For many internationally educated nurses (IENs) who wish to practice in the United States, credential verification and certification are essential steps.
One of the most recognized organizations involved in this process is the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS International).
Understanding CGFNS certification, who needs it, the cost, and the application process can make your transition into the U.S. nursing workforce much easier.
This MedOpportunities guide explains everything international nurses need to know about CGFNS certification, including eligibility, steps, exam structure, costs, and timelines.
What is CGFNS?
The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS International) is an organization that evaluates the education and professional credentials of nurses trained outside the United States.
Its role is to ensure that international nurses meet the educational and professional standards required for safe nursing practice in the U.S. healthcare system.
CGFNS services include:
- Credential verification
- Certification programs
- Visa screening for immigration
- Educational comparability evaluation
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Many U.S. state boards of nursing require CGFNS verification before allowing international nurses to sit for the NCLEX.
What is the CGFNS Certification Program?
The CGFNS Certification Program (CP) is designed to assess whether international nurses possess the education, licensure, and English proficiency necessary to practice nursing in the United States.
The program has three main components:
- Credential Evaluation
- CGFNS Qualifying Exam
- English Language Proficiency Test
After completing all three components successfully, candidates receive a CGFNS Certificate, which may be required by some state boards of nursing before taking the NCLEX.
Who Needs CGFNS Certification?
Not all international nurses need the full CGFNS Certification Program.
Requirements vary depending on the state board of nursing.
You may need CGFNS if:
- Your state requires CGFNS Certification before NCLEX
- You are applying for VisaScreen for U.S. immigration
- Your nursing education needs credential evaluation
Some states require only credential evaluation, while others require the full certification program.
👉🏻 Read on How to Write the NCLEX Without CGFNS Registration: A Guide for International Nurses
Components of the CGFNS Certification Program
1. Credential Evaluation
CGFNS verifies your:
- Nursing diploma or degree
- Academic transcripts
- Professional nursing license in your home country
This process confirms that your education is comparable to U.S. nursing standards.
2. CGFNS Qualifying Exam
The CGFNS Qualifying Exam is a standardized test that measures nursing knowledge.
Key details include:
- Format: Computer-based exam
- Number of questions: Approximately 165 multiple-choice questions
- Exam duration: About 4 hours
- Testing locations: Worldwide testing centers
The exam covers major nursing areas including:
- Adult medical-surgical nursing
- Maternal and infant nursing
- Pediatric nursing
- Psychiatric and mental health nursing
The exam is designed to determine if candidates are ready to proceed toward NCLEX and U.S. nursing practice.
3. English Language Proficiency
International nurses may need to prove English proficiency through one of the following exams:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- OET (Occupational English Test)
English testing may be waived if your nursing education was conducted in English in certain countries.
👉🏻 Read on OET vs IELTS for Healthcare Professionals: Which English Test Is Better for Working Abroad?
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain CGFNS Certification
Step 1: Create a CGFNS Account
Visit the CGFNS website and create an online account to begin your application.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the online application and select the CGFNS Certification Program.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Provide the following documents:
- Nursing diploma or degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Nursing license verification
- Identification documents
Some documents must be sent directly from your school or licensing authority.
Step 4: Credential Review
CGFNS reviews and verifies your credentials to ensure they meet U.S. standards.
Step 5: Schedule the CGFNS Qualifying Exam
Once your credentials are verified, you can schedule the CGFNS exam at an authorized testing center.
Step 6: Complete the English Language Test
If required, submit your IELTS, TOEFL, or OET scores.
Step 7: Receive Your CGFNS Certificate
After successfully completing all components, CGFNS will issue your CGFNS Certification.
This certificate may allow you to apply for the NCLEX or proceed with immigration processes.
Cost of CGFNS Certification
| Services | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| CGFNS Certification Program | $445 |
| Credential Evaluation Service | $350 |
| English Language Test | $200 - $250 |
| Additional document verification | $50 - $100 |
| Total estimated cost | $650 - $1,000+ |
Costs may vary depending on additional services and document processing fees.
Processing Time
The CGFNS certification process can take several months depending on document verification and exam scheduling.
Typical timelines:
- Credential verification: 6–12 weeks
- Exam scheduling and completion: 1–2 months
- Total process: 3–6 months
Submitting complete and accurate documents helps avoid delays.
Difference Between CGFNS Certification and Credential Evaluation
Many international nurses confuse these two services.
| Feature | CGFNS Certification | Credential Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Includes exam | Yes | No |
| Includes English test | Yes | No |
| Used for NCLEX eligibility | In some states | Yes |
| Used for immigration | Yes | Sometimes |
Some states require only credential evaluation, while others require the full CGFNS Certification Program.
Tips for International Nurses Applying for CGFNS
Start Early
Credential verification can take time, especially if documents must be sent internationally.
Confirm State Requirements
Always check the requirements of your chosen state board of nursing before applying.
Ensure Document Accuracy
Incorrect or incomplete documentation can delay the entire process.
Track Your Application
Use your CGFNS portal to monitor document submission and processing status.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is CGFNS required for all international nurses?
No. Some states require it, while others allow international nurses to apply directly for NCLEX eligibility. - Is the CGFNS exam harder than NCLEX?
The CGFNS exam is considered a screening exam, while the NCLEX is the official licensure exam. - How long is CGFNS certification valid?
CGFNS certification generally does not expire, but requirements may change depending on state licensing boards.
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