👨‍⚕️

[Infographic: RN vs LPN vs NP — Scope, Salary, Education Timeline]

The Three Core Nursing Licence Levels

LicenceEducationNCLEX ExamAvg US SalaryScope
LPN/LVN1-year diplomaNCLEX-PN~$54,000/yrBasic care under RN supervision
RNADN or BSN (2–4 yrs)NCLEX-RN~$81,000/yrFull assessment & care planning
NP (APRN)Master's MSNANCC/AANP board~$120,000/yrDiagnose, prescribe, treat

For Kenyan Nurses: Almost Always the NCLEX-RN

If you hold a Kenyan nursing diploma or BSN, the NCLEX-RN is your most likely pathway. Most Kenyan nursing programmes meet RN-level education standards. Verify your eligibility with the specific US state Board of Nursing where you plan to work.

🇰🇪 Kenya-to-US Pathway

Typical route: credential evaluation (CGFNS) → state BON application → NCLEX-RN → ATT → test → licence. English Companion prepares you for the NCLEX step.

LPN-to-RN Bridge: A Growing Path

Some nurses start as LPNs and bridge to RN. If you are on this path, you may need both the NCLEX-PN and later the NCLEX-RN. See our NCLEX-PN Study Plan for the PN-specific track.

Which Exam Is Harder?

The NCLEX-RN tests at a higher cognitive level than the NCLEX-PN. Both now use the NGN format with clinical judgment questions. If you are targeting the RN licence, our course is built specifically for NCLEX-RN clinical reasoning.

FAQs: RN vs LPN

Can a Kenyan diploma nurse take the NCLEX-RN? ⌄
Yes, most Kenyan nursing diplomas and BSN degrees qualify for NCLEX-RN eligibility after credential evaluation. Contact your target state BON to confirm.
Is there a big salary difference between RN and LPN in the US? ⌄
Yes. RNs typically earn $25,000–$35,000 more per year than LPNs. The NCLEX-RN investment pays off quickly.
How long does it take to bridge from LPN to RN? ⌄
LPN-to-RN bridge programmes typically take 12–24 months. After completing the programme, you sit the NCLEX-RN.