BSN BUT NO LICENSE

RNNPICU, BSN, RN · May 16, 2019

Since it has been a long time since you graduated from nursing school, a vocational nursing course would not apply as it would prepare you to be an LPN/LVN, which is different from an RN.

First and foremost, what is motivating you now to try and take the NCLEX?

You will want to think about it as you look to see which state you would be eligible. Some states have a time limit from the time you graduate to testing. Some states it is three or five years. You may need to take an RN refresher course as it has been a long time since you have been in school and things have changed.

Where have you been working now? Have you worked in any health related field?

CanIcallmymom, BSN, RN · May 16, 2019

I think, in Texas, you have 5 years for NCLEX. You might want to contact the BON in your state to make sure you aren't wasting your time or see if they offer any alternatives.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · May 16, 2019

I agree, check with your state BON. You may have been out of the loop so long that you may be required to go back to school.

frenchtoastwaffles, BSN, RN · May 19, 2019

I tried to look up the exam eligibility info on my state's website but I don't see anything about time between your degree being conferred and your test date. If I were you, I would contact your BON about whether you're eligible to test before coming up with a study plan for a test you might not be able to sit for yet.

alberstage, BSN · May 21, 2019

I'm working in transportation. I've checked and my state has no time limit on when the exam has to be taken as long as I've graduated from an accredited nursing program.

Can someone recommend a refresher program or perhaps a strategy to prepare for the exam after so long?

CanIcallmymom, BSN, RN · May 21, 2019

9 hours ago, alberstage said:
I'm working in transportation. I've checked and my state has no time limit on when the exam has to be taken as long as I've graduated from an accredited nursing program.
Can someone recommend a refresher program or perhaps a strategy to prepare for the exam after so long?

First you need an ATT (Authorization to Test) that you get from your regulating body, before you can even test. This is usually done the last week or two of nursing school...and the ATT is only good for so long. You definitely need to contact your BON since you have likely missed the window. In addition, just to maintain an active license, a certain number of CEUs are required. I think contacting your state's BON is your best bet as a first contact to see what it will take.

ETA: https://www.bon.texas.gov/licensure_examination.asp

Golden_RN, MSN · May 21, 2019

I recommend doing an NCLEX review course, like Kaplan. I wouldn't waste time on an LVN program.

You might want to also look for an RN re-entry type of course.

CALINURSE1 · May 21, 2019

Hello Alberstage. Ive never answered on here before so hopefully I'm answering in the right spot.

First of All, CONGRATULATIONS for being Brave enough to Reach out to change your Life! Im going thru the Same thing, I have never taken my boards. Igot like a 67 on my final and decided the test was too expensive to waste my money and fail. Plus Im a perfectionist, all or nothing. I felt completely Depressed and Discouraged. I haven't yet Arrived but I come across some resources.

Second do not get your ATT first. U are not ready yet. Your'e going need to study a good 4-6 months. U need to contact your BON website will tell u what u need to sign up for your application. In NY they have added to update Infection control. There are schools and places giving this short one day course. The BON has the approved places on the website.That is about 50 dollars. What state was your school? The state BON will tell u what u need.

Now time for study materials! I was ALWAYS searching but felt such shame. I came across REMAR on YouTube. She took my shame away! I Now Believe with God it is possible to do. Even if ur not working in the medical field. She is currently doing something called REMAR UNIVERSITY. Look her up on youtube or Facebook. She was just in LA LAST NIGHT. And she will be in NY On Memorial Day Monday and Miami JUNE 3rd. These events are free. U can message me and i will give u more info.She sells a home study DVD PROGRAM ALONG WITH THE UPDATED QUICK FACTSBook. The DVD PROGRAM COMES WITH WORKBOOKS WHICH IS GREAT FOR THE TACTILE LEARNER! I suggest all of it . Shes having a sale 100 dollars off.

Theres another woman that will take u in Baby steps. Very organized. Starts off with PATHOPHYSIOLOGY. I havent been able to get her full program. But it seems very good. It cost more but its thorogh and timed. Her name is Nurse Chioma. Her system is called choosing nursing. Shes on FACEBOOK AND YOUTUBE. But there are resources to help. This is very doable!

allnurses Guide · May 21, 2019

In my area my local community college offers a nursing refresher program for a very reasonable price. See if yours may too. With a 10 year gap, this will help bring your knowledge to the forefront. An NCLEX prep course would be a good investment too.

CALINURSE1 · May 22, 2019

Refresher courses are a Great Idea. But usually they want u to had passed the NCLEX FIRST before they allow u into the Refresher courses. But if they don't require it where u are that is a Great idea.

allnurses Guide · May 23, 2019

I am in Texas. I honestly had not anticipated that particular requirement and have no idea if it is one here.