NCLEX-RN: Who can take NCLEX

Each year, thousands of nursing graduates aspire to launch a sustained and fulfilling career overseas. However, many questions their eligibility to take the NCLEX, which is the licensing exam to become a Registered Nurse in the United States.

The uncertainty caused by this situation is widespread; each state has different requirements, and the amount of documentation, evaluation of credentials, and changing requirements can overwhelm many candidates.

As the number of international job opportunities continues to expand, and the need for qualified international nurses is at an all-time high due to increasing healthcare shortages, international students who choose to disregard this opportunity will miss out on some of the safest and highest-paying career opportunities currently available.

This blog aims to answer the frequently asked question: "Who can take the NCLEX"?

Who is eligible to Take the NCLEX?

To sit for the NCLEX, a candidate must complete certain steps. You cannot take the NCLEX without attending nursing school. Candidates must have attended an accredited nursing program; you can find a list of acceptable nursing programs on your state's Department of Education website. Once candidates graduate from their nursing programs, they must do two things. Candidates must apply to their state’s nursing board for licensure or registration and must also register and pay for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE. The Nursing Board will verify whether the candidate meets the eligibility criteria established by that particular Board before they can become licensed as an RN or LPN. Some Boards may require that candidates be at least 18 years of age and demonstrate good moral character, as well as meet the minimum educational qualifications. Once the candidate has met the requirements set forth by their Nursing Board, the Nursing Board will approve the candidate to take the NCLEX through Pearson VUE. After completing all of the NCLEX’s prerequisites, candidates will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email and have access to scheduling their examinations.

NCLEX Requirements

The NCLEX requires the student to complete an accredited nursing program and pairs with a Nursing Diploma (LNPN). An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) allows nurses to take the NCLEX for registered nurses (RN) while a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) allows nurses to take the NCLEX for Registered Professional Nurses (TRN).

In general, obtaining a Nursing Diploma requires about one year of study. It consists of classroom instruction, laboratory training, and two clinical placements. An Associate Degree in Nursing requires about 18 months of study, is more intensive, includes additional laboratory training, and includes two or more supervised clinical placements. A typical Bachelor of Science in Nursing requires approximately four years of study, but many schools have programs that offer students who are either LPNs or have already received bachelor degrees in another area an accelerated pathway.

The candidate's examination application process begins by being found eligible by the NRB, which means they can take the licensed practical nurse (LPN) examination.

• In order for a candidate to be deemed eligible, they must possess an associate degree or diploma in nursing.
• A candidate who completes a one-year program and earns their diploma in practical nursing will qualify to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) upon passing their diploma examination.
• Conversely, if the candidate holds a one-year degree (or higher) in associate nursing on the level of baccalaureate degree (BSN), they may take the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Once the candidate's course work is completed, they may apply for a NRB of their choice to take the NCLEX.

Why Tijus Academy for your NCLEX preparation?

Nurses planning to work overseas have relied heavily on Tijus Academy because they are a trusted partner in learning. They have knowledgeable trainers, current study materials, and individualized support so that even novice testers feel prepared to take the exam.

 What Tijus Academy Does for Nurses Preparing for NCLEX.

• Nurses receive guidance for their eligibility status based upon which U.S. State they plan to apply for.
• Step by step they are supported with the onboarding process.
• Receive information about the most common Study Patterns for NCLEX-RN, as well as the most important study materials.
• Provide real-time practice sessions with simulated NCLEX-RN questions.
• Proven strategies to help nurses pass the exam on the first attempt.
• Many affordable options with flexible schedules, which allow patients to take the exams.

Many nurses have achieved their dreams of being a Licensed U.S. Registered Nurses, and have established successful, International Careers, and have been able to relocate to other countries with long-term security.

 Start your nursing career with Tijus Academy!

Continue to take your nursing career to the next level.

Check out our NCLEX Courses or book a free, personal counseling session today!