🌽 Illinois LPN to RN Bridge Programs

1. Why Advance from LPN to RN in Illinois?

Illinois offers exceptional opportunities for LPNs to advance their nursing careers in one of the Midwest's top healthcare markets.

Strong Salary Increase

• LPN Average Salary: $63,487/year ($30.52/hour)
• RN Average Salary: $89,620/year ($43.09/hour)
• Annual Increase: $26,133
• Lifetime Earnings Boost: Over $780,000 in a 30-year career

Thriving Healthcare Market

• Illinois is home to world-class healthcare systems
• Chicago is a major medical hub with leading hospitals
• Major employers: Northwestern Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Advocate Aurora Health, OSF Healthcare, University of Chicago Medicine
• RN job growth projected at 6% through 2034
• Strong demand in both urban and rural areas

Enhanced Career Opportunities

• Broader scope of practice and clinical autonomy
• Leadership positions in Magnet hospitals
• Travel nursing opportunities (Illinois RNs: $1,700–$2,500/week)
• Specialty certifications (ICU, ER, OR, NICU)
• Flexible scheduling and shift options

Educational Advancement

• Foundation for BSN, MSN, or DNP programs
• Tuition reimbursement programs at major Illinois hospitals
• Excellent nursing schools (University of Illinois Chicago, Rush University, Loyola, Northwestern)

Illinois Advantage

• NLC State: Illinois is a Nurse Licensure Compact state — license valid in 40+ states
• Affordable education: Community colleges offer low tuition rates
• Diverse healthcare settings: From major medical centers to rural critical access hospitals

2. Illinois LPN-to-RN Bridge Program Requirements

To qualify for Illinois LPN-to-RN bridge programs, you'll need:

2.1 Basic Requirements

• ✅ Active, unencumbered Illinois LPN license
• ✅ High school diploma or GED
• ✅ Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 (competitive programs may require 3.0+)
• ✅ 1–2 years of LPN work experience (preferred)

2.2 Prerequisite Courses

Most programs require these courses with a grade of C or better:

• Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
• Microbiology (with lab)
• General Chemistry or Chemistry I
• General Psychology
• Developmental Psychology or Lifespan Development
• English Composition I & II
• College Math or Statistics
• Nutrition (required by some programs)

2.3 Additional Requirements

• 🔍 Background Check: Illinois State Police and FBI checks
• 💉 Drug Screening: 10-panel drug screen
• 🩺 CPR Certification: BLS for Healthcare Providers (American Heart Association)
• 📋 Physical Exam: Current health physical
• 💉 Immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B series, Tdap, annual flu shot
• 🩺 TB Test: 2-step PPD or QuantiFERON-TB Gold
• 📝 Entrance Exam: TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2
• 🏥 Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage

2.4 TEAS or HESI Exam

Most Illinois programs require:

• TEAS Score: Minimum 60–70% (competitive programs may require 75%+)
• HESI A2 Score: Minimum composite of 75–85%
• Test covers: Reading, Math, Science, English & Language Usage

3. Illinois LPN-to-RN Program Options

Illinois offers three main pathways for LPNs to become RNs:

3.1 LPN to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)

• Duration: 12–18 months (3–4 semesters)
• Format: Campus-based with hybrid options; clinical rotations required
• Cost: $8,500–$22,000
• Best For: LPNs who want to become RNs quickly and cost-effectively
• Outcome: Eligible for NCLEX-RN; can work as RN immediately

3.2 LPN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

• Duration: 2–3 years (depends on transfer credits)
• Format: Campus-based or hybrid; some online coursework with local clinicals
• Cost: $16,000–$42,000
• Best For: LPNs seeking management, leadership, or advanced practice roles
• Outcome: BSN degree; eligible for NCLEX-RN; pathway to MSN/DNP

3.3 Accelerated LPN to RN

• Duration: 12–15 months (intensive, full-time)
• Format: Campus-based; condensed curriculum
• Cost: $14,000–$25,000
• Best For: LPNs who can commit to full-time study
• Outcome: ADN or BSN; eligible for NCLEX-RN

4. Top Accredited LPN-to-RN Programs in Illinois

Illinois has numerous high-quality, accredited LPN-to-RN bridge programs:

💡 Pro Tip: Check the Illinois Board of Nursing's approved programs list for the most current information at nursing.illinois.gov/education

5. Illinois LPN vs RN Salary Comparison

Here's how salaries compare at different career stages:

Experience Level	LPN Salary	RN Salary	Annual Increase
Entry (0-2 years)	$56,000	$78,000	+$22,000
Mid-Career (3-5 years)	$63,487	$89,620	+$26,133
Experienced (5+ years)	$70,000	$98,000	+$28,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

