Central Lakes College Nursing: Programs, NCLEX & Admissions (2026)
Central Lakes College (CLC), a Minnesota State community and technical college, runs a Practical Nursing diploma on the Staples campus and Nursing Associate of Science (A.S.) pathways for RN licensure on the Brainerd campus—including Traditional and Advanced Standing (LPN to RN) tracks. This guide cites Minnesota Board of Nursing NCLEX tables, CLC’s HSRT admissions rules, and published per-credit tuition.
Contents
Quick Facts
Key Takeaway
CLC splits nursing by campus: Practical Nursing runs entirely in Staples, while both Traditional and Advanced Standing RN tracks sit on the Brainerd campus. Admissions use the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT)—not TEAS—with published score thresholds and a 2.75 GPA bar for progression and Advanced Standing consideration.
Overview & Why Students Choose Central Lakes College
Serving the Brainerd Lakes and Staples regions, Central Lakes College is a public two-year college in the Minnesota State system. Nursing is split by site: pre-licensure RN education centers on the Brainerd campus, while the Practical Nursing diploma runs entirely at Staples—a layout that helps students choose a location that matches housing and commute reality.
CLC emphasizes evidence-based practice, client-centered care, and preparation for NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN, with regional clinical experiences. Published admissions steps rely on the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) rather than TEAS.
According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing education statistical data (2022–2025 tables), CLC’s associate-degree (ADN) first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate was 87.91% in 2025 (91 first-time candidates), and the practical nursing first-time NCLEX-PN rate was 83.33% in 2025 (30 first-time candidates). Confirm newer cohorts with the Board and CLC.
Reasons students choose CLC
Two campuses, clear pathways
Brainerd hosts Traditional and Advanced Standing Nursing A.S. tracks; Staples hosts the one-year Practical Nursing diploma—so LPN and RN applicants know where they will train.
LPN→RN Advanced Standing
Licensed LPNs can pursue an Advanced Standing Nursing A.S. with a Role Transition course and an accelerated timeline (three semesters including prerequisites, per CLC)—subject to GPA and seat availability.
Board-reported NCLEX context
Minnesota’s published tables let you compare CLC’s first-time pass rates to statewide associate and practical nursing aggregates from the same official report—useful for benchmarking without relying on third-party estimates.
Minnesota State tuition structure
CLC publishes per-credit tuition plus mandatory fees; many neighboring states qualify for reciprocity rates listed on the tuition page—confirm your category before budgeting.
Nursing Programs Offered
The program list below is drawn from CLC’s Admissions Information for CLC Nursing Programs and the main Nursing page. CLC awards an Associate of Science (A.S.) for RN pathways; we use ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) in this guide as the common label for that pre-licensure RN degree.
Pre-licensure
Practical Nursing diploma (LPN)
37 credits, approximately one year, offered entirely on the Staples campus with one start per year in the Fall. Prepares graduates for NCLEX-PN. Admissions require the HSRT at 65% or better (per CLC’s nursing admissions page).
Nursing A.S. — Traditional (RN)
64 credits, approximately two years, on the Brainerd campus with Fall and Spring starts. Prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN. Requires HSRT at 70% or better. Applicants must complete nursing assistant training or hold active Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry status, meet placement into ENGL 1410 and CHEM 1407, and maintain progression GPA rules (see Admissions).
Nursing A.S. — Advanced Standing (LPN to RN)
Designed for current Minnesota-licensed LPNs: 64 credits including prerequisites, typically three semesters on Brainerd, with Fall and Spring starts. Includes a Role Transition course. Selection uses GPA (minimum 2.75 on completed generals for initial consideration), documentation of LPN license, and priority for documented LPN experience when seats are limited (per CLC).
Program-level specialized accreditation (for example ACEN) should be confirmed on CLC’s nursing materials and with the accreditor. Institutional accreditation is through the Higher Learning Commission (see CLC’s HLC page).
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing table, Number and First-time Success Rate of NCLEX-RN Candidates Educated in Minnesota Associate Degree Nursing Programs 2022-2025, the most recent first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate for Central Lakes College was 87.91% in 2025 (91 first-time candidates). For the same reporting year, all Minnesota associate-degree nursing programs combined showed a 81.74% first-time pass rate among 1,714 candidates in that table—benchmarking should use the Board’s methodology and cohort definitions.
