Looking for licensed practical nurse schools near me but not sure where to start? Whether you’re ready to begin your nursing career or exploring LPN programs for the first time, choosing the right school is a big decision.
With so many LPN programs available, it’s important to find an accredited, high-quality program that fits your budget, schedule, and career goals. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
✅ How to find accredited LPN schools near you
✅ The difference between online, hybrid, and in-person LPN programs
✅ Costs, financial aid options, and LPN program lengths
✅ The best path forward—whether you want to stay an LPN or advance to an RN
Ready to start? Use the search tool below 👇 to find LPN programs near you!
Table of Contents
What is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides essential nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a physician. LPNs play a crucial role in patient care by performing tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily activities, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
ADD VIDEO explainer of very short video
LPN vs. LVN: What’s the Difference?
You may have heard the term “LVN” before. Let’s explain how that is related to an LPN.
LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) are the same role, with the same scope of practice, education, and licensing requirements. The only difference is the title, which depends on the state:
✅ LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) – Used in 48 states
✅ LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) – Used only in Texas & California
Therefore, if you see “LVN” used, know that it is interchangeable with LPN.
LPN vs. RN: What’s the Difference?
While both LPNs and RNs are vital members of the healthcare team, there are key differences between the two roles.
To refresh, RN = Registered Nurse. This means someone has graduated from an accredited nursing school, passed their board examination, and has been provided a license to practice nursing in a specific state. Let’s explore some specific differences.
Education: LPNs complete a practical nursing program (typically 12-18 months), while RNs must earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing (ADN or BSN).
Related FreshRN Post 👉 The Essential Difference Between ADN and BSN
Board Exam: LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN examination after successfully completing an accredited program while RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN to practice.
Scope of Practice: LPNs focus on direct patient care and routine nursing tasks, whereas RNs take on more complex responsibilities like care planning, critical decision-making, and leadership roles.
The scope of practice can vary from state to state. For example, in North Carolina LPNs cannot administer IV push meds. They might be able to start IVs or give IV fluids, but they are prohibited from IV push. However, in Texas, an LPN can administer IV push meds after completing state approved IV training. This can also differ in various healthcare settings.
Career Advancement: Many LPNs use their experience as a steppingstone to become an RN through bridge programs (LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN programs).
Below is a table outlining the differences between an RN and an LPN.
Why Choose an LPN Career?
Choosing to become an LPN is a great option for those who:
✅ Want to enter the healthcare field quickly
✅ Prefer hands-on patient care over administrative work
✅ Are looking for a cost-effective alternative to a four-year nursing degree
✅ Want job stability with flexible work options
Where Do LPNs Work?
LPNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
🏥 Hospitals (though opportunities here may be limited depending on the state)
🏡 Long-term care facilities & nursing homes (one of the most common workplaces for LPNs)
Related FreshRN Post 👉 Subacute Rehab vs. Skilled Nursing Facility
🩺 Clinics & doctors’ offices
🏠 Home healthcare agencies
📚 Schools & rehabilitation centers
Job Outlook for LPNs
The demand for LPNs remains strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a steady growth rate of 5% from 2022 to 2032. As the aging population increases, long-term care facilities and home health services will see a rising need for skilled LPNs.
If you’re considering an LPN program, finding the right school is key. However, if you’re still on the fence about whether this is right for you, let’s discuss a very practical way you can get healthcare experience while seeing what LPNs do!
Not Sure If LPN Is Right for You? Consider Becoming a CNA First!
If you’re interested in nursing but aren’t 100% sure if becoming an LPN is the right move, starting as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can be a smart first step.
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a great way to enter healthcare quickly and affordably while gaining hands-on experience. CNA programs typically take just 4-12 weeks to complete, allowing you to start working in a hospital, nursing home, or home health setting in a matter of months. With tuition ranging from $500 to $2,500, it’s also a cost-effective way to explore nursing before committing to an LPN or RN program.
CNAs work directly with patients, assisting with daily activities, vital signs, and mobility, which helps build confidence in patient care. Additionally, many LPN and RN programs give preference to applicants with CNA experience, making it a smart first step for those considering a long-term nursing career. If you’re unsure whether nursing is the right path for you, becoming a CNA can provide valuable insight while opening doors to future opportunities in healthcare
Many CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health—the same places LPNs often work!
