NCLEX Eligibility Criteria for U.S., Canada, and Australia

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is one of the most important steps in a nurse’s career. Whether you are a recent nursing graduate in the United States, Canada, or Australia, or an international nurse seeking to work abroad, passing the NCLEX is essential for becoming licensed to practice.

This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about NCLEX eligibility—from educational requirements and registration steps to region-specific rules for New York, Canada, and Australia. We will also cover costs, exam format, and special considerations for international nurses.

What is the NCLEX?

The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a standardized exam designed to determine whether candidates are ready for entry-level nursing practice. Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), it evaluates knowledge, critical thinking, and clinical judgment needed for safe and effective patient care.

There are two versions of the NCLEX:

• NCLEX-RN – for those seeking licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

• NCLEX-PN – for those aiming to become a Practical Nurse (PN) or Vocational Nurse (VN).

Both exams use a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the candidate’s responses. This ensures the exam accurately measures a candidate’s competency level.

NCLEX Eligibility Criteria

Before registering for the NCLEX, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the relevant Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) in their jurisdiction. While requirements vary slightly depending on the country or state, the following criteria apply to most candidates:

1. Educational Requirements

• Completion of an accredited nursing program is mandatory.

• Accepted nursing programs include:

  • Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

  • Nursing Diploma programs (where recognized)

• The program must be approved by the NRB in the jurisdiction where you intend to practice.

2. Application to a Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB)

• Each candidate must apply to the state or regional nursing board where they want to be licensed.

• The NRB reviews credentials, verifies nursing education, and determines eligibility.

• Application usually requires:

  • Proof of education (transcripts, diploma)

  • Identity verification

  • Application fees

  • For international nurses: additional documentation such as credential evaluations.

3. Authorization to Test (ATT)

• Once the NRB approves your application, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE.

• The ATT is typically valid for 90 days to 1 year, depending on jurisdiction.

• Without an ATT, you cannot schedule your exam.

4. Credential Evaluation (International Candidates)

• Internationally educated nurses often need to have their credentials evaluated to ensure equivalence with U.S., Canadian, or Australian standards.

• Agencies such as the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) handle this process.

• Credential evaluation typically reviews:

  • Academic transcripts

  • Curriculum content

  • Proof of licensure in the home country

5. English Proficiency

• Candidates whose nursing education was not conducted in English must provide proof of language proficiency.

• Accepted tests include:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Minimum required scores vary depending on the NRB.

6. Age Requirement

• There is generally no upper age limit for NCLEX eligibility.

• Candidates simply need to meet educational and licensing criteria.

The NCLEX Registration Process

The registration process involves several steps, and it’s crucial to complete them correctly:

1. Apply to the NRB

   • Submit your application for licensure to the nursing board where you plan to practice.

2. Register with Pearson VUE

   • Create an account on the Pearson VUE website and pay the exam fee.

3. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)

   • Once your NRB approves your application, Pearson VUE sends your ATT by email.

4. Schedule Your Exam

   • Use the ATT to book your exam date and testing center.

5. Prepare and Take the Exam

   • Arrive early on exam day with proper identification.

   • Follow test center rules strictly.

NCLEX Eligibility by Region

NCLEX Eligibility in New York

• In New York, eligibility validity is tied to the ATT.

• Once you receive your ATT, you generally have one year to take the exam.

• If you fail to test within this period, you must reapply.

• International nurses applying in New York often need to go through CGFNS credential evaluation before eligibility is granted.

NCLEX Eligibility in Canada

Canada adopted the NCLEX-RN in 2015 as the official exam for nurse licensing. Eligibility requires:

• Graduation from a recognized Canadian or international nursing program.

• Application to the provincial/territorial regulatory body, such as:

  • College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)

  • British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)

  • College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)

• Completion of any jurisprudence exams required by specific provinces.

• Proof of English or French proficiency if education was not in these languages.

NCLEX Eligibility in Australia

In Australia, the NCLEX-RN was introduced in 2020 as part of the registration process for internationally qualified nurses. Requirements include:

• Completion of an approved nursing program.

• Application to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

• Credential verification through the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), if applicable.

• Meeting English language standards through IELTS, OET, or PTE Academic.

NCLEX Exam Format and Question Types

The NCLEX uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), which adjusts difficulty based on your answers. Key features include:

• Question Types:

  • Multiple-choice

  • Multiple-response (select all that apply)

  • Fill-in-the-blank calculations

  • Drag-and-drop sequencing

  • Hot spot (select area on an image)

• Content Areas:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment

  • Health Promotion and Maintenance

  • Psychosocial Integrity

  • Physiological Integrity

• Number of Questions:

  • NCLEX-RN: 85–150 questions

  • NCLEX-PN: 85–205 questions

NCLEX Exam Costs

The cost of taking the NCLEX varies by region:

• U.S. Candidates: $200 exam fee (Pearson VUE)

• International Candidates:

  • Exam fee: $200

  • International scheduling fee: $150

  • Credential evaluation: $350–$450 (CGFNS or equivalent)

  • English proficiency tests: $200–$250

• Total costs for international candidates may exceed $700–$1,000 depending on requirements.

NCLEX Pass Rates

Pass rates differ between U.S.-educated and internationally educated nurses:

• First-time U.S.-educated RN candidates: 85–90%

• First-time internationally educated RN candidates: 40–50%

• Repeat test-takers usually have lower pass rates.

This gap highlights the importance of exam preparation for international nurses, especially those unfamiliar with the NCLEX-style testing.

NCLEX Eligibility Expiration

• The Authorization to Test (ATT) is usually valid for 90 days to one year, depending on the NRB.

• If you do not take the exam within this time, you must reapply and pay fees again.

• Candidates can take the NCLEX up to eight times per year, with a mandatory 45-day gap between attempts.

NCLEX Requirements for International Nurses

International nurses face additional steps before being eligible:

1. Credential Evaluation – Nursing transcripts and licensure must be reviewed.

2. English Proficiency – Proof of language competency (IELTS, TOEFL, OET, PTE Academic).

3. Visa/Immigration Requirements – For those planning to work abroad, immigration documentation may be required.

4. Jurisdiction-Specific Requirements – Some states or provinces require jurisprudence exams, background checks, or additional documents.

Final Thoughts

The NCLEX is more than just an exam—it is the gateway to a nursing career in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and region-specific rules is crucial for both domestic and international candidates. Whether you are a new nursing graduate or an experienced international nurse, preparing thoroughly for the NCLEX will help you meet the competency standards and succeed in obtaining your nursing license. By staying informed about educational prerequisites, exam costs, credential evaluations, and ATT validity, you can avoid delays and ensure a smooth path toward your professional goals. With the right preparation and awareness of requirements, you can confidently take the NCLEX and move one step closer to becoming a licensed nurse in your desired country.