Many internationally educated nurses (IENs) believe that they must obtain CGFNS certification before they can take the NCLEX. While this is true for some states, it is not required in many others.
In fact, several U.S. state boards of nursing allow international nurses to apply directly for the NCLEX without completing the CGFNS Certification Program.
This MedOpportunities guide explains how international nurses can write the NCLEX without CGFNS registration, including the requirements, steps, costs, and important considerations.
Do You Need CGFNS to Take the NCLEX?
The short answer is no — not always.
CGFNS certification is required by some U.S. states, but many states allow international nurses to apply for NCLEX eligibility without completing the CGFNS Certification Program.
However, even in states that do not require the certification program, the board may still require credential evaluation to verify your education and nursing license.
States That May Allow NCLEX Without CGFNS Certification
Several U.S. states allow international nurses to apply for the NCLEX without the CGFNS Certification Program, although credential evaluation may still be required.
Examples include:
- New York
- Texas
- Illinois
- Florida
- Colorado
- Vermont
- Minnesota
Each state has its own licensing requirements, so it is essential to check with the specific state board of nursing before applying.
Requirements to Take the NCLEX Without CGFNS Certification
Even without CGFNS certification, international nurses must still meet certain requirements.
1. Nursing Education
You must have graduated from a recognized nursing school in your home country.
Your education must be equivalent to U.S. nursing education standards.
2. Credential Evaluation
Many states require credential evaluation through organizations such as:
- CGFNS Credential Evaluation Service (CES)
Josef Silny & Associates - Educational Records Evaluation Service (ERES)
This evaluation confirms that your nursing education is comparable to U.S. standards.
3. Nursing License Verification
You must provide proof that you hold a valid nursing license in your home country.
The licensing authority may need to send verification directly to the state board of nursing.
4. English Language Proficiency
Some state boards require proof of English proficiency through:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- OET (Occupational English Test)
Requirements vary depending on the state and the country where your nursing education was completed.
👉🏻 Read on OET vs IELTS for Healthcare Professionals: Which English Test Is Better for Working Abroad?
Step-by-Step Process to Write the NCLEX Without CGFNS Certification
Step 1: Choose a State Board of Nursing
Research U.S. states that allow direct NCLEX application without CGFNS certification.
Consider factors such as:
- Credential evaluation requirements
- English language requirements
- Processing time
- Licensing fees
Step 2: Apply to the State Board
Submit your application for NCLEX eligibility to your chosen state board of nursing.
The application typically includes:
- Personal information
- Education details
- Licensing history
Step 3: Submit Credential Evaluation
If required, request your nursing school to send transcripts to the credential evaluation agency or directly to the board.
The evaluation will verify:
- Nursing education
- Clinical training
- Academic equivalence
Step 4: Register for the NCLEX
Create an account with Pearson VUE, the official organization that administers the NCLEX exam.
Pay the NCLEX registration fee.
Step 5: Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
Once the state board approves your eligibility, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email.
The ATT allows you to schedule your exam.
Step 6: Schedule the NCLEX Exam
You can take the NCLEX at an authorized Pearson VUE testing center in the United States or internationally.
Step 7: Take the NCLEX Exam
The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) includes:
- Minimum questions: 85
- Maximum questions: 150
- Exam duration: Up to 5 hours
The exam uses a computer-adaptive testing format, meaning question difficulty adjusts based on your performance.
Step 8: Obtain Your Nursing License
After passing the NCLEX, the state board will issue your Registered Nurse (RN) license.
You may then proceed with employment or immigration processes.
Cost of Taking NCLEX Without CGFNS Certification
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| NCLEX registration | $200 |
| Credential evaluation | $300 - $400 |
| State board application fee | $100 - $500 |
| English test (if required) | $200 - $250 |
| Study materials | $100 - $400 |
| Estimated total cost | $900 – $1,750+ |
👉🏻 Read on NCLEX for International Nurses: Requirements, Cost, and Step-by-Step Process
Costs may vary depending on the state board requirements and evaluation agency.
Advantages of Skipping CGFNS Certification
Faster Process
You can proceed directly to the NCLEX eligibility stage without taking the CGFNS qualifying exam.
Lower Cost
Skipping the CGFNS Certification Program can save hundreds of dollars.
Fewer Exams
You only need to focus on NCLEX preparation rather than another qualifying exam.
Important Considerations
State Requirements May Change
Always check the latest requirements from the state board of nursing.
Credential Evaluation May Still Be Required
Even without the certification program, most boards still require educational verification.
VisaScreen May Still Be Needed
For immigration purposes, many nurses will still need VisaScreen certification later in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in the U.S. after passing the NCLEX?
Passing the NCLEX alone does not grant work authorization. You must also complete immigration and visa requirements. - Which states are easiest for international nurses?
States with simpler processes often include:- New York
- Texas
- Illinois
- Vermont
- However, requirements can change over time.
- Can I transfer my license to another state later?
Yes. After obtaining a license in one state, you may apply for license endorsement to practice in another state.
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