Nursing Careers, Training & NCLEX
Find the right nursing board, understand home-country transcripts and credentials, identify training options, and prepare for the NCLEX examination.
Foreign-trained nurse? Begin here
Yes, records from your nursing school abroad are often required—usually directly from the institution or authority. Do not assume that U.S. college credit is automatically granted or that a degree automatically transfers.
Choose your state and license
Select the U.S. state where you will practice and the RN or LPN/LVN pathway; state boards set requirements.
Ask your nursing school for official records
Many states or credential evaluators require transcripts, diplomas, clinical hours and detailed course documentation sent directly from your home nursing school. Home-country registration/license verification may also be required.
Check approved credential evaluation
Use the board’s authorized evaluator, which may include TruMerit (formerly CGFNS) or another approved service. Do not buy evaluation services until the board confirms the required report.
Confirm English proficiency
Some states or programs require approved English tests; exemptions and scores vary.
Apply to the state board
Submit applications, fees, identification and any fingerprint/background checks as instructed. Obtain permission to test.
Prepare for NCLEX
Study the official NCLEX test plans and register through Pearson VUE as directed. Passing is not the only requirement: immigration/work authorization is a separate legal matter.