Before you can start an LPN program in North Carolina, you need to clear a set of prerequisites that vary by school — but most NC community colleges require the same core: a passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, high school biology or anatomy, English, and math. Some require a CNA certification first. Knowing exactly what's required before you apply saves months of wasted time. North Carolina's 58 community colleges all charge $76/credit, so the cost isn't the barrier — preparation is.
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High School Diploma or GED — Required everywhere. No exceptions.
TEAS or HESI Entrance Exam — Most NC colleges require one. TEAS is more common. Minimum scores vary (typically 50–65% composite). Study resources available at ATI Testing.
Anatomy & Physiology — Some require completion before applying; others allow co-enrollment during the first semester. Check your target school.
English Composition — Required at most 4-year pathway programs. Some certificate-only programs waive this.
Math — Basic math or algebra. Usually satisfied by high school transcript.
BLS/CPR Certification — American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers. One-day class, ~$50.
Background Check + Drug Screen — Required for clinical placement. Felony convictions may disqualify.
Immunizations — Flu, TB test, Hepatitis B series, MMR, Varicella, Tdap. Start these early — Hep B series takes 6 months.
Some NC community colleges have lighter prerequisite loads — meaning you can apply sooner:
Raleigh
$76/credit (~$3,800–$5,700)
Largest CC in NC. TEAS required. Anatomy can be co-enrolled. Clinical access to WakeMed and Duke.
Charlotte
$76/credit (~$3,800–$5,700)
Charlotte's primary LPN pathway. Atrium Health and Novant Health clinical network. TEAS required.
Winston-Salem
$76/credit (~$3,800–$5,700)
Triad healthcare market. Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist clinicals. HESI accepted.
Pell Grant — Up to $7,395. At $76/credit, Pell covers full tuition with significant surplus.
Longleaf Commitment Grant — NC's last-dollar grant for first-time CC students. Covers remaining costs after Pell.
NC Education Lottery Scholarship — State need-based grant.
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