Best States to Study Nursing & Take RN Exam?

[Eggiejoy8]

I'm applying to several nursing programs along the East coast. I currently live in NY (Long Island) but am considering leaving NY.

I heard there are a few states where once you pass the Nclex-rn exam in that state such as NY and CA, you can go to work in any other state because the exam is harder and schools have higher qualifications.

If I pass the Nclex-rn exam for SC/PA/VA, for example, and decide to go back to NY after working as a RN for a year or two, would I have to take the Nclex-rn exam again for NY? Or would I not have to take the Nclex-rn exam again (this time specifically for NY)?

Thanks for your help!

[TheSquire, DNP, APRN, NP]

The exam is not harder; the educational requirements students satisfy before being permitted to take the NCLEX-RN are more involved and a pain to go back and do after-the-fact. The NCLEX-RN itself is a national standardized exam and so is the same level of difficulty for everyone.

Also, another factor to consider is whether you will have residency in a Nursing Licensure Compact state: the states of the compact have passed laws agreeing to honor licenses issued to RNs who are licensed in and reside in compact states.

As for the NY state question - check the NY state board of nursing or, failing that, call them.

[Eggiejoy8]

Thanks so much! You've really helped answer my question.