NCLEX Application Process: Crucial Things You Need To Know

(Estimated Reading Time: 9 minutes)

Nurse shortage continues to be an issue across multiple countries worldwide. The United States, among others, needs qualified nurses to fill in the gaps now more than ever. However, beyond this pressing matter lies great possibilities for nurses in the Philippines. Employment opportunities for nurses in the US have allowed numerous nurses to pursue their careers there, given the great demand.  

With the current circumstances, Filipino nurses can expect job security. However, pursuing a nursing career in the US requires passing the NCLEX. This guide outlines an overview of the NCLEX exam application process and its requirements.

The Next Generation NCLEX

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) is vital for US, Canadian, and Australian nurses. This examination measures and determines how safe you are to practice the profession by testing your nursing knowledge, skills, and capabilities. Hence, NGN is crucial in ensuring the competence and proficiency of nursing professionals in these countries. 

Aspiring nurses must adhere to the Next Generation NCLEX standard introduced on April 1, 2023. This new standard marks a significant milestone in nursing education and practice, emphasizing advanced skills and knowledge crucial for providing high-quality patient care. Moreover, nurses must possess the theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to adapt to complex and diverse patient needs. 

The Next Generation NCLEX application process does not require you to take the exam in the US, Canada, or Australia. Multiple test centers worldwide provide the NCLEX, and the Pearson Professional Centers in Makati administer this exam.

Next Generation NCLEX Requirements

Before we delve into the Next Generation NCLEX application process, let’s first discuss the necessary documents you need. The requirements for the NCLEX exam may differ depending on the state nursing board to which you are applying. However, there are common prerequisites applicable to most applicants. 

1. Diploma from a Nursing Program – Completing a state-approved nursing program is required. It includes an associate’s degree in nursing, a bachelor of science degree, or a diploma from an accredited institution. 

2. Transcript of Records – Submission of official transcripts from your nursing program is usually required. Moreover, some states may also request transcripts from your high school or previous education.

3. Registration Forms – You must complete the mandatory registration forms from your desired state’s nursing regulatory body.

4. English Proficiency Reports –  This requirement is mandatory for international nurses aspiring to work in the United States, Australia, and Canada.  The following are the approved English Proficiency Reports:

a. Cambridge English (B2 First, C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency Exams)

b. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-based Test)

c. TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)

d. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

e. MET (Michigan English Test)

f. OET (Occupational English Test)

Note: Please be advised that the accepted English proficiency exams can differ based on state regulations.

5. Criminal Background Check – Some states might necessitate a criminal background check. Moreover, certain criminal convictions could impact your NCLEX eligibility.

6. Identity Documents – These documents include birth certificates and marriage certificates or contracts from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). However, the marriage certificate is only applicable to married female applicants.

It’s crucial to understand that requirements for the NCLEX exam vary by state. Hence, verifying the latest and most accurate information with the nursing regulatory body where you plan to be licensed is essential.

Next Generation NCLEX Application Process

Understanding the NCLEX application process is crucial for international nurses who want to work abroad. Below are the steps to follow when preparing to take the NCLEX exam:

Step 1: Choose your State Board of Nursing (BON)

Every state in the US has varying requirements, some of which can be board-specific, educational background documents, and other credentials. When you choose a state you wish to work in, consider factors like the demand for nurses, salary, cost of living, etc.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying for the NCLEX examination, it is crucial to determine if you meet the criteria. They are set by the Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) in the state or country where you intend to practice. Moreover, every state has different eligibility requirements, so check your preferred state’s requirements before applying.

Step 3: Gather Requirements

Again, every state has its own unique set of requirements. The requirements for the NCLEX exam include identity documents, educational credentials, English proficiency reports, and other documents like criminal record checks and fingerprint cards. All these required documents will then undergo a review and evaluation.

Step 4: Submission of Application and Payment

This phase involves completing comprehensive forms, submitting the necessary documents, and paying the required fees. Furthermore, it’s essential to double-check all the details to avoid any delays in the process.

Step 5: Pearson Vue Confirmation

Upon completing your registration, Pearson VUE will promptly send you a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your registration details. Additionally, please be aware that all correspondence concerning the NCLEX with Pearson VUE is via email.

This email will also contain your Authorization to Test (ATT) and its validity period, typically around 90 days. Moreover, it’s crucial to note that you must take the exam within this specified timeframe, as no extensions will be granted.

Step 6: Scheduling the Exam

You can schedule your exam appointment in two ways, either online or by calling Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services. 

Step 7: Examination Day

On the day of your exam, make sure to bring proper identification and arrive on time to complete the exam. We have compiled a list of acceptable identification documents that Pearson Vue will take. Please refer to the section below for details. Additionally, note that domestic and international NCLEX will require a different identification. 

Step 8: Receiving Results

Once you have completed the exam, you will receive your official results from your NRB within six weeks. However, please note that the period may vary depending on the NRB.

