/year compared to LPNs at $59,440/year - that's a $29,090 annual increase!
• Expanded Scope of Practice: RNs can administer medications, interpret diagnostic tests, create comprehensive care plans, supervise LPNs and CNAs, and make critical clinical decisions independently.
• Career Advancement: RN credentials open doors to leadership roles, specialized nursing fields (ICU, ER, OR, Oncology, Pediatrics), management positions, and advanced practice opportunities.
• Job Growth: Connecticut projects 6% RN job growth through 2034, with strong demand in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford metro areas.
• Critical Nursing Shortage: Connecticut is facing a critical nursing shortage - excellent job security and opportunities for new RNs!
• World-Class Healthcare: Home to Yale New Haven Hospital, Hartford Hospital, Stamford Health, and other premier medical centers.
• High Quality of Life: Beautiful New England scenery, excellent schools, proximity to NYC and Boston, rich history and culture.

2. Connecticut LPN to RN Bridge Program Requirements

2.1 Prerequisites

To enroll in a Connecticut LPN to RN bridge program, you typically need:

• Active Connecticut LPN License: Must be current and unencumbered (in good standing with Connecticut Department of Public Health)
• High School Diploma or GED: Official transcripts required
• Minimum GPA: Usually 2.5-3.0 on a 4.0 scale (competitive programs may require 3.0+)
• Prerequisite Courses:
  • Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • General Chemistry or Chemistry I
  • General Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology or Lifespan Psychology
  • English Composition I & II
  • College Mathematics or Statistics
  • Nutrition (some programs)
• Background Check & Drug Screening: Connecticut criminal background check and fingerprinting required
• CPR Certification: Current BLS for Healthcare Providers from American Heart Association
• Work Experience: Many programs prefer 1 year of LPN clinical experience
• Entrance Exam: TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 (varies by school)
• Immunizations: Proof of immunizations (MMR, Hepatitis B series, Varicella, Tdap, annual flu shot)
• TB Test: Negative tuberculosis skin test or chest X-ray
• Physical Exam: Health assessment by licensed provider confirming ability to meet program physical demands

2.2 Program Options

3. Top Accredited LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Connecticut

Connecticut has numerous accredited LPN to RN bridge programs approved by the Connecticut Board of Nursing. Here are some of the top options:

4. Connecticut LPN vs RN Salary Comparison

One of the most compelling reasons to advance from LPN to RN in Connecticut is the significant salary increase. Here's a detailed comparison based on 2026 data:

Experience Level	LPN Salary	RN Salary	Annual Increase
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$52,000/year	$78,000/year	+$26,000
Mid-Career (3-5 years)	$59,440/year	$88,530/year	+$29,090
Experienced (5+ years)	$66,000/year	$98,000/year	+$32,000

Additional Financial Benefits in Connecticut:

• Better Benefits: RN positions typically offer superior health insurance, retirement plans (403b/457/pension), and generous paid time off
• Shift Differentials: Night and weekend shifts often pay 15-25% more in Connecticut hospitals
• Specialty Pay: RNs in ICU, ER, OR, NICU, and other specialty units earn additional premium pay
• Sign-On Bonuses: Many Connecticut hospitals offer $5,000-$15,000 sign-on bonuses for RNs due to nursing shortage
• Union Benefits: Strong nursing unions in Connecticut (CT Nurses Association, AFT Connecticut) provide excellent contracts and protections
• Travel Nursing: Connecticut RNs can earn $90,000-$125,000+ as travel nurses with housing stipends
• Overtime Opportunities: With nursing shortage, OT opportunities are abundant at time-and-a-half pay

Regional Salary Variations in Connecticut

• Fairfield County (Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport): RN average $92,000-$105,000/year (highest in state, proximity to NYC)
• Hartford Metro: RN average $85,000-$95,000/year
• New Haven Metro: RN average $86,000-$96,000/year
• Waterbury/Naugatuck Valley: RN average $82,000-$92,000/year
• Eastern Connecticut (Norwich, New London): RN average $80,000-$90,000/year

