Entrance Exam

In the United States, entrance exams for nursing programs (LPN, RN, PN, and BSN) are standardized assessments used to evaluate academic readiness and predict success in rigorous healthcare curricula.

Differences between LPN, RN, PN, and BSN

The primary differences between LPN, RN, PN, and BSN center on whether the term refers to a professional license (LPN/RN) or an educational degree (BSN/PN).

The primary differences between LPN, RN, PN, and BSN.

1. Core Nursing Entrance Exams

• ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills): The most common requirement for competitive programs. As of 2026, students must take Version 7, which includes 170 questions (150 scored) across Reading, Math, Science, and English. It typically takes 3 to 4 hrs.

• HESI A2 (Admission Assessment): Often used by programs that prefer a customizable test. It covers similar academic areas but can also include personality and learning style assessments. It typically takes 2 to 4 hrs.

• NLN NEX (Nursing Entrance Exam): In 2025, the National League for Nursing officially replaced the long-standing PAX exam with the NEX. It features three 60-minute sections (Verbal, Math, Science) and is now the preferred standard for schools using NLN assessments. 

2. Other Notable Exams

• Kaplan Nursing Admission Test: A 3-hour exam consisting of 91 questions focused on reading, writing, math, science, and critical thinking.

• PSB Exams: Specialized aptitude tests for Practical Nursing (PN) or Registered Nursing (RN) that include a "vocational adjustment index" to assess behavioral characteristics. 

3. Comparison of RN Pathways (ADN vs. BSN)

You can become an RN through two main educational routes: 

• ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing): Usually a 2-year program at a community college. It is the fastest route to becoming an RN.

• BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing): A 4-year degree that includes additional training in leadership, research, and public health. 

3. The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

Beyond LPN and RN, there is a third major category of nursing licensure: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). These roles require a Master's (MSN) or Doctorate (DNP) degree. 

The four recognized APRN roles are:

• Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP/NP): Provides primary and specialty care; can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications in most states.

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Specializes in administering anesthesia and managing pain during surgical procedures.

• Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): Focuses on reproductive health, prenatal care, and childbirth.

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Expert clinicians who often serve as consultants or educators within a specific hospital department (e.g., oncology or critical care). 

4. Other Healthcare Support Roles (Not Nursing Licenses)

While often working alongside nurses, these roles are certifications rather than professional nursing licenses (allied-health assistants): 

• CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant): Provides basic bedside care (bathing, feeding) after 4–12 weeks of training.

• CMA (Certified Medical Assistant): Primarily works in outpatient clinics performing both clinical and administrative tasks.