Can I begin the NCLEX process as a nursing student in the UK?

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Hi Guys,

I'm a nursing student in the UK with approx a year left until I qualify. I'm interested in working in the US and just wondered whether anyone knew if it was possible to begin the process of sitting the NCLEX before I qualify. I know that to actually sit the exam I need my registration but can I get the ball rolling before that? I'm a mature student so basically the quicker I can get things going the less time I'll have to wait. Any info from anyone would be really great! Thanks a lot.

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

No. You need to have your completed credentials independently validated and that cannot be done until you graduate. In addition all US states require nurses to be generalist trained with course work & clinical experience in adult, geriatric , pediatric, maternity/OB, and psych /mental health. Most UK programs are specialist.

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Thank you very much for your help. Guess I'll have to wait a while before I try.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Yes you need to have graduated before starting the process and as mentioned unless you have hours both clinical and theory in Paeds, Mental Health, Obstetrics and Adult you will have issues registering with the state. Also worth mentioning awareness of retrogression and the struggle to find a employer willing to go through the immigrant process and wait several years (depending on place of birth) until you are issued a visa and can start working.

August EB3 is showing Jan 2009 applications and before are being processed and these dates will/may go back as well as jump forward

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