📍 Find CNA Programs Near You:
Also, some hospitals have their own CNA programs where you complete a training and orientation experience that is quite in-depth, and then are able to provide a similar level of care to patients as a CNA. It is critical to know that if you opt for this route, that if you leave that employer for any reason, the training is not transferrable to another institution. An independent CNA program that provides you with a certificate upon completion would follow you with your employment, where ever that may be.
They might be called something different like a “patient care technician training program”. You can check the job description to compare it. Note: This would be different from a certified medical assistant, who primarily deal with more administrative tasks as opposed to basic patient care.
How to Choose an LPN Program Near Me – The “Big 3”
Before selecting an LPN program, it’s essential to verify three key factors. I call these “The Big 3”—if a school doesn’t meet these criteria, it may not be worth your time or money.
✅ 1. Approved by the State Board of Nursing (BON)
✅ 2. Accredited by a National Nursing Accreditor
✅ 3. NCLEX-PN Pass Rate Over 85%
If a program meets all three, you can confidently move on to evaluating factors like location, flexibility, tuition, and clinical opportunities.
#1 – Approval by the State Board of Nursing (BON) – Why It Matters
Each state Board of Nursing (BON) must approve LPN programs to ensure they meet the minimum standards required to educate nursing students safely and effectively. BON approval is essential because:
• It protects the public by ensuring programs meet state regulations.
• It ensures that graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
• It is run by the government, meaning schools must comply with state laws and nursing education guidelines.
📌 How to Check if an LPN Program Is BON-Approved
To see if a program is approved in your state, follow these steps:
- Visit your state’s Board of Nursing website (Find yours at NCSBN.org).
- Look for a section labeled “Approved Nursing Programs” or “Education & Schools.”
- Search for your school’s name. If it’s not listed, it may not be approved!
🔎 Example: Checking BON Approval in Texas
In Texas, you can check for approved LPN (LVN) programs by visiting the Texas Board of Nursing website (www.bon.texas.gov):
• Click on “Education” → “Formal Education Programs For Students.”
• Click on “Texas Approved LVN/LPN Programs”
• If a program isn’t listed, it means Texas doesn’t recognize it, and students may not be eligible for licensure.
Check for Scam Schools
Fraudulent and substandard institutions are something to watch out for. The last thing you want is to spend time and money only to find out you are not eligible to practice. Many states have websites with lists of schools that are not authorized to grant degrees but are still operating.
For example, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board maintains a list of schools whose degrees are illegal in the state. The last time I looked at it, there were almost 400 schools on there!
#2 – Accredited by a National Nursing Accreditor
Many people confuse BON approval with accreditation, but they serve different purposes. BON approval is required for NCLEX eligibility, ensuring that a program meets state-mandated minimum educational standards to prepare students for safe nursing practice. It is managed by government agencies focused on protecting the public and regulating nursing education within that state.
Conversely, accreditation is voluntary but highly recommended. It is managed by private, nonprofit organizations that assess the quality of nursing education programs beyond just the minimum state standards. Accrediting bodies evaluate factors such as curriculum rigor, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and program effectiveness. Programs that achieve accreditation demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence and continuous improvement.
Unlike RN and BSN programs, which may be accredited by multiple organizations, LPN programs are primarily accredited by one major accreditor: The ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)
Check ACEN-accredited programs here and click “search programs” to check if the program you are looking at is accredited. Alternatively, you can go to the state BON website to search approved programs and they often also list whether or not the program is accredited as well.
Accreditation is especially important if you plan to continue your education later, as many LPN-to-RN bridge programs require your LPN program to be accredited for admission.
Can You Sit for the NCLEX-PN If Your School Is Approved but NOT Accredited?
Yes! Graduating from a BON-approved but non-accredited program still allows you to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. However, it may limit your ability to:
- Transfer credits for an LPN-to-RN bridge program (some schools require ACEN accreditation).
- Find jobs at hospitals that prefer accredited graduates.
- Qualify for financial aid(some federal aid is only available to students in accredited programs).
