Asylum seeker wants to become an RN, asking advice

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

Published  

I'm a 21-year-old international student currently residing in Illinois and awaiting the outcome of my asylum application. Because of my status, I'm not eligible for FAFSA or federal student loans, but I do qualify for in-state tuition as an Illinois resident.

I've been researching different nursing pathways — especially CNA → LPN → ADN — but it's really difficult to figure out what's realistic financially and logistically in my situation.

Here's my dilemma:

I need to support myself fully (pay rent, food, etc.), so I can't study full-time unless I have a stable way to cover my living expenses.

I could take a break for 1–2 years to work, save money, and then go straight into ADN with prerequisites.

Or I could try to start with CNA or LPN while working part-time, then bridge to ADN later.

But I'm unsure what's more realistic.
I don't want to spend 5+ years just figuring it all out or constantly restarting.

So I'm reaching out to anyone here who has been in a similar situation or knows the real details of LPN and ADN programs in Illinois:

How much do LPN programs actually cost (realistically, including books, uniforms, fees)?

Can I realistically work and do LPN at the same time?

Are there any schools that offer flexible or night programs?

Is it really faster to do CNA → LPN → ADN than just waiting and doing ADN directly?

Any tips or resources for asylum seekers or undocumented students pursuing nursing?

I'd deeply appreciate any advice. I feel a bit lost, and I want to make a wise, sustainable choice.

Thank you so much 🙏

Share this post

+ Add A Comment
Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

You may be feeling a bit lost, but you also sound very knowledgable about different pathways to earning your RN.

How much do LPN programs actually cost (realistically, including books, uniforms, fees)?

  • Total costs typically range between $10,000 to $25,000 depending on the school. In-district fees are the lowest but you must establish in-district residency to qualify. Fees are often expressed in cost per unit ranging from $130.00 per unit (or credit) to $300.00 per unit. There's always going to be additional fees, for transcripts, registration, parking, technology fees, and more.
  • Ask about tuition waivers. You never know until you ask.
  • Books are expensive. Buy used books whenever you're able, for a significant savings.
  • Community colleges are the most affordable, and some have excellent LPN and ADN programs. Make sure they are accredited and have transfer agreements with 4 year schools so you can go on to get your Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN).

Can I realistically work and do LPN at the same time?

What's realistic is what you need to do in your situation, and it's relative.

You can work, and your job will need to accommodate your school schedule. If you work as a CNA, for example, your employer may be more accommodating towards your nursing program schedule.

You can also work during an ADN program, a BSN program, and an MSN program. Many do. I think it depends on if you're a good student, and how motivated you are. I was a single Mom of 3 small children, and worked part-time as an LVN throughout my pre-requisites and ADN program. You can make it work.

Are there any schools that offer flexible or night programs?

There are several, for example, Illinois Central College (ICC) ADN program. You can find those nearest you by searching for accredited flexible nursing programs in Illinois.

Look for other accredited nursing programs in Illinois that are recognized by ACEN or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), such as Waubonsee Community College, Oakton Community College, Joliet Junior College or Rush University (offers BSN, not ADN).

Is it really faster to do CNA → LPN → ADN than just waiting and doing ADN directly?

ADN directly is the fastest route, but LPN to ADN gets you in the workforce sooner if you need to. Working as a CNA might be a good option for a couple of reasons- the hours can be flexible to accommodate your school schedule, and you can be intentional about establishing relationships while you're a CNA that will help you land a job once you graduate.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Resources

PHDreamers Guidance for undocumented students

+ Add a Comment