The Best LPN Programs Online for 2026

Did you know that you can become a nurse in a year or even less? A licensed practical nurse (LPN) can go from the first day of class to the first day on the job in about 12 months with an online LPN program.

LPNs perform entry-level patient care tasks and typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or other healthcare professional. If you’re ready to enter the world of healthcare, online LPN programs can give you the flexibility to take classes when it’s convenient. Real-world clinical experiences will occur in person, but most of the coursework occurs online.

Many accredited nursing programs offer online LPN programs. Our guide introduces the best programs for 2026, with resources on choosing a program, common required application materials, and other important factors to consider.

With so many online LPN programs to choose from, you should carefully research different schools to find the right fit for your personal needs and career goals.

Before enrolling in an LPN program, explore these key signs of academic quality.

Accredited nursing programs not only meet the highest standards for academic quality but have been formally recognized for doing so. Independent organizations monitor, review, and approve (or reject) nursing education programs to grant accreditation. These accrediting bodies assess the quality of the program and its ability to successfully prepare students for the NCLEX-PN and nursing practice.

The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits LPN programs and provides a database of accredited LPN programs. Your state board of nursing grants licenses to LPNs.

Choosing accredited nursing schools has both immediate and longer-term benefits. Completing an accredited training program is for:

Applying to online programs is similar to a traditional application process. While LPN programs often require the same admission requirements, some may include application materials unique to that program.

In all cases, ensure you understand your program’s specific requirements and reach out when you have questions.

Common admission materials include:

You may also need to complete a background check and provide proof of immunizations.

The cost of an online LPN program depends on several factors. While taking LPN classes online rather than on campus may save money on housing and transportation costs, you’ll still need to budget for tuition, distance learning fees, and books.

Public schools may offer more affordable tuition than private schools. However, some programs charge higher tuition rates for out-of-state students. If you plan on working while taking online LPN courses, consider if the program offers enough flexibility to set your own schedule.

You can apply for financial aid opportunities for nursing students to help offset the cost of a nursing education. Begin your search by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to see if you qualify for federal loans or grants.

In addition to government-sponsored programs, you may consider private loans or nursing scholarships and grants from private foundations, professional nursing associations, and individual schools.

Some scholarships provide funding for specific nursing specialties. Scholarships for minorities are typically based on race, ethnicity, or gender. If you are working, check whether your employer participates in a tuition reimbursement plan.

LPNs, also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in California and Texas, perform many duties, including wound care, assessing vital signs, taking patient histories, and documenting patient information. Depending on the state, they can also administer tests, give medications, and start and monitor IVs.

LPNs typically have less autonomy than RNs. In most clinical situations, LPNs work under RN supervision. Both LPNs and RNs can supervise certified nursing assistants (CNA), who perform day-to-day patient care tasks, such as feeding, bathing, dressing, and toileting. LPNs are frequently employed by skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers, memory care facilities, and home health agencies.

An LPN program can serve as a fast track into the nursing field, since most programs can be completed in as little as 12 months.

An online LPN program offers the flexibility to study on your own schedule. However, you must attend in-person clinical assignments and skills training labs.

Once you’re working and building experience as an LPN, you can consider transitioning from to increase your earning power and clinical responsibilities. Bridge programs allow LPNs to build on their prior education and experience. Since online LPN-to-RN and programs offer flexibility and part-time options, LPNs seeking to become RNs can complete their education while working as an LPN.

LPNs can earn a promising salary after a comparatively short course of study. According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2024, LPNs and LVNs earned a median annual salary of $62,340.

The highest-paying states for LPNs by average salary are:

By comparison, the BLS reports that RNs, who undertake a longer and more intensive education, earn a median annual salary of $93,600. Therefore, advancing from LPN to RN could significantly increase your earning power.