The Most Common Pathway to Becoming a Registered Nurse

Nursing is one of the most rewarding and in-demand careers in healthcare. Registered Nurses (RNs) play a vital role in patient care, working closely with doctors, families, and healthcare teams to provide treatment, education, and emotional support. If you’re considering a nursing career, you might be wondering: what is the most common pathway to becoming a registered nurse?

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common route into the profession, alternative options, and practical tips for choosing the right path for your nursing journey.

Why Understanding the Pathway Matters

Choosing how to become a registered nurse isn’t just about meeting requirements—it’s about aligning your education, lifestyle, and career goals. While there are several ways to earn your RN license, most aspiring nurses in the U.S. follow a similar route, which balances quality training with accessibility and career growth opportunities.

Most candidates first opt for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or choose a tougher route: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited school. They then complete the supervised clinical rotations and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to get their license. The ADN is faster and costs less so many opt for this route. Some choose BSN to ensure that they have multiple roles to choose from and then get regular hikes in their career to move up the ladder. 

The Most Common Pathway to Becoming a Registered Nurse

The most common pathway to becoming a registered nurse is completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), followed by passing the NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses).

Step 1: Education (ADN or BSN)

Most nurses start by enrolling in either a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing program or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The ADN is faster and more affordable, making it popular among students who want to enter the workforce quickly. The BSN, however, is increasingly becoming the preferred standard for employers because it provides more in-depth training and opens doors to leadership or specialized roles.

Step 2: Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN)

Once the degree is complete, the next step is passing the NCLEX-RN. This exam is designed to test knowledge, critical thinking, and practical decision-making skills required for safe nursing practice. Passing the NCLEX is mandatory to earn RN licensure in every U.S. state.

Step 3: State Licensure

After passing the NCLEX, graduates apply for state licensure through their nursing board. This process may include background checks and additional paperwork, depending on the state.

Many start with an ADN and then choose BSN midway through an RN-to-BSN program while working. If one has a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, it makes sense to opt for an accelerated BSN. LPN/LVN-to-RN bridges also exist, making it convenient to make the switch. Compare schools, review accreditation, and clinical placement support, along with your own NCLEX pass rates to determine your future. Also be apprised of the general cost, schedules, transfer credit policies, state board requirements, etc. Be aware of the prerequisites, background check procedures, and immunizations required to make the cut.

Alternative Pathways to RN Licensure

Although the ADN-to-NCLEX route is the most common pathway, there are other options:

• Diploma Programs: These hospital-based programs were once very common but are now less popular. They provide hands-on training but often limit career advancement compared to ADN or BSN degrees.

• Direct-Entry Master’s Programs: Some students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees choose accelerated programs that award both RN licensure and a Master’s in Nursing, allowing quicker advancement.

• Bridge Programs: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or paramedics can enter LPN-to-RN or Paramedic-to-RN bridge programs, streamlining the process based on prior experience.

ADN vs. BSN: Which Path Should You Choose?

While the ADN is a shorter route into nursing, the BSN is becoming the industry preference. Many hospitals now require or strongly encourage nurses to pursue a BSN for Magnet status, leadership positions, or specialized units. In fact, research has shown that BSN-prepared nurses are linked to better patient outcomes.

That said, the ADN still provides a solid foundation and allows graduates to begin working quickly. Many nurses later complete RN-to-BSN bridge programs while employed, combining real-world experience with higher education.

Final Thoughts

The most common pathway to becoming a registered nurse involves completing an ADN or BSN program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtaining state licensure. While ADN remains a practical entry point, the BSN is quickly becoming the preferred standard for career growth and opportunities.

Whichever path you choose, nursing offers a stable, fulfilling career with countless ways to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. By understanding your options and aligning them with your personal and professional goals, you can confidently take the first step toward becoming a registered nurse.

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