💰 Vermont LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
Transitioning from LPN to RN in Vermont offers strong salary increases and expanded career opportunities in a state known for quality of life. Here's what you can expect to earn:
LPN Average Salary
$68,190
$32.79/hour
Entry level: $62K–$65K
Experienced: $68K–$75K
RN Average Salary
$90,170
$43.35/hour
Entry level: $75K–$82K
Experienced: $90K–$102K
💵 Annual Salary Increase: $21,980+
That's an extra $1,831 per month — or a 32.2% pay raise by becoming an RN. Over a 30-year career, this translates to approximately $659,400 in additional earnings.
🏙️ Vermont RN Salary by Region & City
| City/Region |
Average RN Salary |
Hourly Rate |
Notes |
| Burlington |
$92,800 |
$44.62 |
State's largest city; UVM Medical Center; highest demand |
| Rutland |
$88,400 |
$42.50 |
Rutland Regional Medical Center; central VT |
| Montpelier |
$89,600 |
$43.08 |
State capital; Central Vermont Medical Center |
| Brattleboro |
$87,200 |
$41.92 |
Southern VT; Brattleboro Memorial Hospital |
| St. Johnsbury |
$86,500 |
$41.59 |
Northeast Kingdom; Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital |
| Springfield |
$85,800 |
$41.25 |
Southeast VT; Springfield Hospital |
| Bennington |
$87,600 |
$42.12 |
Southwest corner; Southwestern Vermont Medical Center |
🎯 Key Salary Insights
- Highest-Paying City: Burlington ($92.8K) offers top RN salaries in Vermont
- Above National Average: VT LPN salaries ($68K) are among the highest in the U.S. for LPNs
- Cost of Living: VT has moderate cost of living; housing affordable outside Burlington
- Rural Premiums: Some rural hospitals offer signing bonuses and loan forgiveness to attract RNs
- NOT eNLC: Vermont is NOT part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact — separate license required for multi-state practice
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🎓 Top 5 Vermont LPN to RN Bridge Programs
Vermont offers limited but quality LPN-to-RN pathways, primarily through Vermont State University and select healthcare employer partnerships. All programs are approved by the Vermont State Board of Nursing.
1. Vermont State University (formerly CCV) — Nursing Programs
Location: Statewide campuses (Montpelier, Randolph, others); online/hybrid options
Program Length: 2–3 years (part-time track)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; VT State Board approved
Highlights: Vermont State University (consolidated from former Vermont State Colleges) offers nursing degrees and certificates with pathways to RN licensure. LPNs may receive advanced standing for prior coursework and clinical experience. Flexible scheduling with online coursework and clinical placements at local VT hospitals.
Website: vermontstate.edu/nursing-programs
2. UVM Medical Center — LNA to RN Pathway Program
Location: Burlington, VT
Program Length: 2–3 years (part-time, employer-sponsored)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) via Vermont State University partnership
Accreditation: Vermont State Board approved (partnership program)
Highlights: UVM Medical Center offers an LNA-to-RN Pathway Program for employees, providing tuition support, paid study hours, and mentorship. LPNs (called LNAs in VT) can enroll in this pathway with Vermont State University coursework. Excellent for working nurses seeking employer-sponsored education.
Website: uvmhealthnetworkcareers.org/LNA-to-RN-Pathway
3. Dartmouth Health (NH) — Nursing Training & Education Programs
Location: Lebanon, NH (30 min from White River Junction, VT)
Program Length: Varies; second-year bridge option for LPN-RN transition
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: NH/VT Board approved (partnership program)
Highlights: Dartmouth Health (formerly Dartmouth-Hitchcock) offers nursing training programs with a second-year bridge option (LPN-RN) for qualified candidates. Convenient for southeastern VT residents. Strong clinical training in academic medical center environment.
Website: dartmouth-health.org/careers/nursing-training
4. River Valley Community College (NH) — LPN-RN Bridge Program
Location: Claremont, NH (30 min from Springfield, VT)
Program Length: 3 semesters (12–15 months)
Degree: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; NH Board approved (license transfers to VT)
Highlights: LPN-RN Bridge Program with February 15, 2026 application deadline. Convenient for southeastern VT residents (Windsor County area). Small class sizes; strong clinical partnerships. Affordable NH community college tuition. VT LPNs qualify for admission.
