NCLEX Canada: Become a Registered Nurse

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Canada, international nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN (NCLEX Canada), a licensure examination conducted by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The exam format is similar to the U.S. NCLEX, utilizing Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), with a range of 85 to 150 questions and a 5-hour time limit.

However, the NCLEX Canada has its own set of requirements and processing steps. Here’s what you need to know:

Requirements to Take the NCLEX-RN for Canada:

  • Nursing Degree: A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (B.Sc.) or an equivalent nursing qualification.
  • Home Country License: A valid nursing license issued by the appropriate authority in your home country.
  • Criminal Record Check: A background check confirming you have no criminal history, as required by the province.
  • NNAS Educational Report: Your nursing education will need to be evaluated by the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) to ensure it meets Canadian standards.
  • Language Proficiency: International nurses may be required to provide proof of English Language Proficiency (ELP), depending on the province. The specific requirements for ELP vary by jurisdiction.

Processing Steps for the Canadian NCLEX-RN:

  • NNAS Application: Begin by submitting your credentials to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). This step evaluates your nursing education and licensure.
  • Apply to Provincial Regulatory Body: After receiving approval from NNAS, apply to the relevant Regulatory Body in the province where you plan to practice. Each province has its own eligibility criteria, which may include an English Language Proficiency (ELP) assessment.
  • Pearson VUE Registration: Once approved, register with Pearson VUE to schedule your NCLEX exam. You will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), which allows you to book your exam date.
  • Schedule the NCLEX Exam: Using your Pearson VUE account, select an available exam date.
  • Take the NCLEX Exam: The exam is available year-round, and upon passing, you will receive your RN License and be eligible to practice in Canada.
  • Start Your Practice

After passing the NCLEX Canada and obtaining your license, you can begin practicing as a Registered Nurse in Canada.

The salary of a registered nurse (RN) in Canada typically ranges from:

  • Entry-Level: Around $59,758 per year
  • Experienced Nurses: Up to $83,168 per year

 

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    FAQ

    Nepalese nurses can apply through the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) for credential verification. After evaluation, they must apply to the provincial nursing regulatory body for licensure.

    Yes, PCL nurses can apply for Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) licensure through bridging courses and may pursue RN licensure later.

    Most provinces require recent nursing experience, typically at least 1 year within the past 5 years.

    Yes, spouses and dependent children can accompany you under most skilled worker visa categories.

    Yes, our program focuses on the NCLEX-RN format and content to maximize your chances of passing.

    We help you prepare and organize your documents, send them to the Nepal Nursing Council (NNC) for evaluation, and then securely ship your verified documents to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) or other relevant Canadian agencies.

    Yes, PCL diploma holders can often work as healthcare aides or personal support workers while completing RN registration requirements.

    Each province has its own nursing regulator, e.g., CRPNM (Manitoba), CARNA (Alberta), CRNNS (Nova Scotia).

    Approximately 6 to 7 months, depending on document processing and exam scheduling.

    Nurses usually apply for employment-based visas, such as the Express Entry program or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

    Yes, the NCLEX-RN is the mandatory licensing exam for nurses in most Canadian provinces.

    We assist with document preparation, application guidance, exam preparation, and liaising with provincial regulatory bodies.

    Yes, we provide free counseling sessions to help you understand eligibility, procedures, and next steps.