Historical values from the same Board table include 97.10% (2024, 69 candidates), 89.66% (2023, 87 candidates), and 73.49% (2022, 83 candidates)—outcomes vary by cohort.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN first-time pass (2025) | 87.91% (91 first-time testers, Minnesota-educated ADN cohort) |
| Source | Minnesota Board of Nursing — NCLEX-RN statistical table (PDF) · Education statistical data |
NCLEX-PN (Practical Nursing)
According to the Board’s NCLEX-PN table for Minnesota practical nursing programs (2022–2025), CLC’s first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate was 83.33% in 2025 (30 first-time candidates). The all-Minnesota PN aggregate first-time pass rate in that table was 86.12% (778 candidates) in 2025.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN first-time pass (2025) | 83.33% (30 first-time testers) |
| Source | Minnesota Board of Nursing — NCLEX-PN statistical table (PDF) |
NCLEX outcomes change by cohort and how candidates are counted in Board tables. Always confirm the latest rates with the Minnesota Board of Nursing and CLC.
International Students & Internationally Educated Nurses
CLC publishes international student tuition and notes health insurance requirements on its Tuition and Fees page. Use the checklist below as orientation only—verify every item with CLC and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
- English-language proficiency: Minimum scores and approved tests for admission (check CLC’s international / ELL enrollment steps).
- Transcript / credential evaluation: How CLC evaluates non–Minnesota State transcripts for nursing prerequisites (Advanced Standing applicants must have official transcripts on file per CLC).
- Minnesota Board of Nursing: For RN or LPN licensure by examination or endorsement, confirm eligibility, background study, and documentation with the Board.
- Immigration & visa: Whether Practical Nursing or ADN clinical sequences meet requirements for your visa type; clinical courses often have additional compliance rules.
This information is guidance, not legal advice. Policies change—verify with CLC’s admissions and records offices and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
Admissions: A Realistic Look
CLC nursing programs are selective, limited-enrollment programs: you must first be admitted to the college, then submit the program-specific application each cycle, and meet HSRT thresholds. Traditional RN applicants also need nursing assistant training or active registry status and appropriate course placement before starting (see CLC’s Traditional Nursing progression page).
Application timeline & testing
| Program | Testing / notes |
|---|---|
| Practical Nursing (Staples) | HSRT score of 65% or better; Fall start (annual). Use the current Office form linked from CLC nursing admissions. |
| Traditional Nursing A.S. (Brainerd) | HSRT 70% or better; Fall and Spring starts. For Fall 2026 consideration, CLC states the HSRT must be taken by April 1 (confirm future years on the live site). |
| Advanced Standing (LPN→RN) | Minimum 2.75 GPA on completed general education courses; five of eight required general courses for initial consideration; valid Minnesota LPN license; program-specific application. |
Admissions snapshot
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Acceptance rate (nursing) | Not publicly disclosed |
| GPA (Traditional progression) | Cumulative 2.75 or better on general education courses; NURS courses require B− or better (per CLC Traditional progression page). |
| TEAS | Not used for CLC’s published nursing steps—CLC uses HSRT with the thresholds above. |
| Nursing assistant | MDH-approved NA course within five years or active Minnesota Registry—NSGA 1110 at CLC satisfies the course option. |
Honest tip: Build a calendar that includes HSRT registration, program application windows, and prerequisite completion (for example Anatomy & Physiology sequence) so you are not squeezed on timeline before your desired start.
Tuition & Cost of Attendance
CLC publishes tuition per credit hour and mandatory fees on its Tuition and Fees page. The figures below are taken from that page as reviewed for this guide; always confirm the live rate before registering.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Resident tuition | $188.02 per credit hour |
| Web-based / hybrid add-on | $30.00 additional per credit hour for fully online and hybrid courses |
| Mandatory fees (examples) | Technology $11.63; Athletics $4.54; Health Services $2.00; Student Activity $5.91; Parking/Facility $2.50 per credit (parking/facility not charged for web-based courses); MSCSA $0.61 per credit; $10.00 transcript/graduation fee per semester (per CLC page) |
| Non-resident / reciprocity | CLC states in-state tuition applies broadly and lists MSEP, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Other reciprocity categories at the same per-credit rate on its page—confirm your category with the Business Office. |
| Source | Central Lakes College — Tuition and Fees · Tuition and Fees Chart (PDF) |
For total cost of attendance (housing, books, supplies), see CLC’s Financial Aid Cost of Attendance and the Net Price Calculator.