Website: www.rivervalley.edu/program/nursing
5. Galen College of Nursing — LPN/LVN to ADN Bridge (Online)
Location: Online (serves VT residents)
Program Length: 18 months (accelerated online)
Degree: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited; accepts VT students
Highlights: Fully online LPN-to-RN bridge with clinical placements arranged near your home in Vermont. 18-month accelerated track designed for working LPNs. NCLEX-RN prep integrated. Flexible start dates. Private college tuition (~$18K–$25K).
Website: galencollege.edu/lpn-lvn-adn-bridge
🔍 How to Choose the Right Program
- Accreditation: Ensure ACEN accreditation and VT State Board of Nursing approval
- Employer Partnerships: UVM Medical Center and other VT hospitals offer tuition assistance — check with your employer first
- Geographic Flexibility: NH programs (River Valley CC, Dartmouth Health) are convenient for southeastern VT residents
- Program Length: Bridge programs range from 12 months (accelerated) to 2–3 years (part-time)
- Cost: Vermont State University is most affordable (~$10K–$15K total); online programs ~$18K–$25K
- Schedule: Look for hybrid/part-time options if working full-time as an LPN
📋 Admission Requirements & Application Process
Vermont LPN-to-RN bridge programs have competitive admission processes. Here's what you need to prepare:
✅ General Prerequisites
- Current VT LPN/LNA License: Active, unencumbered license in good standing (Vermont calls LPNs "Licensed Nursing Assistants" or LNAs in some contexts)
- High School Diploma or GED
- Prerequisite Courses: Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with lab), Microbiology, English Composition, College Math or Statistics, Psychology, Human Growth & Development, Nutrition
- Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 cumulative GPA; 2.75+ preferred for competitive admission
- TEAS or HESI Exam: ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or HESI A2 — typically 65–70% minimum score
- Background Check & Drug Screening: Required for all clinical placements
- Current BLS/CPR Certification: American Heart Association Healthcare Provider
- Immunizations: MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B, varicella, annual flu shot, COVID-19, TB screening
- Work Experience: Minimum 6–12 months of LPN clinical experience preferred
📝 Application Timeline (Fall 2026 Entry)
- August–October 2025: Research programs; complete prerequisite courses
- November 2025: Register and take TEAS/HESI exam; request official transcripts
- December 2025–February 2026: Submit applications (VT programs vary; River Valley CC deadline is Feb 15, 2026)
- February–March 2026: Interviews and supplemental document submission
- March–April 2026: Acceptance notifications released
- April–August 2026: Orientation, clinical clearance, financial aid processing
- Late August/Early September 2026: Classes begin
💡 Application Tips
- Check Employer Programs First: UVM Medical Center and other VT hospitals offer tuition-supported pathways
- Apply Early: VT has limited LPN-to-RN programs — apply by early February for best chances
- Strong TEAS/HESI Score: Aim for 70%+ to be competitive; take a prep course if needed
- Complete Prerequisites First: Don't apply with pending courses — finish all prereqs
- Highlight Clinical Experience: Emphasize your LPN work experience and patient care skills
- Consider NH Programs: If you live near the VT-NH border, River Valley CC and Dartmouth Health are excellent options
💵 Financial Aid, Scholarships & Tuition Costs
Vermont LPN-to-RN bridge programs are moderately priced. Here's what you can expect and how to pay for it:
💰 Tuition Costs (2026 Estimates)
| School Type |
Total Program Cost |
Cost per Credit |
Notes |
| Vermont State University |
$10,000–$16,000 |
$250–$350 (in-state) |
Most affordable option for VT residents |
| Employer-Sponsored (UVM MC) |
$5,000–$10,000 |
Varies (tuition assistance) |
With employer tuition reimbursement |
| NH Community Colleges |
$12,000–$18,000 |
$300–$400 (out-of-state) |
River Valley CC; NH regional agreement may reduce tuition |
| Private/Online Colleges |
$18,000–$28,000 |
$400–$550 |
Galen College and other online programs |
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid Options
Vermont-Specific Scholarships
- Vermont Nursing Scholarship: Up to $5,000/year for VT residents pursuing nursing degrees — contact Vermont State Board of Nursing
- Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) Grants: Need-based aid for VT residents attending VT colleges — Apply here
