How to Become an RN in Arkansas (A Complete 2023 Guide)

So you’re planning on becoming an RN in Arkansas?

AWESOME!

They certainly need the extra hand. 

However, you first need to go through all the steps and requirements to get your RN license. 

This is where we come in. 

In this article, we’re going to give you a complete guide on how to become an RN in Arkansas. We won’t skip anything, so you know EXACTLY what to do. 

Are you ready?

Let’s begin!

How to Become an RN in Arkansas – The 3 Major Steps

You only need to complete 3 major steps to become an RN in Arkansas. These are:

1. Complete an approved program 
2. Apply for an RN license 
3. Take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam

Of course, each major step will have its own steps to complete. Don’t worry – we’ll look into that right now. 

Step #1: Complete an Approved Program

As with any nursing career, you need to start with training. 

For aspiring RNs in Arkansas, this means enrolling in one of two programs:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

ADN vs. BSN: Which Should You Get? 

The ADN program only takes 2 years to complete. And, it also has fewer requirements to apply. Some program providers even only ask for a high school diploma or a GPA/GED with a minimum 2.0 score. 

On the other hand, BSN programs take 4 years to complete. Plus, you need a high school diploma (with a high GPA), an SAT exam, and a letter of recommendation. 

Not to mention, BSN programs are significantly more expensive than ADN ones. 

So why choose BSN, right?

The simple answer is that BSN trains you for medical practice, public health management, performing basic health procedures, and maintaining records. ADN only trains you in performing the basic health procedures and record maintenance. 

This means that, with a BSN degree, you will have better and more job opportunities with higher salaries.

So which one should you get?

That will depend on the career path you want as an RN. 

Step #2: Apply for an RN License

2 months before you graduate from your program, you should already apply for your RN license.

Here are the steps to accomplish that:

1. Go to the Arkansas Nurse Portal:
   • Create an account (if you don’t have one)
   • Provide proof of Arkansas residency and Social Security Number
   • Pay the $100 license fee
   • Choose if you want a temporary permit for an additional fee (this will allow you to practice while waiting to take your NCLEX-RN exam)
   • Submit your application

2. Register with Pearson Vue (the official NCLEX-RN provider in Arkansas):
   • Provide all the necessary information
   • Pay the exam fee of $200

3. Submit an application for a state and federal background check through the Criminal Background Check System. 

4. Follow the Criminal Background Check Instructions to complete the process. 

5. Once you finish your program, the program director will submit your Affidavit of Graduation.

Once all of these are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT).

Step #3: Take and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

With your ATT, you can now schedule your NCLEX-RN exam with Pearson Vue.

On your scheduled date, do the following:

• Arrive 30 minutes early. Your appointment will be canceled if you are late. 
• Provide proof of identity and your biometrics – signature, palm vein scan, photo
• Receive your exam materials – since the exam is conducted on a computer, you will only receive an on-screen calculator and a note board.
• Take the NCLEX-RN exam – you have up to 5 hours to complete everything. You are also allowed to take 2 breaks. 
• Finish the NCLEX-RN exam by completing the short survey
• Raise your hand to announce that you are finished

From there, you have to wait at least 6 weeks for your NCLEX-RN results to be sent to you by the Arkansas Board. 

If you pass, your RN license will be issued. You can verify this at Nursys.com. You can also print the report since the ASBN doesn’t send paper licenses. 

And there you have it — you are now officially an RN in Arkansas!

Frequently Asked Questions About RNs in Arkansas

Let’s go over a few of the most frequently asked questions about RNs in Arkansas. 

How long does it take to become an RN in Arkansas?

That depends on the type of educational program you choose. If you’re taking an ADN, it’ll take you around 2 years to complete your studies. On the other hand, if you take the BSN, it’ll take 4 years to complete. 

Besides that, it might also take some time to fully approve all your application documents. 

How much does it cost to become an RN in Arkansas?

Here is a breakdown of all the expenses to become an RN in Arkansas:

• RN program tuition fee – anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 (for ADN) and $40,000 to $120,000 (for BSN)
• License application fee – $100
• Pearson Vue registration fee – $200
• Criminal background check fee – $36.25

What is the fastest way to become an RN in Arkansas?

The fastest way to become an RN in Arkansas is to take the ADN program since you only need to study for 2 years. You are also allowed to apply for your RN license within 2 months before you graduate. 

How much does an RN make per hour in Arkansas?

On average, RNs in Arkansas earn $30 per hour. That totals around $66,000 a year. If you think that becoming an RN needs too much investment, then just think about how much you can earn afterward. 

Helpful Resources for Arkansas RNs

• Arkansas Board of Nursing Website (Official)
• Information for RN Applicants (Official)
• Arkansas RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
• Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Arkansas BON
• Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Arkansas BON

List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Arkansas

Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Arkansas BON:

Visit the Arkansas BON website for updates.

List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Arkansas

Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Arkansas BON:

Visit the Arkansas BON website for updates.

Conclusion

And that was how to become an RN in Arkansas. 

As we saw, there are only 3 major steps. However, each step will take some time — so make sure you walk through them carefully. 

If you follow the guidelines here, then you’ll be well on your way to becoming an RN in Arkansas. 

Now that you know all this, you can easily get started.

Good luck!