📊 North Carolina LPN to RN Quick Facts
Average LPN Salary
$49,210/year
Average RN Salary
$77,420/year
Annual Salary Increase
$28,210/year
Return on Investment
< 1 Year
ADN Program Duration
12-18 Months
BSN Program Duration
2-3 Years
Typical Program Cost
$8,000-$22,000
NC NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
~87-90%
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🎓 Why Advance from LPN to RN in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers exceptional opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses looking to advance their careers to Registered Nurse status. As home to major healthcare systems including Duke Health, UNC Health, Atrium Health, Novant Health, and WakeMed, North Carolina provides a vibrant healthcare environment with strong demand for qualified RNs across the state's growing cities and rural communities.
💰 Significant Salary Increase
Earn $28,210 more per year as an RN compared to an LPN in North Carolina:
- Average LPN Salary: $49,210/year ($23.66/hour)
- Average RN Salary: $77,420/year ($37.22/hour)
- Annual Increase: $28,210 (57% salary boost)
- Career Earnings Difference: Over $1.1 million more over a 40-year career
💡 Quick ROI Calculation: With typical program costs of $8,000-$22,000 and an annual salary increase of $28,210, most North Carolina nurses recover their education investment in less than 1 year (often 4-9 months).
📈 Strong Job Market
North Carolina's healthcare sector is experiencing rapid growth:
- RN Job Growth: 7-10% projected growth through 2030 (much faster than average)
- Annual Openings: Over 10,000 RN positions annually across North Carolina
- Major Employers: Duke Health, UNC Health, Atrium Health (Charlotte), Novant Health, WakeMed (Raleigh), Cone Health (Greensboro), Vidant Health (Eastern NC)
- Geographic Demand: High demand in Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill (Research Triangle), Greensboro/Winston-Salem, Asheville, Wilmington, and rural communities
- Travel RN Opportunities: North Carolina travel RNs earn $1,700-$2,400/week
🏥 Expanded Career Opportunities
RN licensure opens doors to specialized roles and advanced practice:
- Specialty Areas: Critical Care, Emergency, Surgical, Oncology, Pediatrics, Women's Health, Cardiac Care, Trauma
- Leadership Roles: Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, Clinical Coordinator, Director of Nursing
- Advanced Practice: Pathway to Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Nurse Midwife
- Non-Clinical Options: Case Management, Utilization Review, Quality Improvement, Informatics, Public Health, Education
- Research Opportunities: Clinical research at Duke, UNC, and Wake Forest medical centers
🎯 Educational Pathways
North Carolina offers flexible options for working LPNs:
- LPN to ADN: 12-18 months at 58 NC community colleges statewide — extremely affordable and accessible
- 2-Semester Accelerated Options: Many NC community colleges offer 12-month hybrid/online bridge programs
- LPN to BSN: 2-3 years at universities with advanced career opportunities
- Online/Hybrid Options: Evening and weekend formats for working professionals
🌟 North Carolina Advantage: NC is home to the renowned "Research Triangle" (Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, NC State) with world-class medical centers and nursing schools. The state's 58-campus community college system provides affordable, high-quality LPN-to-RN pathways across every region. NC is also a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) — your NC RN license allows you to practice in 40+ compact states!
✅ North Carolina LPN to RN Bridge Program Requirements
North Carolina LPN to RN bridge programs have specific admission requirements. While requirements vary by institution, most programs share common prerequisites:
📋 Basic Requirements
- Active North Carolina LPN License: Current, unencumbered license in good standing with the NC Board of Nursing
- High School Diploma or GED: Official transcripts required
- Minimum GPA: 2.5-3.0 cumulative (3.0+ strongly preferred for competitive programs)
- LPN Work Experience: 1 year recommended (some programs require 6-12 months minimum)
- Age Requirement: 18 years or older
📚 Prerequisite Courses
Most North Carolina programs require completion of the following courses (typically with C or better):
- Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab (4 credits)
- Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab (4 credits)
- Microbiology with Lab (4 credits)
- General Chemistry or Introduction to Chemistry (3-4 credits)
- General Psychology (3 credits)
- Developmental Psychology or Lifespan Psychology (3 credits)
- English Composition I (3 credits)
- College Mathematics or Statistics (3 credits)
- Humanities/Social Science Electives (varies by program)
⚠️ Important: Science prerequisites (A&P, Microbiology, Chemistry) must typically be completed within 5-7 years of application. Older coursework may need to be repeated. Many NC community colleges accept prerequisites from other NC Community College System institutions.