- UVM Health Network Scholarships: For employees and local students; service commitment may be required
- Vermont Community Foundation Scholarships: Various nursing and healthcare scholarships for VT residents
National Nursing Scholarships
- NURSE Corps Scholarship: Full tuition + stipend in exchange for 2 years of service in critical shortage facilities — HRSA NURSE Corps
- National Health Service Corps (NHSC): Scholarships for rural/underserved practice commitments
- Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: $5,000–$10,000 for nursing students
- Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship: Johnson & Johnson scholarship for diverse nursing students
Employer Tuition Assistance
Many Vermont hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for LPNs pursuing RN degrees:
- UVM Medical Center: Tuition support and paid study hours through LNA-to-RN Pathway Program
- Rutland Regional Medical Center: Tuition assistance for employees pursuing RN licensure
- Central Vermont Medical Center: Financial support for bridge program students
- Brattleboro Memorial Hospital: Tuition reimbursement programs
Federal Student Aid
- FAFSA: Apply at studentaid.gov — Pell Grants up to $7,395/year
- Federal Stafford Loans: Low-interest loans for students
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus jobs to help pay tuition
💡 Financial Aid Tips
- File FAFSA Early: Priority deadline is March 1 for maximum VT grant eligibility
- Check Employer Benefits First: UVM Medical Center and other VT hospitals offer excellent tuition assistance — ask your HR department
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Vermont Community Foundation and VSAC offer multiple nursing scholarships
- Consider Service Commitments: NURSE Corps and NHSC programs offer full rides in exchange for 2–3 years of rural service
- Budget for Extras: Include costs for books ($800–$1,200), NCLEX prep ($300–$500), uniforms, and supplies
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
📈 Vermont RN Job Market & Career Outlook
Vermont faces a nursing shortage, particularly in rural areas, creating excellent job prospects for new RN graduates. The state's aging population and rural geography drive high demand.
+16%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
900+
Annual RN Job Openings in VT
10,500+
Currently Licensed RNs in VT
98%
Employment Rate for RN Grads
🏥 Top Employers for RNs in Vermont
| Employer |
Location |
RN Starting Salary |
Specialty Focus |
| UVM Medical Center |
Burlington |
$75,000–$85,000 |
Level I Trauma Center; UVM teaching hospital; all specialties |
| Rutland Regional Medical Center |
Rutland |
$70,000–$80,000 |
Regional medical center; cardiac, cancer, surgical care |
| Central Vermont Medical Center |
Berlin (near Montpelier) |
$71,000–$81,000 |
Community hospital; family-centered care |
| Southwestern Vermont Medical Center |
Bennington |
$69,000–$79,000 |
Southwest VT regional leader; medical, surgical, emergency |
| Brattleboro Memorial Hospital |
Brattleboro |
$68,000–$78,000 |
Southern VT; community hospital; family health |
| Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital |
St. Johnsbury |
$67,000–$77,000 |
Northeast Kingdom; rural health focus |
| Porter Medical Center |
Middlebury |
$70,000–$80,000 |
Addison County; community hospital; patient-centered care |
💼 Career Specialties & Advanced Roles
After gaining RN experience, Vermont nurses can pursue advanced roles and specializations:
- Critical Care (ICU): $88,000–$105,000 — high demand in Burlington
- Emergency Department (ED): $85,000–$100,000 — UVM Medical Center trauma center
- Operating Room (OR): $84,000–$98,000 — surgical centers across VT
- Labor & Delivery (L&D): $82,000–$96,000 — women's health focus
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $100,000–$125,000 — requires MSN/DNP; high demand in rural VT
- Nurse Educator: $75,000–$90,000 — teach at Vermont State University nursing programs
- Travel Nursing: $85,000–$115,000 — short-term contracts in New England and beyond
🎯 Why Vermont RNs Are In Demand
- Aging Population: VT has one of the oldest populations in the U.S., driving healthcare needs
- Rural Health Shortage: Northeast Kingdom and other rural areas are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)
- Retiring Nurses: 30% of VT RNs are over age 55, creating workforce gaps
- Quality of Life: VT's natural beauty, low crime, and strong communities attract nurses seeking work-life balance
📜 Vermont RN Licensing Requirements
After completing your LPN-to-RN bridge program, you'll need to obtain RN licensure through the Vermont State Board of Nursing.