Note: According to the NCLEX website, “There are no refunds of NCLEX fees for any reason.” Thus, ensure you have all the necessary documents before your application. Moreover, you must follow all the required guidelines since the NCLEX application is costly. 

NCLEX Identification Guidelines

One of the most vital requirements for the NCLEX exam is your identification. So, here are the rules regarding the proper identification for the NCLEX application Process:

Use the exact first and last names on your ID when registering for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE. At the test center, the first and last names on the ID you present must match the first and last names in the Pearson VUE system. In addition, you must re-register and pay another exam fee if they do not match. 

Please ensure that all forms of identification are valid and meet the following requirements:

1. Government-issued 

2. Non-expired 

3. Physical (non-digital)  

4. Name (in Roman characters)

5. Recent Photograph

6. Signature 

To take a test within your country, you must provide identification acceptable to the testing center. Examples of acceptable forms of identification may include:

1. Passport Books and Cards 

2. Driver’s License 

3. Provincial/Territorial or State Identification Card 

4. Permanent Residence Card 

5. Military Identification Card

However, in some international test centers, including Puerto Rico, only passport books and cards are acceptable forms of identification.

If your ID does not contain a signature but meets all other ID requirements, you must bring a secondary form of identification to the test center. Moreover, the name and signature on your secondary ID must match your primary ID and have the signature in Roman characters. 

Furthermore, you must re-register and pay another exam fee if you cannot provide an acceptable ID at your appointment. 

NCLEX Application Process for Scheduling & Rescheduling

If you need to book a new appointment, change an existing one, or cancel your appointment altogether, here are the rules:

Scheduling Your NCLEX Appointment

It’s crucial to understand that delaying the scheduling of an exam appointment can significantly limit candidates’ date options. So, if a candidate waits until their ATT is close to expiring, test centers may be unable to accommodate them before it expires. In such cases, candidates must register again and pay another exam fee. Therefore, scheduling an exam appointment as early as possible is advisable to avoid any inconvenience.

Candidates taking the test for the first time will receive an appointment offer 30 days after they request to schedule an appointment. For repeat candidates, the appointment offer will be available 45 days after their last exam attempt. Moreover, candidates can decline the appointment offer and schedule a later date beyond 30 or 45 days. If a candidate’s preferred date is unavailable, they will be offered the closest possible date to their first choice.

Rescheduling Your NCLEX Appointment

Candidates must follow specific guidelines when it comes to rescheduling their NCLEX examination:

If you have exam appointments on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, you must reschedule at least 24 hours before the original date and time. For example, suppose your appointment is on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. Then, you must call or go online to reschedule before Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. 

If your NCLEX falls on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, you must reschedule your appointment by Friday before the original date and time. For instance, if your appointment is on Monday at 2:00 p.m., you must call or go online to reschedule before Friday at 2:00 p.m. the week before Monday.

It’s essential to keep in mind that rescheduling your NCLEX exam may result in specific charges. Moreover, the closer you reschedule to your exam date, the higher the fee may be. Attempting to reschedule with less than 24 hours’ notice may lead to forfeiture of your NCLEX registration and exam fee.

Similarly, failing to attend your appointment can also result in the same outcome. As a result, you will need to register again and pay a new exam fee to take the exam. Obtaining a new ATT is also necessary, which could also cause significant delays in your testing process.  

Missing an Exam Appointment

Attending the scheduled exam appointment or rescheduling/canceling it with adequate notice is crucial. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of the exam and scheduling fees and invalidate the ATT. In addition, candidates will need to register again and pay another exam fee. Moreover, a case report will be submitted to the nursing regulatory body if you choose not to take the exam. 

Pearson Vue Regulations

You may not access or bring any educational, test preparation, or study materials to the testing center. In addition, you cannot access electronic devices, including phones, tablets, smartwatches, MP3 players, fitness bands, or more, during your examinations and breaks. 

Candidates must store electronic devices in sealable plastic bags at the test center. Moreover, candidates who refuse to keep their electronic devices upon check-in will not be allowed to take the test. Then, they must re-register and pay another exam fee. Please refer to our Pearson Vue’s Do’s and Don’ts article for a more thorough guide. 

The Takeaway

Before any prospective overseas nurse can practice their profession in the USA, Canada, or Australia, they need to be able to pass the NCLEX. Applying for the NCLEX is a step process. Moreover, the process and requirements can also vary depending on the candidate’s SBON and typically takes months. 

Navigating and completing the NCLEX exam application process and requirements can be confusing and overwhelming. However, the right people to assist you can make things easier for you. With IPASS Processing’s expert service, you don’t need to worry about anything. Our commitment to providing clients with a stress-free NCLEX Application Process helps you focus on your review for the exam. 

We at IPASS have your back! IPASS Processing offers its service to nurses who wish to apply for the NCLEX in the United States, Canada, and Australia. We ensure to provide and deliver you a smooth and hassle-free NCLEX application. For more inquiries, contact us now!