The NCLEX-RN remains the gateway for Indian nurses who wish to become registered nurses in the United States or Canada. Although the exam format and licensing pathway evolve over time, the core eligibility requirements stay focused on verifying education, nursing competence, and regulatory compliance. This guide explains each eligibility requirement clearly, helping Indian nurses prepare their documents and understand the complete process before applying.
1. Nursing Education Requirements
Recognized Nursing Program
Indian nurses must complete one of the following accredited programs:
- B.Sc Nursing (4 years)
- Post Basic B.Sc Nursing (2 years)
- GNM Diploma (3 years) — accepted by several state boards but may require additional evaluation
Your qualification must be equivalent to U.S. RN education standards. This equivalency is assessed during the credential evaluation stage.
Clinical Training Requirements
Your program must include supervised clinical experience in:
- Medical–Surgical Nursing
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry / Mental Health
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Community Health Nursing
If clinical hours are missing, state boards may ask for additional coursework or reject the application.
2. Credential Evaluation (Mandatory for International Nurses)
Most U.S. and Canadian state boards require a credential evaluation report.
Common Evaluation Agencies
- CGFNS – Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools
- WES – World Education Services (used by some Canadian boards)
- CES / CVS reports depending on the state
The evaluation verifies:
- Authenticity of your documents
- Course-by-course breakdown
- Clinical hours
- English-language instruction medium
- Equivalency with U.S. RN education
Important:
Your nursing council registration, transcripts, and course completion certificates must be sent directly from your school and nursing council to the evaluation agency.
3. English Language Proficiency (State-Specific Requirement)
Some state boards require English proficiency, while others waive it if the nursing program was taught in English.
Common accepted tests:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic (Nursing accepted in some states)
Typical scores:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, no band below 6
- TOEFL: 84+ score
- PTE: 55+ score
States like Texas, Illinois, and New York may waive English tests if medium of instruction is English.
4. Nursing Registration (India)
Every Indian nurse applying for the NCLEX-RN must have:
- Valid nursing registration with the State Nursing Council
- Updated RN and RM licenses (if applicable)
- No professional misconduct records
A registration verification letter must be sent directly by the Indian Nursing Council or State Council to the credential evaluation body.
5. State Board Application (Choosing the Right BON)
Each U.S. state has its own Board of Nursing (BON) with specific eligibility rules.
Before applying, check:
- Whether they accept GNM, B.Sc, or PB B.Sc
- English test requirements
- CGFNS or CES report type
- Additional requirements like SSN (Social Security Number)
- Fees and timelines
Many Indian nurses prefer states such as:
- Texas
- Illinois
- New York
- Florida
- New Mexico
- Michigan
These states usually have smoother processes and do not require an SSN at the time of application.
6. Background Checks & Identity Verification
Most states require:
- Passport copy
- Recent photographs
- Fingerprinting (LiveScan or card-based)
- Criminal background check
International applicants can complete fingerprinting through authorized agencies in India.
7. Authorization to Test (ATT)
After your requirements are verified and approved, the state board issues the Authorization to Test (ATT).
This document allows you to schedule your NCLEX-RN exam at any Pearson VUE center worldwide.
Indian nurses often take the exam in:
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Bangalore
- Mumbai
- Dubai
- Doha
8. Pearson VUE Registration
Once you receive the ATT:
- Create your Pearson VUE account
- Pay the NCLEX-RN exam fee
- Select your preferred exam center
- Choose your exam date and time
The ATT is usually valid for 90 days, depending on the state board’s rules.
9. Immigration or Licensing After Passing
Passing the NCLEX-RN is not the final step. Indian nurses must:
- Obtain a state RN license
- Apply for jobs or agency contracts
- Complete immigration steps (if moving to the U.S.)
- Meet employer-specific requirements such as IELTS for immigration
Some candidates may also require VisaScreen certification, issued by CGFNS, for U.S. visa processing.
Final Thoughts
Meeting the NCLEX-RN eligibility requirements can seem complicated, but understanding each step clearly makes the process easier. Indian nurses who prepare their documents early, choose the right state board, and complete credential evaluation on time usually experience a smooth pathway.