Student Outcomes & Career Prospects
Board-reported NCLEX outcomes are summarized in the NCLEX section. For employment and salary context, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses occupational outlook data. CLC’s nursing page cites a median annual wage figure sourced to CareerOneStop (federal data)—treat any single salary number as a broad labor-market reference, not a graduate guarantee.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN first-time pass | 87.91% (2025, MN BON ADN table, 91 testers) |
| NCLEX-PN first-time pass | 83.33% (2025, MN BON PN table, 30 testers) |
| Job placement rate | Not publicly disclosed on the CLC nursing pages reviewed for this guide—ask CLC career services for current graduate surveys. |
Is Central Lakes College the Right Fit for You?
CLC fits students who want a Minnesota State price point, a defined HSRT admissions hurdle, and a clear campus assignment (Brainerd vs Staples). It may be less ideal if you need a BSN at the same institution—CLC’s pre-licensure offerings are diploma/A.S.-level with RN or LPN licensure outcomes.
✓ Good fit for students who—
- Want an ADN or LPN diploma in central Minnesota with board-reported NCLEX data available.
- Prefer smaller-community clinical experiences and can commit to the Brainerd or Staples location for their program.
- Are comfortable with HSRT cut scores and prerequisite science coursework.
✗ May not be ideal for students who—
- Need a single campus for both PN and ADN—those programs are on different CLC campuses.
- Expect a TEAS-based process—CLC’s published nursing admissions center on HSRT.
- Require a guaranteed clinical site list in advance—sites vary by cohort; confirm with the program.
Local Healthcare Ecosystem
The Brainerd Lakes area anchors care for a large seasonal and year-round population. CLC states its nursing program is well-connected regionally with clinical practice in diverse settings—exact facilities rotate by semester. Major regional providers students commonly encounter include Essentia Health (including St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Brainerd), Sanford Health facilities serving the lakes region, and community clinics and long-term care sites across Crow Wing County and neighboring counties. The Staples campus sits near Lakewood Health System and other rural health partners.
| Facility / theme | Details |
|---|---|
| Brainerd–Nisswa corridor | Regional medical center services, clinics, public health, and elder care—common rotation themes for ADN students. |
| Rural & community care | Central Minnesota’s mix of critical access and community hospitals supports exposure to varied acuity and population health needs. |
| Next step | Ask CLC nursing for the most recent list of clinical agencies used by your intended cohort. |
Student Experience & Campus Life
Brainerd is CLC’s larger campus—with the Library & Testing Center, student services, and Raider athletics—while Staples hosts the Practical Nursing cohort in a smaller-town setting. Nursing students should expect skills labs, simulation-style learning, and off-site clinical shifts with travel. Student life includes clubs, performing arts, and the broader outdoor recreation culture of the Brainerd Lakes. Use CLC’s Advising office and the nursing advisor contact on the admissions page for program-specific questions.
Resources & Next Steps
Contact & location
- Main campus
- Brainerd, MN
- Address
- 501 West College Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401, US
- Telephone
- (218) 855-8000
- General email
- askclc@clcmn.edu
- Nursing advising (listed on admissions page)
- jodi.elness@clcmn.edu · (218) 855-8036
- Website
- clcmn.edu
Official links
Your “Next 7 Days” checklist
- Open Admissions Information for CLC Nursing Programs and note whether you are applying for Staples PN or Brainerd ADN.
- Register for the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) and schedule early enough to meet the April 1 target for Fall Traditional (if that is your plan—reconfirm on the live site).
- From the Nursing page, download the student handbook PDF that matches your pathway (PN vs ADN)—filenames and links are updated by the college each year.