• Average Annual Increase: $26,133
• Typical Program Cost: $8,500–$25,000
• ROI Timeline: Less than 1 year of RN work
• 30-Year Career Boost: ~$780,000 in additional earnings

Additional Financial Benefits

• Better Benefits: RNs receive superior health insurance, retirement matching, PTO
• Shift Differentials: Evening/night/weekend shifts: $6–$14/hour extra
• Specialty Pay: ICU, ER, OR, NICU nurses: $5,000–$16,000/year more
• Sign-On Bonuses: $5,000–$20,000 (especially Chicago metro area)
• Travel Nursing: Illinois travel RNs: $1,700–$2,500/week
• Per Diem Rates: $45–$70/hour in Chicago area

Illinois Regional RN Salaries

• Chicago Metro: $92,000–$108,000
• Naperville/Aurora: $88,000–$100,000
• Rockford: $80,000–$90,000
• Peoria: $78,000–$88,000
• Springfield (Capital Region): $76,000–$86,000
• Champaign-Urbana: $75,000–$85,000
• Bloomington-Normal: $74,000–$84,000
• Southern Illinois: $70,000–$80,000 (plus rural incentives)

Major Illinois Employers

• Northwestern Medicine (Chicago): $94,000–$110,000
• Rush University Medical Center (Chicago): $92,000–$108,000
• Advocate Aurora Health: $88,000–$102,000
• University of Chicago Medicine: $90,000–$106,000
• OSF Healthcare: $82,000–$94,000
• Loyola Medicine: $88,000–$100,000

6. How to Apply to Illinois LPN-to-RN Programs

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Research Programs (4–6 months before desired start)

• Compare programs (ADN vs BSN, duration, cost, location)
• Attend information sessions or virtual open houses
• Contact admissions advisors
• Visit campuses if possible

Step 2: Complete Prerequisites (6–12 months)

• Finish all prerequisite courses with grades of C or better
• Maintain minimum GPA (2.5–3.0+)
• Take courses at accredited Illinois institutions when possible

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials (3–6 months before deadline)

• Official Transcripts: High school and all college transcripts
• Illinois LPN License: Current, active license (copy)
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3 letters (nursing supervisor, instructor, colleague)
• Personal Statement: 500–1,000 words explaining your motivation and goals
• Resume/CV: Include LPN work experience, certifications, volunteer work
• Application Fee: $30–$80

Step 4: Take Entrance Exam (2–3 months before application)

• Schedule TEAS or HESI A2 exam
• Study using prep materials (TEAS study guide, ATI, etc.)
• Send scores to programs

Step 5: Submit Application

• Apply by deadlines (many programs fill 6+ months in advance)
• Double-check all materials are complete
• Follow up with admissions office

Step 6: Acceptance & Enrollment (1–2 months before start)

• Receive acceptance letter
• Submit enrollment deposit
• Complete Illinois State Police and FBI background checks
• Complete drug screening
• Provide immunization records
• Complete TB test
• Upload health insurance proof
• Attend orientation

Step 7: Register for Classes

• Meet with academic advisor
• Register for first semester courses
• Apply for financial aid (FAFSA) if needed
• Purchase textbooks and supplies

Application Deadlines

• Fall Start: Applications typically due February–April
• Spring Start: Applications typically due September–October
• Summer Start: Some programs offer summer admission
• Rolling Admissions: Some community colleges accept applications year-round
• 💡 Tip: Apply early! Illinois programs are competitive and fill quickly

7. Financial Aid for Illinois LPN to RN Students

7.1 Federal Financial Aid

• Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026) for eligible students
• Federal Direct Loans:
  • Subsidized: $3,500–$5,500/year
  • Unsubsidized: up to $12,500/year
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus employment
• FAFSA: File at studentaid.gov/fafsa (opens October 1)

7.2 Illinois State Financial Aid

• Monetary Award Program (MAP): Up to $7,920/year for eligible Illinois residents
• Illinois Nurse Educator Fellowship Program: Loan repayment for nursing educators
• Nursing Education Scholarship Program: For students pursuing nursing degrees
• Illinois National Guard Grant: Up to full tuition for Guard members
• Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG): Tuition waiver for eligible veterans

7.3 Employer Tuition Assistance

Many Illinois healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement:

• Northwestern Medicine: Up to $6,000–$10,000/year; 2-year commitment
• Rush University Medical Center: $5,000–$8,500/year; work commitment
• Advocate Aurora Health: $4,000–$7,500/year; 2-year commitment
• University of Chicago Medicine: $5,500–$8,000/year; 1–2 year commitment
• OSF Healthcare: $3,500–$7,000/year; work commitment
• Loyola Medicine: $4,500–$7,500/year; 2-year commitment
• Other employers: Check with your current employer for tuition benefits