📌 Bottom Line
• BON approval = REQUIRED for NCLEX-PN eligibility.
• Accreditation = NOT required for NCLEX-PN but strongly recommended for career flexibility.
#3 – NCLEX-PN Pass Rate Over 85% – Why It Matters
A school’s NCLEX-PN pass rate tells you how well it prepares students for the national licensing exam. Programs with low pass rates may not be providing adequate education, student support, or exam preparation.
📌 How to Check NCLEX-PN Pass Rates
Many state Boards of Nursing publish annual NCLEX-PN pass rate reports. Here’s how to check:
- Go to your state Board of Nursing website.
- Look for a section called “NCLEX Exam Statistics” or “NCLEX Performance Reports.”
- Find your school’s NCLEX-PN pass rate for the last few years.
🔎 Example: Checking NCLEX-PN Pass Rates in Texas
In Texas, NCLEX-PN pass rates are available on the Texas BON website:
- Visit www.bon.texas.gov.
- Click “Education” → “Formal Education Programs for Students”
- Click → “NCLEX-VN/PN Pass Rates for Last 5 Years”
- This opens a PDF; find the school(s) you are interested in and note the pass rate and number of graduates
(We are not linking the PDF directly because it will be updated annually.)
✅ A pass rate of 85% or higher is a good indicator of a strong program.
⚠️ If a school has a pass rate below 85% for multiple years, it could signal poor student preparation or curriculum issues.
If a Program Meets the Big 3
Once you’ve confirmed that an LPN program is BON-approved, nationally accredited (preferably ACEN), and has an NCLEX-PN pass rate over 85%, you can move on to other important factors:
📍 Location & Flexibility – Is the school nearby? Does it offer online or hybrid options?
⏳ Length & Schedule – Does the program fit your timeline? Is it full-time or part-time?
💰 Tuition & Financial Aid – Can you afford it? Does the school offer financial assistance?
🏥 Clinical Training Opportunities – Where do students complete their clinical hours? Check Google Maps for the location of the school and its proximity to nearby healthcare facilities. The program’s website may list specific extended care facilities, nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and hospitals they have partnerships with. Can you secure transportation to class and clinical sites? If you are not sure and do not have consistent transportation, consider calling the school to ask directly prior to applying.
If a school does NOT meet all 3 criteria, it’s a red flag 🚩—consider looking elsewhere.
LPN Courses Near Me vs. LPN Programs Near Me
You may be searching the internet for both LPN courses and LPN programs. Let’s make sure the difference is crystal clear.
Obtaining an LPN license entails taking many individual LPN courses, getting appropriate grades, then completing an entire LPN program, and finally taking and passing the NCLEX-PN.
One can take individual LPN courses, however that would be a singular class rather than the entire program. You cannot take one course at one school, one at another school, and piece together an entire LPN education. You must complete a set of LPN courses at a specific school that you apply to and are accepted into and therefore complete an entire program.
Finding the right LPN program is an important step in your nursing journey. By choosing an accredited school and understanding the difference between LPN courses vs. degrees, you’ll be well on your way to a successful nursing career.
Key Takeaway ➡️ LPN courses are the pieces of the puzzle, and an LPN program is when the entire puzzle has been assembled. The pieces must all come from the same puzzle! You cannot take LPN courses at different schools. You must complete one comprehensive program at one school.
Types of LPN Courses Required For Graduation
Let’s go through an example of the courses required to complete a practical nursing program. This example comes from the Academy for Careers and Technology (ACT) in Marion, SC. As of the writing of this post, they are accredited by the ACEN and approved by the South Carolina BON. In 2024, they had a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate (15 of 15 graduates passed the exam on the first try).
In 2024, the national average NCLEX-PN pass rate was 88.38% and for South Carolina graduates, it was 97.08%.