🩺 Additional Requirements
- Background Check: NC State and FBI criminal background check (fingerprinting required)
- Drug Screening: 10-panel drug test (required by all programs and clinical facilities)
- CPR Certification: American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers (must remain current throughout program)
- Health Examination: Complete physical exam by healthcare provider within past year
- Immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Tdap, Hepatitis B series, annual influenza, COVID-19
- TB Testing: Two-step TB skin test or QuantiFERON-TB Gold blood test
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage (required during clinical rotations)
- Transportation: Reliable transportation to multiple clinical sites
📝 Entrance Exams
Most North Carolina LPN to RN programs require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills):
TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
- Minimum Score: Typically 60-65% (70%+ competitive; 75%+ highly competitive)
- Test Sections: Reading, Mathematics, Science, English & Language Usage
- Cost: $115-$140
- Registration: ATI Testing
- NC Community College Programs: Most require TEAS; some allow retakes after 30-45 days
💡 Pro Tip: Many North Carolina community colleges offer free or low-cost TEAS prep courses. Cape Fear Community College, Durham Tech, and Wake Tech all offer excellent TEAS preparation resources. Consider taking a prep course before your first attempt to maximize your score.
📄 Application Materials
Prepare the following for your application:
- Completed application form (most NC community colleges use CFNC.org)
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Copy of current North Carolina LPN license
- TEAS scores (sent directly from ATI Testing)
- Proof of prerequisite completion
- Letters of recommendation (1-3, typically from nursing supervisors or instructors)
- Personal statement or essay (varies by program)
- Resume/CV highlighting LPN experience
- Application fee ($0-$60, many NC community colleges have no application fee)
🎓 Good News for LPNs: North Carolina bridge programs grant advanced standing credit for your LPN education, allowing you to skip foundational nursing courses. Many programs are just 2 semesters (12 months) for full-time students, making NC one of the fastest and most affordable states for LPN-to-RN advancement.
🎓 North Carolina LPN to RN Program Options
1️⃣ LPN to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)
Duration: 12-18 months (full-time); 2-3 years (part-time)
Best For: LPNs seeking the quickest, most affordable path to RN licensure
Cost: $8,000-$16,000 (North Carolina community college tuition — among the lowest in the nation)
Format: In-person, hybrid, or online with clinical rotations
Outcome: Eligible to sit for NCLEX-RN; immediate entry to RN workforce
ADN Advantages:
- Lowest cost option (NC community colleges offer exceptional value)
- Fastest path to RN licensure and salary increase
- Same RN license and starting salary as BSN graduates
- Many 2-semester (12-month) accelerated bridge options
- 58 community college campuses statewide — one near you
- Can bridge to BSN later through RN-to-BSN programs (many online)
2️⃣ LPN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Duration: 2-3 years (full-time); 3-4 years (part-time)
Best For: LPNs planning long-term career advancement, leadership, or advanced practice
Cost: $16,000-$22,000 (North Carolina public universities — in-state tuition)
Format: In-person, online, or hybrid with clinical rotations
Outcome: BSN degree; eligible for NCLEX-RN; pathway to graduate education (MSN, DNP)
BSN Advantages:
- Preferred by Magnet® hospitals (Duke, UNC, Atrium Health)
- Required for most leadership, management, and specialty positions
- Higher starting salaries at many facilities ($3,000-$6,000 more annually)
- Prerequisite for Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and other advanced roles
- More comprehensive education in leadership, research, and community health
- Better prepared for evolving healthcare challenges
3️⃣ 2-Semester Accelerated LPN to RN Programs
Duration: 12 months (2 semesters, intensive)
Best For: Experienced LPNs who can commit to full-time, intensive study
Cost: $8,000-$14,000
Format: Hybrid (online coursework + in-person clinical rotations)
Outcome: ADN; NCLEX-RN eligibility; rapid career advancement
2-Semester Program Highlights:
- Many NC community colleges offer this accelerated option (Sampson CC, Cape Fear CC, Bladen CC, Durham Tech)
- Combines online theory with local clinical placements
- Allows you to continue working part-time in many cases
- Fastest, most affordable path to RN licensure in NC
- Same ADN credential as traditional programs
💡 Choosing the Right Path: North Carolina's community college system makes ADN the most popular and practical choice — it's fast, affordable, and accessible statewide. Many nurses choose ADN first to start earning RN salary immediately, then complete RN-to-BSN online while working (with employer tuition assistance). This strategy maximizes earnings while minimizing debt.
