NCLEX Australia: Become a Registered Nurse

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia, internationally qualified nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN (NCLEX Australia) and meet the eligibility criteria set by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) under the guidance of AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). As of March 2020, NCLEX-RN became part of the official assessment pathway for internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs) seeking registration in Australia.

Requirements to Take the NCLEX-RN for Australia:

  • Nursing Qualification: A recognized Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (or equivalent) from your home country.
  • Home Country License: You must hold a current, valid license or registration to practice as a nurse in your home country.
  • IQNM Self-Check: Complete the Self-Check on the AHPRA website, which classifies you into one of three assessment streams.
  • OBA Pathway: If you’re classified under Stream B or Stream C, you will be required to take the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA), which includes the NCLEX-RN (theory) and OSCE (practical).
  • English Language Proficiency: You must meet English language standards. Accepted tests include IELTS (minimum overall 7, with 7 in each band) or OET (minimum B in each band).

Processing Steps for the Australian NCLEX-RN (OBA Pathway):

1. IQNM Self-Check on AHPRA Website

  • Determine your assessment stream and eligibility.

2. Portfolio Stage (If applicable):

  • Submit educational documents, identity proof, and work experience to AHPRA for review.

3. NCLEX-RN Exam Registration:

  • Register through Pearson VUE once you’re approved for the NCLEX portion of the OBA.
  • You will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) to schedule your exam.

4. Schedule and Take the NCLEX-RN:

  • Book and take your exam through Pearson VUE testing centers.

5. Take the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination):

  • Conducted in Australia, this practical test evaluates your clinical skills.
  • You must pass the NCLEX-RN before being eligible for OSCE.

6. AHPRA Registration:

  • Upon successful completion of both NCLEX Australia and OSCE, you can apply for registration with AHPRA and officially become a Registered Nurse in Australia.

Start Your Nursing Career in Australia
Once registered, you are legally allowed to practice in any Australian state or territory as an RN.

Salary Range for Registered Nurses in Australia:

  • Entry-Level RN: Approximately AUD $65,000 – $70,000 per year
  • Experienced RN: Up to AUD $90,000 – $110,000 per year (depending on location, role, and specialization)

 

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    FAQ

    Join us, and we will help you with the OBA pathway. You need to apply to AHPRA, complete NCLEX and OSCE, get your RN license, and pass the English test.

    With a bridging course, PCL nurses can become eligible. 4 year BSc is generally preferred,.

    Clinical experience is not mandatory for NCLEX and OSCE exams, but it is important for job placement after registration.

    Yes. You can include your spouse and children in your visa application depending on your visa subclass.

    Absolutely. Our NCLEX training prepares you for both U.S. licensure and the Australian OBA (Outcome-Based Assessment) process.

    Yes. We work with trusted recruitment partners and connect our students to employer opportunities in Australia.

    Yes. Our students receive personalized mentorship and case-wise consultation at every step of the process.

    AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) is the official body that registers nurses in Australia. All international nurses must apply through AHPRA to become legally licensed.

    On average, it takes 89 months from start to registration, depending on documentation and exam scheduling.

    Yes. Nurses are on Australia's Skilled Occupation List, making it easier to apply for PR after gaining experience and meeting the visa requirements.

    Yes, NCLEX scores are transferable; however, to work as an RN in Australia, you also need to pass the OSCE.

    Yes. NCLEX Center offers complete support, including document checklists, preparation, and submission guidance for AHPRA.

    Yes. We provide free initial counseling to help you understand your eligibility and next steps.