05 Jun 2025
NclexHub
Becoming a licensed nurse in the United States is a significant aspiration for many Nepali nurses. While the journey is comprehensive, with the right guidance and preparation, it's entirely achievable. This detailed guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you have a clear roadmap for nursing license in the USA from Nepal.
Table of Contents
- How to Get a Nursing License in the USA from Nepal
- Introduction
- Types of Nursing Licenses in the USA
- Application Guide: From Nepal to U.S. RN Licensure
- Documents Checklist for the Nursing License in the USA
- Estimated Timeline for the Nursing License Process in the USA from Nepal
- Costs for Getting Nursing License in the USA from Nepal
- Opportunities After Getting an RN License in the USA
- Conclusion
- FAQs - How to Get a Nurse's License in the USA from Nepal
Types of Nursing Licenses in the USA
In the United States, nursing licenses are issued by state boards of nursing and are mandatory for anyone who wants to practice legally. There are several types of nursing licenses, each corresponding to a different level of education, responsibility, and specialization.
1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Overview:
- Entry-level license
- Assists Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Provides basic care like bathing, dressing, and feeding patients.
Education Required:
- Short training program (4–12 weeks)
- State-approved CNA certification course
Exam: Pass the CNA Competency Exam (written + skills test)
Licensing Body: State Board of Nursing or Department of Health
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
Overview:
- Intermediate-level license
- Provides basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors
- Known as LVN in California and Texas
Education Required: 12–18 month diploma or certificate from an accredited program
Exam: Must pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses)
Licensing Body: Individual state boards of nursing
Work Settings: Long-term care facilities, clinics, hospitals, home health
3. Registered Nurse (RN)
Overview:
- Professional-level license
- Provides patient care, administers medications, collaborates with doctors
Education Required: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – 2 years or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – 4 years
Exam: Must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses)
Licensing Body: State Board of Nursing (regulated by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing – NCSBN)
Renewal: Every 2–3 years (varies by state), with continuing education
4. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Overview:
- Highest level of nursing licensure
- Includes specialized and independent roles in healthcare delivery
Categories of APRN:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Diagnoses, prescribes medication, manages treatment
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Expert in a specific field like cardiology, oncology
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – Administers anesthesia Certified
- Nurse Midwife (CNM) – Provides prenatal, labor, and postpartum care
Education Required: Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing (MSN/DNP)
Exam: Must pass specialty certification exams (e.g., AANP, ANCC, NBCRNA)
Licensing Body: State BON + National Certification Organizations
5. Compact Nursing License (eNLC)
Overview:
- A multistate RN or LPN license that allows you to practice in multiple states without applying for a new license in each one.
Eligibility: Must reside in a Compact State and meet eNLC requirements
Applies to: RNs and LPNs/LVNs (Not for APRNs)
Examples of Compact States: Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Arizona, etc. (See full list here)
Apply for U.S. RN Licensure from Nepal - Step-by-Step Guide
Most international nurses aim for RN licensure in the USA. So, in this blog we will cover the steps for a RN license in the USA.
1. Educational Requirements
To be eligible for nursing licensure in the U.S., you must have completed a recognized nursing program. In Nepal, this typically includes:
- PCL Nursing: A 3-year program post-10th grade.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing): A 4-year undergraduate program.
Ensure your program includes both theoretical instruction and clinical practice, as U.S. boards of nursing require comprehensive training.
2. English Language Proficiency
Most U.S. states mandate proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests and typical minimum scores include:
- IELTS Academic: Overall band score of 6.5, with at least 7.0 in speaking.
- TOEFL iBT: Total score of 83.
- PTE Academic: Scores vary; check specific state requirements.
Note: Some states may have different score requirements or accept alternative tests.
3. Credential Evaluation by CGFNS
The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) assesses the credentials of international nurses. Depending on the state, you may need to:
- Enroll in the CGFNS Certification Program, which includes a credentials review and a qualifying exam.
- Use the Credentials Evaluation Service (CES) for a detailed report of your educational background.
- The evaluation process typically takes 6–12 weeks.
- Ensure all documents, including transcripts and licenses, are accurate and submitted promptly.
4. Apply to a U.S. State Board of Nursing
Licensure requirements vary by state. After determining your desired state of practice:
- Visit the state's Board of Nursing website.
- Submit an application for licensure by examination.
- Provide necessary documents, including CGFNS reports and proof of English proficiency.
- Some states, like New York, have specific processes for foreign-educated nurses.
5. Register and Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a standardized exam required for licensure.
Registration:
- Obtain Authorization to Test (ATT) from your state board.
- Register with Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee (approximately $200).
Preparation:
- Utilize resources like UWorld, Kaplan, or Hurst Review.
- Join NCLEX preparation classes in Nepal for structured guidance.
Note: While you can prepare for the NCLEX in Nepal, the exam must be taken at an authorized center, such as those in India.
6. VisaScreen Certificate
Before applying for a U.S. work visa, you must obtain a VisaScreen Certificate, which verifies:
- Your educational credentials.
- English language proficiency.
- Licensure status.
This certificate is essential for immigration and employment purposes.
7. Secure Employment and Apply for a Work Visa
With your NCLEX-RN pass and VisaScreen Certificate:
Employment:
- Seek job opportunities through U.S. hospitals or recruitment agencies.