Semester 1 of LPN Courses
- Fundamentals of Nursing I
- Anatomy and Physiology
Semester 2 of LPN Courses
- Fundamentals of Nursing II
- Nutrition and Diet Therapy
- Nurses Math
Semester 3 of LPN Courses
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I
- Pharmacology I
- Maternal-Newborn Nursing
Quarter 4 of LPN Courses
- Medical-Surgical Nursing II
- Pharmacology II
- Pediatric Nursing
Pro-Tip ➡️ Check out the school’s handbook for specifics on schedules, grading polices, and requirements. ACT’s handbook even lists out the specific clinical locations and which weeks those occur on. Clinical sites include acute care, funeral homes, long-term care, emergency, special needs and elementary schools, and labor and delivery, among others.
Most nursing schools (at all levels, LPN, ADN, BSN, and higher) have different passing grades than traditional college majors. Nursing schools often require a minimal grade of 80% or above to be considered passing. Often, if a passing grade is not met, you are not allowed to progress in the program until you pass that specific class, which delays graduation significantly.
Types of LPN Programs
There are several pathways to becoming an LPN, depending on your educational needs and budget. LPN programs can be at a community college, a private institution, a technical/vocational school, or an online format with in-person clinicals. We explore the differences in these programs in the table below.
✅ Key Takeaway: Choose a state-approved, accredited program with a respectable NCLEX-PN pass rate that aligns with your budget, learning style, and career goals.
How Long Does an LPN Program Take?
LPN program lengths vary depending on enrollment type. Let’s look at how long each program takes. Please keep in mind that this assumes you pass all your coursework.
What Impacts Program Length?
The most impactful aspect that impacts how long a program takes is whether or not you choose a part time or a full-time option. Naturally, taking a larger course load enables you to progress through the program faster.
Some programs offer asynchronous and/or hybrid options, providing some of the coursework online. If the program’s didactic portions don’t require in-person attendance, one theoretically could progress through the coursework at a faster pace.
You’ll also want to find out the clinical requirements of your program, as these can vary in length and extend programs in length.
How Much Does an LPN Program Cost?
The cost of an LPN program depends on several factors, including the type of school, location, and program format. Community colleges and technical schools tend to be the most affordable, with tuition ranging from $4,000 to $15,000, while private nursing schools can cost $10,000 to $30,000. Online and hybrid programs fall somewhere in between, typically ranging from $7,000 to $20,000.
Additional costs may include:
- Books & Supplies – Expect to spend $500–$2,000 on textbooks, scrubs, and lab fees.
- NCLEX-PN Exam & Licensing Fees – The NCLEX-PN exam costs around $200, plus additional state licensing fees ($75–$300).
- Technology & Online Access Fees – Some schools charge fees for online coursework platforms.
There are several ways to lower the cost of LPN tuition and make nursing school more affordable. First, students should apply for federal and state financial aid by filling out the FAFSA, which can determine eligibility for Pell Grants, state grants, and student loans. Additionally, many healthcare organizations and nursing associations offer LPN-specific scholarships, which don’t require repayment. Some employers, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, provide tuition reimbursement programs if you agree to work for them after graduation. Finally, many schools offer work-study opportunities or flexible payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition in manageable monthly installments while gaining valuable experience in the field. Exploring these options can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make earning an LPN degree more accessible.
Online LPN Programs vs. In-Person LPN Schools
Choosing between online vs. in-person LPN programs depend on your learning style, schedule, and personal needs. While fully online LPN programs do not exist due to clinical training requirements, many schools offer hybrid LPN programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinicals.
📌 Hybrid LPN Programs: The Best of Both Worlds
Hybrid LPN programs allow students to complete lectures and theory-based coursework online while attending hands-on clinicals in person at local healthcare facilities. This option is ideal for students who:
✅ Need a more flexible schedule
✅ Prefer self-paced learning for coursework
✅ Are comfortable with independent study
✅ Have reliable access to a clinical site for hands-on training
🔎 Can You Earn an LPN Degree Online?
The short answer: Not entirely. While some schools advertise “online LPN degrees near me,” these programs are never 100% online because LPN training requires hands-on clinical experience.
✅ What You Can Do Online: Take courses in pharmacology, anatomy & physiology, nursing ethics, and patient care theory.
❌ What Must Be Done In-Person: Clinical rotations in hospitals, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed nurses.
If you’re considering an online or hybrid LPN program, make sure the school is state-approved so you remain eligible for licensure.
