International Nursing: How to Take NCLEX as a Foreign Graduate

For many international nurses, becoming licensed in the United States requires passing the NCLEX exam. While the process is slightly different from U.S. graduates, thousands of foreign-trained nurses successfully complete it every year. If you are planning to apply, this guide explains every step of how to take the NCLEX as a foreign graduate, from CGFNS verification to scheduling your exam.

Understanding NCLEX for International Nurses

The NCLEX is the national licensing exam required for all registered nurses (NCLEX-RN) and practical nurses (NCLEX-PN). International candidates must meet additional verification requirements to confirm that their education matches U.S. nursing standards.

Step 1: CGFNS Credential Evaluation

Before you can register for NCLEX, most states require an evaluation from **CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)**. CGFNS verifies:

• ✔ Nursing school transcripts
• ✔ License authenticity
• ✔ Clinical hours
• ✔ English language proficiency (in some states)

The most common service for NCLEX eligibility is the CGFNS CES Professional Report.

Step 2: Apply to a State Board of Nursing

Each state has different requirements. You must:

• Submit your CGFNS report
• Provide proof of identity
• Pay application fees
• Complete background checks
• Meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL/IELTS in some states)

Once approved, the Board of Nursing sends your authorization to Pearson VUE.

Step 3: Register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE

After receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT):

• 1. Create a Pearson VUE NCLEX account
• 2. Pay the exam fee
• 3. Select your preferred test center (many countries have NCLEX centers)
• 4. Schedule your exam date

Step 4: Prepare for the NCLEX Exam

International nurses often struggle with:

• U.S. healthcare terminology
• Priority frameworks (ABCs, Maslow, Delegation)
• NGN-style case studies

Focus your studies on:

• NCLEX-style question banks
• Clinical judgment models
• Lab values, pharmacology, and patient safety

Step 5: Take the Exam

On exam day:

• Bring your valid passport
• Arrive early for verification
• Follow test center security procedures
• Complete the NCLEX using Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT)

Step 6: After the Exam

Foreign nurses receive:

• - Quick Results (in 48 hours, if available)
• - Official pass/fail results from the Board of Nursing

If you pass, you will receive your U.S. nursing license. If you fail, you will receive a Candidate Performance Report to guide your next attempt

Final Thoughts

Taking the NCLEX as an international nurse may seem complicated, but the process is manageable with proper planning. Start early with CGFNS, choose a supportive Board of Nursing, and study with updated NGN-style materials. With determination and the right preparation, you can become a licensed nurse in the United States and start your international nursing career.