🏆 Top Accredited LPN to RN Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina offers numerous high-quality LPN to RN bridge programs across the state. All programs listed below are approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing and accredited by ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) or CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education).
Cape Fear Community College — LPN to RN Bridge
Location: Wilmington, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 15-18 months | Accreditation: ACEN
CFCC's LPN to RN Bridge program provides advanced placement for licensed practical nurses. The program features excellent clinical partnerships with New Hanover Regional Medical Center and other coastal NC healthcare facilities. Known for strong NCLEX pass rates and supportive faculty.
Visit Program Website →
Sampson Community College — LPN to ADN Online/Hybrid
Location: Clinton, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 12 months (2 semesters) | Accreditation: ACEN
Sampson CC offers a unique 2-semester online/hybrid LPN-to-ADN option. This accelerated program combines online coursework with clinical rotations at facilities throughout eastern NC. Ideal for working LPNs seeking a fast, flexible path to RN licensure.
Visit Program Website →
Durham Technical Community College — LPN to ADN Track
Location: Durham, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 12-18 months | Accreditation: ACEN
Durham Tech's LPN to ADN track serves the Research Triangle area with clinical placements at Duke Health, UNC Health, and other prestigious medical centers. The program offers advanced placement credit and strong academic support. Excellent NCLEX preparation and job placement rates.
Visit Program Website →
Bladen Community College — LPN to RN Bridge (Hybrid)
Location: Dublin, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 12-15 months | Accreditation: ACEN
Bladen CC's hybrid LPN to RN Bridge program allows currently licensed practical nurses to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing. The program combines online didactic instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Serves southeastern NC with flexible scheduling options.
Visit Program Website →
Blue Ridge Community College — LPN to RN Bridge
Location: Flat Rock, NC (near Asheville) | Type: ADN | Duration: 15-18 months | Accreditation: ACEN
Blue Ridge CC's LPN to RN Bridge serves Western North Carolina with clinical partnerships at Mission Hospital (HCA Healthcare) and other regional medical centers. The program features small class sizes, personalized attention, and stunning mountain campus. Strong support for rural nursing practice.
Visit Program Website →
Catawba Valley Community College — LPN to RN
Location: Hickory, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 12-15 months | Accreditation: ACEN
CVCC offers an intensive 1-year LPN to RN program highly regarded for its emphasis on hands-on clinical training. Clinical placements at Catawba Valley Medical Center and Frye Regional Medical Center. Known for strong NCLEX pass rates and personalized student support. Serves the Hickory metro and surrounding areas.
Visit Program Website →
Galen College of Nursing — LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge (Charlotte Campus)
Location: Charlotte, NC | Type: ADN | Duration: 18 months | Accreditation: ACEN
Galen's Charlotte campus offers an 18-month LPN-to-ADN bridge program with flexible scheduling and accelerated format. Clinical placements at major Charlotte-area hospitals including Atrium Health, Novant Health, and Carolinas Medical Center. Ideal for working nurses in the Charlotte metro area.
Visit Program Website →
🔍 Additional Resources: For a complete list of North Carolina Board of Nursing-approved programs, visit the
NC Board of Nursing Approved Programs page. North Carolina has 58 community colleges — nearly all offer LPN-to-RN pathways. Always verify program accreditation and approval before applying.
💡 Program Selection Tips: When choosing a program, consider: (1) Proximity to home/work and clinical sites, (2) Program format (traditional, hybrid, online), (3) NCLEX pass rates (target 85%+ first-time pass rate), (4) Program cost and financial aid availability, (5) Schedule flexibility (day, evening, weekend, 2-semester options), (6) Class size and student-faculty ratio, (7) Graduate employment rates, and (8) Clinical placement locations and partnerships with major healthcare systems.
