BSN graduate in Philippines just moved in South Dakota

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I'm a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in the Philippines but i'm not a License Holder. I moved here in South Dakota few months ago through K1 Fiancee Visa. I'm planning to work and pursue my career as a nurse, but i don't really know how to start. I called South Dakota Board of Nursing they told me i can't take NCLEX because i'm not a registered nurse in the Philippines. I felt sad because i thought it would be a lot easier here. They told me that i need to go back to school to be qualified to take NCLEX.

I don't know what to do, i don't have a job i don't have SS number yet.

Now my plan is to go on training as Certified Nursing Assistant, the training is only for 2 weeks.

I'm so confused. Its like i wasted money and time in 4 years course that i can't even use here in South Dakota.

Is it a good decision to go on a training to be a CNA or should i go back to school to become a nurse? or take associate nursing or Practical Nursing?

Advice are very welcome and appreciated.

I hope someone will reply and lighten me up a bit.

Thank You.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Can you not take the NLE?

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I can't :(

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

There are quite a few states in the US and all of Canada that require a candidate to be licensed in the country of education to prove, at minimum, that you met the standards where you were educated.

You will not be able to legally work in any capacity until you have a valid SSN.

I am guessing you did not check the licensing requirements for internationally educated nurses before you moved to SD.

There are not many options as even obtaining a license in another state you likely won't be able to endorse back to SD as you don't meet the standard without a RN license from the Philippines. You can try contacting local nursing schools to see your options such as if any credit would be offered for your Filipino education.

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Specializes in Acute Care. ER. Aged Care/LTC. Psyche.

is LPN registration an option? you may want to look into that. There are Filipino nurses who didn't qualify for NCLEX / RN registration and ended up applying for LPN registration without any difficulties. At least that's a start.

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I'm a BSN graduate in the Philippines and a registered nurse I came here in South Dakota as K1-Visa.I'm planning to take the NCLEX exam here but I don't know the first move or what are the requirements needed, can anyone help me? Thanks.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.
I'm a BSN graduate in the Philippines and a registered nurse I came here in South Dakota as K1-Visa.I'm planning to take the NCLEX exam here but I don't know the first move or what are the requirements needed, can anyone help me? Thanks.

Visit the BON website and look at requirements for International trained nurse under registration by examination

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