7.4 Military & Veterans Benefits

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: Covers tuition, books, and housing
• Tuition Assistance (TA): Up to $4,500/year for active duty
• Illinois National Guard Grant: Tuition support for Guard members
• Illinois Veteran Grant: Tuition waiver for eligible veterans
• Yellow Ribbon Program: Additional funding at participating schools

7.5 Scholarships

• Illinois Nurses Association (INA): Various scholarships for Illinois nursing students
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): Multiple scholarships
• National League for Nursing (NLN): Scholarships for nursing students
• Institutional Scholarships: Offered by universities and colleges
• Local Organizations: Rotary Club, Kiwanis, local hospitals, churches
• Minority Scholarships: National Black Nurses Association, Hispanic Nurses Association

💡 FAFSA Tips

• File FAFSA by October 1 for priority consideration
• Illinois MAP Grant deadline: varies by program (check ISAC website)
• Typical financial aid packages cover 60–85% of total costs
• Illinois community colleges are highly affordable ($130–$180/credit hour for in-state)
• Combine federal aid, state grants, employer assistance, and scholarships for maximum support

8. NCLEX-RN Exam in Illinois

After completing your LPN-to-RN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed:

8.1 NCLEX-RN Costs

• Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Fee: $50
• Pearson VUE NCLEX-RN Exam Fee: $200
• Total Initial Cost: $250

8.2 Illinois NCLEX-RN Pass Rates

• Illinois First-Time Pass Rate: ~85–87% (2023–2024)
• National Average: 85–90%
• LPN-to-RN Bridge Graduate Pass Rates: Often 88–93% (higher due to prior nursing experience)
• Retake Limit: Up to 8 attempts per year; 45-day waiting period between attempts

8.3 NCLEX-RN Exam Format

• Question Range: 75–145 questions (Computer Adaptive Testing)
• Time Limit: Up to 5 hours
• Question Types:
  • Multiple choice
  • Select all that apply (SATA)
  • Fill-in-the-blank (calculations)
  • Ordered response (prioritization)
  • Hot spot (image-based)
  • Audio/video questions

8.4 NCLEX-RN Content Areas

Content Category	Percentage of Exam
Safe & Effective Care Environment	26–38%
Health Promotion & Maintenance	6–12%
Psychosocial Integrity	6–12%
Physiological Integrity	38–62%

8.5 How to Schedule Your NCLEX-RN in Illinois

Step 1: Apply for Licensure

• Submit licensure application to Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation
• Website: idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/boards/nursing.html
• Include all required documents and fees

Step 2: Background Check & Fingerprinting

• Complete Illinois State Police and FBI background checks
• Fingerprinting required

Step 3: Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)

• Pearson VUE will send your ATT via email after Board approval
• ATT is valid for 90 days from issue date

Step 4: Schedule Your Exam

• Go to home.pearsonvue.com/nclex
• Select your testing center and date
• Illinois Testing Centers: Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield, Champaign, Bloomington

Step 5: Take the Exam

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Bring two forms of ID (one government-issued photo ID)
• No personal items allowed in testing room

Step 6: Results

• Quick Results: Available 48 hours after exam for $8 (unofficial)
• Official Results: Sent to Illinois Board in 2–4 weeks
• Illinois license posted online once you pass

8.6 NCLEX-RN Preparation Tips

• NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test maker (learningext.com)
• Practice Questions: Complete 3,000–5,000 practice questions minimum
• Recommended Prep Programs:
  • UWorld (highly recommended for question bank)
  • Kaplan NCLEX Review
  • Hurst Review
  • ATI Comprehensive Predictor
  • Saunders Comprehensive Review
• Study Groups: Join NCLEX study groups with classmates
• Mark Klimek Lectures: Free audio lectures (popular with students)
• Content Focus:
  • Prioritization & delegation
  • ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)
  • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
  • Pharmacology & medication calculations
  • Infection control

9. Illinois Board of Nursing Contact Information

Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation - Board of Nursing

• Website: idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/boards/nursing.html
• Phone (Scope of Practice): 312-814-2715
• Phone (Applications & Licensing): 800-560-6420
• Email: [email protected]

Mailing Address (Springfield Office)

Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation
Board of Nursing
320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, IL 62786

Chicago Office

100 W. Randolph Street, Suite 9-300
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 312-814-2715

Office Hours

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM CT

Online Services

• License verification
• License renewal (every 2 years)
• Address changes
• CE requirement tracking
• Online license portal
• Submit complaints

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

• Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years
• CE Hours Required: 20 contact hours for RNs

Important Notes

• Illinois is an NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) state — your license is valid in 40+ states
• Transcripts can be uploaded, mailed, or emailed to [email protected]
• Online services available through IDFPR portal