NClex for Internationally educated nurses

Yes. Every internationally educated registered nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN to be eligible to work as a nurse in the United States.

Each Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) has its own eligibility requirements to take the NCLEX. NCSBN does not maintain a list of requirements for each NRB.   Contact the NRB where you are seeking licensure/registration for their requirements (applicable only to NRBs of the U.S., Canada and Australia).

The NCLEX-RN is a computerized selective exam. Questions are asked based on how you answered the previous question. These questions are based on the difficulty of the previous questions, NOT on how many questions you answer correctly. It is a pass/fail exam. The NCLEX test will stop when you can answer half of the questions correctly.

For example, let’s assume you have reached the minimum of 75 questions; two things can happen. The test will end and let you know if you are above the passing standard (pass) or below the passing standard (fail). If your knowledge level is close enough to the passing standard, the computer continues to ask you questions. At some point (depending on your level of questions) the computer will determine if your level is above the passing standard. If it is, you pass.

There are no set test dates for the NCLEX. You can apply and register anytime. Once you register, you can schedule your NCLEX for a date that is suitable for you! Foreign educated nurses generally have to schedule their NCLEX within 90 days of their application’s approval.