Contact the board of nursing from which you would like to obtain your licensure. The board of nursing will provide you with the information about what is required to qualify to take the NCLEX exam. These requirements may include but are not limited to obtaining Commission of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) certification, taking an English proficiency exam such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and obtaining official review of credentials. Some boards of nursing may also require that you have a Social Security Number in order to complete testing.
Complete the requirements established by the board of nursing where you intend to practice so that you may register for the NCLEX exam. If your board of nursing requires a Social Security Number (SSN), you will not be able to apply for one with an H4 visa. In order to apply for an SSN, you will have to change your status to an H1B visa through sponsorship from an employer. You will likely be required to submit a copy of your transcripts from all foreign schools as proof of education.
Complete the application for licensure provided by the board of nursing that has approved your ability to complete the NCLEX exam. You will be allowed to complete an application for nursing after you have met the necessary requirements set by the board of nursing for international students interested in completing the NCLEX. You must submit your application fee along with your application. The application fee varies from board of nursing to board of nursing.
Register with Pearson VUE to complete the exam. Pearson VUE is the testing administrator and a separate entity from the board of nursing. Registration with Pearson VUE can be completed over the phone, online or by mail. A payment of $200 must be made by certified check, money order, cashiers check or credit card to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. This fee is in addition to the fees required by the board of nursing.