CNA vs NCLEX-RN
CNA is the fastest entry into healthcare with 4-12 weeks training. NCLEX-RN requires a 2-4 year nursing degree but offers full nursing scope of practice, higher salary, and career advancement opportunities. Many RNs start as CNAs to gain experience.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CNA | NCLEX-RN |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Certified Nursing Assistant | National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses |
| Exam Cost | $100-$150 | $200 |
| Passing Score | 70-80% | Pass/Fail (Logit scoring) |
| Questions | 60-100 (varies by state) | 85-150 (adaptive) |
| Time Limit | 2-3 hours | 5 hours max |
| Study Time | 75-150 hours (training) | 200-400 hours |
| Difficulty | Entry-level | Challenging |
| Prerequisites | CNA training program (4-12 weeks) | BSN or ADN nursing degree (2-4 years) |
| Exam Body | State Nursing Board | NCSBN |
Key Differences
- 1CNA: 4-12 weeks training; RN: 2-4 year nursing degree
- 2CNA provides basic care; RN has full nursing scope of practice
- 3CNA avg salary $30-35K; RN avg salary $70-90K
- 4CNA works under nurse supervision; RN supervises CNAs and LPNs
- 5CNA cannot give medications; RN administers all medications
- 6CNA is state certification; RN is professional license
- 7RN can advance to NP, CRNA; CNA advancement requires additional education
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
CNA
- Provide basic patient care under supervision
- Take vital signs and document observations
- Assist with activities of daily living
- Work in nursing homes, hospitals, home care
- Gateway to nursing career
NCLEX-RN
- Full scope of nursing practice
- Administer all medications including IV push
- Create and modify care plans
- Supervise LPNs and CNAs
- Work in any healthcare setting
- Advance to NP, CRNA, leadership roles
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the CNA if you...
- →High school graduates interested in healthcare
- →Those exploring nursing careers
- →Quick entry into patient care work
- →Future nursing students gaining experience
Take the NCLEX-RN if you...
- →Those committed to nursing career
- →Those wanting full practice authority
- →Future nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists
- →Those seeking highest nursing salary
Which Should You Take First?
Start with CNA if you want quick entry into healthcare, aren't ready for nursing school, or want to test if nursing is right for you. CNA experience is valuable when applying to nursing programs and helps you understand patient care before committing to 2-4 years of nursing education.
Frequently Asked Questions
QDo nursing schools prefer applicants with CNA experience?
Yes! CNA experience demonstrates commitment to healthcare, provides hands-on patient care skills, and shows you understand what nursing involves. Many competitive nursing programs view CNA experience favorably in admissions.
QHow much more does an RN make than a CNA?
RNs earn approximately 2-3x more than CNAs. National averages: CNA $30,000-$35,000; RN $70,000-$90,000+. This reflects the significant additional education, scope of practice, and responsibility.
QCan I work as a CNA while in nursing school?
Yes, and many nursing students do. Working as a CNA provides income, maintains patient care skills, offers flexible scheduling, and reinforces classroom learning. Some hospitals even offer tuition assistance for CNAs pursuing nursing degrees.
QIs CNA certification required for nursing school?
No, CNA is not required for nursing school admission. However, some nursing programs offer CNA certification as part of their curriculum, typically in the first semester. Having CNA experience before starting is beneficial but not mandatory.
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