NCLEX Score Process for International Nurses – 2025

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:

1. Log in to your Pearson VUE account
2. Locate the “Score Transfer” option
3. Select the U.S. BON (e.g., NY or TX)
4. Pay the fee (approx. $30 USD)
5. 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

1. ✅ Research a U.S. BON (New York or Texas recommended for international applicants)
2. ✅ Submit Licensure by Examination Application
3. ✅ Complete credential evaluation (CGFNS)
4. ✅ 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