For international nurses dreaming of a U.S. career, passing the NCLEX is the gateway. But did you know that each U.S. state has its own licensing rules? That means where you apply can significantly impact your journey – from paperwork to processing time to exam eligibility.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the NCLEX for foreign nurses, including the states with the simplest and fastest paths to licensure. We’ve reviewed state board requirements, document evaluation policies, and timelines to help you decide which state is right for you.

Why the Application State Matters

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) is a standardized exam, but the path to sitting for the test is not. Every state has a Board of Nursing (BON) that sets its own eligibility criteria for foreign-trained nurses. These criteria often include:

• Credential evaluation by agencies like CGFNS or CES
  
  
• English proficiency exams (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS)
  
  
• Social Security Number (SSN) requirements
  
  
• Background checks
  
  
• Application fees
  
  

Some states are strict and slow. Others are faster and more flexible – ideal for foreign applicants who want to minimize delays.

For international nurses navigating the U.S. system for the first time, this decision can make or break the process. Missing documentation or unfamiliar state rules can lead to frustrating delays. Choosing a flexible and transparent state board makes it easier to avoid those setbacks.

Key Factors to Compare

When choosing the easiest state to apply for NCLEX for foreign nurses, consider these six factors:

1. SSN Requirement
   
   
2. Credential Review Type (CES vs. full CGFNS)
   
   
3. English Proficiency Requirement
   
   
4. Application Processing Time
   
   
5. Endorsement Flexibility
   
   
6. Exam Scheduling and ATT Release
   
   

Some states are willing to work with nurses who don’t yet have U.S. residency or work authorization. Others expect full immigration status before even considering your application. Understanding these key differences saves you time and effort.

Best States for Foreign Nurses Applying for NCLEX

Here are three of the most foreign-nurse-friendly U.S. states based on streamlined processes, document leniency, and speed.

New York

New York does not require a Social Security Number to apply or take the NCLEX. It also accepts credential evaluations from CGFNS (via CES), and has no English exam requirement if your education was in English.

Application Highlights:

• No SSN required
  
  
• Accepts CES report
  
  
• No TOEFL/IELTS if you studied in English
  
  
• Processing time: 6-8 weeks
  
  
• Application fee: $143 + CES fee
  
  

New York’s Board of Nursing is known for being predictable, and many foreign nurses prefer it because of the minimal red tape.

Texas

Texas is flexible and efficient. Although it requires an SSN to issue a license, you can still take the NCLEX without one. Texas accepts CES evaluations and typically responds faster than many states.

Application Highlights:

• SSN not required for ATT
  
  
• Accepts CES report
  
  
• English proficiency waived in many cases
  
  
• Processing time: 4-6 weeks
  
  
• Application fee: $100 + CES fee
  
  

Texas is popular among international nurses because of its speed and clarity. Many nurses apply here, pass the NCLEX, and later transfer their license via endorsement once their SSN becomes available.

Illinois

Illinois allows you to take the NCLEX without an SSN, as long as you complete the fingerprinting and background checks. It also accepts CES and has minimal extra paperwork compared to other states.

Application Highlights:

• No SSN required to take NCLEX
  
  
• Accepts CES
  
  
• English exam may be required, depending on the country
  
  
• Processing time: 5-7 weeks
  
  
• Application fee: $98 + CES fee
  
  

This state is often considered the easiest state to pass NCLEX, not because the test is different, but because the process leading up to it is smooth and straightforward.

What About Other States?

Some states make it more difficult for international applicants. Here are a few examples:

• California requires an SSN and has strict education verification rules
  
  
• Vermont has inconsistent approval rates for international credentials
  
  
• Hawaii has long processing times and complex application requirements
  
  

That’s why researching NCLEX requirements by state for foreign nurses is crucial before you invest your time and money.

Understanding the NCLEX for International Nurses

The NCLEX for international nurses is the same exam given to U.S. nursing graduates, but foreign-trained applicants face extra steps before becoming eligible.

Typical process for international applicants:

1. Choose your preferred state board
   
   
2. Submit a CES or CGFNS evaluation
   
   
3. Pass any required English exams
   
   
4. Apply to the Board of Nursing
   
   
5. Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT)
   
   
6. Take the NCLEX-RN
   
   
7. Apply for license issuance (may require SSN)
   
   

Choosing a state that doesn’t require an SSN upfront can help you move forward while waiting for your work authorization.

Many foreign nurses also find success by applying in one state and then transferring their license to another through endorsement. That strategy only works if the first state accepts international applications easily and issues an ATT without delay.

Common Documents Required

To apply for the NCLEX, you’ll likely need the following:

• Sealed academic transcripts
  
  
• Credential evaluation (CGFNS/CES)
  
  
• Passport or valid ID
  
  
• Background check and fingerprints
  
  
• English language exam results (if applicable)
  
  
• Completed application form
  
  
• Application fee
  
  

If your nursing education doesn’t align closely with U.S. standards (e.g., in clinical hours or subjects), the state board may ask for additional training or coursework.

Before applying, reach out to your school and request sealed transcripts as early as possible. Some boards only accept documents sent directly from the institution, which can take weeks to arrive if you’re overseas.

Tips to Make the Process Easier

Here are a few tips to ensure a smoother NCLEX application:

• Use approved evaluation agencies like CGFNS or Josef Silny
  
  
• Provide clear, sealed official documents
  
  
• If English was your primary language, include documentation
  
  
• Submit all materials together to avoid back-and-forth
  
  
• Keep copies of everything – physical and digital
  
  
• Regularly check your board’s online portal or contact status updates
  
  

If you plan ahead, it’s entirely possible to complete the process on your own. Agencies can help, but organized applicants often succeed without external help.

What Happens After You Pass the NCLEX?

Once you pass the NCLEX, the next step is receiving your nursing license. But depending on the state, an SSN might still be required before the license is issued.

For example, New York will allow you to apply and take the test without an SSN. However, until you provide one, your license may remain pending. Once your visa or green card is approved and you receive your SSN, you can finalize your license.

That’s why states like New York, Texas, and Illinois are ideal: they allow foreign nurses to start the process early, even before immigration paperwork is complete.

Successfully passing the NCLEX is not the final step – it’s part of a larger journey that also includes immigration, job placement, and adjustment to U.S. clinical practices. But once you hold a U.S. nursing license, your opportunities grow dramatically.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right application state is one of the most strategic steps in your journey to becoming a registered nurse in the U.S. Not all states have the same rules, and the right choice can save you months of waiting and hundreds of dollars in fees.

For most international applicants in 2025, the easiest state to apply for NCLEX for foreign nurses is either New York, Texas, or Illinois. These states offer minimal barriers, flexible document requirements, and efficient processing times – all of which make them excellent entry points for your American nursing career.

If you’re serious about pursuing the NCLEX for international nurses, start gathering your documents and choose a state that aligns with your goals, your location, and your timeline. With good planning, passing the NCLEX and obtaining your license is well within reach.