✅ Steps to RN Licensure in Vermont
- Graduate from Accredited Program: Complete a VT State Board-approved ADN or BSN program
- Apply for NCLEX-RN Authorization: Submit application through the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation
- Submit Required Documents:
- Completed RN licensure application
- Official transcripts from nursing program
- Verification of LPN license (if transitioning)
- Criminal background check (state and FBI)
- Passport photo
- Pay Application Fees: $150 initial RN license fee + $50 background check
- Receive NCLEX Authorization to Test (ATT): Typically within 2–4 weeks of application approval
- Schedule & Take NCLEX-RN: Register through Pearson VUE — test in Burlington or nearby NH/NY locations
- Pass NCLEX-RN: Results typically available within 48 hours via "Quick Results"
- Receive VT RN License: License issued electronically within 1 week of passing NCLEX
⚠️ Vermont is NOT an eNLC State
Vermont does NOT participate in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means:
- Single-State License Only: Your VT RN license is valid only in Vermont
- Multi-State Practice Requires Additional Licenses: To work in other states, you must apply for separate licenses in each state
- Endorsement Process: VT RNs can apply for licensure by endorsement in other states, but it requires separate applications and fees
- Telehealth Limitations: Providing virtual care to patients in other states requires licenses in those states
- Travel Nursing: Travel nurses working in VT from eNLC states need separate VT licenses
Planning to Move? If you plan to work in multiple states, research each state's licensure requirements early.
📞 Contact Vermont State Board of Nursing
🔄 RN License Renewal
- Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 20 contact hours required per renewal cycle (must include 2 hours of mandatory coursework)
- Renewal Fee: $150 every 2 years
- Online Renewal: Available through the VT Office of Professional Regulation website 90 days before expiration
🍁 Why Become an RN in Vermont?
Vermont — the Green Mountain State — offers unique advantages for LPNs transitioning to RN roles, from natural beauty to strong community values and excellent quality of life.
#1
Healthiest State (U.S.)
#2
Best Quality of Life (U.S.)
16%
RN Job Growth (2024–2034)
Low Crime
One of Safest States
✨ Top Reasons to Pursue RN Licensure in Vermont
1. Unmatched Quality of Life
Vermont consistently ranks as one of the healthiest and safest states in the U.S. With low crime, clean air, and stunning natural beauty, VT offers an exceptional place to live and work.
2. Four-Season Outdoor Recreation
From skiing in Stowe to hiking the Green Mountains, kayaking Lake Champlain to fall foliage drives, Vermont is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Work-life balance is a priority here.
3. Strong Community Values
Vermont is known for tight-knit communities, local farms, farmers' markets, and a focus on sustainability and quality of life. Many nurses stay in VT for the lifestyle.
4. Rural Health Impact
VT's rural hospitals and communities need dedicated RNs. Working in rural VT allows you to make a profound difference in underserved areas and often qualifies for loan forgiveness programs.
5. Low Population Density & Short Commutes
Vermont is one of the least densely populated states, meaning no traffic jams and short commutes (15–25 minutes on average). Enjoy a relaxed pace of life.
6. Progressive Healthcare System
Vermont has a strong focus on public health, preventive care, and patient-centered medicine. VT hospitals emphasize holistic, community-based care.
🌟 Quality of Life Highlights
- Natural Beauty: Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, covered bridges, fall foliage
- Outdoor Recreation: Skiing, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing year-round
- Local Food & Farms: Farm-to-table culture; farmers' markets; craft breweries; maple syrup
- Low Crime & Safety: One of the safest states in the U.S.
- Strong Schools: Excellent public schools and small class sizes
- Community Focus: Town meetings, local businesses, neighborly support
💡 Vermont RN Advantages at a Glance
- Quality of Life: Healthiest state, low crime, strong communities
- Natural Beauty: Four-season outdoor recreation and stunning landscapes
- Job Security: Critical nursing shortage = high demand and job stability
- Rural Health Impact: Make a real difference in underserved areas
- Work-Life Balance: Short commutes, relaxed pace, family-friendly environment
📊 Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investing in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in Vermont delivers strong financial returns. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs, earnings, and payback timelines.
💰 Investment Summary
Total Program Cost
$13,000
Average tuition + fees
Vermont State University estimate
(Range: $10K–$28K)
Annual Salary Increase
$21,980
LPN $68K → RN $90K
32.2% pay raise
$1,831/month extra
⏱️ Payback Timeline
🎯 Break-Even Point: 7 Months
Based on a $13,000 program investment and $21,980 annual salary increase:
- Monthly Income Boost: $1,831 extra per month as an RN
- Payback Period: $13,000 ÷ $1,831/month = 7.1 months
- Result: Your investment is fully recovered in about 7 months!
