Recent AA graduate from US wanting to move to Canada

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Hi everyone,

I recently graduated from a RN school in the US with an associates in May of this year and I'm taking my NCLEX in January 2017. Theres was a long processing time of about 8 weeks on top of that the boards didn't receive my picture or some form so that took longer. Anyways as far as I know I have to get my Bachelors if I want to practice in Canada, right? Thats not my main concern though as I plan on applying to RN-BSN programs soon. I really would like to know what nursing is like in Canada vs US. If there are RNs from the US that have made the move please share your experience, whats the pay like (kaiser in the SF bay area where i live pays $65/hr), taxes, and any other information you can share. Thank you!

Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

Oh that's okay. You did say you were in a different province.If you aren't from Ontario you wouldn't know. I on worked with an RN from BC and she was amazed at the differences.

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If you apply to NNAS with an associates education, you will be deemed not comparable to a Canadian baccalaureate and since NNAS only allows IENs to apply once, you will not be allowed to apply a second time after obtaining a BSN. Wait until after you have a BSN and nursing experience before applying. Many US educated nurses have had their education deemed somewhat comparable by NNAS and need to undergo further competency testing such as IENCAP in Ontario, if you do not have RN work experience, you will not be allowed to undergo the IENCAP, you will be advised to obtain more education.

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Can I ask why are you considering moving to Toronto?

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Can I ask why are you considering moving to Toronto?

Someone in Toronto stole my heart. 🙈

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are you working as a nurse in the US now? Have you considered getting experience in the States first?

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Not yet, I'm taking my NCLEX in January. Once I get my license I hope to land a job as soon as I can. And a after a few years of experience then I'll start taking the steps towards Canada.

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I agree with @dishes

Definitely wait until you have your degree before applying through NNAS.

If were only one year into your BSN but planned to nurse in Canada after I would say cut your losses and come start a BScN in Canada now. But since you are so close to a BSN degree which is likely quite comparable in reality (although not according to NNAS), it makes zero sense to get the same degree in Canada.

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