How long does it take to become an LPN in Connecticut?

The typical timeline is 12-18 months total: 12 months for your LPN program plus 4-6 weeks for NCLEX-PN exam scheduling and results. Some accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 10 months.

What are the requirements to get into an LPN program in Connecticut?

Requirements include high school diploma or GED, minimum 18 years of age, background check, drug screening, immunization records, CPR certification, and entrance exam (TEAS or HESI) with minimum scores. Some programs also require prerequisite courses in anatomy or math.

How much does it cost to become an LPN in Connecticut?

Total costs range from $9,500-$20,000 including tuition ($8,000-$18,000), NCLEX exam fee ($200), books and supplies ($500-$1,000), background checks and immunizations ($300-$500), and licensing fees ($150-$200).

Do I need a college degree to become an LPN in Connecticut?

No, you do not need a college degree. LPN programs award a certificate or diploma, not an associate's degree. You only need a high school diploma or GED to enroll.

How to Become an LPN in Connecticut [2025 Guide]

Q: Can I work while going to LPN school in Connecticut?

Yes, many students work part-time during LPN school. Most Connecticut programs offer evening or weekend options. However, clinical rotations require daytime availability. Plan for 25-35 hours per week of class and study time.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Connecticut takes 12-18 months total and costs between $9,500-$20,000. Here's your complete step-by-step roadmap.

Quick Facts

Timeline: 12-18 months (program + licensing)
Total Cost: $9,500-$20,000
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Education Required: High school diploma or GED
Average CT LPN Salary: $52,000/year

5 Steps to Become an LPN in Connecticut

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

Before applying to LPN programs in Connecticut, you must meet these prerequisites:

Age: Minimum 18 years old
Education: High school diploma or GED
Background Check: Clean criminal record (varies by program)
Health Requirements: Current immunizations (TB test, Hepatitis B, MMR, Flu)
CPR Certification: BLS (Basic Life Support) for Healthcare Providers

💡 Mom Tip: Get your CPR certification before applying. Most programs require it, and having it ready speeds up your application process.

Step 2: Apply to an LPN Program in Connecticut

Connecticut has 15+ accredited LPN programs. Most require:

Completed application form
Official high school transcripts
Entrance exam (TEAS or HESI) with minimum score
Personal statement or essay
Letters of recommendation (1-2)
Application fee ($50-$100)

Application Deadlines:

Fall Start: March-April deadline
Spring Start: October-November deadline

✅ Application Tips: Apply to 2-3 programs to increase your chances. Community colleges often have lower tuition and higher acceptance rates than private schools.

Step 3: Complete Your LPN Program (12 Months)

Connecticut LPN programs typically take 12 months full-time or 18-24 months part-time. You'll complete:

Classroom Hours: 500-600 hours (anatomy, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals)
Clinical Hours: 400-600 hours (hands-on patient care at hospitals, nursing homes)
Lab Practice: 100-200 hours (IV skills, vital signs, medication administration)

Typical Weekly Schedule:

2-3 days classroom lectures (9 AM - 3 PM)
2 days clinical rotations (7 AM - 3 PM)
10-15 hours homework/study time

📚 Study Tip: Create study groups with classmates. Many moms find evening study sessions work best after kids are in bed.

Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam

After graduating, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed in Connecticut.

NCLEX-PN Details:

Cost: $200 exam fee + $120 CT application fee
Format: Computer-based, 85-150 questions, 5 hours max
Question Types: Multiple choice, select all that apply, fill-in-the-blank, hot spot
Passing Standard: Computer-adaptive scoring (no set passing score)
Test Centers: Pearson VUE locations throughout Connecticut

How to Register:

Apply through CT Department of Public Health
Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) via email (2-4 weeks)
Schedule exam at Pearson VUE (within 90 days of ATT)
Take exam at testing center
Receive unofficial results immediately; official results in 48 hours

📖 Study Resources: UWorld NCLEX prep ($129/month) is the gold standard. Many Connecticut LPN grads also recommend Saunders Comprehensive Review Book ($65).

Step 5: Apply for Connecticut LPN License

Once you pass the NCLEX-PN, the Connecticut Department of Public Health will mail your official LPN license in 2-3 weeks.

License Requirements:

NCLEX-PN passing score
Completed application ($120 fee)
Background check ($75)
Passport photo

License Renewal:

Frequency: Every year on your birth month
Cost: $90/year
Continuing Education: No mandatory CE hours for LPNs in Connecticut (but recommended)

Complete Timeline

Months 1-2: Research programs, take entrance exams, submit applications
Months 3-14: Complete LPN program (12 months full-time)
Month 15: Graduate, apply for NCLEX, study for exam
Month 16: Take NCLEX-PN, receive results
Month 17: Receive CT LPN license, start job search
Month 18: Start working as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Connecticut

Total Cost Breakdown

Expense	Cost Range
LPN Program Tuition	$8,000 - $18,000
Books & Supplies	$500 - $1,000
Uniforms & Equipment	$200 - $400
Background Check & Drug Screen	$100 - $200
Immunizations & TB Test	$100 - $300
CPR Certification	$50 - $100
NCLEX-PN Exam Fee	$200
CT License Application	$120
NCLEX Study Materials	$100 - $300
TOTAL COST	$9,370 - $20,620

💰 Financial Aid Options in Connecticut

Federal FAFSA: Pell Grants up to $7,395/year (many CT LPN students qualify)
CT Aid for Public College Students (CAPCS): $500-$5,250/year for low-income students
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many CT hospitals/nursing homes offer $3,000-$5,000/year
Payment Plans: Most schools offer monthly payment options with no interest
Scholarships: Connecticut League for Nursing, local hospital foundations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while going to LPN school in Connecticut?

Yes, but it's challenging. Most students work part-time (10-20 hours/week). Evening/weekend programs at Manchester Community College or Naugatuck Valley allow more flexibility. Plan for 25-35 hours of class/study time per week.

What if I fail the NCLEX-PN exam?

You can retake the NCLEX-PN after 45 days. You must pay the $200 exam fee again. Connecticut allows unlimited retakes. Most first-time pass rates in CT are 85-93%, so additional study time usually helps.

Can I transfer my Connecticut LPN license to another state?

Yes, through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). However, Connecticut is NOT an NLC state, so you must apply for endorsement in your new state. Process takes 4-8 weeks and costs $100-$300 depending on the state.

Do I need college-level classes before LPN school?

Not usually. Most Connecticut LPN programs only require a high school diploma. However, some programs (like Goodwin University) prefer or require prerequisite courses in Anatomy & Physiology or Math if your high school GPA was below 2.5.

What's the difference between LPN and RN in Connecticut?

LPNs complete 12-month certificate programs and earn $52,000/year on average in CT. RNs complete 2-year associate or 4-year bachelor's degrees and earn $78,000/year. Many Connecticut LPNs use LPN-to-RN bridge programs to advance their careers.

Ready to Start Your LPN Journey in Connecticut?

Compare accredited LPN programs in your area and find the best fit for your schedule and budget.

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