Steps to Enroll in an LPN Program Near You
Once you’ve decided on the right program format (in-person, hybrid, or technical school), the next step is enrollment.
First, we need to find an ideal program for you. Use the search tool below to explore LPN programs near you based on your ZIP code:
Make a list of schools that are near you and/or offer online courses with local clinical placements.
Next, make sure they pass the BIG 3 test (state approval, accreditation, NCLEX-PN pass rate).
Then, review the full cost, length of program, and clinical requirements. If all of these are reasonable to you, then we can move forward to admission requirements.
Most LPN programs require a high school diploma/GED, entrance exam (TEAS and NEX exams are common), background check, and immunization verification.
Once you get these items together, you can apply! Submit FASFA, look for scholarships, and any other tuition assistance.
Using Your LPN License as a Stepping 🪨 Stone to RN
Many LPNs choose this career path as a quick, cost-effective way to enter the nursing workforce, gaining hands-on experience while earning a steady income. However, if you decide to advance your career, becoming an RN through an LPN-to-RN bridge program is a great option. These programs allow LPNs to build upon their existing nursing knowledge, complete their RN education faster, and transition into higher-paying, more autonomous roles in healthcare
What Are LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs?
LPN-to-RN bridge programs are designed for licensed practical nurses who want to become registered nurses (RNs) in a shorter timeframe. These programs recognize your previous nursing education and experience, allowing you to skip redundant coursework and move quickly into advanced nursing topics.
📌 Bridge Program Options
✅ LPN-to-ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)
Typically takes 12-18 months to complete.
To search for an LPN to ADN program near you, enter your ZIP code below.
✅ LPN-to-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
A longer but more comprehensive option, taking 24-36 months.
To search for an LPN to BSN program near you, enter your ZIP code below.
Both programs prepare you for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for RN licensure.
Licensed Practical Nurse Schools Near Me – Final Thoughts
Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an incredible career choice—one that offers stability, flexibility, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re stepping into healthcare for the first time, using this as a stepping stone to becoming an RN, or choosing to stay and grow within the LPN role, your path is valid, valuable, and needed.
The beauty of this career is that it’s yours to shape. You can enter the workforce quickly, earn a solid income, and gain hands-on experience while still having the option to advance later if you choose. If you’re unsure, you can start as a CNA and explore the field before committing. If you’re an LPN ready to take the next step, bridge programs make it easier than ever to become an RN. But even if you stay an LPN for life, you’ll still be an essential part of the healthcare team, providing compassionate, hands-on care that truly impacts patients.
No matter what path you choose, remember this: Nursing isn’t about titles—it’s about heart. Whether you’re an LPN, RN, or CNA, your role is critical, and your work is meaningful. If this is the right step for you, take it with confidence. The healthcare world needs more dedicated, compassionate nurses, and that journey can start today.
📍 Ready to take the first step? Use the ZIP code search tool below to find LPN programs near you and start your journey today!
Licensed Practical Nurse Schools FAQs
What is the hardest class in LPN school?
Many students find pharmacology to be the toughest class due to medication calculations, drug interactions, and memorization of drug classifications. Anatomy & Physiology and Medical-Surgical Nursing are also challenging due to their depth of content.
What state is the hardest to become a nurse?
California is often considered the hardest due to its strict education requirements, high NCLEX passing standards, and long licensing process. Other states with high standards include New York and Hawaii.
How do I become an LPN without college?
You don’t need a traditional college degree, but you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which is typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or technical institutes.
Which state doesn’t require the NCLEX?
All U.S. states require the NCLEX-PN for LPN licensure. If a school or program claims otherwise, it may be a scam.
How long is the NCLEX-PN?
The NCLEX-PN lasts up to five hours and includes 85 to 150 questions, depending on how quickly you meet the passing standard. For more in-depth questions and answers about the NCLEX, check out the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s (NCSBN) website’s FAQ page. The NCSBN is a nonprofit organization that develops the NCLEX exam and supports state nursing regulatory bodies (state boards of nursing).
What GPA do you need to stay in nursing school?
Most LPN programs require students to maintain at least a 2.5 to 3.0 GPA to stay enrolled, though requirements vary by school. (Check their handbook!)
0 Comments