5. How to Apply to LPN to RN Programs in Connecticut

The application process for LPN to RN bridge programs in Connecticut typically follows this timeline:

5.1 Application Steps

1. Research Programs (4-6 months before desired start date)
   • Compare program lengths, costs, formats, and accreditation
   • Check Connecticut Department of Public Health approval status
   • Review NCLEX-RN pass rates (aim for 85%+ first-time pass rate)
   • Consider location, schedule flexibility, and clinical partnerships
   • Research CT State Community College System schools for the most affordable tuition
2. Complete Prerequisites (6-12 months before application)
   • Finish all required prerequisite courses with minimum required grades (usually C or better)
   • Ensure your Connecticut LPN license is current and unencumbered
   • Complete CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers)
   • Gather official transcripts from all colleges attended
   • Complete any required science lab courses
3. Submit Application (3-6 months before program start)
   • Complete online application through college admissions portal
   • Submit application fee ($40-$75, varies by institution)
   • Request official transcripts be sent directly to the nursing program
   • Provide copy of current Connecticut LPN license
   • Submit letters of recommendation (usually 2-3 required from employers, nursing supervisors, or instructors)
   • Write personal statement or essay explaining career goals and motivation
4. Take Entrance Exam (2-3 months before acceptance)
   • Register for TEAS or HESI A2 (check which exam your program requires)
   • Study using official prep materials, practice tests, ATI study guides
   • Schedule your exam at an approved testing center or take remotely
   • Submit official scores directly to your chosen programs
   • Connecticut programs typically require minimum TEAS scores of 60-70+ for admission
5. Acceptance & Enrollment (1-2 months before program start)
   • Receive acceptance notification (via email or portal)
   • Submit enrollment deposit to secure your seat ($150-$400)
   • Complete Connecticut criminal background check and fingerprinting through approved vendor
   • Complete drug screening at approved facility
   • Provide proof of immunizations (MMR, Hepatitis B series, Varicella, Tdap, flu)
   • Submit negative TB test or chest X-ray
   • Complete physical examination by healthcare provider
   • Attend mandatory nursing orientation session
   • Register for courses and secure financial aid/payment plans (FAFSA)
   • Purchase required uniforms, supplies, textbooks, and equipment

6. Financial Aid for LPN to RN Students in Connecticut

Don't let cost prevent you from advancing your nursing career! Connecticut offers numerous financial aid opportunities for LPN to RN students:

6.1 Federal Financial Aid

• Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year for eligible students (does not need to be repaid)
• Federal Direct Subsidized Loans: Low-interest loans for students with demonstrated financial need
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available regardless of financial need
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities to help pay education expenses
• How to Apply: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov/fafsa - opens October 1st annually

6.2 Connecticut State Aid

• Connecticut Aid to Public College Students (CAPCS): Need-based grant for Connecticut residents attending CT community colleges
• Roberta Willis Scholarship Program: Need-based scholarship for Connecticut residents
• Connecticut Nursing Scholarship Program: Scholarships for nursing students committed to working in Connecticut
• Governor's Scholarship: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving Connecticut students
• Nursing Loan Forgiveness Programs: For nurses working in underserved areas of Connecticut

6.3 Employer Tuition Assistance

• Hospital Tuition Reimbursement: Many Connecticut hospitals offer $3,000-$8,000/year for employees pursuing RN degrees
• Return Commitment: Usually requires 1-2 year work commitment after graduation
• Major Connecticut Employers Offering Tuition Assistance:
  • Yale New Haven Health System
  • Hartford HealthCare
  • Trinity Health Of New England
  • Stamford Health
  • Connecticut Children's Medical Center
  • Middlesex Health
  • Eastern Connecticut Health Network

6.4 Military & Veterans Benefits

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: Covers tuition, fees, and provides housing allowance for eligible veterans
• Connecticut GI Bill: Additional state benefits for Connecticut veterans
• Military Tuition Assistance: Active duty service members can receive up to $4,500/year
• National Guard Education Assistance Program: For Connecticut National Guard members

6.5 Scholarships

• Connecticut Nurses' Association (CNA) Scholarships: Multiple scholarships for Connecticut nursing students
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): Various nursing scholarships and grants
• National League for Nursing (NLN) Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships for nursing students
• Institutional Scholarships: Check with your specific college - many CT State schools offer nursing scholarships
• Local Organizations: Rotary Clubs, hospital auxiliaries, community foundations, Connecticut health organizations
• Minority Scholarships: National Black Nurses Association, National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Asian American/Pacific Islander Nurses Association

7. NCLEX-RN Exam in Connecticut

After completing your LPN to RN bridge program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) to become a licensed RN in Connecticut.