- Compare your transcripts to CLC’s prerequisite and general-education lists on the Traditional Nursing progression page.
- Complete or plan Nursing Assistant training if you are pursuing Traditional ADN and are not already on the Minnesota Registry.
- Bookmark the Minnesota Board of Nursing education statistical data page for NCLEX tables.
- Email jodi.elness@clcmn.edu with your target semester and campus to confirm the correct program application link for that cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What nursing programs does Central Lakes College offer?
CLC offers a Practical Nursing diploma (LPN, Staples), a Traditional Nursing A.S. (RN, Brainerd), and an Advanced Standing Nursing A.S. for licensed LPNs moving to RN (Brainerd). The college awards an Associate of Science for RN tracks—we refer to that pathway as ADN for clarity.
What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate for Central Lakes College?
According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing associate-degree NCLEX-RN statistical table (2022–2025), CLC’s first-time pass rate was 87.91% in 2025 with 91 first-time candidates. See the education statistical data page for PDF updates.
What is the NCLEX-PN pass rate for Central Lakes College Practical Nursing?
According to the Minnesota Board of Nursing practical-nursing NCLEX-PN table (2022–2025), CLC’s first-time pass rate was 83.33% in 2025 (30 first-time candidates).
Does Central Lakes College require TEAS for nursing?
No—CLC’s published nursing admissions materials emphasize the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) with program-specific minimum scores (65% PN, 70% Traditional ADN) rather than TEAS.
Which CLC campus is nursing on—Brainerd or Staples?
Traditional and Advanced Standing ADN nursing courses run on the Brainerd campus. The Practical Nursing diploma is entirely on the Staples campus.
How much is Central Lakes College tuition per credit?
CLC’s Tuition and Fees page lists $188.02 per credit for resident tuition, plus mandatory per-credit fees and an additional $30.00 per credit for web-based or hybrid courses. Confirm the current chart before you register.
What GPA do you need for Central Lakes College nursing?
For Traditional ADN progression, CLC requires general education courses at C or better with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, and nursing courses at B− or better. Advanced Standing applicants need at least 2.75 on completed generals for initial consideration.
When must the HSRT be completed for Central Lakes College Traditional Nursing?
CLC states that for consideration for the Fall 2026 cohort, the HSRT must be taken by April 1. Deadlines change by year—verify on CLC’s nursing admissions page.
Is Central Lakes College nursing approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing?
CLC’s programs prepare graduates for Minnesota NCLEX exams, and CLC appears in the Board’s NCLEX statistical tables—consistent with being among Minnesota-approved nursing programs. Confirm current program approval status on the Board’s approved-program listings.
References
- Central Lakes College — Nursingclcmn.edu/academics/programs/nursing
- Central Lakes College — Admissions Information for CLC Nursing Programsclcmn.edu/…/admissions-information-for-clc-nursing-programs
- Central Lakes College — Traditional Nursing AS Admission and Progression Requirementsclcmn.edu/traditional-nursing-as-admission-and-progression-requirements
- Central Lakes College — Tuition and Feesclcmn.edu/business-office-2/tuition-and-fees
- Minnesota Board of Nursing — Education statistical datamn.gov/boards/nursing/education/education-statistical-data
- Minnesota Board of Nursing — NCLEX-RN table (PDF)2022-2025_RN_NCLEX PDF
- Minnesota Board of Nursing — NCLEX-PN table (PDF)2022-2025_PN_NCLEX PDF
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)ncsbn.org
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Registered Nursesbls.gov/ooh
Editorial Standards & Review
About the author: Francesco Di Siena, RN, writes evidence-based nursing education guides for NurseOnShift.
Review: This page was reviewed by Araceli Collado, RN, for NCLEX alignment with Minnesota Board of Nursing statistical PDFs, tuition figures on CLC’s Business Office page, and admissions criteria on CLC’s nursing admissions and progression pages.
Disclaimer: This page is for general reference only. It does not constitute professional, admissions, or financial advice. Requirements, deadlines, tuition, and policies change; always verify with the institution and the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
Published: March 25, 2026 · Last reviewed: March 25, 2026 · Medical Review Process · Editorial Policy