Published Jan 3, 2016
SheilaBrooks
14 Posts
Hello!
Im going into my second term at an LPN program in southern NJ. I haven't been able to get an idea of how long it typically takes graduate students to sit for the exam.
I am due to graduate in July ( God willing)
We have a pretty intense 6 week prep through ATI for the boards the last month and a half of my program. I've heard of some students traveling to del to sit for the exam sooner.
This program is taking a huge toll on me financially and I'd like to believe that I'll be able to work as a nurse Sooner then later after graduation.. So what was your experience ?
Thank you!!!
NICU Guy, BSN, RN
4,161 Posts
All depends on your school to send graduation paperwork and your state BON to issue ATT. I graduated in the summer (slow time for school and BON) and it took 3 weeks to get ATT.
Thank you!
JustBeachyNurse, LPN
13,957 Posts
4 weeks for ATT, 1-2 weeks for earliest test date, and another 4 weeks to license. Apply for your license a week or two before graduating. Apply online. You need to get a fingerprinted background check (harder to schedule than nclex in my area) Plus NJ just passing the NCLEX is not enough you must pass background then get approved by board committee. So applying ASAP at least 6 weeks to licensing, if not 8
Doodlebug21, RN
41 Posts
I graduated October 2nd, sent all of my paperwork to the state and had my stuff organized. The school on the other hand waited a month. State received their paperwork November 3rd, received my ATT via email November 5th and tested November 13th.
vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN
2,717 Posts
As the Posters have said, often it's the schools that cause delays.
I ended up receiving clearance to test from the board, but when I called the test company, they explained my school hadn't paid the fees yet (which were included in my tuition)
I graduated nov 1 (2013) took my NCLEX in December (because I paid for it out of pocket) and received my official license in Feb of 2014.
PennyMT, LPN
112 Posts
Me too! I'm in NJ and graduate in July! Congrats and good luck :)
TheNatural_Nurse, RN
203 Posts
Im in Fl and I graduate in July also. I hope I get to test within two weeks after graduation. Well study hard and keep us updated.
NurseEmmy
271 Posts
I was able to take the NCLEX about 1.5 months later. This was over 9 years ago though. I think each BON and school are different. The sooner you complete your school's requirements the sooner they can get your information sent. Make sure everything you submit is done correctly and that you do not skip any steps.