Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean NOT on your own understanding, In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will guide your path. Proverbs 3:5-6
I'm from the Phil as well. But I was out. Out. Of school for years and just now get back in getting my license. It's been awhile and I am freaking out. I haven't been studying for years and I am forgetting a LOT of things. It will be tough for me and I am just putting my trust and faith into the Lord.
There is no IELTS in NYC. They will send you a letter to inform you if you are eligible to seat for NCLEX. Mine took 6-8 months. The profession of higer education are the one sending the mail. Good luck and God bless.