What are the three pathways commonly cited to qualify for the NCLEX to become an RN?

What are the three pathways commonly cited to qualify for the NCLEX to become an RN?

• A. 5-Year combined RN-BSN programs
• B. 4-Year BSN or 2-Year ADN only
• C. Hospital-based diploma program only
• D. 4-Year BSN, 2-Year ADN, 3-Year hospital program

Answer: (D)

Three pathways commonly cited to qualify for the NCLEX-RN are earning a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing, earning a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing, or completing a hospital-based diploma program (typically 2–3 years). These routes are all recognized as approved nursing education programs that prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue RN licensure. The option that lists all three pathways correctly reflects the standard, widely acknowledged routes to eligibility. Other options miss one or more of these recognized paths—for example, omitting the hospital diploma or restricting to BSN/ADN only—so they don’t fully capture the commonly cited ways to qualify.