📈 Lifetime Earnings Comparison
| Career Path |
10-Year Earnings |
20-Year Earnings |
30-Year Earnings |
| Stay as LPN |
$681,900 |
$1,363,800 |
$2,045,700 |
| Advance to RN |
$901,700 |
$1,803,400 |
$2,705,100 |
| Difference |
+$219,800 |
+$439,600 |
+$659,400 |
💡 Additional Financial Benefits
- Employer Benefits: RNs typically receive better health insurance, retirement matching, and paid time off
- Specialty Pay: ICU, OR, ED nurses earn $8K–$12K more annually
- Shift Differentials: Night/weekend shifts often pay 10–20% premiums
- Overtime Opportunities: RNs frequently earn time-and-a-half for extra shifts
- Loan Forgiveness: NURSE Corps and rural health programs forgive $20K–$60K in loans for rural VT service
- Travel Nursing: RNs can earn $85K–$115K as travel nurses after 1–2 years of experience
🎯 ROI Bottom Line
- Fast Payback: Recover your $13K investment in just 7 months
- Lifetime Earnings Boost: Earn over $650K more over a 30-year career
- Career Advancement: RN license opens doors to NP, CRNA, CNS, and leadership roles
- Job Security: High demand in rural VT ensures stable employment
🚀 Next Steps & NCLEX-RN Preparation
Ready to advance from LPN to RN in Vermont? Here's your action plan to get started and prepare for NCLEX success.
✅ Your LPN-to-RN Action Plan
- Research Programs (Start Now): Compare the top 5 VT programs listed above — Vermont State University and employer-sponsored programs are most accessible.
- Check Employer Programs: If you work at UVM Medical Center or another VT hospital, ask HR about tuition assistance programs.
- Complete Prerequisites: Ensure you've finished Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, and other required courses.
- Prepare for TEAS/HESI Exam: Take a prep course or use study guides — aim for 70%+ score.
- Apply by February 15, 2026: Most VT and nearby NH programs have February deadlines for Fall 2026 entry.
- Secure Financial Aid: File FAFSA by March 1; apply for scholarships (VSAC, NURSE Corps) and employer tuition assistance.
- Plan Your Schedule: Coordinate work, family, and school — many programs offer hybrid/part-time options.
- Complete Your Program: Stay focused, build strong clinical skills, and maintain good grades.
- Prepare for NCLEX-RN: Use a comprehensive review course and practice exams (see resources below).
- Pass NCLEX & Get Licensed: Apply for RN licensure through the VT Office of Professional Regulation.
- Start Your RN Career: Apply for RN positions at UVM Medical Center, Rutland Regional, or other top employers!
📚 NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
Vermont LPN-to-RN graduates typically have strong NCLEX pass rates (85–90%). Here are the best prep resources:
🎓 Recommended NCLEX Prep Courses
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Gold standard for NCLEX prep; 2,000+ practice questions, detailed rationales, performance tracking — UWorld ($199–$399)
- Kaplan NCLEX-RN Review: Comprehensive live or on-demand courses; decision tree method; pass guarantee — Kaplan ($299–$599)
- Hurst Review: Concise, focused content review; popular with VT nursing students — Hurst ($299–$499)
- ATI Comprehensive Predictor: Many VT programs include ATI — predicts NCLEX success with 95%+ accuracy
- NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX prep from the test makers — NCSBN ($50–$150)
📖 Study Guides & Books
- Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN: 5,700+ practice questions; most comprehensive book
- NCLEX-RN Premier (Kaplan): 2,000+ questions, decision tree guide
- Lippincott Q&A Review for NCLEX-RN: 6,000+ questions organized by content area
📱 Free & Low-Cost Resources
- Registered Nurse RN (RegisteredNurseRN.com): Free YouTube videos, study guides, and practice questions
- Simple Nursing: Animated video lessons and mnemonics
- NCLEX Mastery App: 3,000+ questions on iOS/Android ($29.99/year)
💡 NCLEX Success Tips
- Start Early: Begin NCLEX prep 8–12 weeks before graduation
- Practice Questions Daily: Complete 50–100 practice questions every day
- Focus on Weak Areas: Use performance analytics to identify content gaps
- Master Test-Taking Strategies: Learn priority-setting frameworks (ABCs, Maslow, Nursing Process)
- Simulate Test Day: Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Schedule Strategically: Take NCLEX within 4–6 weeks of graduation while content is fresh
📞 Need More Guidance?
Contact Vermont State University's nursing department or the VT Office of Professional Regulation for personalized guidance: