Are you a foreign nurse looking to take the NCLEX exam? Are you wondering: What is the easiest state to apply for NCLEX for foreign nurses? If so, you’ve landed on the right site!
Join me and explore different states and their processes to find the most efficient and straightforward state for foreign nurses to apply for the NCLEX. Dive right in!
Easiest State To Apply For NCLEX For Foreign Nurses
Applying for the NCLEX is daunting for foreign nurses due to various requirements and procedures that differ from state to state. However, some states have a more streamlined and accommodating process than others, including:
#1. Illinois
Illinois is an excellent choice for foreign nurses seeking to apply for the NCLEX due to its straightforward and relatively quick application process.
The Illinois Board of Nursing requires foreign nurses to complete a CES Professional Report through the CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) and pass an English proficiency test.
Foreign-educated nurses can practice in Illinois if they are licensed in the country where they completed their nursing program and meet all other requirements. Illinois doesn’t require a US SSN for the NCLEX application. So it’s much more convenient for international applicants.
#2. New York
New York is another state that has a more streamlined process for foreign nurses applying for the NCLEX.
The New York State Board of Nursing requires a CGFNS Certification Program, which includes a credentials review and examination. The state also requires an English proficiency test.
Like Illinois, New York does not require a social security number for the NCLEX application, making it an attractive option for foreign nurses.
#3. Texas
A well-known state for foreign nurses, Texas provides a relatively simple process for foreign nurses to apply for NCLEX. The Texas Board of Nursing requires a CGFNS Full Education Course-by-Course Report and passing the English proficiency test.
Texas accepts NCLEX applications from foreign-educated nurses without a US SSN. However, the NCLEX process can take 6 to 8 months to complete, and fees range from $1,300 – $1,400. The Texas BON may also ask for proof of passing scores of English proficiency if your nursing program wasn’t conducted in English.
#4. California
While California has a more extensive application process than the states above, it is still an attractive destination for foreign nurses. That’s because the demand for nursing professionals, salaries are high and also stands out as a state that doesn’t impose a limit on NCLEX retake attempts.
The California Board of Registered Nursing requires a credentials evaluation service report from either CGFNS or the International Education Research Foundation (IERF).
Additionally, California requires passing the English proficiency test. A social security number is also compulsory for the NCLEX application.
#5. Florida
Florida makes the list because of its simplified application process for international nurses. The state does not require a social security number for the application.
In addition, Florida approves the application for NCLEX before the Credentials Evaluation Service (CES) report, allowing candidates to start preparing for the exam early.
Furthermore, the Florida Board of Nursing is known for its prompt response to inquiries, making the overall application experience smoother.
#6. North Carolina
North Carolina is another state that endeavors to make the NCLEX application process easier for foreign nurses.
Like the states above, North Carolina does not require an SSN for the application. The state also allows applicants to apply and sit for the NCLEX exam before receiving the CES report.
Another positive aspect is that the North Carolina Board of Nursing offers detailed guidance on its website, providing clarity and transparency in the application process.
#7. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state that has a reputation for being foreign-nurse friendly when it comes to the NCLEX application. This state does not mandate an SSN and provides a comprehensive guide for international nurses on how to apply for the exam.
The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing is also known for efficiently responding to queries and aiding international nurse students in navigating the application process.
#8. Nevada
Nevada rounds out this list with its simplified application process. While the state requires an SSN for application, it has one of the fastest processing times.
The Nevada State Board of Nursing requires foreign nurses to verify their education credentials by CGFNS and pass an English proficiency exam.
In addition, Nevada has a high demand for nurses, particularly in the Las Vegas area, which means there are plenty of job opportunities for international nurses.
#9. Massachusetts
In the ninth spot, we have Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Board of Nursing is known for its streamlined application process.
Foreign nurses must still meet the standard requirements, such as passing the NCLEX and English proficiency exams. Yet, the board offers clear guidelines on its website and is known for its helpful customer service. The Massachusetts Board does not require a social security number to apply.
#10. Oregon
Oregon is another state that provides a simplified application process for international nurses. The Oregon State Board of Nursing allows foreign nurses to apply for the NCLEX without a US social security number.
Additionally, the application process in Oregon is relatively quick, often taking less than 12 weeks from start to finish. This fast turnaround time benefits international nurses eager to begin their nursing careers in the US.
#11. Michigan
Michigan also makes it easy for foreign nurses to apply for NCLEX. While Michigan requires an SSN, it stands out for its efficient processing time.
The Michigan Board of Nursing has an average processing time of just six weeks for foreign-educated nurses, shorter than many other states.
Also, Michigan doesn’t require the CGFNS certification program. Instead, it accepts a CGFNS Course-by-COurse evaluation, which is less time consuming and expensive for international applicants.
UPDATED:
- New York: A top state for foreign nurses, New York doesn’t require a Social Security Number (SSN) or an English proficiency exam. However, processing times are longer than other nursing boards.
- Connecticut: Another top state for foreign nurses, Connecticut doesn’t require an SSN or an English proficiency exam.
- Montana: Montana has a simple application process and quick processing time.
Requirements For NCLEX Exam For Foreign Nurses
To take the NCLEX exam as a foreign nurse, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Education: Provide verification of your education, which could be an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN), or a Practical Nursing Diploma.
- Nursing license: Provide verification of your foreign nursing license.
- Background check: Complete a criminal background check and disclose any criminal convictions or disciplinary actions.
- Clinical hours: Complete the required clinical hours, which may vary by state.
- Application: Complete the State BON application and pay all application fees.
- ID: Provide proof of identity with a valid, government-issued ID that includes your full name in Roman characters, a recent photo, and your signature.
- Authorization to Test (ATT): After your application is approved, you’ll receive an ATT, which is required to schedule the exam. The ATT is usually valid for up to one year.
In some cases, international nurses can use their passport or visa instead of a social security number. Connecticut is considered an easier state for foreign nurses to apply for the NCLEX because it doesn’t require an English proficiency test or a social security number.
Some states do not require an English proficiency exam, such as IELTS, for the NCLEX, including:
- Indiana: A compact state, which means that nurses licensed in Indiana can practice in any of the other 39 compact states
- Illinois: The IDFPR may waive the TOEFL or IELTS if the CES report indicates that the nursing education program was conducted in English
- California: Considered one of the best states to work as a nurse due to high wages and a good nurse-to-patient ratio
Other states that are considered easy to apply for the NCLEX include: New York, Connecticut, Montana, Texas, and Florida.
Eighteen states require an English Language Proficiency Report, which can include the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic. The test must have been passed within two years of applying.
The Bottom Line
I’ve shared with you the easiest state to apply for NCLEX for foreign nurses, such as Illinois, Florida, New York, Texas, Nevada, Michigan, and many more.
You can take the NCLEX in any state, regardless of where you plan to practice. The components of the exam will be the same.
Research and understand the specific requirements and processes for the state you want to apply for. Once you’ve decided, take action, start your application process, and get one step closer to your nursing career in the US!
