The question of whether a student in a Registered Nurse (RN) program can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is a common one, driven by the desire for early professional experience and income. The answer is not universal, as this pathway is not automatically granted to all RN students. Eligibility depends almost entirely on the specific curriculum structure of the RN program and the administrative laws of the state where the student seeks licensure. The NCLEX-PN is the standardized examination required for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), providing a possible interim credential for RN students who meet certain educational milestones.
The Role of the State Board of Nursing
The State Board of Nursing (BON) holds the sole authority over who is eligible to sit for any licensure examination in that state. Each BON operates under its state’s Nursing Practice Act, which defines the legal requirements for nursing education and practice. RN programs must receive approval from the BON to ensure their curriculum meets the necessary standards for both RN and, in some cases, LPN-level competency.
The BON determines if a student’s completed RN coursework is equivalent to a full LPN program, which is a prerequisite for taking the NCLEX-PN. This determination is based on completed credit hours and clinical experiences covering the required fundamentals of practical nursing. Because regulations vary significantly by state, a student must contact their specific state’s BON immediately to confirm the local rules and documentation requirements.
Qualifying for the NCLEX-PN: Coursework Equivalency and Exit Options
RN students may become eligible for the NCLEX-PN through “coursework equivalency” or a formal “LPN Exit Option.” The RN curriculum incorporates the fundamental knowledge and skills taught in a standalone LPN program, usually within the first year of an ADN or the first two years of a BSN program. The equivalency pathway recognizes that the student has completed the required didactic and clinical hours aligning with the LPN scope of practice.
Many nursing schools formalize this opportunity through a structured “LPN Exit Option” or “Ladder Program.” This option allows a student who has successfully completed a specific checkpoint, such as the end of the second semester, to apply for the NCLEX-PN. The school’s administration must provide official documentation to the BON certifying that the student has met the educational requirements for practical nursing licensure. Students should understand that not all RN programs have this LPN exit route.
The documentation submitted to the BON must specifically attest to the student’s mastery of the LPN-level content and clinical hours. Certain states, such as Florida, have a “Practical Nursing Equivalency” (PNEQ) option that formalizes this application process. Without this formal exit option or state-sanctioned equivalency, an RN student cannot unilaterally decide to take the NCLEX-PN, regardless of their progress.
The Application Process and Logistical Requirements
Once eligibility is confirmed by the nursing program and the State Board of Nursing, the application process for the NCLEX-PN begins. The student must first submit an application for licensure to the BON of the state where they intend to practice and pay the associated fee. This step is necessary for the BON to declare the candidate eligible to test.
The RN program director must then submit official documentation verifying the student’s partial program completion to the BON. Simultaneously, the candidate registers for the NCLEX-PN examination with Pearson VUE and pays the exam fee, typically around $200. After the BON confirms eligibility, the student is issued an Authorization to Test (ATT), a time-limited permit usually valid for 90 days to schedule and take the examination.
Benefits of Obtaining LPN Licensure While in RN School
Obtaining LPN licensure during RN school provides several distinct advantages for professional development and financial stability.
Financial and Professional Benefits
Employment in a licensed nursing role offers a significantly higher salary than working as an unlicensed Nurse Aide.
The resulting income can help finance the remainder of the RN education, reducing the reliance on loans.
Working as a licensed LPN allows the student to accumulate valuable, real-world clinical experience, fostering better clinical judgment and organizational skills.
Going through the NCLEX process once provides familiarity with the high-stakes testing environment, which can reduce anxiety when preparing for the subsequent NCLEX-RN.
Potential Drawbacks and Professional Considerations
While the benefits are considerable, pursuing LPN licensure mid-program introduces challenges requiring careful consideration. The most significant drawback is the increased time and financial commitment needed to study for and take a separate board examination while managing the rigorous demands of an RN program. Dedicating time to NCLEX-PN preparation can lead to academic burnout or negatively impact performance in RN coursework.
There are also financial costs, as the student must pay licensure application fees and the NCLEX exam fee for both the PN and the subsequent RN examinations. Professionally, a student working as an LPN must strictly adhere to the narrower LPN scope of practice defined by state law. Operating under two different practice scopes simultaneously demands constant vigilance to maintain legal compliance.