💵 North Carolina LPN vs RN Salary Comparison & ROI Analysis
📊 Salary Comparison by Experience Level
| Experience Level |
LPN Salary (Annual) |
RN Salary (Annual) |
Annual Increase |
% Increase |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) |
$42,000-$47,000 |
$62,000-$70,000 |
$20,000-$23,000 |
48-49% |
| Mid-Career (3-5 years) |
$46,000-$51,000 |
$72,000-$80,000 |
$26,000-$29,000 |
57-57% |
| Experienced (6-10 years) |
$49,000-$54,000 |
$78,000-$86,000 |
$29,000-$32,000 |
59-59% |
| Senior (10+ years) |
$52,000-$58,000 |
$83,000-$94,000 |
$31,000-$36,000 |
60-62% |
💰 Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
ADN Program ROI:
- Program Cost: $8,000-$16,000 (community college — among the lowest in the US)
- Program Duration: 12-18 months
- Annual Salary Increase: $28,210
- Break-Even Point: 3-7 months after graduation
- 5-Year Earnings Gain: $141,050 (minus program cost)
- Career Earnings Gain: $1,128,400+ over 40-year career
BSN Program ROI:
- Program Cost: $16,000-$22,000 (public university in-state)
- Program Duration: 2-3 years
- Annual Salary Increase: $28,210-$32,000 (BSN premium at some facilities)
- Break-Even Point: 6-10 months after graduation
- 5-Year Earnings Gain: $141,050-$160,000 (minus program cost)
- Career Earnings Gain: $1,128,400-$1,280,000+ over 40-year career
- Long-Term Advantage: Better access to leadership, specialty, and advanced practice roles with higher earning potential
💡 ROI Bottom Line: North Carolina's low tuition costs make LPN-to-RN advancement one of the best investments you can make. With program costs under $16,000 and salary increases of $28,210+, you'll break even in less than 7 months. Over a career, you'll earn over $1.1 million more as an RN.
🎁 Additional RN Compensation Benefits
- Shift Differentials: $3-$7/hour for evening/night shifts; $5-$10/hour for weekends
- Sign-On Bonuses: $5,000-$20,000 (common at major hospitals, especially in Charlotte and Research Triangle)
- Retention Bonuses: $2,000-$8,000 annually
- Tuition Reimbursement: $3,000-$7,000/year for BSN or advanced degrees
- Overtime Pay: Time-and-a-half (often readily available)
- Specialty Certifications: $1,000-$3,000 annual bonus for specialty credentials
- Travel Nursing: $1,700-$2,400/week plus housing and benefits
📍 Regional Salary Variations in North Carolina
| Region/City |
Average RN Salary |
Cost of Living Index |
Notes |
| Charlotte Metro |
$76,000-$88,000 |
98 (slightly below national average) |
Largest RN job market; Atrium Health, Novant |
| Raleigh-Durham (Research Triangle) |
$78,000-$92,000 |
102 (slightly above average) |
Duke, UNC Health; research opportunities |
| Greensboro-Winston-Salem |
$72,000-$82,000 |
90 (below average) |
Cone Health, Novant; excellent value |
| Asheville |
$70,000-$80,000 |
95 (average) |
Mission Hospital (HCA); mountain lifestyle |
| Wilmington (Coastal) |
$68,000-$78,000 |
105 (above average) |
New Hanover Regional; beach lifestyle |
| Fayetteville |
$66,000-$76,000 |
88 (below average) |
Cape Fear Valley Health; military community |
| Hickory |
$65,000-$75,000 |
85 (below average) |
Catawba Valley Medical; lower cost of living |
| Rural/Eastern NC |
$62,000-$72,000 |
80 (well below average) |
Critical access hospitals; loan forgiveness |
🏥 Top North Carolina Employers & Salary Ranges
- Duke Health (Durham): $76,000-$94,000 base + excellent benefits and tuition assistance
- UNC Health (Chapel Hill & statewide): $74,000-$90,000 + comprehensive benefits
- Atrium Health (Charlotte): $72,000-$88,000 + strong benefits and career advancement
- Novant Health (Charlotte, Winston-Salem, statewide): $70,000-$86,000 + competitive benefits
- WakeMed (Raleigh): $72,000-$86,000 + excellent work-life balance
- Cone Health (Greensboro): $68,000-$82,000 + solid regional compensation
- Vidant Health (Eastern NC): $64,000-$78,000 + rural nursing opportunities
🌟 Specialized RN Salaries in North Carolina: Critical Care RNs ($82k-$98k), Emergency Department RNs ($78k-$92k), Operating Room RNs ($80k-$94k), Labor & Delivery RNs ($76k-$90k), Pediatric RNs ($74k-$88k), Oncology RNs ($76k-$90k), Nurse Managers ($90k-$115k+).
📝 How to Apply to North Carolina LPN to RN Programs
Follow this step-by-step timeline to successfully apply to North Carolina LPN to RN bridge programs:
🗓️ Step-by-Step Application Timeline
Step 1: Research Programs (12-18 Months Before Start)
- Identify 3-5 programs that match your location, schedule, and career goals
- Use CFNC.org (College Foundation of North Carolina) to explore NC community college programs
- Compare program costs, duration, format (traditional, hybrid, online), and NCLEX pass rates
- Visit campus websites and download admission requirements
- Attend virtual or in-person information sessions
- Connect with current students or alumni if possible
Step 2: Complete Prerequisites (12-24 Months Before Start)
- Review prerequisite requirements for your target programs
- Enroll in and complete required courses at any NC community college (credits transfer statewide)
- Aim for A's or B's in all science courses (especially A&P, Microbiology)
- Ensure science courses are within recency requirements (typically 5-7 years)
- Request unofficial transcripts to track progress
Step 3: Prepare for TEAS Exam (6-9 Months Before Application)
- Most NC programs require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
- Purchase official ATI TEAS study guide and practice tests
- Consider enrolling in a TEAS prep course (many NC community colleges offer free/low-cost options)
- Study 2-3 months before your test date
- Schedule your exam 4-6 months before application deadlines
- Retake if necessary (check program policies on retake waiting periods, typically 30-45 days)
Step 4: Gather Application Materials (3-6 Months Before Deadline)
- Request official transcripts from all colleges attended (allow 2-3 weeks for delivery)
- Obtain copy of your current North Carolina LPN license (verify at ncbon.com)
- Identify and contact 1-3 references (nursing supervisors, former instructors)
- Complete background check and drug screening if required before application
- Update CPR certification (AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers)
- Schedule health exam, TB test, and immunizations
Step 5: Write Personal Statement (2-3 Months Before Deadline)
- Review the prompt carefully and address all questions asked
- Discuss your nursing experience, career goals, and motivation for advancing to RN
- Highlight specific experiences that shaped your desire to become an RN
- Keep it concise (typically 500-750 words)
- Have 2-3 people review and edit your statement
- Proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors
Step 6: Submit Applications (Before Deadline)
- Apply to 3-5 programs to maximize your chances
- Most NC community colleges use CFNC.org for applications
- Submit applications at least 2-4 weeks before the deadline
- Double-check that all required materials are included
- Pay application fees (typically $0-$60; many NC community colleges have no fee)
- Save confirmation emails and application receipts
- Follow up to ensure all materials were received
Step 7: Interview & Await Decision (1-3 Months After Application)
- Prepare for interviews if required by your programs
- Review common nursing interview questions
- Dress professionally and arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Send thank-you emails after interviews
- Check application portals regularly for status updates
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
⚠️ Important Deadlines: North Carolina LPN to RN programs typically have application deadlines 6-9 months before the program start date. Many programs only accept students once or twice per year (Fall and Spring). Some programs use rolling admissions. Missing a deadline could mean waiting 6-12 months to reapply.
📅 Common Application Deadlines
- Fall Start (August): Application deadline typically February-April
- Spring Start (January): Application deadline typically August-October
- Summer Start (May/June): Application deadline typically November-January (less common)
- Rolling Admissions: Some programs review applications as they're received until seats are filled
💡 Pro Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply Early: Programs fill quickly. Applying early demonstrates commitment and gives you the best chance.
- Aim High on TEAS: Higher TEAS scores (70%+, especially 75%+) make you more competitive for selective programs.
- Strengthen Weak Areas: If your GPA is lower, consider retaking courses or highlighting strong LPN work experience.
- Choose References Wisely: Select people who know you well professionally and can speak to your clinical skills and character.
- Visit Campuses: If possible, visit campuses, meet faculty, and demonstrate genuine interest.
- Have a Backup Plan: Apply to 3-5 programs of varying selectivity to maximize acceptance chances.
- Stay Organized: Create a spreadsheet tracking each program's requirements, deadlines, and application status.
- Use CFNC.org: This free NC resource helps you explore programs, apply, and manage financial aid.
📞 Need Help? Most NC nursing programs have dedicated admissions advisors who can answer questions about requirements, prerequisites, and the application process. Contact them via phone or email — they're there to help you succeed! Many NC community colleges also offer free academic advising.
💸 Financial Aid for North Carolina LPN to RN Students
Financing your LPN to RN education in North Carolina is highly affordable thanks to low tuition and numerous financial aid options:
🇺🇸 Federal Financial Aid
Federal Pell Grant
- Amount: Up to $7,395 per year (2024-2025)
- Eligibility: Based on financial need; no repayment required
- How to Apply: Complete FAFSA at studentaid.gov
Federal Direct Loans
- Subsidized Loans: Up to $5,500-$7,500/year; no interest while in school (need-based)
- Unsubsidized Loans: Up to $5,500-$12,500/year; interest accrues during school
- Interest Rates: Fixed rates (currently 5.50% for undergraduate loans)
- How to Apply: Complete FAFSA
Federal Work-Study
- Amount: Varies by school and need
- Details: Part-time employment on or off campus to help pay education expenses
- How to Apply: Complete FAFSA; indicate interest in work-study
📅 FAFSA Deadline: The FAFSA opens October 1st each year for the following academic year. File as early as possible to maximize your aid eligibility. Use CFNC.org to link your FAFSA to NC schools.
🏛️ North Carolina State Financial Aid
NC Community College Grant
- Amount: Up to $1,500 per year
- Eligibility: NC residents with financial need attending NC community colleges
- How to Apply: Complete FAFSA; award is automatic if eligible
NC Legislative Tuition Grant
- Amount: Up to $2,700 per year
- Eligibility: NC residents attending private, non-profit NC colleges
- How to Apply: Complete FAFSA
NC Nurse Scholars Program
- Amount: Up to $5,000 per year
- Eligibility: NC nursing students committed to working in underserved NC communities
- Service Commitment: Work in designated underserved area after graduation
- Website: NC DHHS Office of Rural Health
NC AHEC Scholars Program
- Amount: Scholarships and rural health experience
- Eligibility: Students committed to rural or underserved NC healthcare
- Website: NC AHEC
🏥 Employer Tuition Assistance
Many North Carolina healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
- Duke Health: Up to $5,250/year + additional benefits for qualifying employees
- UNC Health: Up to $5,000/year tuition reimbursement
- Atrium Health: Tuition assistance programs for employees
- Novant Health: Up to $5,250/year + loan repayment assistance
- WakeMed: Tuition assistance for nursing staff
- Cone Health: Tuition reimbursement programs
- Vidant Health: Educational assistance for eastern NC employees
💡 Employer Assistance Tips: Most programs require you to remain employed for 1-2 years after completing your degree. Ask your HR department about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and service commitments. Many NC employers will adjust your work schedule to accommodate classes.
🎖️ Military & Veterans Benefits
- GI Bill®: Covers tuition, fees, housing, and books for eligible veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program: Additional tuition coverage at participating private schools
- Tuition Assistance (Active Duty): Up to $4,500/year for active military
- NC National Guard Tuition Assistance: NC Guard members may receive full tuition at NC community colleges
- VA Vocational Rehabilitation: For veterans with service-connected disabilities
- How to Apply: Contact your school's veterans services office or visit VA Education Benefits
🎓 Scholarships for LPN to RN Students
National Scholarships:
- HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: Full tuition + monthly stipend (requires service in underserved area)
- National Black Nurses Association: $1,000-$6,000
- National Association of Hispanic Nurses: $1,000-$5,000
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN): Various scholarships
- Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association: Multiple scholarships
North Carolina-Specific Scholarships:
- North Carolina Nurses Association Foundation: Scholarships for NC nursing students
- NC Community College Foundation Scholarships: Available at each of NC's 58 community colleges
- Local Hospital Foundation Scholarships: Duke Health, UNC Health, Atrium, Novant, and others offer scholarships
- Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust: Health-related scholarships for NC students
- NC Medical Care Commission: Rural health scholarships
💰 Other Funding Options
- Payment Plans: Most NC schools offer interest-free monthly payment plans
- Private Student Loans: Available from banks and credit unions (compare rates carefully)
- NC ECMC Foundation: Support for NC community college students
- Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe for personal fundraising
🔍 Scholarship Search Tips: Start early (6-12 months before starting school). Apply for multiple scholarships — even small awards add up. Use CFNC.org's scholarship search tool for NC-specific opportunities. Check with your employer, professional nursing associations, and local community organizations.
