United States · Licensing & Skills

Nursing licensing by state

State-by-state licensing requirements for foreign-educated registered nurses to pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain licensure with a State Board of Nursing (BON).

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Internationally educated nurses seeking RN licensure in the US.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Graduation from an accredited nursing education program
  • Credential review via CGFNS CES report or directly with state board (e.g. New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois)
  • Pass the Next Generation NCLEX-RN examination
  • English language proficiency test
Process

How the process works

  1. Apply to chosen State Board of Nursing
  2. Complete credential evaluation
  3. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE
  4. Pass NCLEX-RN
  5. Obtain state RN license and VisaScreen for EB-3 Green Card
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Nursing degree, transcripts, licensure validation forms, ATT letter, NCLEX score report
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Registered nurses are designated on Department of Labor Schedule A, completely exempting them from the lengthy PERM recruitment process.

Official source: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

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