Steps to taking the NCLEX-RNŽ

1. In order to take the NCLEX examination, you must first apply for a nursing license from a state board of nursing. There are many testing centers and you do not have to come to the United States to take the exam. That board will determine whether or not you meet its criteria for NCLEX examination-eligibility. Here is the Minnesota State Board of Nursing License by Exam packet for Canadian RNs.($105 US) We have found that they have the quickest turn around time. You can then apply for a state license in another state by endorsement. The exam is offered in several Candadian provinces. Exam application packet for Canadian RN exam applicants.
    
2. Once you've applied for a license from your state board of nursing, you will receive an NCLEX Examination Candidate Bulletin in the mail. You may then register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing testing service (Pearson Professional Testing) by phone, on-line, or by filling out a mail-in registration form. Link to the Pearson Vue website (They are the Testing Center for the NCLEX) $105 US or $150 if you take in Canada: www.pearsonvue.com/nclex
    
3. Once your state board of nursing has verified your eligibility to take the NCLEX examination, you will receive an Authorization to Take the Test (ATT), along with a list of testing centers and instructions for how to schedule an appointment to take the examination. You can take the test at any site listed in any state regardless of where you have applied to be licensed.
    
4. Visa Screen: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires, under section 343 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, internationally-educated healthcare professionals, seeking temporary or permanent occupational visas as well as those who are seeking Trade NAFTA (TN) status, to first obtain a CGFNS/ICHP VisaScreen Certificate as part of the visa process. VisaScreen is administered by the International Commission on Healthcare Professions (ICHP) a division of CGFNS International. http://www.cgfns.org/sections/programs/vs/