Nursing continues to be one of the most in-demand careers in healthcare. With flexible work settings, steady job growth, and the ability to make a direct impact on people’s lives, it’s no surprise that more people are exploring how to become a registered nurse (RN).
Whether you’re graduating from high school, changing careers, or returning to school after time away, nursing offers different ways to get started. The journey to becoming an RN involves education, clinical experience, passing a licensing exam, and meeting state requirements.
If you’re serious about entering the nursing field, it helps to understand the steps involved. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel more manageable and help you choose the path that fits your background and goals.
Step 1: Choose the Right Nursing Education Path
Before you can become a registered nurse, you’ll need to complete a nursing education program. There are two common entry-level options: the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN).
An ADN is typically offered through community colleges and usually takes about two years to complete. It’s a solid option for students who want to enter the field quickly. On the other hand, an ABSN is designed for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs offer a faster route to a nursing career—often in just 12 to 18 months—by building on existing education.
When weighing the ABSN vs ADN routes, it helps to consider your education history, learning pace, and long-term career plans. If you’re switching careers and already have a bachelor’s degree, the ABSN might be a better fit. If you’re starting from scratch or prefer a community college setting, the ADN could be a more practical choice.
Each option leads to RN licensure, but the educational experience and future opportunities may vary. After selecting the path that aligns with your situation, the next step is applying to nursing school.
Step 2: Apply and Enroll in a Nursing Program
Once you’ve picked a nursing path, the next move is applying to schools. Nursing programs can be competitive, so it’s helpful to prepare ahead of time. Most schools require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with transcripts from previous education. Some programs also ask applicants to take entrance exams like the TEAS.
You may also need to complete prerequisites such as anatomy, biology, or chemistry. These courses build a foundation for your nursing studies. Some schools want letters of recommendation or a personal statement that explains why you want to become a nurse.
Financial aid is another important part of this step. There are grants, scholarships, and loan options available to nursing students. Some programs also partner with healthcare facilities to offer tuition assistance in exchange for work commitments after graduation.
Once accepted, you’ll begin coursework and start preparing for hands-on training in a clinical setting.
Step 3: Complete Your Clinical Training
After starting your nursing program, you’ll begin clinical training. This is one of the most important parts of becoming a nurse. It gives you the chance to apply what you learn in class to real-world settings.
During clinicals, you’ll work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare environments under the supervision of instructors and licensed nurses. You’ll learn how to take vital signs, give medications, assist with patient care, and respond to common health issues.
Clinicals also help you understand different nursing specialties. You may rotate through areas like pediatrics, mental health, medical-surgical units, and long-term care. These rotations give you a broader view of the field and can help you decide where you might want to work after graduation.
Each nursing program has its own schedule for clinical hours, but most programs spread them out across semesters. The experience builds confidence and helps you get used to the pace and challenges of nursing.
Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After you complete your coursework and clinicals, the next step is passing the NCLEX-RN. This is the national exam that every RN must pass to get licensed.
The test measures your ability to think critically and apply nursing knowledge. Topics include patient care, safety, health promotion, and risk reduction. The exam format uses adaptive testing, which means the questions adjust to how you respond. You’ll need to be ready for a variety of question types and content areas.
Most nursing programs offer guidance on preparing for the NCLEX. Many students use practice tests, review books, or online prep tools. Taking the time to review regularly can help you feel more prepared on exam day.
After passing the test, you’ll be eligible to apply for a nursing license in your state.
Step 5: Apply for State Licensure and Begin Your Career
After passing the NCLEX-RN, the next step is to apply for your nursing license through your state’s board of nursing. This step often involves submitting your academic records, completing a background check, and providing fingerprints for verification.
Each state has its own process and timeline, so it’s important to check the requirements early. Some states issue temporary licenses while you wait for full approval.
When your license is approved, you can officially start working as a registered nurse. New nurses often begin in hospitals, but many also find jobs in clinics, home health, long-term care, or public health settings. Your clinical training and personal interests can help guide your job search.
Many nurses continue to grow after they start working. Some go back to school for advanced practice, others earn certifications in specialties like critical care, pediatrics, or oncology. Nursing offers a lot of room to move forward, no matter where you start.
Becoming a registered nurse takes time, focus, and commitment. From picking the right program to passing the NCLEX, each step builds the skills needed to succeed in this field.
If you’re ready to take that first step, nursing offers a clear path to a meaningful and steady career. With every stage, you’re building a foundation to care for others and grow your impact in healthcare.