📋 Financial Aid Checklist
- ✅ Create account on CFNC.org
- ✅ Complete FAFSA as early as possible (opens October 1)
- ✅ Link FAFSA to NC schools via CFNC
- ✅ Submit your school's financial aid application
- ✅ Research and apply for NC and national scholarships
- ✅ Ask your employer about tuition assistance
- ✅ Review military and veterans benefits if applicable
- ✅ Compare financial aid packages from multiple schools
- ✅ Accept financial aid awards by the deadline
- ✅ Complete entrance counseling and Master Promissory Note for federal loans
- ✅ Set up a payment plan with your school if needed
📞 Get Help: Contact your school's financial aid office for personalized assistance. They can help you understand your options, complete forms, and maximize your aid eligibility. CFNC.org also offers free financial aid advising for NC students.
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📋 NCLEX-RN Exam in North Carolina
After completing your LPN to RN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) to obtain your North Carolina RN license.
💵 NCLEX-RN Costs in North Carolina
- NC Board of Nursing Application Fee: $100 (licensure by examination)
- NCLEX-RN Examination Fee: $200 (paid to Pearson VUE)
- Total Cost: $300
- Additional Fees: Transcript fees, background check ($32-$45), license renewal ($100 every 2 years)
📊 North Carolina NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
- First-Time Pass Rate (NC): ~87-90% (2023-2024 data)
- National Average: ~82-85%
- NC Strength: North Carolina nursing programs consistently exceed national pass rates
- Note: Pass rates vary by program; check your school's NCLEX performance on the NC Board of Nursing website
🏢 North Carolina NCLEX-RN Testing Centers
Pearson VUE operates multiple NCLEX testing centers across North Carolina:
- Charlotte: Multiple testing locations
- Raleigh: Testing center serving the Triangle area
- Durham: Testing center near Research Triangle
- Greensboro: Testing center in the Triad
- Winston-Salem: Testing center
- Wilmington: Coastal testing center
- Asheville: Western NC testing center
- Fayetteville: Testing center
- Find All Centers: Pearson VUE NCLEX
💡 Testing Tip: Testing centers can book up quickly, especially during peak graduation seasons (May-June and December). Schedule your exam as soon as possible after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT).
📝 NCLEX-RN Exam Format
- Question Range: 70-135 questions (minimum 60 scored + 15 pretest)
- Time Limit: 5 hours maximum
- Question Types: Multiple choice, multiple response, fill-in-the-blank, hot spot, drag & drop, chart/exhibit
- Adaptive Testing: Exam adjusts difficulty based on your responses (CAT - Computerized Adaptive Testing)
- Passing Standard: Based on ability estimate, not percentage correct
📚 NCLEX-RN Content Areas
The exam tests content across four major Client Needs categories:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment (26-38% of exam)
- Management of Care (17-23%)
- Safety and Infection Control (9-15%)
- Health Promotion and Maintenance (6-12% of exam)
- Psychosocial Integrity (6-12% of exam)
- Physiological Integrity (38-62% of exam)
- Basic Care and Comfort (6-12%)
- Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (12-18%)
- Reduction of Risk Potential (9-15%)
- Physiological Adaptation (11-17%)
📅 How to Apply and Schedule NCLEX-RN in North Carolina
- Complete Nursing Program: Graduate from your NC Board of Nursing-approved program
- Apply to NC Board of Nursing: Submit online application and fee ($100) at ncbon.com
- Register with Pearson VUE: Create account and pay $200 exam fee at Pearson VUE
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT): Emailed within 2-3 weeks after both registrations processed
- Schedule Exam: Schedule within 90 days of ATT (validity period); choose date, time, and location
- Take the Exam: Arrive 30 minutes early with two forms of ID (one government-issued photo ID)
- Receive Results: Quick Results available in 48 hours ($7.95 fee); official results from NC Board in 1-2 weeks
📖 Recommended NCLEX-RN Prep Resources
Top Prep Courses & Question Banks:
- UWorld NCLEX: #1 rated question bank; 2,000+ practice questions with detailed rationales ($199-$399)