7.1 Connecticut NCLEX-RN Requirements

7.2 NCLEX-RN Pass Rates

• Connecticut First-Time Pass Rate: Approximately 85-87% (2023-2024 data)
• National Average: 85-90%
• Note: LPN-to-RN bridge students often have higher pass rates (88-92%) due to clinical experience and foundational knowledge
• Retake Policy: Connecticut allows up to 8 attempts per calendar year with 45-day waiting period between attempts

7.3 Exam Format & Structure

• Question Count: 75-145 questions (computerized adaptive testing - CAT)
• Time Limit: Maximum 5 hours (including tutorial and breaks)
• Question Types:
  • Multiple choice (select one answer)
  • Select all that apply (SATA - multiple correct answers)
  • Fill-in-the-blank calculations (dosage, IV rates)
  • Ordered response (drag and drop sequencing)
  • Hot spot (point and click on images)
  • Audio/video questions
• Content Areas:
  • Safe and Effective Care Environment (26-38%)
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance (6-12%)
  • Psychosocial Integrity (6-12%)
  • Physiological Integrity (38-62%)

7.4 Scheduling & Testing in Connecticut

1. Apply to Connecticut Dept of Public Health: Submit your application for licensure by examination through the Connecticut DPH online portal
2. Complete Background Check: Fingerprinting and background check required
3. Receive ATT: After approval, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE via email
4. Schedule Exam: You have 90 days from your ATT issue date to schedule and take your exam
5. Choose Testing Center: Pearson VUE has testing centers throughout Connecticut:
   • Hartford area
   • New Haven
   • Bridgeport
   • Stamford
   • Waterbury
   • Norwich
6. Processing Time: Initial application review typically takes 4-8 weeks in Connecticut
7. Results: Unofficial "Quick Results" available 48 hours after exam for $8 fee; official results in 2-4 weeks

7.5 NCLEX-RN Preparation Tips

• Official NCSBN Resources: NCSBN Learning Extension offers the official NCLEX prep course ($50-$150)
• Practice Questions: Complete at least 3,000-5,000 practice questions before your exam
• Top Study Programs:
  • UWorld NCLEX-RN Review ($129-$329) - highest rated
  • Kaplan NCLEX Prep ($299-$999)
  • Hurst Review ($500+)
  • ATI NCLEX Prep (usually included with Connecticut nursing programs)
  • Saunders Comprehensive Review for NCLEX-RN (book)
• Study Groups: Form study groups with classmates for motivation and accountability
• Test-Taking Strategies: Focus on understanding rationales, priority concepts, and nursing process
• Mark Klimek Lectures: Free audio lectures covering NCLEX strategies (widely used by Connecticut nursing students)
• Content Review: Review ABC's, Maslow's hierarchy, delegation, infection control, medication administration

8. Connecticut Board of Nursing Contact Information

The Connecticut Department of Public Health regulates all nursing education and licensure in the state. Here's how to reach them:

8.1 Common Board of Nursing Services

• License Verification: Check your license status or verify another nurse's license online at portal.ct.gov/DPH
• License Renewal: RN licenses in Connecticut must be renewed every 2 years
• Address Changes: Update your contact information through the online portal
• Continuing Education: Connecticut requires continuing education for RN license renewal (check current CE hour requirements with the Board)
• Program Approval: Search for Connecticut-approved RN programs through the DPH website
• Complaint Investigations: Report concerns about nursing practice or violations through the online portal
• Online Services: Most services available through Connecticut DPH online portal