Does BSN from Chamberlain College of Nursing meet BRN's curriculum criteria?

U.S.A. California

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I graduated from Chamberlain College of Nursing - Chicago, IL Campus - October 27, 2013. I have plans on moving to California, so instead of paying for two state's application fees I have applied to take the NCLEX through Ca BRN.

I pre-registered with PearsonVue before I even graduated; paid the money, checked the box stating that I was planning on testing through CA, and received a confirmation email of my registration. I followed the application process directions thoroughly; had official transcripts sent with attached form from my school to BRN and was even given confirmation from my school when they sent it (beginning of November). As soon as I graduated I overnighted a special non-bendable envelope containing everything they need from me; special fingerprint forms, filled out the application form with SS# and all, and of course sent the check.

On November 14, 2013 my check was chased by Ca BRN (application fee and fingerprint processing = $201). I was well aware that California has a more strenuous process and can take longer than other states. (Their sites says 4-6 weeks to process before you get approved and if you call their automated system says due to high volume expect 8 weeks and not to call and inquire before)

Therefore, I've been very patient and not stressing much over it even though my fellow classmates got their Authorization To Test (ATT) from IL early/mid November. Luckily I had holidays and travel plans that occupied my time so I wasn't tapping my fingers waiting. I also took into consideration that the holidays may make the process longer.

Fast forward... it has now been 11 weeks (ELEVEN!) since they cashed my check and still no word. I called to inquire a couple weeks ago. After several attempts to get through and then waiting on hold for over a hour I finally was able to talk to someone. She was no help honestly. She was only able to tell me my fingerprints have been processed and it was noted what school I attended (Chamberlain) but "nothing was under it." I'm not really sure what that meant, but sounded like she was only able to see what had been entered into their system. Unable to help me any further on my status and questions she forwarded me to a person I believe she referred to as an evaluator. I ended up leaving a message on his voicemail inquiring further and asking if there was anything extra they needed from me etc... 2 weeks and he still hasn't called back soooo another dead end.

I am about to try calling again now but thought I would reach out on here as well to get other's experience and input as I don't expect to get very far again on the phone today.

Sooooo MAIN QUESTIONS:

1. What is everyone else's experience registering for your ATT through CA BRN that received a BSN from a program outside of the state of California? Or even currently how long is it taking locals from California to be approved by BRN to take NCLEX?

2. Does anyone specifically know if CaBRN authorizes graduates from Chamberlain in on site BSN program to take NCLEX? My campus is CCNE-accredited as well as a part of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

3. Should I keep calling and talking to someone every day till I get my ATT? OR continue to be patient? I don't want to nag and annoy them to the point they aren't helpful and put my papers on the bottom. haha :) so I don't know...

The longer I don't hear anything now the more nervous I get that there is a problem and I won't be able to get my license and practice in CA. :( I'm sure its just a lengthy process but through reading and researching more of course I made myself nervous since I read they don't accept Excelsior students.

Your application is one of thousands for a staff of like, nothing. Could you get an interim permit? Getting a job as a new grad is impossible enough as a ca resident, as many have to move outside of ca for experience before coming back. Don't waste too much time, you don't want to be an old new grad here. I'm surprised people can afford (in regards to time) not hustling for job hunting right after graduating. I know a lot of my coworkers forked up for dual licenses for this reason, to have a plan B and it's easier to maintain licenses from their home state. Unless you're moving and never planning to look back, just be aware it can be a risky choice.

Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Board of Registered Nursing - RN Programs

Chamberlain does not appear to be on that list, so that may explain why you're not getting a ATT right away. I would contact the BRN to see what's going on.

And I have to agree: new grad job market blows in CA.

Best of luck.

Does anyone know the answer to this question? It would help me immensely.

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