- Some agencies specialize in placing international nurses.
Visa Application:
- Most nurses apply for an EB-3 visa (Employment-Based Third Preference).
- Your employer will typically sponsor and guide you through the process.
Ensure all immigration procedures are followed meticulously to facilitate a smooth transition.
Documents Checklist for the Nursing License in the USA
You’ll need these following documents for getting the RN License of the USA, while applying from Nepal:
- Nursing degree/diploma certificate.
- Academic transcripts.
- Nepal Nursing Council license.
- Valid passport.
- English proficiency test results.
- CGFNS report.
- NCLEX-RN pass confirmation.
- VisaScreen Certificate.
- Employment offer letter from a U.S. employer.
- Visa application documents.
Estimated Timeline for the Nursing License Process in the USA from Nepal
This journey can be hectic and time-consuming. However, with the right guidance and patience, you can achieve this.
|
Steps |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
Credential Evaluation (CGFNS) |
6-12 weeks |
|
NCLEX Preparation |
3-6 months |
|
State Board Processing |
1-2 months |
|
VisaScreen Certification |
4-6 weeks |
|
Employment Processing and Visa |
6-12 months |
Costs for Getting Nursing License in the USA from Nepal
Below is the breakdown of the costs that you need to manage during the journey of getting your US RN License:
|
Items |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
|
CGFNS Evaluation |
$350 - $400 |
|
NCLEX RN Exam |
$200 |
|
State Board Application |
$100 - $300 |
|
English Proficiency Test |
$200 - $300 |
|
VisaScreen Certificate |
$540 |
|
Recruitment Agency Fees |
Varies |
|
Travel and Accommodation |
$1500+ |
Opportunities After Becoming a Licensed RN in the USA
Once you obtain your RN (Registered Nurse) license in the USA, a world of opportunities opens up—both in clinical and non-clinical settings. Nurses are among the most in-demand professionals in the United States, and having an RN license provides not just job security but also multiple career paths, high earning potential, and chances for specialization or advancement.
Here’s a detailed opportunities available for international nurses after getting an RN license in the USA:
1. Employment in Hospitals (Acute Care)
Roles:
- Medical-Surgical Nurse
- ICU/CCU Nurse
- ER Nurse OR (Operating Room)
- Nurse Pediatric or Neonatal Nurse
Benefits:
- High job availability
- Structured work environment
- Career advancement programs
- Union protection (in many states)
2. Specialization Opportunities
After gaining experience, RNs can pursue certifications in specific fields such as:
|
Speciality |
Certification Body |
Roles |
|---|---|---|
|
Critical Care |
CCRN (AACN) |
For ICU/ER Nurses |
|
Oncology |
OCN (ONCC) |
Cancer patient care |
|
Cardiac |
PCCN (AACN) |
Step-down cardiac units |
|
Pediatrics |
CPN (PNCB) |
Children’s hospitals |
|
Psychiatric |
PMHN (ANCC) |
Mental health nursing |
3. Pursue Advanced Degrees (APRN Path)
Once licensed as an RN, you can study further to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). These roles offer autonomy, higher salaries, and prescribing authority in many states.
|
Roles |
Required Degree |
Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Nurse Practitioner (NP) |
MSN or DNP |
$120,000+ |
|
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) |
MSN or DNP |
$180,000+ |
|
Nurse Midwife (CNM) |
MSN |
$115,000+ |
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) |
MSN |
$110,000+ |
4. Teaching and Academic Roles
RNs with higher degrees (BSN or MSN) can work as:
- Clinical Instructors
- Nursing Professors
- Simulation Lab Coordinators
- NCLEX Trainers
This is a great pathway if you enjoy mentoring and education.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to become a licensed nurse in the U.S. from Nepal is both challenging and rewarding. With dedication, proper planning, and the right resources, you can achieve your goal.
If you are planning to take an NCLEX exam, Connect with us for expert guidance and support throughout the process. NCLEXhub is the most trusted NCLEX Preparation Centre in Nepal, where you train and practice with the best healthcare professionals and tutors.
FAQs - How to Get a Nurse's License in the USA from Nepal
How long does it take to get a nursing license?
Typically, it takes 1 to 4 years to complete nursing education and a few more months to pass the NCLEX and obtain your license, depending on your educational path and state.
Can I go to the USA without NCLEX?
No, a foreign nursing license does not allow you to work as an RN in the USA. You must pass the NCLEX-RN and meet state licensing requirements.
Which state is easiest to pass NCLEX?
The employment outlook for nurses in New Hampshire supports the high NCLEX pass rate, motivating nursing graduates to earn licensure and enter the field quickly.
What ielts score is required for nurses in the USA?
An overall IELTS band score of 6.5, with a 7.0 in Speaking is required to work as a nurse in the USA.
How long should I study for the NCLEX exam?
It's recommended to dedicate at least two months to prepare for your NCLEX exam. However, the amount of time you need to study depends on your individual needs and abilities.
What is the age limit for nurses in the USA?
There's no age limit for becoming a nurse in the USA. While some nursing programs might have a minimum age requirement, there's no maximum age limit. Many people successfully pursue nursing careers later in life, and nursing programs welcome students of all ages.
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