Curious about how you learn this way?

[MJPN2012]

I'm really wanting to go for Excelsior (LPN to ADN) since I noticed that Kentucky BON lists it as an example of a nursing program on their webiste. That makes it seem legit to me..

How do you learn this way though? Correct me if I'm wrong. But my understanding is that each course is basically tested out of via examination. Do you learn via self-study when you are studying for the exams, or are there assignments or something? Either way, I really feel like this is a great option.

Two more questions: 1) I have all gen ed requirments done, so about how long should it take me to get through the nursing exams?? 2) I've seen a place saying that you don't get federal aid and on EC's website, it says you do. So should I expect to pay a lot out of pocket, when typical schools are covered by financial aid for me?

I know I have several questions, but I don't know where else to find answers. I feel like I have reviewed EC's website pretty well. Thanks in advance, guys!!

[TashaLPN2006RN2012, ASN, RN]

I lived in KY when I went through EC, and drove 6.5hrs to Atlanta the day before I took my CPNE and stayed at a nearby hotel. It was nice and I had my own transportation which really calmed me down as I like having something familiar with me! =) I tested at Grady, and passed the first time. It is a doable program if you want it bad enough and are willing to work hard to ge through it. I received a couple scholarships and had tuition reimbursement from my job at the time. I felt very prepared for the NCLEX by the time I was done taking EC's exams for my AAS in Nursing. took my nclex 25 days after my degree was conferred and passed first time as well then dived right back in at EC for their BSN, which I will complete this December. I truly love EC's format and school, they have been great for me. You get what you put into the program in my opinion. Now I'm applying to MSN schools for NP specialty, wouldn't be here had I not gone through EC! =) Good luck!

[MJPN2012]

Wow! Awesome for you Tasha. I am going to keep the option open. I didn't consider that a drive like that would be an option. But in my panic to find online schools, I did find another legitimate online program here in KY where you just have to make a couple of trips to Louisville. If that doesn't pan out, I'll do some serious thinking on Excelsior again. It sounds like you had a great experience. That's really encouraging :)