- Kaplan Nursing: Comprehensive review courses and question banks ($199-$599)
- Hurst Review: Content-focused review with live or online classes ($349-$599)
- ATI RN Review: Many NC schools include ATI in tuition; practice assessments and remediation
- BoardVitals NCLEX-RN: Question bank with 1,600+ questions ($99-$249)
Top Study Books:
- Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN: Most comprehensive book ($60-$70)
- Kaplan NCLEX-RN Prep Plus: Includes online resources ($45-$50)
- NCLEX-RN Examination Test Prep Review (Hogan): Concise review ($40-$50)
- Illustrated Study Guide for the NCLEX-RN: Visual learners ($40-$45)
Free Resources:
- NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test makers ($50 for 6 weeks)
- RegisteredNursing.org: Free NCLEX practice questions and study guides
- YouTube Nursing Channels: NursingCramSchool, RegisteredNurseRN, SimpleNursing (free videos)
- Quizlet: Free NCLEX flashcard sets created by nursing students
💡 NCLEX-RN Study Tips
- Start Early: Begin studying 6-8 weeks before your exam date
- Study Schedule: Study 2-4 hours per day, 5-6 days per week
- Practice Questions: Complete 100-150 practice questions per day
- Review Rationales: Read rationales for both correct and incorrect answers
- Focus on Weak Areas: Use practice test results to identify content gaps
- Master Prioritization: Many NCLEX questions test your ability to prioritize care (ABC's, Maslow's, Nursing Process)
- Understand Pharmacology: Know drug classifications, mechanisms, side effects, nursing implications
- Practice SATA: "Select All That Apply" questions are common and challenging
- Join Study Groups: Study with classmates or online communities
- Take Care of Yourself: Get adequate sleep, eat well, exercise, and manage stress
⚠️ Red Flags: Avoid "NCLEX tricks" that claim to predict pass/fail before official results. The "Pearson Vue Trick" is not reliable. Wait for official results from the NC Board of Nursing.
📞 Need Support? Many NC nursing programs offer NCLEX review sessions, study groups, and tutoring for graduates. Contact your school's nursing department for resources. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retest after 45 days. Your school and professional tutors can help you develop a new study plan.
📞 North Carolina Board of Nursing Contact Information
The North Carolina Board of Nursing regulates nursing practice and licensure in North Carolina.
💻 Online Services
- License Verification: Verify NC Nursing License
- Online License Renewal: Renew your RN license online through NCBON website
- CE Broker: Track continuing education hours via CE Broker (integrated with NCBON)
- Address Changes: Update contact information online
- Duplicate License Requests: Order replacement license certificates
- License Applications: Apply for initial RN licensure by exam or endorsement
📚 Continuing Education Requirements
North Carolina RN License Renewal:
- Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years (biennially on your birthday)
- Renewal Fee: $100
- Continuing Education: No mandatory CE hours required for RN renewal (NC does not mandate CE for basic RN license renewal)
- Advanced Practice RNs: APRNs have specific CE requirements
- Record Keeping: While not required, maintaining CE records is recommended for professional development
- Employer Requirements: Some employers require CE; check with your facility
🆕 Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC): North Carolina IS a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact! Your NC RN license (multistate license) allows you to practice in person in North Carolina and 39 other compact states, plus provide telehealth services to patients in all compact states. This is a huge benefit for North Carolina nurses! Check
www.nursecompact.com for the full list of compact states.
📋 Important Links
💡 Pro Tip: Create an online account with the NC Board of Nursing as soon as you become licensed. This allows you to easily renew your license, verify your license status, update your address, and access important documents. Your NC multistate license is a valuable asset — it opens career opportunities across 40 states!
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