By Shincy George | NursingManthra
Are You an International Nurse Who Took NCLEX for Australia?
If you passed the NCLEX-RN for your AHPRA (Australia) application, and are now looking to use that same score for a U.S. nursing license, you’re in the right place!
Let’s clarify the process and outline how to transfer your NCLEX score from Pearson VUE/NCSBN to a U.S. State Board of Nursing (BON). The good news? You don’t need to retake NCLEX!
✅ Quick Answer: Can I Use My AHPRA NCLEX for U.S. Licensure?
Yes!
You are not transferring the score from AHPRA, but rather from Pearson VUE/NCSBN, the original testing body. All U.S. State Boards of Nursing accept valid NCLEX results.
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Your NCLEX Score to the U.S.
Step 1: Choose a U.S. State Board of Nursing (BON)
This is the most important step. Your score can only be transferred to a specific BON as part of a Licensure by Examination application.
🔍 Consider the following:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| SSN Requirement | Some states require a Social Security Number to apply (e.g., California, Pennsylvania). Others like New York, Texas, New Mexico, Illinois do not. |
| Credential Evaluation | States may require a CES report from CGFNS. Some, like New York, do their own evaluation. |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL/IELTS may be required unless your education was in English. |
💡 Top Choices for International Nurses:
✅ New York Board of Nursing
✅ Texas Board of Nursing
Step 2: Apply for Licensure by Examination
Go to your chosen state’s Board of Nursing website. For example:
Submit the Licensure by Examination application and indicate that you have already passed NCLEX.
Step 3: Fulfill Other BON Requirements
Here’s what you might need:
- ✅ Credential Evaluation Report (CES) via CGFNS or similar
- ✅ Proof of English Proficiency
- ✅ Criminal Background Check & Fingerprinting
- ✅ Application Fee Payment
Step 4: Request Official NCLEX Score Transfer
Once your U.S. application is in process:
- Log in to your Pearson VUE account
- Locate the “Score Transfer” option
- Select the U.S. BON (e.g., NY or TX)
- Pay the fee (approx. $30 USD)
- Pearson VUE sends your NCLEX result directly to the BON
⚠️ You do not need to take the NCLEX again or request a new ATT (Authorization to Test).
📌 Key Takeaways
- ✅ Your NCLEX score is held by NCSBN/Pearson VUE, not AHPRA.
- ✅ You are applying to a U.S. BON using a process called Licensure by Examination (not endorsement).
- ✅ Your focus should be on meeting the other licensure requirements of your chosen state.
- ✅ It’s a manageable process – just allow time for document verification and CGFNS reports.
🔁 Your Action Plan
- ✅ Research a U.S. BON (New York or Texas recommended for international applicants)
- ✅ Submit Licensure by Examination Application
- ✅ Complete credential evaluation (CGFNS)
- ✅ Request official NCLEX score transfer from Pearson VUE
👩⚕️ Need Help?
At NursingManthra, we support international nurses through every licensing step.
Whether you’re applying to the U.S., Australia, UAE, or Canada — we’ve got your back.
📞 WhatsApp: +971 502 515 717
🌐 Website: www.nursingmanthra.com
— Shincy George, Founder of NursingManthr
