Attended fraudulent school, got RN license, now what?

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I finished nursing course from accredited school but couldn't pass their exit exam. I transfer my credit to unaccredited school which now under investigate. I didn't know at that time the school was fraudulent.

I did graduate from that school and passed my NCLEX and got my RN license. I don't want to be deem as fraudulent nurse. So I decided to go back to school. I having hard time to get back because every school I applied they said I already have RN license so therefore I am not qualified to go for LPN to RN bridge and I couldn't go for BSN either because my transcript was fraud. Please help

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Not Qualified,

This is a tough one, and I'm hoping others here on-site are in the same situation and can offer advice. 

You cannot transfer your credits from the fraudulent program to another school. You may not be able to endorse your license to another state, as more states are aware of these schools' problems.

Have you thought about surrendering your nursing license voluntarily?

Doing so may help you meet the eligibility criteria for a reputable nursing program.

However, it's essential to check with your Board of Nursing (BON) first and also consult with a healthcare attorney to determine if surrendering your license will have any adverse effects, such as preventing you from applying for a license in the future.

Read What You Need to Know About Accreditation before you pick your next school. You can also research graduation rates and NCLEX pass rates.

If you previously held an LPN license and graduated from an accredited school, you may be able to renew/reinstate that license.

Also, contact your state's nursing board to explain your situation. They undoubtedly have encountered similar cases and can guide how to proceed.   

Read Nybon School Under Investigation to connect with others in the same situation.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

I have a concern. My school wasn't fraudulent but it did close down. However , they did a teach out program that allowed us the opportunity to achieve our BSN through an accredited program after passing the boards. My concern is that having a closed program on my resume is hurting my job perspective. What can I do?

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